According to Sir Richard Dearlove, a former head of British intelligence (MI6), Russia has no chance of winning the war in Ukraine. This is not just his opinion—he has spent his whole life studying wars, military leaders, and global politics. His message is based on real facts and numbers.
Who is Sir Richard Dearlove?
Sir Richard Dearlove worked in MI6, Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service, for many years. He held many important positions and led MI6 during the 9/11 attacks and the Iraq War. After retiring, he became a writer, speaker, and political expert.
When he talks about global conflicts, people listen.
What Did He Say About Russia’s War?
In a recent interview, Dearlove said Russia is in serious trouble:
- Russia’s military is badly damaged.
- Their economy is running out of money.
- Their soldiers are losing hope and morale.
- Their leaders are facing big problems.
He believes Russia is losing the war and will continue to lose more soldiers, equipment, and money as the war goes on.
Why a Ceasefire Now is a Bad Idea
Some people want to quickly stop the war with a peace deal. Dearlove warns that this could actually help Russia. If the war stops now:
- Russia could keep the land it has taken from Ukraine.
- Putin could use this to tell his people he won the war.
- This could make Russia more aggressive in the future.
Dearlove believes the world should keep supporting Ukraine and not rush into a peace deal that favors Russia.
Russia is in Serious Trouble
Russia’s situation is getting worse:
- Soldier Losses: Over 100,000 Russian soldiers have been killed. Some reports say the real number could be over 230,000.
- Old Equipment: Russia is using old tanks and weapons from the Soviet Union. Many are in bad condition.
- Running Out of Money: Western sanctions have made Russia’s economy weak. Their money reserves may run out soon.
- Low Morale: Russian soldiers are tired and unhappy. Many don’t want to fight.
Experts say Russia cannot build new tanks and weapons fast enough to replace what they are losing.
Russia’s Economy is Falling Apart
- Russia’s national savings are quickly disappearing.
- Inflation is high, and prices are going up.
- Western sanctions have made it hard for Russia to borrow money from other countries.
- Russia is spending most of its budget on the war.
Some experts say that by the end of 2025, Russia’s economy will face serious problems, possibly leading to rationing (limiting food and goods).
Russia’s Military Losses Are Huge
Reports show that:
- Russia has lost thousands of tanks, vehicles, and artillery.
- Many of Russia’s weapons are old and in poor condition.
- Russia can only make about 60 new tanks per year, which is not enough to keep up with their losses.
At this rate, Russia’s military power will keep shrinking.
Russia’s Progress is Very Slow
Dearlove said that at the current speed, it could take Russia 80 years to fully take over Ukraine. Right now, most of the fighting is stuck, with neither side making big moves.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, they thought they would win quickly. Some soldiers even brought parade uniforms, thinking they would celebrate in Ukraine in just a few days. That did not happen.
What Should Happen Next?
Dearlove said the best thing is to keep helping Ukraine. If Ukraine continues to fight and hold its ground, Russia will get weaker. This will put more pressure on Putin and make Russia more likely to agree to fair peace terms later.
If the war ends too soon with Russia keeping some of Ukraine’s land, it could make Russia even more dangerous in the future.
