Insurgency and Irregular Warfare: Historical Lessons

A'ndre sat down with former CIA Director General (Ret.) David Petraeus to discuss the evolution of warfare since 1945, covering conflicts from World War II to Vietnam and the current wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. General Petraeus examines how warfare considerations shifted after World War II and explores the "wars of decolonization" that followed. Drawing on his experience commanding U.S.-led coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, he reflects on what went right and wrong in those operations, disputing comparisons to the Vietnam War, which he describes as unsustainable. He also shares insights on why the War in Ukraine is unique, highlighting both its World War II-era tactics and the use of emerging technologies like unmanned vehicles. The conversation extends to the ongoing War in Gaza and the broader Middle East, where Petraeus offers his perspective on the nature of Israel's warfighting. A'ndre and General Petraeus conclude with a discussion on how he would advise the next President on national security, emphasizing the importance of the Indo-Pacific region.

You can purchase the newest edition of General Petraeus' book Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Gaza here.