Balance of Power

Europe Fears a Future Exposed by Putin’s War

While pouring billions into Ukraine’s defense, Europe has little influence on the US-led peace talks.

Residents walk through a market damaged following a Russian attack, in Odesa, Ukraine, on Feb. 12.Photographer: Oleksandr Gimanov/AFP/Getty Images

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By Anthony Halpin

February 13, 2026 at 10:59 AM UTC

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Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine has been a failure by almost any measure, with his army incurring massive casualties for little territorial gain beyond what it already occupied prior to the invasion almost four years ago.