Lawrence Freedman

Lawrence Freedman, an Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London, discusses the complexities of achieving peace in Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. He delves into the contrasting expectations of Russia and Ukraine, territorial disputes, and the impact of American strategies. The conversation also highlights the evolution of warfare, particularly the role of drones, and the divided U.S. perspectives on foreign policy. Freedman emphasizes the potential for the conflict to persist, influenced by economic challenges and political motivations from both sides.

Lawerence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London and author of ‘The Age of Forever Wars’, shares his insights on the nature of protracted conflicts. He discusses the challenges military planners face balancing quick victories with the reality of enduring wars, using Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine as key examples. Freedman critiques current military strategies and emphasizes the need for clear political goals. He also explores historical mistakes and the ongoing resilience of conflicts like Israel and Hamas, while questioning Putin's persistent aggression.

Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King's College London, sheds light on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its broader implications. He discusses Israel's surprise attacks on Iranian sites and the geopolitical motivations driving these actions. Freedman explores the complexities of U.S. involvement, emphasizing how domestic politics influence international relations. Additionally, he reflects on the shifting military dynamics in the Middle East and the potential ramifications for regional stability. A riveting analysis of conflict and strategy in a tumultuous landscape.

Vladimir Putin's role as supreme commander has been center stage, offering a floundering and frightful performance. To understand the present, we reach back to the past. In the first of a multi-part series of episodes, Lawrence Freedman and Michael Kofman walk us through the post-Cold War history of the Kremlin and especially Putin as commander, starting with the First Chechen War through the short Russo-Georgian War (2008). In doing so, Freedman draws on his new book, Command: The Politics of Military Operations from Korea to Ukraine (https://amzn.to/3qYxPEF).   

Gideon interviews historian and writer Lawrence Freedman about Israel's challenges in dealing with Hamas and finding a viable alternative government. They explore the recent security lapse on the Gaza border, compare the conflict to global crises, and discuss the potential consequences of Biden's lack of diplomatic victory.