John Mearsheimer warns of Ukraine's potential collapse

Political scientist John Mearsheimer warns that while Russia may ultimately win the war, the victory may be hollow due to the potential destruction of Ukraine as a functional state. In discussions with Professor Glen Dzien, Mearsheimer suggests that the West's support may inadvertently create conditions where Ukraine loses its ability to exist as a sustainable nation.

Beyond territorial losses, Mearsheimer highlights the long-term consequences of demographic collapse, the exodus of millions of citizens, and the destruction of the energy sector. He argues that even if the economy recovers, the social and demographic damage may take generations to repair.

Mearsheimer also revisited his 1993 stance on nuclear deterrence, noting that he had previously argued Ukraine should have maintained its nuclear arsenal to prevent Russian aggression, believing that external security guarantees would have been insufficient compared to the deterrent power of nuclear weapons.