Judging Freedom

Prof. Gilbert Doctorow : Russia Spreads Its Wings; Thumbs Its Nose.

Sep 3, 2025
Gilbert Doctorow, an expert on Russia and international relations, delves into Russia's expanding global influence. He discusses the fraught dynamics between Putin and Zelenskyy, questioning the potential for peace negotiations. The conversation also highlights the economic ripple effects of U.S. tariffs on India and the strengthening of ties within BRICS. Doctorow elaborates on the strategic significance of the Siberia 2 pipeline, which boosts Russian gas exports to China, reflecting broader geopolitical shifts and implications for U.S. dominance.
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INSIGHT

Battlefield Resolution Anticipated

  • Russian elites expect the conflict to be decided on the battlefield with steady territorial gains.
  • They foresee a possible push to the Dnieper and even Odessa as culminating outcomes.
INSIGHT

Zelensky's Signature May Not Suffice

  • Russia might negotiate with Zelensky but would reject his signature as illegitimate.
  • They could meet for talks but insist on a different, 'legitimate' signatory to conclude peace.
INSIGHT

Ukrainian Elites Show Public Unity

  • Ukrainian elites publicly align with Zelensky and avoid open dissent due to repression.
  • Opposition figures like Tymoshenko and Poroshenko support the government's objectives despite disagreements.
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