Allies Let Ukraine Down, Leaving One Scenario in the War - Bloomberg

Bloomberg columnist Mark Champion believes Western allies of Ukraine have weakened its position by not providing enough Patriot interceptors, giving Russia an advantage. He outlines three scenarios: increased support, ceding Donbas, or a protracted war until 2027, with the latter being most likely.

Bloomberg columnist Mark Champion, in an article retold by Kursor, argues that Western allies of Ukraine are again risking weakening Kyiv's position at a critical moment, effectively giving Vladimir Putin additional opportunities to continue the war. According to him, the situation at the front in 2026 was favorable for Ukraine: Russian advances slowed, Russian army losses grew, and Kyiv expanded its long-range strike capabilities. However, the window for diplomacy closed due to a shortage of Patriot interceptors, the only air defense system capable of countering ballistic missiles. Russia could intensify strikes on cities, port infrastructure, and energy facilities, threatening blackouts in winter. Champion considers three scenarios: additional Patriot supplies and precision weapons (unlikely), Kyiv accepting Russian demands and handing over Donbas (extremely unlikely), and the war continuing at least until 2027 (most likely). The author emphasizes that prolonging the war will lead to further losses and financial pressure on Ukraine.