Scott Horton, Director of the Libertarian Institute and an expert on anti-war perspectives, shares insights from his latest book on the Russo-Ukrainian war. He analyzes the evolution of US-Russia relations post-Cold War and critiques NATO's role in escalating tensions. Horton discusses the controversial idea that U.S. foreign policy might provoke conflict for profit and emphasizes the importance of informal agreements in diplomacy. He urges a shift towards diplomatic resolutions over military interventions in the face of complex global challenges.
Scott Horton's book 'Provoked' critiques U.S. policies since the Cold War that have escalated tensions with Russia, highlighting NATO expansion's impact.
The podcast discusses how U.S. provocations, including interference in Eastern Europe, have been perceived by Russia as direct threats to its security.
Horton emphasizes the urgent need for improved communication between the U.S. and Russia to prevent catastrophic misunderstandings amid rising tensions.
Deep dives
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The Importance of Historical Context
Scott Horton’s new book, titled 'Provoked', addresses the complexities of contemporary geopolitics with a focus on the new Cold War with Russia. Horton argues that the tensions can be traced back to misleading American policies following the Cold War, particularly regarding NATO expansion. He emphasizes that both Presidents H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton contributed to escalating mistrust by disregarding the implications of their decisions on Russia. The historical context is essential in understanding the current geopolitical landscape, as it highlights the long-standing patterns of American-Russian interactions.
Accusations of American Aggression
The podcast highlights claims that the U.S. has engaged in provocations against Russia, contributing to the tensions leading to the war in Ukraine. Horton discusses the consequences of American involvement in various international incidents, including color revolutions that sought to sway political outcomes in Eastern Europe. These actions, he contends, were perceived by Russia as direct threats to its security and regional stability. This creates a narrative of misunderstanding where Russian apprehensions are framed as aggression, complicating peace efforts.
Failed Diplomatic Efforts
In discussing the lack of successful diplomatic outcomes, Horton points to missed opportunities for negotiation throughout the escalation of conflicts. He argues that both the Obama and Biden administrations failed to take adequate steps to defuse tensions with Russia, particularly regarding Ukraine. As conflicts continued to arise, American policies often reinforced Russian fears rather than alleviating them. Horton asserts that this approach has hindered efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
Dangers of Miscommunication
The podcast emphasizes the critical dangers associated with escalating military rhetoric and potential miscommunication between the U.S. and Russia. Horton warns that the buildup of military forces and aggressive posturing can lead to catastrophic misunderstandings, particularly in a nuclear context. Historical precedents of misinterpretation in military alerts remain a grave concern as tensions rise. The conversation reflects the urgent need for better channels of communication to prevent potential escalations into armed conflict.
Reflection on U.S. Foreign Policy
The discussion concludes with a reflective look at the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy choices over the decades. Horton criticizes the persistent belligerent stance often taken by American leadership, suggesting that these decisions stem from an ideological commitment to America’s perceived role as the global defender of democracy. He contends that this mindset overlooks complex geopolitics and leads to continued conflict with nations like Russia. Ultimately, the podcast serves as a call to reassess strategies that prioritize diplomacy over aggression.
Antiwar.com editor Scott Horton joins to discuss his new book on the Russian-Ukrainian war.
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