On Tuesday, January 10, Russian soldiers launched an assault on Soledar, a reminder to the world that the war in Ukraine is rapidly reaching its year anniversary. The war, which many predicted Russia would win with ease, is likely to continue well into 2023 and beyond, as neither side has successfully secured a decisive victory. For many leaders in NATO, this extended conflict has lasted for far too long, prompting an increase in military supplies to Ukraine. France, the United States, and Germany have all promised to increase supplies, mostly notably “tank like” armored vehicles such as the French AMX-10 RC and American M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV). Many scholars hope that these vehicles can help Ukraine to break through the Russian positions, but others worry these may be too little too late.
The move to send more military aid to Ukraine is not a decision without controversy, and the debate will intensify as the aid increases. The argument for sending more military aid is as follows: sending Ukraine the weapons they need now will end the war faster and therefore minimize the long-term costs of the conflict. Some politicians in the U.S. have countered that the war is becoming too costly for the American taxpayer and have argued that the costs outweigh the returns when it comes to U.S. national security. The argument remains that the European war is a European issue and therefore does not require U.S. direct investment when America faces so many domestic issues. France’s decision to send AMX-10 RCs to Ukraine is a welcomed move to Washington, as is Germany’s reluctant decision to send MIM-104 Patriot missiles. Ukraine, while temporarily satiated, has continued to eye Germany’s Leopard 2 tanks, but so far, NATO has decided that battle tanks remain off the menu.
Questions and Background
- Is the West providing enough military aid to Ukraine?
- What are the U.S. national security interests in Ukraine and Europe?
- Should NATO send heavy tanks to Ukraine? What are the costs and benefits of sending more advanced weapons to Ukraine?
Experts react: Can new French and German weapons turn the tide in Ukraine?
Atlantic Council. January 6, 2023.
Ukraine and the New Two War Construct
Raphael S. Cohen. War on the Rocks. January 5, 2023.
Ukraine Is Already Paying Us Back
Daniel Twining. Politico. January 4, 2023.