

"Putin Finds His Pretext."
Feb 22, 2022
Ben Rhodes, former Obama aide and foreign policy expert, shares his insights on the potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, discussing its significant political and economic repercussions. Leah Litman, a University of Michigan law professor, analyzes the mounting legal troubles surrounding Donald Trump and how these issues might finally catch up with him. Their conversation navigates the complexities of sanctions, diplomacy, and the deeply intertwined relationship between U.S. foreign policy and domestic politics.
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Putin's Motives for Invasion
- Putin's motives for invading Ukraine are strategic, political, and historical.
- He aims to reverse the post-Cold War order, suppress democracy, and reclaim Russia's historical standing.
Global Implications of Invasion
- Allowing powerful countries to redraw borders sets a dangerous precedent.
- Unchecked aggression could escalate, impacting global stability and potentially involving other nations.
Biden Administration's Response
- Biden's strategy involves communicating potential consequences through sanctions.
- However, Putin seems undeterred, raising concerns about potential economic disruptions and cyberattacks.