INTEL Roundtable w/ Johnson & McGovern: Weekly Wrap Up
Dec 20, 2024
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Larry Johnson, a longtime ally of Judge Napolitano with a wealth of analytical experience, and Ray McGovern, another seasoned collaborator and geopolitical expert, dive into pressing global issues. They dissect the assassination of General Kirillov, revealing its ties to intelligence agencies and risks for Ukraine. The duo also critiques U.S. support for controversial groups, examines Israel's historical claims on the Golan Heights, and reflects on the chaotic landscape of international relations, all while unraveling the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The assassination of General Kirillov may have heightened tensions with Russia without providing Ukraine any tactical advantage, highlighting the complexity of military operations.
The collaborative relationship between MI6 and the CIA raises critical questions about intelligence sharing and operational involvement in covert actions, particularly regarding Ukraine's conflict.
Deep dives
Implications of General Kirillov's Assassination
The assassination of General Kirillov has been scrutinized for its military impact, revealing that Ukraine likely gained no tactical advantage from the act. Instead, it may have exacerbated tensions with Russia, further enraging them. The involvement of an individual with alleged connections to ISIS raises questions about the operational coordination between the Ukrainian Intelligence Service and Western intelligence agencies, particularly MI6. This suggests a level of sophistication in the execution of the operation that goes beyond the capabilities typically attributed to local actors, indicating external support and planning.
U.S. Intelligence Agency Dynamics
The relationship between MI6 and the CIA is presented as one of mutual support and dependency, particularly in sensitive operations like the assassination. While the CIA is officially prohibited from engaging in assassinations, its collaborative efforts with MI6 raise questions about the extent of its knowledge and involvement in the operation. The discussion highlights the blurred lines between intelligence sharing and direct participation in covert actions, suggesting that while the CIA may not have directed the assassination, it likely had foreknowledge of it. This intricate web of relationships points to a complex landscape of international intelligence cooperation.
Russia's Strategic Position and Future Negotiations
Despite ongoing tensions and military setbacks, Russia's position appears to strengthen as the conflict progresses, influencing potential future negotiations. There is speculation that Vladimir Putin may have strategic plans that could lead to a reduction in military activities, particularly with a change in U.S. leadership. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its implications for global security dynamics are intertwined with the election cycle in the U.S., which could shift the approaches of involved nations. The expectation is that negotiations could pivot dramatically based on the perceived strength and intentions of both sides, with Trump potentially ushering in a different diplomatic era.