Daniel Davis Deep Dive Putin to Ukraine: Withdraw or We'll Take it by FORCE /Larry Johnson
Nov 28, 2025
Larry Johnson, a former CIA analyst and expert on U.S.-Russia relations, shares riveting insights about the Ukraine conflict. He discusses Putin's ultimatum demanding Ukraine's withdrawal, the legal claims over annexed regions, and the constraints influencing Russian politics. The conversation delves into Russia's military capabilities, potential battlefield momentum, and the ongoing corruption scandal surrounding Ukraine's leadership. Johnson also touches on the implications of NATO involvement, economic control via the Dnieper, and the broader strategic aims of Russia.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Putin's Clear Ultimatum
- Putin issued a clear ultimatum: Ukrainian troops must withdraw from occupied territories or Russia will take them by force.
- Larry Johnson warns this is an unambiguous, long-standing Russian position tied to their June 2024 claims.
Russia Treats Occupied Regions As Permanent
- Russia considers the four occupied oblasts legally part of the Russian Federation after 2022 referenda and Duma votes.
- Johnson argues Putin cannot legally give them back, so Russia won't relinquish them.
Russia's Fixed Negotiating Terms
- Russia's diplomatic baseline demands Ukrainian withdrawal, demilitarization, and regime change.
- Johnson says Moscow has not altered those core objectives since June 14, 2024.