Analysts suggest that Western nations may extend their involvement in Ukraine, treating the war as a prolonged crisis rather than a quick resolution. This viewpoint comes from Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, in an article carried by the publication Scout.
According to Naryshkin, Western political leaders could seek to stretch the conflict to wear down Russia, assuming a steady erosion of capabilities rather than a decisive military victory. He argues this outcome would be driven by sanctions regimes and continued arms supplies to Ukraine, shaping a narrative of gradual fatigue on the part of Moscow as the war drags on.
He also warned that if support for Kyiv remains steady, the West’s influence on global affairs might diminish more quickly, as the Ukraine issue becomes increasingly politically sensitive for Western allies.
In late December, President Joe Biden asked Congress to approve a substantial allocation of additional funding for Ukraine. He argued that failure to assist Kyiv would undermine support for Ukrainian forces from European partners and allies.
That same night, the Senate in the United States reported difficulties with a bill intended to fund Ukraine, reflecting ongoing political divisions surrounding aid packages.
Former senator Alexei Pushkov described the moment as a sign of dramatic political shifts unfolding in the United States.