[amval]

I don't think I understand your point, beyond downplaying the severity of current events.

[bhouston]

> beyond downplaying the severity of current events.

He is definitely calling it "polarizing" and minimizing it. I infer that he is supportive of it then.

[JumpCrisscross]

I’m not downplaying the severity of anything. Just its relevance. Someone can be severe and irrelevant, and I think that’s the case here.

[bigyabai]

Your language suggests a sort of "explaining away" that is pernicious in certain cultures abroad.