Intelligence Squared The Russia-Ukraine Crisis, with Owen Matthews and Radek Sikorski
Mar 3, 2022
Owen Matthews, a seasoned journalist and Russia expert, teams up with Radek Sikorski, former foreign minister of Poland, to dive deep into the Russia-Ukraine crisis. They analyze Putin's aggressive military actions in a historical context and discuss the psychological factors at play. The duo also explores China's cautious stance on the conflict and the dynamics of internal power among Putin's circle. With insights into global implications, they shed light on potential outcomes and the strategic responses needed in the face of unprecedented tension in Europe.
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Misjudging Putin
- Owen Matthews admits to misjudging Putin's rationality regarding the invasion.
- He assumed Putin wouldn't pick fights he couldn't win, viewing him as an opportunist, not an imperialist.
Shifting Kremlin Messaging
- The messaging from the Kremlin did not prepare the Russian public for war.
- The sudden shift from downplaying war concerns to emphasizing genocide was unprecedented.
Foreseeing the Invasion
- Radek Sikorski predicted the invasion based on Putin's 2021 essay and his order for Russian soldiers to read it.
- He believes Putin's isolation during the pandemic may have influenced his decision-making.