ISW Warns Against Cutting Military Aid to Ukraine: Global Implications

The Institute for the Study of War warns that cutting military aid to Ukraine would weaken US negotiating power, favoring Russia. President Trump’s critical meeting with President Zelenskyy culminated in tensions over the aid, prompting concerns about the implications for US global influence. Ongoing US support is deemed essential for both Ukraine’s defense and broader geopolitical stability.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) highlights substantial risks associated with the United States potentially halting military aid to Ukraine. Such a suspension would considerably weaken America’s leverage in negotiations and could shift the conflict dynamics in favor of Russia. Reports indicate that discussions about this aid cut arose during a recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, wherein tensions escalated, leading to the meeting’s collapse.

During the meeting, President Trump accused President Zelenskyy of jeopardizing global peace by failing to negotiate with Russia, prompting Zelenskyy to emphasize the need for firm security guarantees to ensure compliance from Russia in any ceasefire agreement. Since the onset of the invasion, the US has committed over $65.9 billion in military support to Ukraine, making it the principal provider of such assistance. Zelenskyy has asserted that Ukrainian forces cannot achieve victory without ongoing American support.

The ISW analysis reveals that interruptions in Western support correlate directly with Russian territorial gains. The spring of 2024 saw Russia exploit delays in aid, marking significant advances on the battlefield. Continuous provision of military assistance has been pivotal in constraining Russian advances and undermining their defense infrastructure. Ukrainian forces have effectively utilized US-supplied systems to inflict considerable losses on Russian troops.

Furthermore, the ISW warns that a cessation of military aid would likely embolden President Putin, who might perceive this as an opportunity to escalate his demands for total domination. Additionally, a reduction in support could lessen US influence on the geopolitical stage and bolster adversaries such as China, Iran, and North Korea. The reliance of Russia on external resources from these nations for military operations emphasizes worldwide implications of US support.

The ISW stresses that US aid stands as a testament to its dedication to defending global democracies against ongoing aggression. A perception that the United States could abandon Ukraine may encourage adversaries to challenge American commitments across the globe.

In summary, suspending military assistance to Ukraine would significantly undermine US negotiation capabilities and favor Russian advancements. The ISW emphasizes that continued support is crucial not only for Ukraine’s defense but also for maintaining American influence and the stability of democratic nations worldwide. Ignoring these implications could embolden adversaries and disrupt global alliances.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com