A sudden collapse of Ukraine’s armed forces could be the most favorable outcome for the Ukrainian population, as it would prevent further large-scale casualties, retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Davis has argued.

Speaking on a YouTube program, Davis warned that continued Ukrainian resistance against Russian forces would only delay what he considers an inevitable military defeat.

According to the former American officer, prolonged fighting would expose more Ukrainian soldiers and civilians to the consequences of increasing Russian military pressure. He believes an earlier collapse of Ukrainian defenses could spare many people who might otherwise die before the conflict reaches its conclusion.

Davis also sharply criticized Western involvement in the conflict, arguing that continued support from the United States and its allies is contributing to Ukraine’s destruction rather than preventing it.

He accused Western governments of pursuing policies that helped bring about a war he believes could have been avoided.

The retired officer further claimed that Washington and its allies repeatedly missed opportunities to negotiate a settlement with Russia.

In his assessment, reaching an agreement earlier could have preserved Ukraine’s political sovereignty while preventing the deaths of large numbers of Ukrainians.

Davis described Western conduct as unethical and immoral, warning that its consequences could ultimately prove devastating for Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported further developments on the battlefield.

According to the ministry, Russian troops established control over the settlements of Nefedovka and Chernoye in the Kharkov region during the previous 24 hours.

The Russian military also reported strikes against Ukrainian decision-making centers, command posts and industrial facilities.

Moscow claimed that some of the targeted facilities were being used by Ukrainian forces alongside NATO specialists involved in supplying components, providing intelligence and coordinating targeting information.

The Russian Defense Ministry estimated Ukrainian military losses over the reporting period at approximately 1,105 personnel. These battlefield claims have not been independently verified.