

[SPECIAL] Fmr. British Diplomat to Russia - IAN PROUD: Can Europe Defend Ukraine?
14 snips May 7, 2025
Ian Proud, a former British diplomat to Russia and expert on European politics, delves into the evolving dynamics surrounding the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the heightened concerns among European leaders about a potential Russian invasion and the rise of anti-war sentiments. Proud also examines shifting public attitudes in Germany, France, and the UK towards Russia, and critiques the current state of British military readiness. The conversation wraps up by exploring the complexities of negotiating peace between Ukraine and Russia amidst a changing geopolitical landscape.
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Europe's Fear: Political Survival
- European leaders use apocalyptic rhetoric about the war due to fear of failure and losing public support.
- Pressure rises as President Trump pushes for a different Ukraine policy, unsettling European governments.
Elites Fear Anti-War Momentum
- Rising popularity of anti-war parties in Germany and Britain worries elites.
- European leaders face a perfect storm amid demands to fund Ukraine and integrate it into the EU.
No Real Threat to Western Europe
- No credible intelligence suggests Russia aims to invade major Western European capitals.
- Claims of imminent Russian invasions serve to fuel the military-industrial complex.