Former CIA officer and former head of Department of Energy intelligence Rolf Mowatt-Larssen, along with retired US Army Colonel and former chief of staff to General Colin Powell, Lawrence Wilkerson, discuss the risks in Putin's takeover of Ukraine's nuclear power stations and the potential consequences of a nuclear release. They also delve into the escalating tensions with Russia, the US's involvement in Ukraine, and assess Putin's character and aspirations.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine puts the country's nuclear power plants at risk, potentially leading to fires and release of radioactivity with devastating consequences similar to Chernobyl.
The presence of defense contractors as oligarchs profiting from selling weapons contributes to the perpetuation of conflicts, including the war in Ukraine.
Deep dives
The Risk of Nuclear Power Plants in Ukraine
Ukraine's nuclear power plants are at risk due to the Russian invasion, with the potential for fires and release of radioactivity. This could have devastating consequences similar to the Chernobyl disaster. The Ukrainian president has called for international support to prevent such a tragedy, highlighting the need to stop the Russian military. While the Russian invasion includes a seizure of nuclear power plants, it is unlikely that Putin aims to use them for terror purposes. However, the possibility of a Russian attack with tactical nuclear weapons is not zero. The impact of a release, accidental or intentional, could be significant for both Ukraine and Russia, as it would be indiscriminate and potentially affect other European countries. Efforts are being made to ensure the safe operation and prevent any accidents at these vital facilities.
The Role of Defense Contractors and Oligarchs
The podcast discusses the role of defense contractors, particularly CEOs of companies such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Halliburton, as oligarchs who profit from selling instruments of death. The narrative suggests that their interests in selling arms contribute to the perpetuation of conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. However, it is noted that President Biden is unlikely to approve any transfer of weapons to Ukraine that would escalate the conflict with Russia. The discussion also highlights the presence of neo-Nazi combat units in Ukraine and the influence of oligarchs in the Ukrainian government, emphasizing the complex dynamics of power, economic interests, and military conflicts in the region.
The Risk of Escalation and the Possibility of a Wider War
The podcast examines the possibility of further Russian aggression beyond Ukraine, particularly towards NATO members such as Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. While it is acknowledged that Putin's intentions are hard to predict, discussion centers on the risks associated with direct conflicts between NATO and Russia, especially considering the advantage of precision-guided munitions held by NATO. The use of tactical nuclear weapons by Russia is seen as a deterrent against NATO penetration, but a wider nuclear escalation is not considered likely due to the catastrophic consequences for both sides. The importance of preventing a shooting war and promoting joint actions to maintain the safety of nuclear facilities is emphasized.
The Need for a New Security Architecture in Europe
The podcast concludes by suggesting the necessity of a new security architecture in Europe. The need for the United States to relinquish its desire for hegemony over Western Europe and for Russia to abandon its ambition to regain control of Eastern Europe is highlighted. The focus is on enabling European nations to create their own security mechanisms and take responsibility for their own defense, including Russia's involvement as a part of a united Europe. The aim is to establish a more balanced and cooperative security framework that reduces the risk of conflict and ensures the stability and security of the entire region.
Former CIA officer and former head of Department of Energy intelligence Rolf Mowatt-Larssen assesses the risks in Vladimir Putin's takeover of Ukraine's nuclear power stations in a conversation with Jeanne Meserve. And Lawrence Wilkerson, retired US Army Colonel and former chief of staff to General Colin Powell, tells Jeff Stein that this brutal war is Putin's attempt to secure a revered place in Russian history.
