Ray McGovern : Will Kiev Use US Missiles On Moscow?

Summary

The transcript explores the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting differing perspectives on the situation. The discussion focuses on the assertion that despite earlier reassurances from U.S. intelligence, Russia is effectively winning the war, with little resistance on the ground. The commentary emphasizes the power imbalance in missile strikes and air defense, predicting a harsh winter for Ukraine. There's also a debate about the Trump administration's foreign policy stance, questioning whether they are true neoconservatives or a shift from previous policies, all contributing to a tense geopolitical landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory with American missiles is seen as reckless by Ray McGovern and Judge Napolitano, raising concerns about the escalation of U.S. involvement in the conflict.
• 😀 McGovern predicts that despite the provocation, Russian President Putin will remain measured and not be easily provoked into further aggression, such as attacking NATO countries.
• 😀 The Biden administration's decision is portrayed as part of a broader narrative to demonstrate strong U.S. support for Ukraine, potentially at the cost of escalating tensions with Russia.
• 😀 Ray McGovern suggests that the decision is likely influenced by hardliners within the Biden administration, like Jake Sullivan and Antony Blinken, who are pushing for more aggressive actions in Ukraine.
• 😀 There is a strong critique of the military-industrial complex, with the argument that Biden's actions serve to prolong the conflict and benefit defense contractors, while doing little to bring about a resolution.
• 😀 McGovern predicts that Trump would negotiate with Russia if he becomes president, noting that Putin may show more flexibility in future peace talks than Biden has.
• 😀 There is skepticism about the Biden administration’s ability to de-escalate the situation, with McGovern and Napolitano arguing that Russia is unlikely to back down under pressure, especially given its strategic advantages.
• 😀 The conversation points out that Ukraine's lack of air defense capabilities makes it vulnerable to Russian missile strikes, which will likely continue as long as the conflict persists.
• 😀 There is concern that Biden's actions, while intended to support Ukraine, might be a pretext for escalating tensions with Russia, with potential global ramifications, including provoking North Korea and Iran.
• 😀 The conversation ends with a warning about the potential for a wider war, emphasizing the need for more careful diplomatic engagement and suggesting that the conflict in Ukraine could destabilize broader geopolitical relations.

Q & A

What is the main criticism Ray McGovern has of President Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S. missiles in Russia?

Ray McGovern criticizes Biden's decision as reckless and ineffective. He believes the decision will not change the dynamics of the conflict but may provoke unnecessary escalation from Russia.

How does Ray McGovern view the current military strategy of Russia in Ukraine?

McGovern views Russia's military strategy as effective and steady. He argues that Russia's missile strikes will continue with minimal casualties for Russian troops and that Russia will not be provoked into a major escalation.

What does Ray McGovern say about the U.S. military-industrial complex in the context of the war in Ukraine?

McGovern argues that the U.S. military-industrial complex is benefiting from the ongoing war in Ukraine, as arms manufacturers are making profits while the funds sent to Ukraine are unlikely to reach their intended destination in time.

How does McGovern believe the Biden administration's policy toward Ukraine may affect the 2024 presidential election?

McGovern suggests that Biden's policy towards Ukraine is influenced by political considerations, including preventing a peace deal until after the election. He believes this may be an effort to secure votes by maintaining a tough stance against Russia.

What is McGovern's view on the role of North Korean troops in Russia's military efforts in Ukraine?

McGovern sees the presence of North Korean troops in Russia as largely symbolic, not significantly impacting the military situation on the ground in Ukraine. He notes that it is mainly intended to send a message rather than provide substantial military support.

Why does McGovern believe Ukraine's lack of air defense is a critical issue in the conflict?

McGovern points out that without effective air defense systems, Ukraine is vulnerable to ongoing missile strikes from Russia. He predicts that Russia will continue to launch missile attacks, which will make conditions increasingly difficult for Ukraine, especially during the winter.

What is McGovern’s outlook on the future of the conflict in Ukraine?

McGovern believes the conflict will continue in a protracted manner, with Russia chipping away at Ukraine's defenses. He forecasts that the winter will be harsh for Ukraine due to sustained missile attacks, and a resolution will not be reached without significant changes in U.S. policy.

What does McGovern suggest about the potential for a peace deal with Russia under Trump’s leadership?

McGovern suggests that Trump may be more open to a negotiated peace deal with Russia, potentially reversing Biden's hardline stance. He sees this as an opportunity for Trump to fulfill his promise of bringing change to U.S. foreign policy.

What role does McGovern attribute to the CIA and the U.S. intelligence community in the current situation?

McGovern criticizes the U.S. intelligence community, particularly CIA Director Bill Burns and National Intelligence Director Avril Haines, for downplaying Russia’s success in Ukraine. He suggests that their optimistic assessments of the situation have been proven wrong as Russia continues to gain ground.

What does McGovern mean by the term 'chip by chip' in relation to Russia's military strategy?

By 'chip by chip,' McGovern refers to Russia's incremental approach to advancing in Ukraine, where they are making steady territorial gains without rushing for a full-scale, immediate victory. This slow but persistent strategy is aimed at exhausting Ukraine's defenses over time.