Political Goal as a Key Factor in War Strategy Development: Analysis by Valeriy Zaluzhny
The political goal plays a critical role in shaping an effective war strategy, believes the ambassador to the UK and former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valeriy Zaluzhny. Without a clear definition of the political goal, it is impossible to make rational strategic decisions implemented in the conditions of military action.
In an article for LIGA.net, Zaluzhny emphasizes that the political goal of the war is not just a response to the enemy’s actions but also defines the course of further actions. It allows for the coordination of efforts among the population, armed forces, and state administration. War cannot be won without sovereign political will, which is shaped by defining a clear goal.
Zaluzhny references Clausewitz’s classic theory, which states that war is conducted for political, not military purposes. An important component is public support, which is impossible without a clear political goal. The public must be well-informed and able to distinguish “ours” from “theirs.” This becomes critically important for supporting the nation when the country is under threat.
In the context of the contemporary global situation, where the war in Ukraine has been ongoing for over a decade, and according to Zaluzhny, it is acquiring global characteristics. He argues that without defining and responding to Russia’s political ambitions, Ukraine will not achieve lasting peace. It is no secret that the invasion of Ukraine fits into the broader context of geopolitical confrontation, where Russia seeks to realize its imperial ambitions.
In this context, Zaluzhny emphasizes that an important element in this war of attrition is the economic security and resilience of the state, as well as international guarantees of national security, which should be considered part of Ukraine’s political goal. Without these, elevating the war to a politico-economic level remains an unresolved task.
| Periods | Political Goal |
|---|---|
| February 2015 – February 2022 | Avoidance of war, preparation of the Armed Forces and economy |
| February 2022 – December 2023 | Ensuring sustainable peace, preventing escalation |
| February 2024 – January 2025 | Strategic defense, creating alliances |
| January 2025 – August 2025 | Strategic defense, preventing disadvantage exploitation |
| August 2025 – onwards | Preservation of the state, coalition formation |
