The Daily Signal Victor Davis Hanson: Why Won’t the West Help Ukraine Win Against Russia?
Dec 3, 2025
The conflict in Ukraine is at a critical juncture. Victor Davis Hanson explores why Putin invaded and the ongoing challenges Russia faces. He delves into NATO's hesitant support for Ukraine, questioning the security guarantees needed for the future. Despite Ukraine's formidable military, concerns about continued Western backing loom large. The podcast also discusses potential outcomes of the war, including the dangers of Russian advances. A moral argument is made for supporting Ukraine, highlighting its role as a key ally against aggression.
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Deterrence Failure Invited Invasion
- Victor Davis Hanson argues Putin invaded due to perceived lack of deterrence from the West after earlier incursions.
- Putin sought territorial gains because domestic elites expect tangible expansion to justify losses.
The Conflict Is Over The DMZ Line
- The core dispute now is where the DMZ will sit and how far west Russia can push.
- Ukraine won't join NATO, so the conflict centers on territorial lines and security guarantees.
Nuclear Risk Restrains Western Support
- Western restraint escalates from Russian nuclear bluster and the sheer size of its arsenal.
- Leaders fear the small but nonzero risk of nuclear use, which limits supplying decisive weapons.