Europe's crucial role: Ukraine's path without US aid
The former Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Andriy Zagorodniuk, emphasizes in "Foreign Affairs" that Ukraine can survive without US assistance. However, this depends on whether Europe maintains its support.
Former Ukrainian Defence Minister, Andriy Zagorodniuk, in an article published in "Foreign Affairs," expressed his belief that Ukraine is capable of surviving without military support from the United States, provided that Europe does not withdraw its commitment. Zagorodniuk emphasizes that even if the US halts aid, Ukraine will not fall, and Russia will not achieve its key objectives.
Putin will be able to achieve some tactical breakthroughs but will not reach his maximalist objectives. A U.S. government aligning with Russia in ways that actively undermine Ukraine’s fight would be a truly shocking development—one that would shatter trust in the United States and irreparably fracture the Western alliance, wrote Zagorodniuk.
Zagorodniuk emphasizes that maintaining strong support from Europe is crucial for Ukraine. This would allow Ukraine to reduce its reliance on infantry and develop modern defence capabilities. The introduction of technologies, such as a "drone line," could effectively prevent Russian forces from approaching the front line.
The former minister notes that Russia, despite its resources, has not succeeded in achieving its intended goals over three years of war. Ukraine, despite continuous attacks on its infrastructure, remains resilient and capable of preventing significant advances by Russia.
Strategy towards Russia
Zagorodniuk suggests that the only way to force Russia into negotiations is to demonstrate the serious consequences of continuing the war. Washington could tighten sanctions, putting pressure on the Russian economy. Zagorodniuk points out that a series of territorial losses could prompt Putin to rethink his strategy. Even a small recovery of territory by Ukraine could raise Kremlin fears of further losses.
Ukraine is not losing the war today, nor will it in the future, despite Russia’s size and considerable advantage in resources - emphasizes the former Ukrainian minister.
Zagorodniuk concludes that even a partial defeat for Russia would be a dreadful prospect for Putin, which could prompt Moscow to de-escalate and seek ways to minimize damage. Zagorodniuk's article in "Foreign Affairs" shows that Ukraine, despite difficulties, is ready for challenges and has a chance to survive thanks to Europe's support.
