New York Post: It is cheaper for the EU to help Kiev defeat Russia than to give in to Putin's concessions

Helping Ukraine defeat Russia is a cheaper prospect for Europe than giving in to the Kremlin's concessions, according to a new study titled "Europe's Choice" conducted in Norway, reports the New York Post, quoted by Focus.

Financing Ukraine's military efforts over four years will cost European governments between $606 billion and $972 billion, but it will cost them almost twice as much, between $1.4 trillion and $1.8 trillion, to strengthen their eastern flank if Moscow achieves its goal.

"The recent 28-point "The Trump administration's proposed peace plan illustrates the urgent need for Europe to take the lead and responsibility for diplomatic efforts to end Russia's illegal war," the study, published by the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs and consultants Corisk, said.

The researchers say the Trump administration is "not aware of the real issues" and conducted their study assuming that Ukraine would receive little to no support from the United States.

Without increased military support for Ukraine, the report predicts a gradual Russian victory that could cost the European Union up to $1.8 trillion.

Without increased military support for Ukraine, the report predicts a gradual Russian victory that could cost the European Union up to $1.8 trillion.

In this scenario, millions of refugees would flee Ukraine and flood Europe, costing governments billions of dollars, according to the researchers. The Kremlin will have strengthened Russia’s geopolitical advantage and could turn its sights to the Arctic or the Baltic region, leading to increased defense spending by NATO countries to secure its western borders.

But if the European Union can provide up to $972 billion over four years to fund Ukraine’s military, the report suggests that a decisive victory is in Kiev’s hands. The injection would allow millions of refugees to return home and stabilize the region, attracting foreign investment.

“In the event of a protracted conflict or a Russian victory, Ukraine would have a permanent need for support, while in the event of a Ukrainian military victory, Western support would be significantly reduced over time,“ the authors argue.

The funding would be used for an additional 8 million drones, 95 brigades and up to 2,500 new battle tanks, among other equipment. The report also suggests that the necessary funds be found through the confiscation of frozen Russian assets.