The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has caused immense suffering and instability, with no clear end in sight. The prevailing Western narrative of Ukraine’s perceived advantage in the war is arguably a product of wishful thinking, driven by the need to justify hefty military investments. However, it is more realistic to acknowledge the likelihood of an eventual stalemate and a prolonged war of attrition.
History has shown that no war lasts forever. The conclusion of a war typically occurs either through unconditional surrender, an improbable outcome in the Russian Ukraine war, or via a negotiated agreement varying from an armistice to a peace settlement.