World in 10 Frontline special - David DeBatto, former counterintelligence agent
Jul 13, 2025
In this insightful discussion, David DeBatto, a former U.S. counterintelligence agent and Iraq war veteran, shares his expertise on pressing geopolitical issues. He analyzes the U.S. stance on Ukraine and highlights the risks of hybrid warfare in Europe. DeBatto calls for a unified response from NATO and the EU to combat Russian aggression and discusses the impact of Ukraine's resilience amid adversity. The talk also reveals the complexities of global alliances, particularly concerning Russia's ties with North Korea and China.
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Trump’s Inconsistent Ukraine Policy
- Donald Trump does not have a coherent policy on Ukraine or NATO.
- His public flip-flopping reflects personal indecision rather than strategic shifts.
Putin’s Paranoia and Purge
- Putin is conducting an ongoing purge within his ranks intensified by military and economic failures.
- He constantly fears betrayal, keeping oligarchs and elites under tight control.
Adopt Wartime Posture Now
- Western democracies must adopt a wartime footing to counter Russia’s hybrid warfare.
- This requires increasing budgets and personnel for military and counterintelligence forces.