U.S. President Joe Biden's strategy in supporting Ukraine has drawn criticism from allies who believe that his caution and indecision have deprived Kyiv of a chance for victory in its conflict with Russia.
According to Bloomberg, even after Washington mobilized over $90 billion in aid for Ukraine, crucial opportunities were missed due to delays in delivering advanced weaponry.
"His heart was undoubtedly in the right place - he understood the importance of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression," said former British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps. "However, his approach was often too cautious and indecisive, withholding the decisive support needed to shift the balance."
In particular, during critical moments in 2022, when Ukraine had a strategic advantage, the U.S. was slow to provide additional arms, fearing escalation, including nuclear escalation. As noted by former British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps, Biden's approach held back crucial support that could have changed the course of the war.
Meanwhile, American officials acknowledge their responsibility to Ukraine, but stress the need to avoid direct conflict with Russia, especially given the Kremlin's nuclear capabilities. This concern, according to some experts, has been overstated, as Russia has been fortifying its defensive positions while buying time.
The lack of timely deliveries of modern weaponry, particularly air defense systems, long-range missiles, and fighter jets, has allowed Russia to intensify attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, weakening both the economy and the morale of Ukrainians.
Source: bloomberg.