Neutrality Studies Moscow Meeting Shock: USA Abandons Europe & Ukraine | Ray MacGovern & Larry Johnson
Dec 5, 2025
Ray McGovern, a former CIA analyst known for his insights on U.S.-Russia relations, and Larry Johnson, a seasoned intelligence professional, delve into the recent Moscow talks. They discuss the unusual U.S. delegation that sidelined European allies and analyze the motives behind the talks. Key topics include Russia's battlefield gains increasing their leverage, Europe’s waning support for Ukraine amid corruption claims, and the potential for future formal negotiations, highlighting core Russian demands. The duo also explores the implications of Arms Control and the shifting global balance toward China.
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US Sidelines Europe In Direct Moscow Talks
- The US delegation's Moscow talks signalled a shift away from European influence toward direct US–Russia engagement.
- Ray McGovern warns Trump's mercurial style forces cautious, flattering diplomacy to avoid escalation.
Early Talks Framed As Foundations, Not Deals
- The meeting focused on future steps rather than final agreements, with territorial issues unexpectedly raised.
- Ray McGovern says talking points were preliminary and substantive negotiation will take time.
Diplomacy Will Shift To Formal Foreign-Miny Track
- Russia seeks official proposals and protocol-driven diplomacy, not informal delegations.
- Larry Johnson expects the foreign ministry and Lavrov to take over when serious negotiations begin.