The Bulwark Podcast Mark Hertling: Putin's Weakness
10 snips
Dec 18, 2024 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.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Future Threat Assessment
- Lt. Gen. Hertling shares an anecdote about being asked by West Point cadets about future threats.
- He expresses uncertainty but highlights Middle East instability, Ukraine conflict, and China's ambitions as key concerns.
Russia's Weakness and Negotiation Risks
- Russia is currently on its weakest footing since the war began, due to military losses and economic struggles.
- Potential US negotiations with Putin risk creating another frozen conflict and emboldening further Russian aggression.
Russian Military Observations
- Lt. Gen. Hertling recounts visiting Russia and witnessing staged military demonstrations and widespread corruption among officers.
- He observed a lack of trust within the Russian military and poor treatment of soldiers.