Luisa N. Borrell, epidemiologist: ‘In the United States, there are 197 words that disqualify you from research funding. I work with all of them’

Recent history reveals that the United States has struggled to achieve victory in numerous conflicts, despite possessing unmatched military power. This pattern of defeat includes the Korean War, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the ongoing Iran war.

The key factors behind these losses lie within strategic and structural issues rather than financial, firepower, or the physical courage of US troops. The country has found itself embroiled in wars of choice, aiming to implement significant changes in foreign societies that may not align with its interests.

The US faces opponents who are often more resolute in their objectives than Washington, given their greater stake in the outcome. These adversaries fight to protect their independence and autonomy, whereas the United States is driven by the pursuit of desirable yet less critical goals. Consequently, the weaker side tends to win by enduring the conflict rather than achieving a decisive victory on the battlefield, anticipating that continued investment of resources into the quagmire won't yield sufficient returns.