Geopolitical players and their stakes: a political scientist explains the new division of the world

On the air of Politeka Online, philosopher and political scientist Andriy Yermolaev shared an in-depth analysis of why international agreements have turned into empty pieces of paper and why major powers have once again begun speaking the language of ultimatums. Who benefits from prolonging the war, why European unity is cracking, and what the architects of a new world order are really hoping for?

During the conversation with the host of the Politeka Online channel, Andriy Yermolaev emphasized that humanity has entered a phase of a “great reshuffle.” The old rules of the game, established after World War II, have finally ceased to function. In his view, what we are witnessing now is not merely an armed confrontation, but a civilizational rupture.

“We must understand that the former calm will not return. The security system meant to protect nations from aggression has proven powerless. Today, the law of force outweighs the force of law,” Yermolaev stated on air. He noted that global elites are disoriented, trying to find new points of support as old alliances begin to crumble.

The political scientist paid special attention to Ukraine’s role on this global chessboard. Yermolaev stressed that our confrontation has become a catalyst for processes that had been maturing for decades. According to him, the world sees Ukraine not only as a victim of aggression, but also as a testing ground where new military, economic, and social models of the future are being tried out.

“Ukraine today is a mirror that old Europe is afraid to look into. We have forced the world to remember concepts such as sovereignty and national dignity, but the price of this reminder is incredibly high,” the philosopher shared. He added that further support will depend on how quickly the West can overcome its internal paralysis in decision-making.

Analyzing the positions of the United States, China, and Europe, Yermolaev noted that each major player is pursuing its own hidden game. While Washington is trying to maintain leadership, Beijing is waiting for the moment to offer its alternative model of global governance.

The broadcast also voiced the idea that many countries are currently taking a wait-and-see approach, trying to benefit from the weakening of their competitors. “The war has become a convenient pretext for many regimes to revise their boundaries and spheres of influence. We see regional leaders becoming more active—those who were still in the shadows just yesterday,” he said.

Concluding the discussion, Andriy Yermolaev urged viewers to take a sober look at events. He emphasized that there is no quick or easy way out of the crisis, as we are dealing with ongoing systemic changes.

“People should prepare for a prolonged struggle for their place in the sun. This applies not only to the state, but to every citizen. Those who survive and prevail will be the ones who can adapt to the changing world without losing their humanity and inner freedom,” Andriy Yermolaev concluded.