Ukrainian troops cross the Dnipro & interview with an arms control expert
Oct 19, 2023
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Updates from the frontlines, diplomatic and political developments, interview with William Alberque discussing nuclear proliferation, missiles, and lessons from the war in Ukraine.
The podcast explores the evolving nature of conflict in Ukraine and its impact on arms control, emphasizing the adaptation of missile capabilities and the introduction of attack helicopters as potential game-changers on the battlefield.
The podcast raises concerns about potential future developments in Ukraine, including the possibility of Russia using higher-capable missiles and the impact of elections on Western support, while emphasizing the need to provide Ukraine with sufficient support and push for a favorable resolution.
Deep dives
Updates from the Front Lines and Diplomatic Updates
The podcast episode provides updates on the situation in Ukraine, including minor changes in the front lines, Ukraine's counter-offensive, and Russia's attempts to encircle Avdiivka. It also discusses Russian attacks in various regions of Ukraine and the potential for a supplemental defense aid request from President Biden. German Chancellor Olaf Schulz's criticism of Vladimir Putin's concern for civilian casualties is mentioned, as well as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Kim Jong-un and Putin's visit to China.
Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict and Arms Control
The podcast explores the evolving nature of conflict in Ukraine and its impact on arms control. It discusses the adaptation of missile capabilities, including the vulnerability of subsonic cruise missiles and the role of mass and maneuverability in overcoming defenses. The introduction of attack helicopters to Ukraine's arsenal is highlighted as potentially changing the battlefield by targeting high-value enemy assets. The need for continued deterrence and diplomacy to prevent nuclear escalation and stabilize conflict areas like the Middle East and Iran is also emphasized.
Concerns and Expectations for the Future
The podcast raises concerns about potential future developments in Ukraine, suggesting the possibility of Russia using higher-capable missiles, such as the 9M729 or ONIK's systems. The worry of extended attrition and the impact of elections on Western support for Ukraine are mentioned. The need to provide Ukraine with sufficient support to repel Russian advances and push for a resolution favorable to Ukraine is emphasized.
Nuclear Threats and International Communication
The podcast touches on the nuclear threat posed by countries like Russia, China, and Iran. It emphasizes the need for deterrence and containment strategies, as well as maintaining open channels of communication to prevent nuclear escalation. The concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear activities and the importance of international cooperation and alliances are also highlighted.
Today, we bring you updates from the frontlines, the latest diplomatic and political updates from Germany to China and we sat down with William Alberque from the International Institute for Strategic Studies to discuss nuclear proliferation, missiles and lessons from 19 months of war in Ukraine.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Host). @djknowles22 on Twitter.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on Twitter.
William Alberque (International Institute for Strategic Studies). @walberque on Twitter.