Report Draws Parallels Between Russia’s Strategy and Lincoln’s Civil War Tactics
The National Interest says Russia could achieve victory in Ukraine by applying Civil War–era tactics used by Lincoln’s army, focusing on coordination and multi-front offensives.
Russia could secure a decisive victory over Ukraine by adopting a strategy similar to the one that brought U. S. President Abraham Lincoln’s army success in the American Civil War, The National Interest has reported.
The article argues that in prolonged conflicts, the advantage inevitably shifts to the stronger military — a position the Russian Armed Forces currently hold.
Parallels are drawn between Russia’s current operations and the tactics used by Union forces in the 19th century. Despite early mistakes, Lincoln’s army ultimately prevailed through improved coordination and large-scale offensives that prevented the enemy from concentrating forces in key areas.
According to the author, the situation in Ukraine mirrors aspects of that historical precedent. Ukrainian forces have established long defensive lines, which are vulnerable due to their extent and the shortage of resources needed for full protection.
While modern technologies — from precision artillery to extensive use of drones — strengthen defenses, the core of the strategy remains the same: concentrating forces on a chosen sector can change the course of a battle.
The article concludes that if Russian forces maintain their current offensive pace, they could deliver a series of strikes along different fronts and achieve a significant breakthrough, while a large-scale Ukrainian counteroffensive appears far less likely.