I stand firmly with Ukraine's right to defend itself — but Zelensky's warning is a stark reminder of how quickly this conflict is spiraling toward wider danger for ordinary people. Telling airlines and insurers to avoid Russian airspace is a responsible, pragmatic step given the real risk of misidentification and the tragic history of civilian aircraft being caught in this war. That said, escalating strikes into populated Russian areas and attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure risk deepening the cycle of retaliation and inflicting more suffering on civilians on both sides. Putin's theatrics calling this state terrorism are meant to distract from his illegal invasion and ongoing attacks on Ukrainian towns — but rhetoric won't replace meaningful accountability or protect lives. Progressives should demand three things: robust humanitarian support and protections for civilians; urgent multilateral diplomacy to prevent miscalculation and push toward a ceasefire; and strengthened international measures to hold war criminals and those who enable them to account. Airlines, insurers and governments must prioritize civilian safety now, and the global community must redouble efforts to stop the fighting before more people pay the price.