Once again, war’s dynamism shows its face. A month ago, the common belief about the Ukraine war was, “It’s a stalemate, so let’s negotiate.” Today, the cry is, “Putin’s lost, so let’s celebrate.” Celebrate the counteroffensive’s success and the opportunities it provides, yes. But the war is far from over. Vladimir Putin has neither admitted…
Author: James M. Dubik, opinion contributor
The US must close the gap between ends and means in Ukraine
Success in war is measured not by level of effort but by the degree to which a country achieves the policy goals set by its senior political leaders. Regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine, the United States has four policy goals — two grand strategic and two theater strategic. Achieving these goals is not guaranteed. And…
Beware of war predictions: Ukraine’s outcome is not yet written
In 1942, Germany controlled most of Europe and a large swath of Northern Africa, and Japan controlled much of China, Southeast Asia, and was at Australia’s doorstep. By the end of 1943, the maps looked quite different. War is like that, a dynamic phenomenon. A scene from the movie, “Lawrence of Arabia,” says it best:…
Honor those whose sacrifice makes them worthy
Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died in service to our country during peacetime and at war. Unfortunately, I remember too many. Every time I hear a bugler play “Taps” or a piper play “Amazing Grace,” memories and tears are autonomic responses. Memorial Day brings my cumulative experiences of…
Fighting for a just peace in Ukraine
Some may believe that there is no such thing as a just war, claiming all war is immoral. But political and military leaders who represent democracies and are responsible for the security of their nations and its citizens don’t have that luxury. They understand that there is a relationship between war and justice, and it…
Time to shift strategies: We must do more to aid Ukraine
If Putin can continue escalating indiscriminate attacks while the West continues its current approach, Ukraine may be destroyed.