Bloomberg Opinion Draws Stark Parallel Between Ukraine Conflict and Ancient Rome-Carthage Rivalry

New York – A recent Bloomberg Opinion piece, published on November 28, 2025, has drawn a potent historical analogy, suggesting that "the ancient shadows of Rome and Carthage are stretching all the way to our time — and to Ukraine." The article, titled "Ancient Rome and Carthage and Their Lessons for Ukraine," posits that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine mirrors the existential struggle between the Roman Republic and the Carthaginian Empire.

The commentary highlights the Roman Senate's relentless stance, encapsulated in the phrase "Carthago delenda est" (Carthage must be destroyed), as a reflection of the profound and often ruthless nature of geopolitical rivalries. This historical comparison underscores the idea that certain conflicts transcend immediate causes, becoming battles for survival and dominance with far-reaching consequences. The Punic Wars, fought between 264 and 146 BCE, saw Rome ultimately triumph, leading to the complete destruction of Carthage and the rise of Rome as the dominant Mediterranean power.

Howard Chua-Eoan, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, authored the piece, emphasizing the visceral hatred and determination that characterized the ancient conflict. The article suggests that understanding such historical precedents can offer insights into the current geopolitical landscape and the intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war. Analysts often use historical parallels to frame contemporary events, providing a deeper understanding of potential trajectories and the underlying motivations of involved parties.

The invocation of the Rome-Carthage rivalry implies a conflict where one side seeks not just victory, but the fundamental incapacitation or elimination of the other as a significant power. This perspective suggests a long-term, high-stakes confrontation in Ukraine, with implications for regional and global power dynamics. The historical context serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for prolonged and devastating conflicts when existential threats are perceived by major powers.