Pod Save the World How Putin Dominated Trump, and Can Ukraine Survive
108 snips
Aug 20, 2025 
Tommy and Ben dive into the complex geopolitical landscape following recent meetings on Ukraine, including insights from an iconic figure, Donald Trump. They examine Putin's subtle manipulation of Trump and its implications for Ukraine's sovereignty. The conversation covers the challenges of ceasefires in the Israel-Hamas conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, critiquing media narratives. Representative Ro Khanna discusses the future of Democratic foreign policy, advocating for a more humane approach to international relations.
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Ceasefire Drop Undermines Ukraine’s Security
- Trump abandoned his ceasefire demand and appears open to toothless guarantees that won't deter Russia.
- That combination risks legitimizing Russian territorial gains and leaving Ukraine defenseless against future invasion.
Territory And Guarantees Are Linked
- Territory and credible security guarantees are inseparable in any realistic Ukraine settlement.
- Ceding fortified eastern land without a NATO-style deterrent would invite renewed Russian aggression.
Optics Over Substance Helped Putin
- Putin used flattery and optics to shape Trump without conceding policy ground.
- The result is reputational victory for Russia and the appearance of U.S. weakness on the world stage.