How and When War Ends

International military conflicts flare up for numerous reasons. Once they do, what factors determine when and how they end? The recent Russia-Ukraine war, for example, has now lasted over two years. Large onthe-ground gains elude both sides, but the leaders of these countries have not reached an agreement to end the war. Why? What possible ways could the war end, and how might the leaders get there? What can others in the international community do to encourage the end of individual wars? In this presentation, Andrew Owsiak explores the answers to such questions. The discussion highlights the myriad challenges and competing pressures that country leaders face when de-escalating conflict, which originate both from within and outside of their respective countries. Understanding these pressures deepens our understanding of how historical (e.g., the Cod Wars) and contemporary conflicts unfold (e.g., RussiaUkraine or Israel-Hamas).