By Sascha Glaeser
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, now in its tenth month, is a strategic fiasco for Moscow. Russia has solidified itself as a pariah in Europe, prompted neutral Finland and Sweden to seek NATO membership, and encouraged some European states to revitalize long-dormant defense policies and increase defense spending. Every phase of Russia’s ill-advised invasion has faltered beginning with its initial attempt to take Kyiv in a matter of days. The recent retreat of Russian forces from Kherson, the only regional capital Russian forces managed to conquer, is only the latest embarrassment for the Kremlin. Many of the Russian forces previously stationed in Kherson are now reinforcing an effort to take the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut, but are being stymied by fierce Ukrainian resistance. Moscow continues to pay a heavy price for its misadventure, with a recent Pentagon estimate claiming upwards of 100,000 Russian casualties. While the war is a tragedy for Ukraine, it has made clear Russia’s military ineptitude.
As Europe grows stronger and Russia weaker, the United States must reevaluate its oversized defense commitment to the continent. Facing myriad domestic issues and a rising geopolitical competitor in China, Washington can no longer afford to bear the primary burden of ensuring Europe’s security. The war in Ukraine should serve as a turning point in a new trans-Atlantic relationship—one where wealthy and capable European allies take more responsibility for their own defense.
This piece was originally published in Real Clear Defense on December 14, 2022. Read more HERE.