

Black Sea ceasefire decoded & can Europe defend Ukraine without America?
Mar 26, 2025
Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a chemical weapons expert and former tank commander, delves into the complexities of the Black Sea ceasefire deal, revealing Ukraine and Russia's divergent interpretations. He discusses the implications of a recent security breach involving sensitive military discussions and the challenges Europe faces in supporting Ukraine amid shifting US policies. The conversation also emphasizes the critical need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities, highlighting the geopolitical stakes in the ongoing conflict.
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Black Sea Ceasefire Confusion
- There's confusion surrounding the Black Sea ceasefire, with differing interpretations from the US, Russia, and Ukraine.
- Ukraine views the deal as a betrayal, gaining nothing while Russia benefits from sanctions relief.
Europe's Role in Supporting Ukraine
- Despite US political shifts, Europe can support Ukraine by leveraging its economic strength and increasing weapons production.
- This requires overcoming internal obstacles like ethical investment rules hindering defense funding.
Signal Leak Concerns
- Dom Nichols references the Signal app leak and expresses concern over US handling of sensitive information.
- He questions whether loyalty to Trump surpasses loyalty to national security.