Historian Mark Galeotti discusses the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and explores the challenges faced by Ukraine in its war with Russia. The podcast explores the possibility of a military victory for Ukraine, President Zelensky's frustration with the lack of support from Western allies, and the importance of American support. It also delves into the political tensions within Ukraine and the potential negotiation outcomes for both sides.
President Zelenksy is facing frustration and a sense of fatigue as the war in Ukraine drags on, calling into question the possibility of a military victory for his government.
The war in Ukraine has reached a stalemate, causing losses to mount and support for the war to wane among the population.
Deep dives
Zelensky's Frustration and Western Support
President Zelensky is facing frustration and a sense of fatigue as the war in Ukraine drags on. While he is still popular within Ukraine and maintains support from Western allies, he feels that he is not receiving enough support to secure a definitive victory. The recent trip to Washington did not go as planned, with Zelensky wanting more public support and recognition. The Western allies, including the US, have their own domestic fiscal concerns, and support for Ukraine may be waning. The possibility of a military victory for Zelensky's government is called into question.
The Stalemate and Challenges of the War
The war in Ukraine has reached a stalemate, although President Zelensky and the Ukrainian military do not openly admit it. The Ukrainian offensive to push Russian forces out and take control of key cities has not been successful. The Russian forces are launching their own counter-offensive, while both sides prepare to hunker down for the approaching winter season. The stalemate is causing losses to mount in Ukraine, and the support for the war is starting to wane among the population. The costs and challenges of the war are becoming increasingly apparent.
Uncertain Future and Potential Negotiations
The future of the conflict in Ukraine remains uncertain. There is a fear that support from the West, particularly the United States, may decrease with a potential change in government. The clock is ticking for Ukraine to secure a favorable outcome before the situation possibly changes. Negotiations are a possibility, but finding a resolution that satisfies both Ukraine and Russia is challenging. Victory for Ukraine would involve Russia giving up most of the territories it occupies, with possible reparations. However, Crimea may not return to Ukraine, and the reconstruction process would be long and painful.
The head of Ukraine’s military says the war is at a stalemate. Meanwhile, Western attention is shifting to the Israel-Gaza conflict. So is a military victory off the table and should President Zelensky start negotiating with President Putin?
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Guest: Mark Galeotti, historian, Sunday Times contributor and author of Putin’s Wars: From Chechnya to Ukraine.
Host: Manveen Rana.
Get in touch: storiesofourtimes@thetimes.co.uk
Clips: NBC, MSNBC, BBC, Forbes, WION, CBS, Times Radio, The Sun.