Prof. John Mearsheimer: Ukraine is "DOOMED"

Summary

In this discussion, the ongoing war in Ukraine is addressed, highlighting the diminishing Western support and the bleak outlook for Ukraine. The speaker emphasizes the reality of Russia's superior military power and the futility of continued conflict. The conversation also touches on the potential for a diplomatic resolution, the changing attitudes of influential figures, and the harsh upcoming winter's impact on Ukraine's infrastructure and civilian life.

Takeaways

• 🇺🇦 The ongoing war in Ukraine is not widely discussed, yet it continues with a significant impact.
• 🏳️‍🔥 The guest has consistently maintained that Ukraine has little chance of winning against Russia due to the latter's superior size and military capabilities.
• 🗣️ Western policymakers are starting to openly acknowledge the reality that Russia is unlikely to be expelled from Ukraine.
• 👨‍💼 Influential figures like the President of the Czech Republic and Richard Haass are advocating for a more pragmatic approach to the conflict.
• 🔄 The guest suggests that both Russia and Iran have concluded that the U.S. cannot be appeased and that a hardline stance is necessary in negotiations.
• 🇷🇺 The Russians, particularly Putin, are expected to drive a hard bargain in any negotiations, regardless of who is in the White House.
• 🌐 Western media and government propaganda present a distorted view of the conflict, often misrepresenting the motivations and capabilities of the involved parties.
• 📉 Support for Ukraine is diminishing in the West, with key figures like Donald Trump indicating a lack of long-term commitment.
• 🛑 The battlefield situation is dire for Ukraine, with high casualty rates and Russian forces advancing.
• ❄️ The coming winter and the destruction of Ukraine's electric grid are expected to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and potentially lead to a mass exodus of Ukrainians.

Q & A

What is the main frustration expressed about the war in Ukraine?

The main frustration expressed is that despite the war still ongoing, it is not being discussed much, and there is a consistent belief that Ukraine has no chance of winning against Russia due to Russia's superior size and military capabilities.

What has changed recently in the perception of Western foreign policy influencers regarding the war in Ukraine?

Recently, more influential figures in Western foreign policy have started to openly acknowledge that Russia is unlikely to be expelled from Ukrainian soil and that the war is not winnable for Ukraine.

What did the President of the Czech Republic say about the war in Ukraine?

The President of the Czech Republic, who has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, recently stated that it's necessary to accept reality, implying that Russia will not be expelled from Ukraine and that the war cannot continue indefinitely.

What was Richard Haass's stance on the war in Ukraine during his appearance on 'morning Joe'?

Richard Haass, former president of the Council on Foreign Relations, provided a thoughtful explanation on 'morning Joe' suggesting that it's time to admit Ukraine is losing the war and that a way to foster some sort of agreement should be considered.

How does the speaker suggest the Russians view the United States?

The speaker suggests that the Russians, including Vladimir Putin, believe that the only way to deal with the United States is to play hardball from the start, as they believe the U.S. cannot be appeased or accommodated.

What does the speaker believe will be the Russians' approach in negotiations with the United States?

The speaker believes the Russians will drive a hard bargain in negotiations with the U.S., regardless of who is in office, because they have learned that showing any signs of weakness will be taken advantage of by the Americans.

What is the current state of support for Ukraine from Western countries according to the transcript?

The transcript indicates that support from Western countries is withering away, with leaders like Donald Trump expressing disinterest in long-term support and other countries like Germany and Britain signaling they are at the end of their rope.

What does the speaker predict will happen to the Ukrainian military in a war of attrition?

The speaker predicts that in a war of attrition, the Ukrainian military will suffer heavy casualties and lose territory due to Russia's superior firepower and air power.

What is the anticipated impact of the upcoming winter on Ukraine according to the speaker?

The speaker anticipates that the upcoming winter will be disastrous for Ukraine, as the Russian military has already destroyed a significant portion of the electric grid, leading to a lack of heating and warm water for civilians.

What does the speaker argue should be done about the war in Ukraine?

The speaker has been arguing for a swift end to the war in Ukraine to minimize casualties and to preserve as much Ukrainian territory as possible, stating that the longer the war continues, the more Ukraine suffers.

What is the speaker's upcoming travel plan that relates to the discussion of China?

The speaker plans to visit China and then Indonesia, which will provide him with an opportunity to discuss his views on China after his visit to East Asia.