Glenn Diesen - Greater Eurasia Podcast Ray McGovern: The Road War - Arms Control Collapsing
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Jan 17, 2026 
Ray McGovern, a former CIA officer with 27 years of experience, shares his insights on the deteriorating state of arms control and the escalating risks of war. He discusses the historical context of treaties like SALT and the ABM Treaty, emphasizing the importance of verification. McGovern critiques U.S. media portrayals of Russia, explores Putin's cautious approach as a potential stabilizing force, and highlights how U.S. withdrawals from agreements have created instability. The talk underscores the ongoing challenges and the urgent need for renewed diplomatic engagement.
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Inside Cold War Arms Control Talks
- Ray McGovern recounts briefing Presidents and senior officials during Cold War arms control talks and attending the 1972 ABM Treaty signing in Moscow.
- He describes discovering the Soviet Krasnoyarsk ABM radar and confronting it with Soviet leaders, which led to its eventual dismantling.
New START As The Last Safeguard
- New START is the last major arms-control constraint and it expires February 5th unless extended.
- Putin offered a one-year continuation if the U.S. reciprocates, but uncertainty around Trump undermines trust and stability.
Restore Mutual Security First
- Prioritize mutual security because no side achieves real safety by enhancing itself at others' expense.
- Re-establish arms control and diplomacy to prevent dangerous security dilemmas and arms races.