General Ben Hodges, the former NATO forces commander in Europe, views the current approach towards Ukraine by Western powers as potentially disastrous if unchanged. Speaking at the Delphi Economic Conference in Greece, he highlighted how a paralyzed US Congress, an overly cautious White House, and hesitant European allies are inadvertently aiding Russia's interests.
Hodges pointed to Germany's reluctance to provide Ukraine with Taurus missiles as a prime example, attributing it largely to concerns about President Trump potentially withdrawing the nuclear shield from Europe. Similarly, he criticized the Biden administration for its excessive fear, particularly regarding the potential consequences of Crimea's liberation, which he deems unfounded.
He warned that Russia's nuclear threats could fracture the Western alliance, with some leaders inclined to provide more substantial assistance to Ukraine. Macron's recent suggestion of not ruling out NATO troops in Ukraine caused Russia to renew its nuclear threats, highlighting the delicate balance of power at play.
Despite Russia's posturing, Hodges questioned their actual military capabilities, noting their slow progress in Ukraine and their lack of capacity for rapid, large-scale conventional warfare. He emphasized the need for Ukraine to stabilize and expand its military while urging Western allies to support its innovative tactics and bravery on the battlefield.
Hodges advocated for a unified strategic objective among allies: restoring Ukraine's 1991 borders, including reclaiming Crimea. He called for concrete actions, such as immediately providing Ukraine with surplus weaponry and prioritizing its defense needs over other potential buyers.
Ultimately, Hodges believes in Ukraine's ability to prevail but emphasizes the urgency of decisive action and unwavering support from the West.
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