The Daily

Why Russia Hasn’t Defeated Ukraine

Mar 3, 2022

Eric Schmitt, a senior writer at The New York Times, shares insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine. He discusses Russia's initial miscalculations and the resilience of Ukrainian forces, revealing stark contrasts in morale. The conversation explores Russia's grim tactics, including targeting civilians and intensifying attacks on cities. Schmitt also addresses the implications of U.S. military support for Ukraine and raises critical questions about the potential for prolonged conflict and its impact on both societies.

30:28

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Episode guests

Eric Schmitt

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Miscalculations and Morale: The Early Stages of the Ukraine Conflict

12min

Escalating Conflict: Russia's Darkening Strategy in Ukraine

4min

Escalation and Uncertainty: The Reality of War in Ukraine

6min

U.S. Military Involvement in Ukraine

5min

Intensifying Conflict and Political Turmoil

3min

After invading, Russia’s military was expected to sweep through Ukraine within a few days, quickly seizing the capital, Kyiv, and installing a pro-Moscow government.

It hasn’t worked out that way.

Now, with Russia’s advance stalling, there are signs that President Vladimir V. Putin is ready to wage a much darker, grimmer campaign.

Guest: Eric Schmitt, a senior writer covering terrorism and national security for The New York Times.

Background reading:

After days of miscalculation about Ukraine’s resolve to fight, Russian forces are turning toward an old pattern of opening fire on cities and mounting sieges.
Plagued by poor morale as well as fuel and food shortages, some Russian troops in Ukraine have surrendered en masse or sabotaged their own vehicles to avoid fighting, a Pentagon official said.

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