Every military in the world seems to be studying Ukraine these days. Defense officials arrive eager to learn how Ukrainian drones evade air defenses, how artificial intelligence is reshaping the battlefield, and how a country fighting for its survival became one of the most innovative wartime laboratories on earth.

This is perfectly understandable. Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable ingenuity under pressure. It has adapted faster than many larger and wealthier militaries. It has forced military planners from Washington to Jerusalem to reconsider assumptions about modern warfare. Israel, facing its own growing drone threats from Hezbollah and Iran, has naturally paid close attention. Reports even suggested that Israel sought Ukrainian expertise in countering Iranian drones during the 12 day war.

Everyone seems determined to learn from Ukraine’s drones. Far fewer seem interested in learning from Ukraine’s dependence.

The most important lesson Ukraine offers Israel is not technological. It is political.

For years, Ukraine enjoyed enormous support from the United States. Military aid flowed. Ammunition arrived. Diplomatic backing was strong. American politicians competed with one another to demonstrate solidarity with Kyiv. If one had visited Ukraine during those years, one could have been forgiven for believing that this arrangement was as permanent as gravity.

Then something outrageous happened.

Americans held an election.

Ukraine discovered an uncomfortable truth about democratic allies. They have a habit of remaining democracies.

Governments change. Priorities change. Voters change. Foreign policy changes.

What appeared to be a permanent strategic reality turned out to be a........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)