The end of the war in Ukraine will sound the death knell of Western unity

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Let’s imagine that in 2026, in one way or another, the active phase of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict comes to an end. Of course, this is a hypothetical scenario, and such a development is far from certain. But it cannot be entirely ruled out either.

It is clear, however, that the cessation of hostilities will not automatically lead to the end of the confrontation between Russia and the West, which has gained strong inertia in recent years. One thing is certain, a return to the situation of February 23, 2022 [the day before the start of the Russian invasion] is unlikely.

The re-establishment of the old relationship model between Moscow and the West seems even more impossible if one considers that the cessation of hostilities will primarily be on Russia’s terms — which would de facto signify a strategic defeat not only for Ukraine but also for its main Western partners and supporters.

Frustrated nationalism and hopes of future revenge will undoubtedly leave their mark on global politics this year — as much as economic and political interests.

Source of the article: Izvestia (Moscow)