7am Russia can be beaten
Oct 20, 2025
David Szakonyi, an associate professor of political science at George Washington University, dives into the complexities of US-Russia negotiations. He analyzes the recent meeting between Trump and Zelensky, highlighting Ukraine's push for military support, including Tomahawk missiles. Szakonyi discusses Putin's territorial demands and the implications of Trump's transactional approach to peace. He also tackles what it would take to beat Russia, emphasizing the need for stronger military backing and strategic commitments.
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Zelensky's Two Main Goals
- Volodymyr Zelensky sought Tomahawk missiles and firm U.S. security guarantees in Washington to pressure Putin into talks.
- These requests aimed to ensure any future peace deal would be enforceable and deter Russian defection from terms.
Putin's High Demands And Warnings
- Putin demanded Ukraine concede territory he does not control and offered destroyed Russian-held land in exchange, an unattractive quid pro quo.
- He also warned long-range missiles like Tomahawks would harm U.S.-Russia relations and be a bargaining chip.
Targeting Infrastructure Shifts Public Pressure
- Both sides now target critical energy and infrastructure to bring the war home and erode civilian resilience.
- That pressure may push leaders toward ceasefires because citizens on both sides grow desperate.