A defeat for Ukraine in the war would ultimately cost the United States more than the assistance it has provided, according to an analysis by conservative think tank American Enterprise Institute (AEI).
If Russia wins, Pentagon spending would need to increase by over $800 billion by 2029, as reported by Bloomberg.
A successful Russian invasion would dramatically change the security landscape in Europe, emboldening Moscow to threaten NATO members. This would require additional resources to deter and defend against potential Russian aggression beyond Ukraine’s borders.
“That amount would alter the Defense Department’s current five-year plan through 2029 to $5.2 trillion from $4.4 trillion, or about $165 billion more annually than planned for those years,” the analysts said.
The report focuses on the projected Pentagon budget in a scenario where Russia defeats Ukraine, as well as the potential ripple effects on U.S. security.
“We conclude here that supporting Ukraine is in America’s best interest from a financially focused perspective,” the report said.
Analysts conclude that the short-term costs of aiding Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression are far lower than the long-term costs of allowing Russia to win.
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