Shield of the Republic Russia Is a Habitual Treaty Violator
Mar 13, 2025
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, a former National Security Council director for Europe and author of 'The Folly of Realism,' shares insights on U.S.-Russia relations and Ukraine's struggles. He critiques past U.S. administrations' transactional policies toward Ukraine and examines the repercussions of Russia's treaty violations. Vindman discusses the damaging effects of the Trump era on American alliances and the erosion of national security expertise. He also highlights the resilience of Ukraine amidst misreported war dynamics.
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Transactional U.S. Policy
- U.S. policymakers prioritized U.S.-Russia relations over Ukraine.
- This transactional approach, influenced by hopes and fears related to Russia, shaped Ukraine policy for 35 years.
Ukraine's Agency and U.S. Oversights
- Ukraine's agency in policy failures is acknowledged, citing internal issues like corruption.
- However, the U.S. overlooking warning signs from Russia and prioritizing a Moscow-centric approach also contributed.
Ukraine's Nationhood
- The U.S. didn't fully recognize Ukraine as a distinct nation, echoing Russia's dismissive view.
- This disregard for Ukraine's identity played a crucial role in later crises.
