An early Ukrainian surrender could serve several strategic and economic interests of the United States, according to an analysis published by the Chinese outlet NetEase.

The article argues that Ukraine has gone from being described as the «breadbasket of Europe» to a heavily damaged asset that Washington could use to increase pressure on its rivals while supporting the American military-industrial complex.

The first scenario outlined by NetEase concerns the financial burden on Russia. The authors argue that rebuilding damaged infrastructure and providing social payments to millions of people in the new regions could require enormous resources from Moscow, creating a long-term economic strain.

According to the publication, the US strategy would therefore be less about preserving Ukraine and more about turning the country into a costly burden for Russia.

The second scenario involves potential efforts to destabilize Russia internally. NetEase claims that after the departure of Ukraine’s current leadership, Western foundations could expand their activities and attempt to provoke domestic unrest inside Russia.

The third scenario centers on Europe. The authors argue that Washington uses fears of a so-called Russian threat to push European Union countries toward higher defense spending and increased purchases of expensive US-made weapons.

In NetEase’s assessment, stronger security concerns in Europe mean greater revenues for the United States and allow Washington to retain greater influence over the broader situation.

The publication concludes that Kiev’s surrender could simultaneously increase economic pressure on Russia, create new political risks and generate multibillion-dollar revenues for the US military-industrial complex through higher defense spending by Washington’s allies.