The Duran Podcast US-Ukraine military alliance. Europe dismantles Trump plan
28 snips
Dec 15, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, political commentator Alexander Mercouris delves into the intricate dynamics of the US-Ukraine military alliance and the shifting European landscape. He analyzes Zelensky's surprising pause on NATO membership and what this means for security guarantees. Mercouris contrasts Russian and Ukrainian proposals, emphasizing Russia's rejection of demilitarized zones. The conversation also touches on Trump's media-driven negotiation tactics and the intricate dance of U.S.-Russia relations, shedding light on the broader implications of these geopolitical maneuvers.
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NATO Withdrawal That Isn't
- Zelensky offers to halt NATO pursuit but seeks US-led security guarantees akin to NATO membership.
- Alexander Mercouris warns this is functionally NATO-lite and not a genuine concession to Russia.
Territory Gap Drives Impasse
- Ukrainians stick to a plan that keeps contested areas under effective Ukrainian control and proposes mutual withdrawals as a ceasefire.
- Mercouris explains Russia's demands remain for formal recognition of territory Russia holds.
Russia Holds To Istanbul Plus
- Russia publicly treats Berlin talks as diplomatically observed but repeatedly rejects proposals deviating from Istanbul Plus.
- Mercouris says Russia takes a harder, clearer line now while still avoiding slamming the door completely.