How the US can help Ukraine secure a strategic win?

In "The Right Way to Quickly End the War in Ukraine," published by Foreign Affairs, the article argues that the United States should revise its current strategy and provide Ukraine with the military support necessary to secure a decisive victory against Russia.

The piece critiques President Joe Biden’s incrementalist approach, which it claims has led to a protracted and unsustainable war of attrition. According to the article, this strategy risks a potential Russian victory and Kyiv’s subsequent fall under Moscow's control.

Former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance advocate for a negotiated settlement and a defensive strategy to conserve Ukrainian forces. However, the article dismisses this approach as insufficient, arguing that it could lead to a premature end to U.S. involvement without genuinely addressing the conflict's underlying issues. The article emphasizes that a rapid and substantial boost in military aid is necessary for Ukraine to mount an effective counteroffensive, which is seen as crucial for both achieving peace and maintaining Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The analysis highlights several key points about the current state of the conflict. The Biden administration’s strategy, characterized by gradual aid and restrictive usage conditions, is deemed ineffective and detrimental. Despite significant international support, the incremental aid has not provided Ukraine with the tools needed to turn the tide against Russia. The article points out that the prolonged conflict has led to severe economic and humanitarian consequences for Ukraine, including labour shortages, agricultural losses, and extensive infrastructure damage.

The piece also critiques European countries for their relatively modest military investments and suggests that they might eventually reconsider their support if the situation worsens. It argues that the U.S. approach of incremental aid not only risks Ukraine’s collapse but also hinders the broader Western strategy to counter Russian aggression and address other global challenges, such as rising threats from China.

To resolve the conflict, the article proposes a surge in unrestricted military aid to Ukraine, including artillery, armour, and airpower, and suggests lifting all restrictions on their use. This strategy aims to enable Ukraine to launch a decisive offensive and regain control of territory lost since early 2022. By doing so, Ukraine could impose significant costs on Russia, potentially pushing Moscow toward negotiations or at least buying time for reconstruction and deterrence.

The article concludes that a rapid and substantial infusion of Western arms and support offers the best chance for Ukraine to secure a strategic victory and stabilize Europe’s eastern frontier. It advocates for a shift from a piecemeal approach to a more decisive and robust policy to end the war swiftly and effectively, ensuring that the U.S. and its allies do not remain mired in a prolonged conflict.

The article provides a critical perspective on the current U.S. strategy and offers a clear call for more decisive action to alter the course of the war in Ukraine.