UMass Dartmouth Prof on Russia-Ukraine War and How It Will End

UMass Dartmouth Professor Brian Glyn Williams is considered an expert on Russian history, and has written three books on its history and sometimes violent leadership. He has studied the Russian invasion of Ukraine and has reached some very strong conclusions about the war, which he shared on this week's Townsquare Sunday.

"Ukraine separated from Russia in 1991 and this infuriated President Putin, who never saw them as a separate, distinct nation," Williams said. "He's always wanted to consume them back into Russia."

After several skirmishes over disputed territory, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February, 2022. To the surprise of many observers, the Ukraine military fought bravely, and with military equipment from the United States and other allies, inflicted significant casualties on the Russian forces.

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"All of the advanced weaponry combined with the heroism and true grit of the Ukrainians has ground down the Russians unexpectedly, and left them in a quagmire," Williams said. "It's become a grinding war with World War II-type artillery barrages. It comes down to which side runs out of ammunition first, which side runs out of willpower."

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Make no mistake, Ukraine and its people have suffered greatly during this conflict. Thousands of older Ukrainians, women and children have fled to other countries seeking shelter and safety. Russia continues to fire artillery into residential areas, causing death, heartache and displacement.

So how will it end? Professor Williams admitted he doesn't have a crystal ball, but he believes sooner or later, there will be a cease-fire. He said the current stalemate will result in Russia keeping the land its seized so far, while Ukraine will retain its democratically-elected government.

The complete interview with Prof. Williams can be heard here:

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