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Russian Roulette

Dara Massicot on Battlefield Developments in Ukraine and the Threat of Escalation

Dec 6, 2024
Dara Massicot, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a leading expert on the Russian military, joins Max and Maria to discuss the evolving battlefield in Ukraine. They examine the Biden administration's decision to supply weapons and the implications for U.S. military readiness. The conversation highlights the manpower challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, including the introduction of North Korean troops, and explores the complex interplay of Russian military operations across Ukraine and Syria. Massicot also dives into future strategies as the conflict approaches 2025.
36:31

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Biden administration's authorization of U.S. weapons for attacks on Russia highlights the ongoing complexities and risks of escalation in Ukraine's battlefield dynamics.
  • Manpower shortages are significantly impacting both Ukrainian and Russian military operations, emphasizing the urgent need for improved recruitment and operational strategies amidst ongoing hostilities.

Deep dives

Impact of U.S. Weapons in Ukraine

The recent decision by the Biden administration to authorize the use of U.S. weapons in attacks on Russian targets has stirred discussions regarding its potential impact on the battlefield in Ukraine. Experts indicate that the effectiveness of longer-range missiles, such as the ATACMS, depends heavily on their availability and quantity. Although there have been successful strikes on Russian air defense systems and airfields, concerns remain about the inventory limits of these weapons and Russia's ability to intercept them. Thus, while these weapons are significant, they are not a definitive game changer in the ongoing conflict.

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