U.S. President Donald Trump speaks by telephone with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin amid fears that the two will cut a deal at Ukraine’s expense.
At a NATO ministerial, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says it is unrealistic to restore Ukrainian sovereignty over all of its territory.
And U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marko Rubia head to the Munich Security Conference for a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
As Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine approaches the three-year mark, we seem to have reached a tipping point. But with U.S. support for Kyiv in serious doubt, a tipping point toward what?
On The Power Vertical Podcast this week, host Brian Whitmore speaks with former US Assistant Secretary of State David Kramer, who is currently Executive Director of the George W. Bush Institute, and James Sherr, Honorary Fellow at the International Center for Defense and Security in Tallinn.
Enjoy…
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SHOW NOTES
The audio clips opening the podcast and the second half of the program are from a speech by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on February 12, 2025. The translations are as follows:
“I had a conversation with President Trump – a good and detailed discussion; I am grateful to the President for his genuine interest in our shared opportunities, in how we can work together to bring real peace closer.”
“Unfortunately, the war continues. Lives must be protected, and they must be protected every single day. We are doing our best to bring peace closer. I thank all those who are helping! And those who will stand with us on the first day of peace. Glory to Ukraine!”
James Sherr’s article, “The Kremlin and Trump: No Free Pass,” which was referenced in the podcast, can be accessed here. James Sherr’s other recently published work can be accessed here.
David Kramer’s article (co-authored with Igor Khrestin), “Achieving lasting peace in Ukraine,” can be accessed here. David Kramer’s other recently published work can be accessed here.
The Power Vertical Newsletter on Substack can be accessed here. Recently published work by Brian Whitmore can be accessed here, here, and here. Please follow Brian Whitmore and The Power Vertical on Bluesky@powervertical.bsky.social