The Times: The article by William Hague draws historical parallels between the current conflict in Ukraine and the Napoleonic Wars, emphasizing the protracted nature of wars and the decisive role of economic resources. It argues that like Britain’s inexhaustible credit overcoming France’s armies then, the West’s financial support is crucial for Ukraine now. Despite the high Russian casualties and the evident lack of progress in the war, Putin remains determined, believing in the West’s weakness and division. The article highlights recent failures by the US Congress and the EU to secure additional funding for Ukraine, attributed to internal divisions and external influences like Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban and certain factions in the US.
▪️ The author warns that the fate of Europe and the future of the West hinge on the outcome of the Ukraine war, which is currently at a pivotal moment. The West’s failure to support Ukraine could have grave moral and financial repercussions, eroding the trust of allies and emboldening adversaries like China. The article suggests that opposition to aiding Ukraine in some Western circles may stem from a shared disdain for western democracy and internationalism with Putin.
▪️ To resolve the crisis, the EU is considering a new legal mechanism to bypass Orban and provide €50 billion to Ukraine, while in the US, a compromise is needed to pass a $61 billion aid package. The author stresses the importance of continued Western support to ensure Ukraine doesn’t run out of resources, highlighting Ukraine’s military resilience and the significant economic disparity between Russia and the G7 countries. The piece concludes by urging Western leaders to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of wars and the impossibility of a Russian victory against a united and determined West.
The entire article can be read at the link https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/this-is-no-time-for-west-to-falter-on-ukraine-kwfch6dcf