Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges - Far from a Stalemate, Ukraine is Making Crimea Untenable for Russia to Defend.

Ben Hodges is a retired United States Army officer, who became commander of United States Army Europe in November 2014, and held that position for three years until retiring from the United States Army in January 2018. He was most recently a Senior Advisor to Human Rights First, until summer 2023, and serves as NATO Senior Mentor for Logistics. Until recently was the Pershing Chair in Strategic Studies, at the Centre for European Policy Analysis, specialising in NATO, the Transatlantic relationship and international security.
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LINKS:
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CHAPTERS:
02:12 Are we placing limits on the scale and severity of Russia's defeat?
07:12 ATACMS are finally in action, but are enough of them being supplied?
10:19 What is holding back the supply of German Taurus missile system?
13:43 Two important articles published - but what is the intent behind them?
19:58 Time article - "struggle of a lonely leader" is dishonest framing
24:23 Media impatience and Ukrainian strategic imperative to preserve lives
29:26 Is Ukrainian war incorrectly seen as a local war with a regional power
36:52 Do we need to go beyond containment of Russia but seek transformation
41:42 Will Putinism survive the demise of Putin, of will Russia pivot?
46:47 The scale of losses and suffering rise daily, as does the reparations bill
49:01 A pattern of illegality, terror and fear emerging from occupied territories
52:42 Propagandists spewing genocidal rhetoric also need to be prosecuted
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[@toddsmith1793]

Jonathan, when I post a comment it’s usually focused on your guest. I have to make amends to you. There’s a reason you attract an informed guest: You are an excellent host. You always come prepared, and you’re just as informed as your guest. Thank you for your efforts to provide us what I believe is the best Ukraine content on KZbin. By the way, I made a reference yesterday about General Hodges. You failed to mention that he was going to be your guest today 🫶 General Hodges has been a been a constant source of support for Ukraine since 2014. You and General Hodges provide the most compelling reasons for the collective West to provide weapons required for Ukraine to defeat Russia. I appreciate the platform you’ve created to amplify the voice of General Hodges, and every other guest who supports Ukraine. You do make a difference. It was nice to end the work week with you and General Hodges. You’re not only the voice of support, you both inspire hope.

[@SiliconCurtain]

I don’t mention guests until the recording is in the can! I have a certain paranoia about jinxing the booked interview!

[@toddsmith1793]

I intend on supporting your channel, Jonathan. I will also buy you immediate gratification, coffee. It’s the least I can do. Thank You 🙏🏼

[@mchozen2958]

Ben Hodges and Jonathan: simply the best Дуже Дякою/Thank so much from Ukrainian diaspora in Canada

[@selwild2050]

Grand Pa escaped with his buddies from the SS Galizia ?

[@bigolboomerbelly4348]

​@@selwild2050nope he escaped from the Gulag and man made famines and AIDS and horsemeat

[@bernhardklinger4839]

What an amazing interview! General Hodges is so bright and experienced it hurts politicians are not listening to people like him more.

[@johnmaclean5429]

The best interview broadcast show on the web!

[@GreenKnight2001]

Yay, my favorite general is back!

[@carolwilliams8511]

Agree 😊👍

[@njaalsturlasson2351]

Aspects of Silicon Curtain I applaud: - Clear moral compass - Calm, clear and to the point interviewing - Allowing the guests time to reflect and opine - First hand knowledge of the interviewees. You select people who know what they speak of Keep up the good work, Jonathan. Much appreciated!

[@oldowleye3161]

@@seancidy6008 ...don't cry russian bot... get back to vodka - that's were you belong!... no jobs in russia ?... don't worry, you will be mobilized soon!...😂

[@kurtwinslow2670]

@@seancidy6008 Starlin colluded with Hitler and divided up Poland. Starlin started a war with Finland and is still occupying Finnish soil. Starlin starve out the Ukranian people with a famine that killed millions. Starlin built a wall, not to keep invaders out rather to contain those within. The Soviet empire couldn't maintain their rape and pillage of surrounding neighbors and had to retreat back to their boarders. And you think they deserve credit when they're right back at it? You need to spend a year in N Korea, a country that was propped up by the Soviet Union. Then spend another year in S Korea, a country propped up by the USA. Then make an assessment, which has some context. There's a reason why the Ukrainian's aren't capitulation.

[@kurtwinslow2670]

@@seancidy6008There's always a context to every event and this war is no different. Russia for its own security reasons needed a deep-water port access to the Black Sea. Ukraine provided that port in the form of a lease. Putin decided to just terminate the lease and take the land. Copy and paste.....The Agreement between Ukraine and Russia on the Black Sea Fleet in Ukraine, widely referred to as the Kharkiv Pact (Ukrainian: Харківський пакт)[1][2] or Kharkov Accords (Russian: Харьковские соглашения),[3][4] was a treaty between Ukraine and Russia whereby the Russian lease on naval facilities in Crimea was extended beyond 2017 until 2042, with an additional five-year renewal option in exchange for a multiyear discounted contract to provide Ukraine with Russian natural gas.[5] The agreement, signed on 21 April 2010 in Kharkiv, Ukraine, by Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and ratified by the parliaments of the two countries on 27 April 2010, aroused much controversy in Ukraine. The treaty was effectively a continuation of the lease provisions that were part of the 1997 Black Sea Fleet Partition Treaty between the two states. Shortly after the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation in March 2014,[6] Russia unilaterally terminated the treaty on 31 March 2014.

[@war-painter]

@@seancidy6008 - Why does one need security? Because one is concerned about being attacked. Only after being attacked by one’s neighbors does one realize the importance of security.

[@njaalsturlasson2351]

@@seancidy6008 You are wrong. Kyiv doesn’t bear any of the responsibility for being invaded. Even if you claim that historic mistakes were made concerning Crimea and the Donbas, that does NOT give Russia the right to unilaterally change that by force. Russia is a cleptocratic, criminal and aggressive empire and autocracy. It should immediately withdraw its troops to the internationally recognized borders from 1991. No ifs, no buts.

[@quitoyume100]

Hodges is a smart dude. Glad he's on our side.

[@mikaellindroos1594]

Soldier and a gentleman Ben Hodghes, Thank you Jonathan for your Quality high interwiews.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@ChrisLambert-Yngvegodi]

Excellent, I've been thinking about you having this interview after Zaluzhny's statement. And low and behold. Gen Hodges, I have a great respect for his insights.

[@davidjones6389]

“All Greeks know what is right, but only the Spartans do it!”

[@cobbrjo]

Silicon Curtain is one of the best sources of intelligent and considered pro-Ukrainian views on KZbin. So congratulations Jonathan on that. Who better to represent this than Ben Hodges. A voice of reason. He's absolutely right that despite the unprecedented (at least in recent decades) support for Ukraine, the lack of clarity over what the goals of the US are is very damaging, and plays right into Putin's hands. Right now if the summer offensive did not fulfill all hopes and expectations, it only means that lessons have to be learned and support has to be stepped up, not questioned.

[@adrianosverko6601]

Silicon Curtain is just an extension of the British agents that shielded John Wilkes Booth, weeks before he assassinated Abraham Lincoln.

[@alexanderlehner1849]

The misunderstanding in the west about what's on the stake, makes me almost angry. Here is Ben, shouting the facts right into your face. People say 'yes' and do nothing. "Nothing new in the West Part II" or what?

[@AaSs-ln9mm]

So, what do you think, summer offensive fullfil any hopes or not? And if it do, what hopes exactly did it fullfil?

[@cobbrjo]

@@alexanderlehner1849 I agree, I hope for the best but fear the worst. This is a dark moment that can bring out either the best or the worst (indifference) in us. Democracies can be complicated and slow to react if there is not an obvious existential threat. In this case it is not so obvious and my main worry is that we do not understand what is at stake here. We need the same public reaction that the 9/11 attacks brought forth.

[@timmilder8313]

Whats at stake for the US?@@alexanderlehner1849 Not a fucking thing

[@angie6649]

Jonathan, you are right, it's a privilege to listen to this gentleman. LT. General Hodges is a highly educated and intelligent man. I learn so much with your questions and his answers. My comment in another interview of him in The Meidas Touch was , that a man like him, could be a great president of our country. I know, he is not into politics, but I can visualize a man just like him, to help our country in every way we need. I agree with him that "Enablers of violence should be held accountable".

[@catherineandpaulfuters2523]

Thank you for your coverage and wonderful guests. Great interview. 🇬🇧🇺🇦🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇺🇦🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇺🇦🇪🇺

[@RawandCookedVegan]

Fink is fabulous. Amazing guest, inspiring, knowledgeable and practical. Thank you sir! Ben Hodges is the best representative of what America should be about.

[@eugenehancock2649]

Why can't Ukraine take out the 2 large Russian military bases in Moldova & provide land for a port on the Black Sea & highway & railway from the port to Moldova...this will help Europe 🌍 accept Ukraine for NATO&EU membership & Russia will stop sending missle s & drones...

[@geraldfrieberg7921]

I am reasonably sure that the DIA, CIA and foreign intel groups are indeed analyzing such a possibility. The main issue IMO would not only be the needed troops and resources to do so, but also limiting potential collateral chances of starting even more regional battles that would potentially get totally out of control. @@eugenehancock2649

[@tomrobertson3236]

Hodges did not become a corp consultant . By joining with human rights shows his backbone

[@willemkaret1568]

Great to see general Hodges again. Thank you Jonathan.

[@georgeschaoul1322]

Gen Ben Hodges : clear, concise and straight to the point. The man really knows his stuff. Hats off.

[@nicholass1879]

But somehow this genius is missing the fact that Russia is mopping up and should liberate the country from the anti-Christian, corrupt junta dictatorship of Zelensky, soon.

[@michaelfried3123]

I see Ben Hodges name on a new video, I click it faster than the speed of sound!

[@hjhstaff]

I’ve been listening to LTG Ben Hodges for many months. He has been clear eyed all along. Always a pleasure to listen to him. I wish more of the decision makers were following his advice.

[@Devbro88]

Yea he said Ukraine would have all their land back except Crimea by the end of 2022. I could go on lol. I won a bet with a co-worker because of his terrible predictions, so don't get me wrong- I like the guy, but have trouble taking any of his predictions seriously. He makes some good points about the current situation, but he should definitely stick to that..

[@lsees5753]

He probably said that, with provisos. But I wasn’t there….

[@bowencreer3922]

He’s right about Ukraine, but he’s also a hysterical imbecile who thinks decent Americans are fascists.

[@mikefisher5005]

​@christianeverkoczy His "predictions" were clearly based on full military support, which has not happened. Hodges clearly added a big "IF".

[@jeffcoffin7144]

@@Devbro88 You obviously weren't listening to him. You need to up your listening skills. Just trying to help you, provided you are authentic. Revist the past videos and listen all the way through.

[@casard5235]

Ben Hodges' insights are always appreciated. Thank you, he and Johnathan, for a thought filled interview. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

[@j.dunlop8295]

Absolutely, this is a battle for peace, throughout the EU and NATO and the world! (History may not repeat, but it rhymes, at times!)

[@Nauda999]

History does indeed repeat itself, so many time big nations and empires tried to destroy Russia, Germany WWI and WWII, France with Napoleon, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Kingdom of Sweden. Now with NATO, maybe this time history will not repeat itself.

[@craighughes2191]

I truly hope that when America said it will support Ukraine for as long as it takes, America wasn't meaning "for as long as it takes" for the people of America to lose interest in Ukraine. Because that is exactly what Russia is counting on. Glory to Ukraine and their supporters 🌎 🤝 🇺🇦

[@mike4480]

…Germany to back 🇺🇦 till 2032… Major General Christian Freuding, Head of the Special Staff for Ukraine at the Ministry of Defense of Germany - Andrii Tsaplienko. "Our budget planning has already included funds until 2032, which shows our determination. We must help Ukraine develop its potential so that it can remain a free state capable of defending itself and deterring attackers," said Freuding.

[@0013dancer]

@@mike4480 , that's great - but they still won't send appropriate weapons! Ukraine will not last till 2032!

[@denillefleming2942]

Putin is helping his buddy Trump, who will give up Ukraine to Russia.

[@cobbrjo]

Great point. This is a watershed point for liberal democracies. If Putin has any kind of success then the future for our children and grandchildren could be very bleak. This is definitely not just about Ukraine's future as a nation state, but about all of our expectations to live in a civilized world where power is accountable and does not use prejudice, arrogance and hatred to entrench personal interests at the cost of solving real problems based on mutual respect and cooperation. I want a safe world for my children so I am for Ukrainian victory.

[@jamesburke3803]

Sorry General, but i have to disagree with you. Russia was wrong to invade, and deserves the devastating losses it has incurred. But Crimea? It's been Russian for two centuries, and the west has been trying to take it away since the Crimean War, 1856, when France and Britain joined the Turks in attacking the Russian naval base there (Charge of the Light Brigade and Florence Nightingale). Then, taking Ukraine and Crimea from Russia was a top war aim of Germany's in both World Wars. In fact, Hitler was so fixated on keeping Crimea that he sacrificed most of a German army to keeping it. More Russians died fighting over Crimea than the US lost in the entire war. So if you want a war with Russia with nukes? Just remember that they value Crimea a LOT more than we value Pearl Harbor!

[@prepper_nation_h]

I wish our US leadership would pay closer attention to Gen. Hodges. In my humble opinion, he has the best sense of how our approach should have unfolded in helping Ukraine right from the start and what we can still do to salvage our efforts to see Ukraine through to victory.

[@TraitorTrump4Treason]

@prepper_nation_h we already have the leadership as President Biden have done within the limits he was forced into by the traitorous MAGAt republicans which hampers his efforts. If the democrats controlled the house, we wouldn’t have the repeating discussions on when the necessary weapons (Abrams, HIMARS, ATACMS, F16) would arrive or wonder the future of Americas support for the Ukraine. Stop voting for these traitorous MAGAt republicans 🔒🆙🖕🏻🍊🤡

[@stephenking27]

Agree 100%

[@nicholass1879]

Just curious how you can be delusional enough to think Ukraine can defeat Russia? He has helped Ukraine - 500,000-plus casualties and a corrupt, anti-Christian dictatorship is in place.

[@jorr1334]

Tremendous respect for the both of you. General Hodges is a gentleman.

[@ronwade2206]

A friend and musical colleague that played on cruise ships is from Crimea. I haven't heard from Mark Moonriver since putin invaded his home. I hope he is alive and well, the russian people deserve better. Slava Ukraine.

[@user-gf7kc5fc5m]

Ben Hodges and you, Jonathan, make me feel that all is not lost in double speak and agenda! Thank you both. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦 🇺🇦 Heroyam Slava 🇺🇦 ♥️ Victory for Ukraine 🇺🇦 ♥️

[@APW554]

Shame the people in power do not open their ears to his and many others that are singing from the same hymn sheet. It’s common sense ,do we want dictators to rule the world and destroy everything the free world stands for a fought two world wars for ? Or are we actually going to do something about stopping it happening ? I suggest giving everything needed and the most modern weapons not just weapons past their shelf life to Ukraine to win this war ASAP. What’s the benefit of sitting on our thumbs with TAURUS missiles F35s , Black Hawk helicopters, and plenty of volunteers to fly them no doubt in the interim period of training Ukrainians to use/fly them ? Why is this not happening now to prevent further death and destruction it’s just common sense. let’s see that Kerch bridge at sea bed level along with the Black Sea fleet ,give Ukraine some real fighting power…

[@nicholass1879]

Are you a Nazi or don't you know this is the Bandera Nazi salute?

[@bobouzala]

Jonathan, if I were not to accept another literary award for the rest of my life, what a way to finish my swan song with such compliments from General Benjamin Hodges! A good natured man, a highly intelligent man and a soldier I want on my side with every battle I fight, the team of Fink and Hodges is a helluva team to beat by pen or by missile! Thank you Gentlemen!

[@JonasWaldmensch]

Supreme journalism! Gen. Hodges gives me hope - the most important thing in dark times. I believe constant negativity only leads to self forfilling prophecys

[@user-yi7gm8jg7q]

a war monger and a member of the millitary industrial complex that promotes conflicts all over the world gives you hope ???? are you kidding me ??? good Lord, you Americas are so ignorant and foolish, Its a shame I dont live in America, I would make tons of money as a con-artist, so many gullible people, after seeing hoe many people belive in fairy tales this man is saying

[@paklons]

forfilling? Are you a bot?

[@martavdz4972]

@@paklons Nope, he's German. It's a mistake based on German grammar.

[@martavdz4972]

Exactly! If one says "we will lose anyway" and does nothing, of course one loses.

[@zawrat26]

Always admired Gen. Hodges, thanks for bringing him as a guest of your program

[@OldManse09]

Thank you General Hodges for you clarity and your leadership.

[@DarkestAlice]

I also thank you, General Hodges, for your support of Ukraine and especially for suggesting that the U.S.A. should sign the Rome Statute! Quite hypocritical to say "not valid for ours". 🇺🇦 Заради життя кожного українця! 🇺🇦

[@dessmith7658]

Thanks to the US for causing all this trouble

[@malcolmbrown5261]

It is always interesting to listen to Lt.General Ben Hodges

[@kinleydorji]

❤ Thank you for another fantastic interview. Gen Hodges is the man!

[@seadog8807]

Another fantastically insightful conversation between the the two of you, a genuine privilege to be able to listen to your thoughts, thank you!

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍 ♥️

[@mateobravo9212]

Anyone who has served in land forces wIthin NATO since 2014 will tell you that we have known this fight was going to come for some time. The military was right about Russia, but weak, spineless politicians let us down, proving broadly incapable of delivering a swift Ukrainian victory where less people will die. Great interview, greetings from Spain.

[@SomethingBlonde-oc7sc]

Thank you for your service.

[@davidhancock91]

Bush2 and Obama were derelict in there duty in dealing with Putin. Clinton picked him as totally untrustworthy , and Trump is his buddy. Biden needs to be more assertive with Putin. Putin is full of bluff and hot wind. Give Ukraine what they need ASAP.

[@davidhancock91]

The Poms have lead the charge with support for Ukraine. They can see the consequences of what will happen if Russia wins. It will embolden Putin, and it will just be the beginning. He wants a USSR 2. Scary stuff. The Americans need to realise this. Especially the nutty MAGA Republicans in Congress.

[@jemezname2259]

Unfortunately Trump is Putin's bi*ch! If he gets reelected Nato and Ukraine are history along with American democracy.

[@judyweeks1480]

I would suggest "we" have known this since the end of WWII. Not that I'm a fan of Patton but he did say we were going to have to fight them (meaning russia) eventually. I edited this comment as I first said MacArthur said this. It was not MacArthur, it was Patton.

[@mvjh2277]

Appreciate your in depth conversations, as always.🇺🇸🇺🇦💯

[@TimD-ny6ks]

What a great interview Ben Hodges is always brilliant to listen to

[@Sam-uy7oq]

Fantastic interview. General Hodges is a brilliant man and I love listening to his interviews.

[@WackadoodleMalarkey]

17:20 Credit when it's due. This is why I love Gen Hodges interviews

[@markchristopher2373]

Very interesting reference to real patriotism by Gen Hodges...I instantly felt a wave of cowardice flow through me. This is a global issue that we can't ignore. Thanks guys.

[@marisabenson1222]

You are normal 🙂

[@ulrikschackmeyer848]

Feeling a little ashamed is a perfectly good reason to actually get done with what you know to be right. Nothing to be ashame of...provided that you act dåfirst.

[@BubblegumCrash332]

As an American I'm so disappointed with the aid from the US. Not the amount but when and how the US is giving aid. Ukraine should have been flying F16's with long range missiles and firing long range ATACAMs months ago

[@erichammond9308]

You can't just hop in a completely different aircraft and fly it, training the pilots on the F-16 began long before it became common knowledge. Also tossing ATACAMS into the fray too soon also would be premature, first and most urgently needed were the basic models and infrastructure for them.

[@S.Ludvig]

Thank you for a great interview and I listen to Ben Hodgen with the deepest respect for his knowledge insight and the way his is thinking. Wish our politicians would listen to him and do much more to help Ukraine defeat Russia once and for all.

[@josephlunderville3195]

Your interviews of Ben Hodges are my favourite interviews on your channel, and also the best interviews of his! Thanks for putting this out and I really hope you can get him on again in a few months -- and if I'm dreaming maybe it's a discussion about the surprise victory of Ukraine and the humanitarian follow-up...

[@SiliconCurtain]

We’ve already booked the interview on the beach in Crimea.

[@okeydokey3120]

​@SiliconCurtain I could just hug you for that! ❤

[@timmommens901]

​@@SiliconCurtain Please elaborate on who is Boris Nadezhin. Sorry to ask in this way. 😊

[@usernamearrg]

Excellent conversation. Every time I listen to Ben Hodges I wish that every person in power was hearing him. His is a simple, but not simplistic, vision.

[@robertjohnson4154]

Hodges is a warmonger, that would plunge the whole world into a destructive war, where everyone is killed. The best thing everyone can do is ignore this delusional moron.

[@unoriginalname4321]

I wish Ben Hodges was in charge

[@unoriginalname4321]

​@@FreedomStrike76awwww, did I trigger your widdle fee-fees? Well don't worry, the hurtful comment has been removed 😢😢😢.

[@unoriginalname4321]

​@@FreedomStrike76p.s. **** *** back to moscow

[@marcusaurelius9123]

​@FreedomStrike76 on the contrary he's being realistic.

[@MrSupersamovar]

As a Ukrainian, I'm glad that intelligent and proficient people as these gentlemen are on our side.

[@IliyaOsnovikov]

If Ben Hodges was as smart as you think he is why would he say last summer that Russians have only 10 (ten) days of ammo supplies left? IMHO he is just an idiot. So is the man who desided to get his opinion.

[@nicholass1879]

Turn on some brains (включити мозги!) Gentlemen like these misled you, taught you to hate, served themselves with billions, and destroyed your country. Вам ещё нужно?

[@AmBotanischenGarten]

I have relative in Ukraine, and I agree--I wish more of the US brass would listen to General Hodges!!!

[@koltoncrane3099]

As an American most people I know am sick of paying taxes to fund endless war which make the rich richer basically and enslaved the rest of us. Maybe for Ukraine they want independence. But from a freedom wanting American that hates endless war I think the U.S. should have treated Ukraine just like North Korea. Buffer states should be respected or promoted.

[@johnm7267]

That is why they are losing

[@aeneas-sails]

KZbin served this up because of your guest, and although I resisted because I don't need more content, at minute 46, I hit the subscribe and notifications. Gen. Hodges, I'm sure, caused nights of sleeplessness in his opposites. I think he still does. Silicon Curtain's interview allowed his light to shine. Well done.

[@guy.l8147]

As you know sir I've said many times you made a huge impression on me in the back of an raf hercules . I managed to get to tell you what that 2 min meeting meant to me and I've always respected your opinion and views . Ukraine needed more from us to topple one of our greatest enemies since ww1 , when we know how much it would have cost us to defeat russia and Ukraine had the will and courage to take on one of the worlds super powers alone. They only needed our stored weapons and money to get the job done !, but we have failed them by edging bits of weaponry to them at the last minute which has prevented them from forcing russia out of Ukraine and crimea.

[@lee11991964]

You were correct Johnathan, my subscription to your channel was reading not subscribed, but fixed now. Always great to see Gen Hodges on the channel, his insight is unmatched.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍 great, welcome back!

[@leaveourstatuesalone.3378]

I am quite shocked how little your subscribers are, especially as you get Mr Ben Hodges on so often, and for a good segment of time, Great content, 👍🏻🇬🇧

[@SiliconCurtain]

The channel will grow… slowly… but it’s getting there.

[@leaveourstatuesalone.3378]

@@SiliconCurtain oh I agree, it deserves to grow, Good luck, and I’d encourage everyone to hit the like Button.👍🏻

[@nicholass1879]

Shocked? He's on the wrong side of truth and history. Russia is mopping up poor ol' Ukraine.

[@johnss7754]

Thank you. A very thoughtful interview. General Ben is always great to listen to.

[@michaellamb2249]

Having a interview with a professional soldier who speaks to truth with down to earth intelligence, politicians should listen.

[@myroslavabasladynsky4937]

There was a lot of pearl clutching in the US government when the Soviet Union looked like it might dissolve. I remember George Bush Sr. and his admonishment to Ukraine not to rock the boat (the chicken Kiev speech). Once again Ukraine, which is shouldering all the suffering, is told not to expect victory. Reminds me of the Billie Holiday song, “rich relations give crust of bread and such; you can help yourself but don’t take too much.” We have become small and timid and this does not bode well for the future of the West.

[@SandmanAlpha4]

It was such an honor serving under LTG Hodges. Intelligent insightful humans ever.

[@AmBotanischenGarten]

Would sure like to know what you felt serving under LTG Hodges. He is a great man!

[@SandmanAlpha4]

@@AmBotanischenGarten Confidend we had a knowledgeable , logical CO. Plus , he's not a robot , he'll talk to you as a person.

[@tetianavarvynska2125]

normalisation of violence is not something that happened in russia in the past two decades. It is something that is the essence of the russkiy mir. it has never been any different.

[@EEX97623]

Violence and misery helped with fantasy and alcohol is a huge part of Russian identity.

[@carolwilliams8511]

I admire General Hodges and wish Western politicians would listen to him.

[@SwarmerBees]

Note that General Hodges is from North Florida, represented by a congressman, Matt Gaetz who is one of the fiercest opponents of increased aid to Ukraine. Perhaps if the general prefers hard tasks to easy one as he states in the intro, then he will spend a little less time preaching to the choir and have some words with these conservative politicians who would let Russia keep all the lands they have stolen.

[@faniel7265]

😂😂😂 you are delusion and fool 🤣 😂 this is cheap propaganda the reality is ukraine is lost

[@cristo6007]

​@@SwarmerBeesmaybe you should do some homework seeing as he lives in Germany. Those idiots like Gaetz have shown great disdain for the military. It would be a waste of his time. But I'm sure you've accomplished so much more because you hide behind a keyboard and criticize him.

[@hjhstaff]

Spending time with Matt Gaetz would just make anyone stupider. And since “Matt only cares about Matt” it would a fool’s errand!

[@stevea2909]

If you ever become a asst shift manager of a drive thru, how would you deal with Mr. Geatz?

[@pjohnson179]

Re: Simon Shuster, author of the Time article. I posted this comment on Jake Broe's channel: "Simon Shuster was born to russian parents in Moscow, They moved to California when Shuster was 6, His first job after graduating from Stanford was a journalist job in Moscow. He is a russian at heart, writing his Time articles with a russian slant. He may think he is "balanced" but he is not. He may not be a russian troll exactly, but he sure isn't a friend of Ukraine."

[@bloggalot4718]

Shame on Time magazine for publishing the article.

[@EEX97623]

Shuster was cheerleading Russian annexation of Crimea, there’s not much else to know about this cretin.

[@calebfranks3903]

Ben Hodges talks very sensibly about these topics. Thank you, sir.

[@mikehunt6218]

Ben Hodges is the man!!! Always a great guest 👍

[@alexanderlehner1849]

KZbin suggesting another 1h SiCu video. Me: "Should I stay or should I go?" But as soon as you dive into it, you're already caught. Ben said it in the outro rightfully, that Jonathan is one of the deepest conversion partners. Thanks, guys!

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍♥️👍♥️

[@alexanderlehner1849]

'conversation' (discussion) I meant. But he also can convert someone ;)

[@rhondabailey9238]

I agree with Ben Hodges...Free speech is NOT for enabling/inciting VIOLENCE !!! {Stop allowing lies

[@lorijones8860]

1000 percent agree

[@essexfarmer9610]

Quite so. It's a privilege hard won by earlier generations and must be respected by free speech of integrity.

[@RogerMillerInVA]

LTG Hodges is a personal hero and a national treasure. Thank you for your continued service, Sir.

[@sinergy111]

No he isn't. He is nothing but a war monger. He knows Ukraine gas lost but pushes for this war to continue. That is not the qualities of a good man. He is delusional if he actually believes this nonsense.

[@Coffeepanda294]

The fact that he brought out so many putin fanboys is also saying something. It tells me a sign a channel has reach, and that trolls recognize it as a threat. They aren't out there making noises on videos they don't care about.

[@robertjohnson4154]

Hodges is a warmonger, that would plunge the whole world into a destructive war, where everyone is killed. The best thing everyone can do is ignore this delusional moron.

[@robertjohnson4154]

@@Coffeepanda294 Not a fan of Putin or a supporter of his illegal invasion of Ukraine. Just a concerned citizen that doesn't want the whole world destroyed, because blinkered, mindless, warmongering, US military types, want to stand for ill-considered principles in a region of the world they have absolutely no business meddling in.

[@j.dunlop8295]

Absolutely, this is a battle for peace, throughout the EU and NATO and the world! (History may not repeat, but it rhymes, at times!)

[@pascalhibon7928]

Always a pleasure to hear General Hodges thoughts. Very intelligent person and I wish more politician would take notice of what he is saying.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@JacobT-1]

@@SiliconCurtain Congratulations on hitting 50k+ subs. A bit late on my part but I am very happy to see you reach that. Deserved 100-fold. Thanks for sticking with this and being so patient. Your work is, and has been, phenomenally important.

[@brians1001]

Very profound and well articulated discussion.

[@davidwaskul2821]

Mr Hodges doesn't pull any punches, he tells it like it is. Thank You. Slava Ukraine and the Free World !!!!

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@thesaw9988]

Can you explain what "slava Ukraien" realy means?

[@davidwaskul2821]

@@thesaw9988 Glory to Ukraine.

[@andyreznick]

@@thesaw9988 In this context, "Glory" or "Praise" are probably good translations. Ukrainian is an inflectional language. The use of "Slava" requires dative case for the object, so the ending changes. The grammatically correct way of saying it is: "Slava Ukraini" (Ukraina in dative case changes to Ukraini) In English it might be best translated as: "Glory to Ukraine". In Cyrillic, it looks like this: Слава Україні.

[@DarkestAlice]

@@andyreznick 🇺🇦 Героям слава! 🇺🇦

[@polianamardari]

Thank you Silicon Curtain for bringing Gen Hodges on. Delighted to be able to benefit again from the pragmatic expertise of General Ben Hodges.

[@juliaRose43]

Interesting to note that Schuster who wrote the ‘defeatist ‘Zelenskyy article was in Crimea in 2014 and he commented about paying in Russian roubles for his coffee and said “ Get used to it”. Makes one question where his loyalties lie…

[@barbaramassey3787]

Ben Hodges is the BEST!! Thank you!

[@carolwilliams8511]

He absolutely is 😊

[@bramgn]

Two great minds together, what a privilege to listen to

[@nickmcmahon623]

Grateful to get the general’s insightful analysis, as ever. Would be a great presidential candidate 👍

[@physbang]

Great questions, great answers. Smart and compassionate people. Thanks.

[@susanrozgonyi6481]

Thank you Silicon Curtain for bringing Gen Hodges on. I really value his opinions and I especially appreciated that he was given the time to think through and respond to these complex questions. Excellent interview. It was tough though - my heart goes out to this brave nation 🇺🇦🙏

[@Marvin-dg8vj]

Hodges was far too optimistic about Ukraine ability to defeat Russia. He allowed his emotions to get the better of his judgement. The Russians are a lot tougher than he thought

[@susanrozgonyi6481]

@@Marvin-dg8vj With the right weapons the Ukrainians can absolutely defeat Russia. In my book - and to state the obvious - they have already achieved the impossible as they have been fighting without proper air cover. It’s truly a war between David and Goliath - and frankly it’s Russia’s repeated failures that have been rather surprising. And supremely embarrassing I must add. Even with them using untold numbers of humans as cannon fodder. The only thing Russians are “good” at is shooting cruise missiles (!) into residential buildings in the middle of the night for maximum impact. That’s not “tough” - that’s being a complete coward and a terrorist. They know they can’t win on the battle field. Similar to Iran, Russia should be designated a terrorist nation just for that. But it’s been so much worse - the Russians have been behaving like complete animals. And frankly without that air cover it’s been oh so easy for them to rape, pillage, carpet bomb and abduct children - especially as they know that they can just hop back to their side of the border and they’ll be safe. As I said: cowards. Gen Hodges is a soldier and yes, he might have been too optimistic but that’s because of the spirit of the Ukrainians - he sees them as winners. It’s the Western response he didn’t anticipate correctly. Russia is a hollow giant at this point but yes, they can send another million soldiers to their deaths - yet I’m not sure how that’s being “tough”. In a military sense it’s clear ineptitude - and politically/psychologically it’s nothing but unhinged cruelty. If this war is lost and this carefully fabricated Russian Global Right Turn -which I tend to refer to as Global Balkanization - can go unopposed it will be on us in the West and not on the Ukrainians (yes, I see Russia as the ideological ring leader but other nations such as Iran and China are involved too - places like Hungary merely serve Russia as their liege lord). It’s the Ukrainians that are and have been though as nails - and I have nothing but respect for them. So much is riding on the outcome of this war…

[@maghdean]

@@Marvin-dg8vj No, the Americans just haven't been supportive enough for us to win already. That's where he made a mistake - and has already acknowledged it.

[@ZootyZoFo]

@@Marvin-dg8vjIt’s not that the Russians are “tougher” than he thought it’s that the west failed on its weapons delivery, slowly handing them out always worried about the Russian Red Line that doesn’t exist, Putin punked them out with his baseless claims of nuclear war.

[@TraitorTrump4Treason]

@@ZootyZoFoself-imposed “red line” as Hodges said. I think they’re just excuses made up mostly by republicans to keep the US from increasing and accelerating Ukrainian support. Stop voting for these MAGAt republicans who are traitorous putin puppets. 🔒🆙🖕🏻🍊🤡

[@carlettesouthern-robert2992]

Great Show, So Inspiring! ThankYou Both!! 🇺🇲❤🇺🇦

[@michelleisaacson6069]

I can listen to Ben Hodges for hours!!! Ge holds my exact views about Ukraine. Sooo knowledgable. Same to Jonathan....always great comments and questions. Thank you

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@lynnmcquillan2338]

Thankyou Johnathon & Mr Ben Hodges (he’s amazing!) 🙇‍♀️👍✌️🇺🇦

[@christinemartin4276]

Great interview thank you both❤ Slava Ukrayini 🇺🇦 Heróyam Slava 🇦🇺❤️🇦🇺🇦🇺

[@chrisbutcher5179]

Ben is the man ⭐️ thank goodness there are true patriots and experts like him reporting on events in Ukraine. Ben speaks with authority with no axe to grind and no hidden agenda unlike the Macgregor’s and Ritter’s of this world.

[@nicholass1879]

Colonel Douglass MacGregor and Scott Ritter are the true patriots. In contrast, these chaps are delusional fools who think Ukraine can defeat Russia - a nuclear power. Russia will destroy the US before it loses. If you also think Ukraine can win, you've got less than a year to realize how wrong you and these daydreamers are. After lying about peace to get elected and closing the church, Zelensky is by far the most hated man in Ukraine. The people no longer support him and are praying for Russia to liberate them. I know, I lived there.

[@johnshelton1141]

Have Hodges and Macgregor face each other on the same web site.

[@johnshelton1141]

What are Macggregor's and Ritter;s hidden agendas?

[@chrisbutcher5179]

@@johnshelton1141 They are Russkie one eyed supporters Ritter is anti establishment having beef over his arrest and subsequent jail time for his exposed performance of a sex act on himself in front of a web camera, to someone he believed was 15-years of age. Macgregor Regardless of his actual military career back when he was in the military, he’s found a new schtick telling Tucker Carlson fans and the sort of Republicans who want Russia to win what they want to hear regardless of the actual facts. In the process, he’s made himself a useful idiot for Russian trolls who cite him as a guru (“an actual American colonel!”) when they want to add spurious credibility to their lies. He’s pandering to clowns and fools because it pays better than sitting on his butt in retirement.

[@JazzGuru]

Wow Jonathan, as always, what a brilliant interview. It's great to know that me and Ben Hodges (one of my favourite Ukraine War commentators), share a personal hero in the great Abraham Lincoln...

[@primalamusica3]

Thank you for inviting Ben Hodges!

[@hansandersen4106]

Thank you for a fantastic insight and willingness to discuss difficult subjects, and showing whenever there is a doublemoral whatsoever 🙂 Greatings from Denmark

[@k.1701]

Thank you for this in depth, informative and very important interview! 👏🏻

[@bobstevens8296]

I am a retired Army officer who devoted over 10 years of his career to the European theater, from the Cold War to Desert Storm. My major regret is not having been able to serve under General Hodges. His insights are a rare gift to anyone willing to give him their attention.

[@timmilder8313]

I mean, he said on every interview, unequivocally, that Ukraine would take Crimea by August. Dude has veered into cheerleading and hopium, unfortunately

[@deanejoyce5393]

@@73chengosaro4don’t be a useful idiot

[@deanejoyce5393]

A really good indicator that you “ nailed it “ is Russian bots like this one come out in force😂

[@terryhand]

@@deanejoyce5393 Well said!

[@user-kk1gx4dr3c]

bot@@timmilder8313

[@charlesellenberger8067]

I am in shock that this Generals remarkable mind is not being utilized on a daily basis by the current administration and NATO. This man is a national treasure with few equals.

[@robertjohnson4154]

Hodges is a warmonger, that would plunge the whole world into a destructive war, where everyone is killed. The best thing everyone can do is ignore this delusional moron.

[@jeannettejordan7104]

Always respect Gen. Hodges prospective on the Russia/Ukrainian war. Thanks for this discussion.

[@bonnersommer7201]

Thank you gentlemen for this first class conversation.

[@corinnem.239]

I wish Ben Hodges would run for President. His well thought out opinions make me think he would make an excellent Commander and Chief. Please consider running. We need you.

[@GregBrownsWorldORacing]

Already up to 6k 'likes' in 8 hours. People really seem to like Gen. Hodges. I'm a fan too! Whoever thought retired, old soldiers could have such a huge following? Your rapport with him Johnathan & the comfort you both feel during the interview keeps folks watching to the end.

[@cfisher11]

Might be bots

[@Kodakcompactdisc]

I love Ben

[@DS9TREK]

I see 978 likes at time of posting. Did it go down?

[@ninemoonplanet]

Unless and until the NATO countries, EU, and others choose to be honest enough to help Ukraine win, not just exist, I am still wondering what the policies are amongst these countries. I have put my money into support, but I don't have millions to give. What is the HONEST, real aim for Ukraine? Are these politicians so frightened of Russia? Why? Get this job done, NOW. It's costing far more the longer these delays happen.

[@denillefleming2942]

The EU has been giving military packages on a regular basis. Germany sent new stuff this week.

[@0013dancer]

Totally agree with you - it is so frustrating!

[@rhondabailey9238]

Agreed! Now that they know we're scared, putin's dealings with Iran and Hamas started the attack on putin's birthday. Terrorist will definitely continue controlling the world if we don't. Here in America, we can't even stop the republicans that want Autocracy...so they have made us so far down the list of democracy ratings that we are now labeled 'failing

[@Rampart.X]

I've written many times on this. Summary - Russia was lured into an unwinnable war that will degrade its influence in the region; remove Putin; disrupt the Russo-Deutsch industrial alliance and open economic opportunities to Anglo-American businesses. Edit: The war is necessarily long and the West is throttling Ukrainian offensives to TEASE Russia into believing it has a fighting chance. It does not.

[@MamaDisco1313]

Thanks for another great interview. I love your interviews with B.Hodges. You are one of the hardest working content creators on KZbin. VPDFO

[@GeorgeBurburan]

Isn't this the guy who predicted that Ukraine would conquer Crimea by August 31st Maybe I'm mistaken could have been someone else

[@saltavaliente]

Wonderful speaker and program , here you have a follower for the long run

[@judithcampbell1705]

Thank you 💛 LT General Hodges and also Thank you for your interviewing skills. I always listen to what the LT has to say.

[@superslice28magee68]

A great conversation. Love Ben Hodges. Thank you, Johnathan.

[@1971VoiceoftheMummy]

🙏🕊🌻🔱 Excellent Update! Ukraine is Stronger with ATACMS!🚀 Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes! The World Stands Committed with Ukraine and The Heroes Quest for Democracy! 🔱🌻🕊🙏

[@djparn007]

Thank you, General Hodges.Excellent analysis.

[@cats4terri]

Thank you Johnathan and Ben, such intelligent and articulate discussion on a subject dear to heart Ukraine and their wonderful people and brave defenders. I thoroughly enjoyed your discussion and opinions. Love to you both xx

[@kirkpeterson5208]

Always a pleasure to tune in. Ty to you both.

[@jensharms7945]

Your interview with Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges was very impressing. I very much like this straight to the Point talk. Thank you for your work.

[@johntokn]

I wish I could believe everything Gen. Hodges says. Equally learned people, in some cases professors, say exactly the opposite I would love to see Ukraine win the war but not everyone thinks they will.

[@SiliconCurtain]

There are a few pro Ukrainians who say this - but many who propound this line always eventually are shown to have some grift or connection to Russia. However what is victory? I would say Ukraine can already claim to be the more victorious, as it prevented Russia from taking most of the country and has more than halved Russian military offensive capabilities, with fewer gross losses on their side. As a proportion of population it dies not look so good of course - but Ukrainian unity has forged an incredible new national identity and spirit of resilience and resistance.

[@danielmiller3781]

You know the guest is great when it’s his fifth appearance so far. I certainly hope there are more intelligent and rational people like Ben Hodges, the world would be a better place.

[@SantiagoRodriguez-th3ej]

Are you kidding Daniel?

[@robertjohnson4154]

Hodges is a warmonger, that would plunge the whole world into a destructive war, where everyone is killed. The best thing everyone can do is ignore this delusional moron.

[@Kodakcompactdisc]

Ben is brilliant, he knows the threat of russian terrorism.

[@wendyandrew3707]

I love listening to this man and your way of interviewing. Yes hope is being maintained.

[@v23452]

As always for, General Hodges is the guiding star, a leader of thought for shaping the American vision on Russian war in Ukraine and its implications. He is the best!

[@faultlessguitarsandamps1116]

I think Ben Hodges is a great inspiration , with his understanding of the situation and his strong moral convictions .

[@alifarah9]

If he had an ounce of “moral conviction” he wouldn’t be talking down a ceasefire in Gaza. This conflict proved beyond reasonable doubt that all the human right hysteria about Russia was just naked geopolitics and nothing to do with morality