Backing Ukraine is a Losing Game: US Veteran Warns Why Supporting Ukraine is Futile

Photo of the Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Daniel L. Davis

“They have no parade, no victory of any kind and no evidence of strength,” Retired Lt. Col. Daniel L. Davis said in a tv interview.

Davis argues that the belief that Ukraine can reclaim all lost territories and push Russia back to its 1991 borders is unrealistic, given the overwhelming Russian advantage in manpower and resources.

“Continuing to support Ukraine militarily is futile, as Russia is demonstrating power while Ukraine lacks meaningful victories,” says retired Lt. Col. Daniel L. Davis.

Davis opinions on the Russia-Ukraine war

He warns that Ukraine’s upcoming spring offensive may be its last major military effort, and even if partially successful, it is unlikely to force Russia into a favourable negotiation.

Davis supports a diplomatic approach, urging Ukraine and its allies to accept “ugly terms” to end the war and prevent further destruction and loss of life.

“We are going to go down something that can be accomplished, and that’s to seek a negotiated settlement on the best terms you can get for Ukraine at the earliest possible moment,” he said.

“It is self-evident that the war cannot be won, so it is self-destructive to keep going down a path and pretend otherwise,” he added.

He also notes that U.S. national interests do not align with a prolonged war and that American policy should focus on leveraging battlefield developments to negotiate the best possible peace, rather than pursuing an unattainable military victory.

“This war is militarily lost for Ukraine and only negotiating with Russia will end it,” Retired Lt. Col. Daniel L. Davis said.

Social media reactions on the issue

This evoked some reactions on the X social media platform as different comments were aired, supporting and criticizing.

US President Donald Trump has proposed a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine-Russia war, an idea that has now received backing of European powers led by the United Kingdom and France.

Speaking during a visit to Ukraine on Friday, “stop obstructing efforts” of the conflict’s resolution. The UK Premier and his fellow European leaders had, however, confirmed their support for Trump’s call for a ceasefire. 

“We reiterate our backing for President Trump’s calls for a peace deal and call on Russia to stop obstructing efforts to secure an enduring peace,” noted Starmer. 

“Alongside the US, we call on Russia to agree a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire to create the space for talks on a just and lasting peace.”