Bulwark Takes Europe Will Stand Behind Zelensky, Not Trump (w/ Mark Hertling)
Nov 21, 2025
In this discussion, retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, a military analyst with deep insights into European geopolitics, addresses the proposed U.S.–Russia peace plan. He argues that it would reward Russian aggression and undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Hertling highlights historical context, emphasizing how past repression shapes Ukrainian identity. He warns about the dangers of negotiating without Ukraine's involvement and stresses the strong stance of European allies against concessions to Russia, while critiquing waning U.S. support for Ukraine.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Reforming Ukraine’s Army From Inside
- Mark Hertling recounts working with Colonel General Henadai Vorobioff to professionalize the Ukrainian army before 2014.
- Vorobioff pursued training, war college slots, and anti-corruption reforms that transformed Ukraine's military culture.
Plan Rewards Aggression, Not Peace
- Hertling argues the proposed 28-point plan rewards Russian aggression and undermines Ukrainian sovereignty.
- He says placing the burden on Ukraine to accept such terms contradicts U.S. values and partnership obligations.
History Makes Concessions Dangerous
- Hertling emphasizes deep historical trauma between Russia and Ukraine, including language bans and the Holodomor.
- He warns that conceding territory risks creating frozen conflicts that Russia will exploit repeatedly.
