Glenn Diesen - Greater Eurasia Podcast Ray McGovern: Zelensky's Dilemma - Bad Peace or Total Defeat
Nov 23, 2025
Ray McGovern, a former CIA analyst with 27 years of experience, dives deep into the geopolitical dilemmas faced by Ukraine's Zelensky. He discusses whether Zelensky should accept a humiliating peace deal or face total defeat. McGovern analyzes the shifting battlefield dynamics, U.S. internal politics, and corruption issues that weaken Zelensky's negotiating position. He debates the implications of NATO membership, European support, and the potential for U.S.-Russia rapprochement amid Trump's unpredictable involvement.
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U.S.-Russia Rapprochement Is The Overriding Goal
- Putin and Trump share a clear priority to improve U.S.-Russia relations above other disputes.
- Ray McGovern argues this alignment explains Putin accepting the U.S. 28-point outline as a negotiation opener.
Facts On The Ground Favor Russian Advances
- McGovern says battlefield gains and Ukrainian desertions show Ukraine cannot win.
- He links collapsing front lines and lack of reinforcements to an inevitable Ukrainian defeat without a negotiated settlement.
Corruption Exposed Around Zelensky
- Putin publicly highlighted corruption among Zelensky's inner circle, citing 'golden potties' as evidence.
- McGovern says these revelations politically weaken Zelensky and limit his bargaining power.