General David Petraeus, former commander of multinational forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and former CIA director, has outlined how the West could compel Russia to halt its aggression in Ukraine.
In an interview with U.S. media, Petraeus stressed that a sustainable solution would require maximum political, financial, and military pressure on Moscow.
Uncertainty in Peace Negotiations
Petraeus highlighted that the situation remains uncertain, as it is unclear what concessions Russia might make. He noted that Moscow’s demands have been “maximalist,” including the replacement of President Zelensky and the surrender of territories that Russia does not even control.
Step 1: Utilize Frozen Russian Funds
Petraeus proposed that Europe should release $200–250 billion in frozen Russian assets held in European banks. According to him, these funds could serve as guarantees for bonds providing Ukraine with immediate financing for weapons, missile defense, and drone production up to 7 million per year.
“This would resolve Ukraine’s economic and military needs for the next two to three years,” Petraeus said.
Step 2: Hit the Russian Economy Hard
The general called for new, much harsher sanctions targeting Russia’s economy, aiming to undermine domestic support and weaken its access to technology and equipment, particularly from China.
He emphasized that Russia’s national welfare fund is expected to be depleted next year, while Ukrainian strikes on Russian fuel depots and refineries are increasingly causing significant damage.
“With these two measures, Putin would no longer be able to continue the war,” Petraeus stated.
On NATO-Style Guarantees
Petraeus expressed skepticism regarding NATO-style guarantees, arguing that any support must be “completely unbreakable.” He stressed that the greatest assistance is not the presence of Western troops on the ground, but supplying Ukraine with advanced weapons, ammunition, and defensive systems.
On Russian Claims in Donetsk
Regarding Russian claims that they would soon capture all of Donetsk, Petraeus dismissed them, noting that Russian forces have not even reached the fortified front line and have suffered immense, unimaginable losses.
