The Russian invasion of Ukraine has us all very concerned, and anyone who writes about it for publication needs to write responsibly. Here are a few thoughts on the subject. I’m addressing writers in the USA; most of it applies everywhere, but I’m writing with Americans in mind.

Beyond assuming that you agree the invasion is outrageous, I’m not saying what position you should take. (If you don’t think it’s outrageous, you aren’t in my target audience.) These are general points regardless of what you think people should do.

• Check your facts. This is always important, but especially so when cities are attacked and their people are killed or displaced. Consider the reliability of your sources. When possible, check your information against another source.
• Distinguish fact from evaluation. Are you writing a straight factual report or expressing your (or your client’s) opinion? Don’t sneak opinions into what’s supposed to be a report on the facts, and don’t skew the facts to push the reader to your opinion. If you’re writing an opinion piece, give reasons, not just emotionally loaded statements.
• Remember that the United States is not at war. (As of my writing this, anyway.) If you think the US should engage in acts of war against Russia, such as sending troops or enforcing a no-fly zone, please think carefully about the possible consequences before committing any words to publication.
• Don’t confuse Russia with Russians. When we say Russia invaded Ukraine and attacked its cities, we mean the Russian government and its armed forces. Many Russians have protested against the invasion and been arrested for it. Russians in the United States, for the most part, have no responsibility for their government’s actions. If you think, as a member of Congress has proposed, that Russian students in the US should be expelled, give a better reason than “They’re from Russia.” Vandalizing and threatening Russian restaurants is simply unacceptable, and it’s worth saying so.
• Use words accurately. I’m bugged by the use of the word “oligarch” to mean — this is a direct quote of the CBS News definition — “extremely wealthy business leaders who are politically connected.” An oligarchy is a government run by a few people. An oligarch is a member of such a government. By the CBS News definition, Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are oligarchs.

In brief, think about what you’re writing, and think again before hitting “Submit.”