Exploring German attitudes towards Ukraine, Russian intelligence penetration in Germany, missile strike near Zelensky, Operation Interflex training in Ukraine, France-Germany discord, NATO response, US defense cooperation, absence of flamethrowers, historical perspective on warfare, challenges in funding Ukraine
German military discussion on sending cruise missiles to Ukraine raises questions about Germany's intentions and reliability as a partner.
President Zelensky's critical role in inspiring resistance in Ukraine highlights his significance in driving the war effort forward.
Deep dives
German Military Discussion on Missile Deployment to Ukraine
The revelation of a discussion within the German military on sending cruise missiles to Ukraine following a Russian intelligence leak penetrated a high-level military conversation. This raised questions about Germany's intentions and reliability as a partner amid the evolving conflict, especially after a Russian missile landing near President Zelensky in Odessa caused casualties.
Impact of Zelensky's Vital Role in Ukraine's War Effort
President Zelensky's critical role in the Ukrainian war effort, likened to Winston Churchill in Britain's history, highlights his significance in inspiring resistance and driving the war effort forward. A potential assassination attempt on him or Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis could lead to disruptive power struggles at a crucial time in the conflict.
Macron's Stance on NATO Boots in Ukraine
French President Macron's strong rhetoric supporting potential NATO ground involvement in Ukraine contrasts with Germany's reluctance to escalate the conflict. He emphasizes the need for Europe to show courage and support Ukraine, despite internal and international reservations regarding such actions.
Training of Ukrainian Troops by International Partners
A comprehensive training program Operation Interflex, conducted by international partners including the UK, prepares Ukrainian recruits for frontline deployment. The intense training regimen, involving infantry tactics and battlefield skills, aims to enhance Ukraine's military capability with a focus on effective combat readiness.
This week on Battleground, Saul and Patrick will be speaking to German Historian Katja Hoyer who will be shedding light on both German political attitudes towards Ukraine and the latest governmental situation in light of the revelation that Russian intelligence penetrated a high level German military discussion on sending Taurus long range cruise missiles to Ukraine.
They also discuss the news that a missile strike came close to hitting Ukrainian President Zelensky in Odesa, plus hearing more from Historian and journalist Guy Walters on Operation Interflex the British-led multinational military operation to train and support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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