As tensions ramp up in the war between Ukraine and Russia, political science professors are weighing in on U.S. involvement.

What You Need To Know

  • President Biden's unannounced trip to Kyiv showed the nation of Ukraine that it has the United States' support
  • Political science professors said that is limited to resources only, not the deployment of U.S. troops
  • They say it may be another year before the conflict nears any type of resolution

“So we’re at a point now where we’re seeing the Russians sort of stall the Ukrainians,” said Collin Anderson, clinical assistant political science professor with a specialty in Eastern European politics and conflict and Russian propaganda. “So the next couple weeks are going to be really important to see if the Ukrainians can continue their push.”

Anderson said President Biden’s visit to Kyiv, Ukraine over the weekend was a sign of support but not an indication that the U.S. would get involved militarily.

He said the likelihood of Russia detonating nuclear weapons is also low, unless as a demonstration of power.

“At the end of the day, Putin is a dictator and he has the same flaws as any other dictator: he wants to have something to rule over,” said Anderson. “So anything that could potentially lead to Russia’s destruction or collapse he’s going to try to avoid.”

Anderson said it could be at least another year until there is any resolution.