[GUEST] PROF. GLENN DIESEN - From Proxy War to Global Crisis: What’s Next for Russia and Ukraine?

Professor Glenn Diesen delivers a masterclass in geopolitical analysis as we explore the dramatic shifts occurring in global conflicts and alliances. The conversation begins with a striking development - 25 countries, including traditional US allies, have publicly demanded Israel end its Gaza operations as the humanitarian catastrophe deepens. "As the genocide becomes more evident and more difficult to dismiss," Diesen notes, "European nations are trying to distance themselves from it" - though he questions whether this represents genuine concern or political theater for domestic audiences increasingly horrified by civilian casualties.

The Ukrainian conflict takes center stage as we examine growing protests against President Zelensky after he signed legislation neutering anti-corruption agencies. These protests may signal the beginning of the end for Zelensky's administration, with Diesen revealing reports that "Washington had allegedly decided that Zelensky has to go" as the war approaches its final stages. The conversation expertly dissects Ukraine's colonial relationship with Western powers since 2014, where external control has shaped everything from its intelligence agencies to its political direction.

Perhaps most compelling is Diesen's unvarnished assessment of Ukraine's military reality. As NATO proposes a new scheme where European nations would purchase American weapons for Ukraine, Deason cuts through the diplomatic posturing: "There's no money, there's no weapons, no one can man it." He systematically deconstructs why this last-ditch effort cannot change the trajectory of a conflict where Russia's advantage grows daily. His analysis of Russia's territorial objectives provides crucial context often missing from Western coverage - that Russia's primary goal has always been preventing NATO expansion to its borders, not necessarily territorial acquisition.

The conversation concludes with a fascinating examination of Europe's approach to Trump's second term - a strategy Diesen characterizes as "shower Trump with flattery, show complete loyalty... and then wait him out." This tactical patience reveals much about how European powers view their relationship with America and their long-term strategic interests. For anyone seeking to understand the complex realities behind today's headlines, this episode provides invaluable perspective from one of today's most insightful analysts.

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