Russia could win its war against Ukraine unless European countries provide Kyiv with the military and financial support it needs. The year 2027 could prove decisive, potentially representing Europe’s last opportunity to change the course of the war. Russian opposition figure and former world chess champion Garry Kasparov issued the warning in an opinion column for the British newspaper The Telegraph.
According to Kasparov, Russia’s invasion is increasingly becoming a broader confrontation between the Kremlin and Western democracies. Vladimir Putin’s objective is not only to seize Ukrainian territory but also to dismantle the international order built on democratic principles.
Kasparov believes Ukraine is approaching an exceptionally difficult winter, while European leaders have yet to demonstrate sufficient resolve. He argues that a significant gap remains between military officials’ understanding of the Russian threat and the actions taken by European political leaders.
Kasparov also questioned whether the United States can still be regarded as a reliable partner that Ukraine can count on under all circumstances. At the same time, he sees little prospect of productive negotiations with Moscow, arguing that the Kremlin has no genuine interest in a peaceful settlement.
Russia seeks to exhaust Ukraine
According to Kasparov, Russia’s leadership is increasingly focused on making normal civilian life in Ukraine impossible. Attacks on hospitals, energy facilities and agricultural infrastructure are intended to exhaust the country and weaken European partners’ willingness to continue providing assistance.
Kasparov also identified political developments in Europe as a separate threat. Elections scheduled for 2027 could strengthen far-right parties that oppose continued support for Ukraine.
He expressed particular concern about France, where a potential rise to power by far-right forces led by Marine Le Pen could, in his view, undermine European unity.
Kasparov warned that the consequences of Ukraine’s defeat would extend far beyond its borders.
“Putin will dictate the terms. We will live in a new world order dominated by authoritarian regimes and their interests,” he warned.
Kasparov urges Europe to use frozen Russian assets
Kasparov identified the use of frozen Russian sovereign assets held in Belgium to finance Ukraine’s defense as the most important step Europe could take to change the course of the war.
He argued that the funds should be directed toward purchasing weapons and supplying the Ukrainian military. Kasparov believes such a decision could give Ukraine a genuine chance of victory.
He stressed that the courage of Ukrainian soldiers cannot compensate for a shortage of resources. In his view, Western hesitation has already contributed to significant losses of life.
Unless European countries take decisive action, Kasparov warned, Ukraine’s defeat could pave the way for further Russian aggression and significantly weaken Europe’s influence over the future international order.
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