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The Intelligence from The Economist

The long game: how will US missiles help Ukraine?

Nov 18, 2024
Shashank Joshi, Defence editor for The Economist, and Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor, dive into the shifting tides of U.S. military support for Ukraine. They discuss President Biden's decision to allow long-range missiles, weighing the risks of escalation against strategic gains. Additionally, they explore the economic ramifications of Trump's policies, hinting at both market optimism and potential long-term drawbacks. Lastly, they touch on the surprising resurgence of airships in modern logistics, revealing their innovative potential.
24:45

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The U.S. decision to permit Ukraine to use long-range missiles signifies a strategic shift intended to bolster Ukrainian morale and deter North Korean support for Russia.
  • Concerns about the long-term fiscal ramifications of Trumponomics highlight potential increases in the federal budget deficit, overshadowing immediate market optimism.

Deep dives

Significance of U.S. Long-Range Missiles in Ukraine

The recent decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S. long-range missiles against Russian targets marks a pivotal shift in American policy. This development could enhance Ukrainian morale and provide a strategic advantage ahead of potential negotiations, even though it may not dramatically alter the battlefield dynamics. Analysts suggest that the move also serves to deter North Korean military support to Russia, as any significant damage inflicted on North Korean forces may make Kim Jong-un reconsider further involvement. However, the risks of escalation remain present, especially regarding the potential responses from Russia and the complexities surrounding U.S. military involvement.

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