Ex-US Army Europe Commander Outlines Ukraine War End Scenarios

Hodges Predicts Defense Industry Growth, Intelligence Agency ‘Mossad-Style’ Operations

Retired Lieutenant General **Ben Hodges**, who formerly commanded U.S. Army Europe, has detailed multiple potential outcomes for Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing strategic self-reliance for Kyiv.

Best-Case Scenario: Western Resolve

General **Hodges** believes the most favorable end for Ukraine involves a galvanized West, particularly the United States. He argues that a Ukrainian victory directly serves Western interests by bolstering the global economy and restoring vital food and energy supplies.

Such a decisive outcome would also send a powerful deterrent signal to China, demonstrating the West’s capability and commitment to decisive action, according to **Hodges**.

Most Probable Outcome: Stalemate

However, **Hodges** currently views a prolonged situation, similar to the present, as the most likely scenario a year from now, barring significant external shifts. “It’s hard to imagine it being really different anywhere else, but I hope it is,” he stated.

He acknowledged the possibility of unforeseen events, such as economic collapse in Russia or a change in leadership. “You know, maybe Russia’s economy totally collapses, something happens to Putin,” **Hodges** mused.

Ukraine’s Israeli-Style Defense Strategy

Looking ahead, **Hodges** envisions Ukraine adopting a defense posture akin to Israel’s. This would involve becoming “absolutely indigestible to Russia” until NATO membership is secured, maintaining a constant state of readiness against potential threats.

“I kind of envision that Ukraine is going to adopt an Israeli-style approach, that until they are in NATO, they have to make themselves absolutely indigestible to Russia, and that they’re in a constant state of war. That doesn’t mean there’s fighting every day, but they are constantly vigilant and dealing with incoming Russian drones and rockets the way the Israelis have to do with Hezbollah.”

—Ben Hodges, Retired Lieutenant General

He also expressed hope for Ukraine’s defense industry development and the formation of regional security alliances, particularly in the Black Sea.

The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (GUR) could evolve into an entity comparable to Israel’s Mossad, **Hodges** suggested. This would entail holding accountable Russian military leaders involved in war crimes.

The United States recently committed billions in military aid to Ukraine through an agreement with NATO, underscoring continued international support for the embattled nation. As of early 2024, Ukrainian forces have demonstrated remarkable resilience, repelling initial advances and launching counteroffensives despite facing significant Russian military might.

Meanwhile, **Hodges** has previously indicated that the Kremlin is attempting to avoid a general mobilization within Russia, suggesting internal pressures or concerns about public sentiment.