Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, a seasoned military analyst, shares gripping insights on Russia's current vulnerabilities under Putin. He discusses the staggering decline of the Russian military, further exacerbated by North Korean troops facing heavy losses. Hertling emphasizes the need for experienced leadership amidst distractions from political narratives about DEI in the military. He calls attention to the significance of American values in guiding national security, alongside the pressing geopolitical challenges the U.S. faces today.
The discussion highlights Russia's significant military decline in Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of continued Western support to avoid further aggression.
The expert stresses the importance of reinstating foundational military and national values to enhance decision-making and societal cohesion.
Deep dives
Global Threat Assessment
The discussion emphasizes a comprehensive assessment of global threats, focusing on Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The expert identifies the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a pivotal concern, stating that Russia's invasion must be adequately countered to prevent a harmful precedent. The situation in the Middle East remains precarious, with lingering issues involving Iran and its regional proxies, despite recent signs of diminished influence from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Additionally, the expert voices concerns about domestic and international terrorism and climate change, indicating a multifaceted landscape of threats that could escalate tensions both abroad and within the United States.
Israel's Military Approach
The military strategy employed by Israel in its ongoing conflict is critically evaluated, particularly in light of attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah. The discussion highlights the complexities involved in Israel's military responses, acknowledging the balance between necessary self-defense and international scrutiny over civilian casualties. The expert notes the difficulty of maintaining public support while combating a formidable terrorist organization situated close to civilian populations. This duality reflects the harsh realities of warfare and the implications of external perceptions on Israel's military actions.
Russia's Military Weakness
The commentary highlights the notable decline in Russian military capabilities since the onset of their invasion of Ukraine, with estimates suggesting significant losses in personnel and military assets. The expert outlines the implications of this decline, indicating that if the West were to reduce its support for Ukraine, it might allow Russia to regroup and pursue further territorial ambitions. Concerns surrounding the partnership between Russia and North Korea provide context, suggesting that while Russia appears weak, its alliances may lead to unforeseen complications. The discussion underscores the strategic necessity for continued support for Ukraine to deter further aggression from Russia.
Values-Based Leadership and Military Ethics
The expert advocates for a return to foundational ethical values within military organizations and national governance. Drawing from principles ingrained in military training, such as loyalty, respect, and integrity, the conversation stresses the importance of these values in guiding effective decision-making. The contrast between military values and the perceived erosion of respect and trust in politics is examined, highlighting the detrimental effects this could have on both military morale and overall societal cohesion. The belief in America's values as a core strength is emphasized, suggesting that reaffirming these principles could lead to renewed unity and purpose.
Russia is on its weakest footing since it invaded Ukraine: Putin has destroyed his military, his economy is in the toilet, and the North Korean troops who've been deployed to help out are dying in waves on the battlefield. Why would the US bail Putin out? Meanwhile, MAGA world is trying to distract us with phony DEI issues in the military while we're dealing with some of the biggest challenges we've ever faced in the international space. Plus, with 180,000 US troops currently deployed overseas and 100+ Navy ships at sea, the DOD probably needs someone with a little more breadth of experience than a weekend talk show host on Fox. Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling joins Tim Miller.