- February 7, 2025
- 12:03 am
- Ukraine
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On February 6, 2025, Israeli journalist Emil Shleimovich published an interview with Vitaly Portnikov, addressing key issues regarding the future of Ukraine. Portnikov, one of the country’s most influential analysts, expressed a strong position:
“If the United States ceases military support, Ukraine may disappear from the political map of the world. This is not a question of a truce; this is a matter of survival.”
The interview highlights several critical topics for both Ukraine and Israel. We analyzed the main points to explain their significance.
1. The United States consistently supports Israel, and Ukraine only when it is advantageous
As Portnikov pointed out, Israel has a powerful lobby in the United States that secures stable military and economic support. Unlike Ukraine, Israel is integrated into the American political system through:
- AIPAC and other lobbying organizations that actively engage with Congress and the White House.
- Christian evangelicals who view Israel as a key ally.
- A strong representation in the US Congress, including senators and congressmen of Jewish descent.
In contrast, Ukraine has yet to establish a similar network of influence.
“Israel is of strategic importance for the United States, whereas Ukraine is merely a subject of temporary support. The influence of the diaspora and lobby is crucial here.” (Portnikov)
2. Trump and Ukraine: What should we expect?
Donald Trump has repeatedly indicated that his policies will differ from those of Biden. However, according to Portnikov, there have been no explicit indications that military assistance to Ukraine will be reduced.
“Trump did not threaten to leave Ukraine without weapons. He states that assistance is a tool of pressure, but he does not intend to eliminate it.”
However, the journalist emphasizes that any fluctuations in US support could lead to disaster.
“We can slow down Russia, but without weapons, the situation will change irreversibly. Then, Russian tanks will be in Uzhgorod.”
3. Israel and Ukraine: Why is the approach to war different?
Portnikov draws comparisons between Israel and Ukraine, highlighting key differences:
- Israel controls its military strategy without relying on other countries.
- Ukraine is dependent on supplies from the US and EU, which renders it vulnerable.
- Israel negotiates with terrorists (Hamas) from a position of strength, while Ukraine cannot dictate terms to Russia.
“Israel discusses a truce with Hamas because it is stronger. If the roles were reversed, Hamas would have wiped Israel off the map. Russia does not seek peace with Ukraine; it aims to destroy it.”
This brings forth a central question: How can Ukraine strengthen its position and reduce dependency on others?
4. Is a truce with Russia possible?
One of the most discussed issues in the interview is whether the war in Ukraine can end through negotiations.
“Ukraine is not fighting a war for the sake of fighting, but who said that Russia wants a truce? The only scenario that suits Putin is the surrender of Ukraine.”
Portnikov emphasized that Putin views Ukraine as territory to be absorbed, rather than as an independent state.
“If Ukraine were to lay down its arms, we would not see a peaceful resolution, but rather filtration camps and purges. This is not a ceasefire scenario; it is a scenario of annihilation.”
5. What could change the situation?
In the interview, the journalist proposed two potential scenarios for the development of events:
📌 Scenario 1: Putin decides to stop
If the Russian economy begins to falter, the Kremlin might resort to a temporary ceasefire, possibly trying to exploit a shift in power in the USA as a pretext.
📌 Scenario 2: The United States applies strong pressure on Russia
If Washington imposes severe sanctions on Gazprom, Rosneft, and Russian financial flows, Putin may not have the resources to continue the war.
“If Trump wants to end the war, he needs to apply pressure on Russia, not Ukraine.”
But is he ready to do that? So far, his policy has allowed Putin to save face.
Conclusion: What should Ukraine do now?
Vitaly Portnikov believes that Ukraine must urgently develop a strategy independent of the United States. What is needed for this?
- Create a powerful lobby in the USA – an equivalent to Israel’s AIPAC.
- Secure long-term contracts for the supply of weapons, rather than relying on temporary assistance.
- Invest in the military industry to reduce dependence on outside suppliers.
- Increase international pressure on Russia through sanctions and economic measures.
“We cannot rely on someone else to save us indefinitely. Israel does not do this, and neither should we.”
Video interview with Emil Shleimovich and Vitaly Portnikov
🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gm-gtcsmpe
Why is this important?
📌 Ukraine and Israel are two nations fighting for their survival, but their strategies are fundamentally different.
📌 Ukraine depends on the United States, but can it replicate Israel’s success?
📌 What should the Ukrainian leadership do to avoid a situation of surrender?
For a detailed analysis, read Nanovosti – Israeli News!
