Judging Freedom Gilbert Doctorow : Why Russia Needs to Win Its War
Nov 19, 2025
Gilbert Doctorow, a political analyst focusing on Russian and European affairs, shares insights on the Ukraine conflict. He reveals secret negotiations involving back-channels and discusses the necessity of addressing Russia's core demands for a resolution. Doctorow evaluates Zelensky's precarious political situation and the implications of Russia's denazification efforts. The conversation also touches on U.S. pressure tactics and the evolving role of drones in the war, all while navigating the delicate dynamics of international diplomacy.
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Secret Back-Channel Peace Effort
- Gilbert Doctorow reports secret, high-level back-channel talks between Trump and Putin with a proposed peace plan.
- He says Steve Witkoff carried a plan to Istanbul aimed at resolving core issues of the war.
Sanctions Are Real Economic Pressure
- Doctorow says Trump's administration applies 'maximum pressure' to both sides through secondary sanctions that hurt Russian corporate operations.
- He argues U.S. measures have tangible economic effects on Russian energy exporters and global markets.
Denazification Means Targeted Regime Change
- Doctorow explains 'denazification' equates to regime change targeting a small extremist minority controlling government levers.
- He says removing that minority could end censorship and extremist influence without cleansing the whole nation.