Ep. 2611 Could the War in Ukraine Be Ending? With Scott Horton
Feb 27, 2025
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Scott Horton, Director of the Libertarian Institute and author of "Provoked," offers keen insights into the Ukraine conflict. He discusses missed diplomatic opportunities and critiques current U.S. foreign policy, particularly emphasizing Trump's imperial tendencies. Horton unpacks the Minsk agreements and their repercussions, while exploring the complexities of negotiation dynamics. He encourages listeners to consider alternative narratives and reflects on how the prolonged conflict affects global relations and perceptions of sovereignty.
The podcast argues that reevaluating America's role in the Ukraine conflict is essential, given the country's current unfavorable military position.
It emphasizes the need for informed leadership to pursue effective negotiations and prioritize peace over continued hostilities in Ukraine.
Deep dives
Trump's Shift on Ukraine
Trump appears to be shifting his stance on the Ukraine conflict, expressing intentions to end the war and criticizing Biden's approach to Russia. His recent statements about Ukrainian President Zelensky signal a departure from previous support, sparking backlash among some politicians. This change reflects a broader sentiment among certain officials, including J.D. Vance, who advocate for a reevaluation of America's role in the conflict. Trump’s position suggests a possibility of thawing relations with Russia, which is crucial given the catastrophic implications of a nuclear confrontation.
The Minsk Agreements and Their Impact
The Minsk agreements, established to reduce violence in Ukraine following the 2014 conflict, were ultimately ignored by the Kiev regime, which sought to consolidate its power rather than implement peace. This prolonged struggle resulted in significant casualties and set the stage for the current crisis. Key leaders, including Angela Merkel and François Hollande, have since acknowledged they used the agreements merely to buy time for Ukraine to strengthen its military. The failure to honor Minsk raised tensions and contributed to the escalation of the war leading to 2022.
The Power Dynamics of the Conflict
The conversation highlights a prevailing acknowledgment within American circles that Ukraine is currently in a losing position, though many still cling to unrealistic expectations of victory. The ongoing military support and sanctions have failed to deliver tangible results, leading to questions about the intentions behind continued engagement in the conflict. Critics of U.S. involvement point to a lack of viable strategies or military options presented by proponents of intervention. Thus, a reevaluation of America's objectives in Ukraine is essential to avoid further conflict and resource drain.
Leadership, Strategy, and Resolution
The podcast emphasizes the critical need for informed and effective leadership to navigate U.S. foreign policy concerning the Ukraine crisis. As negotiations proceed without Ukraine’s participation, the likelihood of a resolution diminishes, with potential long-term consequences for the country's sovereignty. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding the factual realities on the ground as the conflict evolves. Ultimately, a sustainable solution may require a willingness to rethink alliances and engage in direct negotiations, prioritizing peace over ongoing hostilities.