OPINION:
Today, Feb. 24, marks the four-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. At the time, the move by Russian President Vladimir Putin made no sense, and the war’s continuation is counterintuitive.
Sometimes, however, as the Occam’s razor principle suggests, the simplest explanation is the most likely: Mr. Putin wants to go down in history as a strong Russian leader who expanded the country’s territory. This, he believes, will place him in the annals of history among the czars of imperial Russia.
Russia has suffered more than 1.2 million casualties in the conflict and remains far from its aim of installing a pro-Russian regime in Kyiv. Its gains have been hard fought, essentially resulting in nothing more than a stalemate. It’s hardly winning, but if given the rest of the Donbas, Russia would have gained territory equal to the size of the state of Tennessee. Moscow and Beijing would see this as a victory over NATO and the U.S.
The United States, alongside our NATO allies, must remain steadfast and resolute in preventing Mr. Putin from manifesting his dream. This alliance must increase the pressure on Russia. We must not reward Mr. Putin for his aggressive behavior in exchange for peace, no matter what.
Russia, not Ukraine, must make concessions. We must remain committed to a rightful solution and support the valiant people of Ukraine instead of offering Mr. Putin a legacy. The security of the European continent is at stake.
TOM RØSETH
Associate professor, intelligence studies
Norwegian Defence University College
Oslo, Norway
JOHN WEAVER
Professor, intelligence analysis
York College
York, Pennsylvania
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