Biden not only limited the capabilities of Ukraine, but also missed the opportunity to enhance the global standing of the United States and strengthen the positions of democratic nations on the world stage.
This opinion was expressed by Professor of Strategic Studies Phillips Payson O'Brien in an article for The Atlantic. He also noted that Ukraine has demonstrated its ability to inflict serious military defeats on Russian occupiers; however, Biden, out of fear of threats from the Kremlin regarding the use of nuclear weapons, delayed the delivery of essential assistance. It was only recently, after significant successes by the Ukrainian army, that the U.S. permitted the use of Western missiles to strike targets within Russia.
According to the expert, this moment was decisive, as the U.S., having the opportunity to weaken Russia, let a unique chance slip away.
"Biden promised the Ukrainians that he would support them 'for as long as needed,' yet he did everything to prolong the war far longer than necessary," O'Brien emphasized.
The American administration overestimated Russia's "power," believing its military strength to be invincible. However, as O'Brien highlights, it is Moscow's issues—corruption, low morale, and logistical challenges—that made it vulnerable. Ukraine, according to the professor, has shown remarkable resilience and readiness to fight, while the U.S. hesitated in providing effective support.
The expert also points out that due to fears of escalating the conflict, Biden and his team missed the chance to end the war more swiftly. At the same time, O'Brien predicts that Ukraine will continue its struggle even without Biden. He also noted that Trump's victory in the presidential elections could radically change the situation in favor of Ukraine, as Trump could become an important ally in the confrontation with Russia. Meanwhile, the Biden administration appears increasingly helpless.
Source: theatlantic.