NATO gradualism - a cold shower for Ukraine

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Live coming up - kzbin.infoHifDDay0ySs Twitter thread twitter.com/VladVexler/status/1679589769066446853?s=20 Go to my main channel kzbin.infovideos You can now support Vlad's work on Patreon! www.patreon.com/vladvexler Support Vlad via PayPal www.paypal.com/paypalme/vladvexler?country.x=GB&locale.x=en_GB

[@PandemoniumMeltDown]

We didn't come here because politics are easy, but because they are haaard.

[@ragingmonk6080]

Just stop, Ukraine is not defending all of us. If not for all of us Ukraine would no longer exist. We do not need Ukraine for anything and we do not want them. Need proof? Ukraine has been independent since 1991 and we NEVER brought them into the fold. I am a US Army 95B Military Police Vet. that worked as a contractor for the Department of Homeland Security and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. Therefore I am not a amateur at this. Ukraine is the second most corrupt state in Europe, behind Russia. It was attacked in 2014 and had 8 years to build its defenses. It was too corrupt to do that. Now it begs like a dog. We have people in America with a net worth more than Ukraine's GDP. It is nothing and the EU / NATO has never wanted it. American political scientist John Mearsheimer has stated that Putin does not care that Finland joined NATO. He insists that Ukraine remain neutral. He continues on with, Russia will make this a forever war and Ukraine will not win. It will either give up the NATO ambitions or continue to die. That blood is on the hands of the west and America. Ukraine does NOT meet the requirements for NATO membership. Ukraine has to have defined and secured borders. Ukraine has to rid themselves of the deep running corruption. Ukraine has to transition from a worthless Soviet military to a NATO standard that is interoperable with NATO troops. Do you know how long it will take to accomplish this??? Can you give us a timeline?

[@Bob-nd2mr]

Whatever the rhetoric >>>> jens stoltenberg stated that the UAF gets long term military aid in "a similar way to Israel" (the IDF). So Ukraine is now an Independent Nation and will survive or not just like Israel will survive or not. Here is the state of play >> ISRAEL (IDF) Personnel (Male & Female) Military age 17 Conscription 24-34 months Available for military service 3 Million age 17-49 Reaching military age annually 120,000 Active personnel 169,500 Reserve personnel 1/2 Million Budget US$ 24.3 billion Percent of GDP 5.2% UKRAINE (UAF).............@ PRESENT WITH NO AIR FORCE .... Personnel (Male & Female) Military age 18 Conscription 12-18 months (depending on branches) Available for military service 11 Million age 16-49 Reaching military age annually 470,000 Active personnel ~700,000 Reserve personnel 1,000,000 Budget $ 30.8 billion + over $100 billion foreign military aid Percent of GDP 18.2% RUSSIAN FORCES (RF) Personnel (majority Male) Military age 18 Conscription 12 months Active personnel  1.1 Million (1,154,000)

[@dayegilharno4988]

:) When I began to follow your channel a couple of months ago, I feel, looking back, like wasn't quite up to the task of fully appreciating your input to the extent that it deserves... Maybe it is just the gin and tonic talking now, but TODAY I believe that I shall get there, eventually! I like your style of presentation, and your insight into matters that I am torn about myself.

[@dayegilharno4988]

@@Bob-nd2mr Good catch!

[@rachelatwood9555]

For those of us trying to survive the latest summer heatwave, the cold shower analogy doesn't necessarily conjure up the negative sensation you're looking to impart...

[@VladVexlerChat]

Yes and thank you!

[@kristinfrostlazerbeams]

Think about how unpleasant cold water is when you submerge yourself into it when your skin is sunburned. There ya go. 😅

[@10secondsrule]

Ah the U.K. heatwave.. a refreshing summer breeze compared to what we have daily in Asia… but keep up the drama. 😂

[@rachelatwood9555]

@@10secondsrule I'm in the States, where we're getting 35C + high humidity. It's not like Thailand or something, but not the UK, either

[@BiggestBigBoy]

It's 104F and it's almost 8pm, there are no cold showers here.

[@rachelatwood9555]

In extremely simplistic terms, I've always interpreted Zelensky's aggressive demanding of help from allies is the old "if you shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you'll land in the stars" adage. In other words, push as hard as you can, and maybe you'll get some big things you need. Be polite and conciliatory, and you'll get next to nothing. Both Ben Wallace and Jake Sullivan's "gratitude" public remarks were not constructive to international policy discourse. What would "gratitude" from Ukraine as they envision it even look like?

[@ChrisEkstedt]

"Both Ben Wallace and Jake Sullivan's "gratitude" public remarks were not constructive to international policy discourse." I followed a lot of the back and forth on that. Sullivan's remarks were appalling. Wallace was a little more understandable in context but still a misstep IMO.

[@Dave5843-d9m]

Sunak distanced himself from Wallace remarks. Not enough to sack him but still a clear rebuke.

[@pgpython]

I think it is understandable from both points of view. From zelensky pov yes western countries are footing the bill but they are not paying in blood. The longer the war goes on the more life's are lost, so if there is something that can end the war sooner and save lives he wants that badly. From the western pov it does feel like we are footing the bill financially when we have concerns at home and I get that people feel like Ukraine is ungrateful for all we have done to support it. It is definitely not true. They have repeatedly made their gratitude known and thanked western countries for their support. I am not sure what more we can ask for that. The way I look at is this is that ultimately nato was created to stop this kind of war in the first place and had we not spent the last 20 to 30 years pandering to Russians for fear of offending them we would not be in the mess we are in now. Ukraine is ultimately fighting the war nato should be fighting so as much as Ukraine should be grateful to the west and is, we need to be grateful to them that it's their lives on the line and not ours

[@paulgibbon5991]

@@pgpython We're not. The cost of military aid is chickenfeed. Look up the damn numbers.

[@Katoshi_Takagumi]

@@Dave5843-d9m I completely thought Wallace was way out of line. However, while I don't condone his way of expressing him, what might be behind his comments is increasing realization that the NATO stockpiles are dwindling and they have no idea how to replace those deplenishing stocks as fast as what is needed. The west has idiotically outsourced so much of their production to China, that it's like asking a bunch of 3rd world countries to supply weapons for a 1st world war, or WW1, considering the rate of consumption.

[@eliseleonard3477]

The strange thing about this week’s conversation about gratitude is that Ukrainian leaders have been thanking various countries for aid effusively and nearly every day on social media.

[@oleksandrshymanskyi1129]

100% this

[@NikkiOwen]

Good discussion, thanks Vlad. I am extremely thankful to Ukraine and believe we should give her everything she needs and more.

[@assistant2theregionalmanager]

Thank you from Ukraine ❤

[@seth1455]

why are you thanking Ukraine?

[@yassennikolov3519]

I read a fact-backed comment from someone - he is the just of it: During the 90s The West gave to USSR/Russia almost 200 BILLION (in current money). So far, The West gave about 150 billion to Ukraine. During the WW2 USA gave to Russia a mind-boggling support in every imaginable way, including opening a front on the OTHER side of the continent. Even Stalin and Kruschev said that without USA support, USSR would not have won. Of that, USSR/Russia paid back effectively 0.5%. If there is one that is not grateful, that's Russia, not Ukraine.

[@NikkiOwen]

@@seth1455 why aren't you thanking Ukraine?

[@seth1455]

@@NikkiOwen quite irritating to answer a question with a question. But I'll answer it , because I'm not as bad mannered. Ukraine is fighting for their lives and their country. They have my support, but they are not fighting on my behalf, they are not fighting an ideological war. They are fighting the country that attacked them. There is no reason whatsoever to thank them, support and help yes, thank no.

[@stevenkraft8070]

I can understand not inviting Ukraine while they are at war, but Ukraine deserves a real explanation of what it would take for them to get into the alliance. Now, that explanation might have to be kept private, to keep Putin from doing certain things to make sure that the necessary conditions are never reached, but Ukraine deserves an "If you can achieve this, then you can get into NATO."

[@ScoundrelzNTwK]

A new video from the Hoover Institute with Stephen Kotkin lays this out, it's long but worth the watch. You'll be a lot less focused on "joining NATO" joining NATO isn't happening for probably 10 years.

[@ChrisEkstedt]

@@ScoundrelzNTwK TY for the reference to the Kotkin video. Not a fan of Zeihan but he summarized about the same in very brief terms.

[@Mukation]

The obvious thing is that the war needs to end.

[@seth1455]

@stevenkraft8070 To a large degree joining NATO at this moment in time doesn't matter. All that matters is being successful in this war and getting as much practical help as possible. Joining NATO is about denying Russia a second bite sometime in the future, it's an un-necessary distraction right now. The divisive dialogue isn't helping.

[@SeamusDunmaggotin]

@@seth1455 What that guy said. Freedom for all.

[@ostwelt]

A simple but effect still ongoing "thank you" for military support, from the UK in WWII, is the Christmas tree that is in Trafalgar Square every year. This is a gift from Norway for the Biritish help against the German invasion of 1940. It obviously doesn't attempt to make up for the cost or lives lost. That isn't it's aim. Which is to be an annual reminder that Norway is still grateful for that help. Even if it ultimately failed! Not suggesting UA needs to provide yet more "Christmas" efforts for London just an example of that long-term and deeply felt thanks from one state to another for military assistance.

[@gab363]

That’s lovely ❤

[@arminthaller7284]

Vlad is the analyst with the strongest influence on my own opinion. Yet I'd point out a difference concerning Germany. We banned "national interests" to our subconscious. In German "national interests" somehow seem to be linked to "National Socialism" and historical guilt especially if it involves military power. Its something better avoided. Bundespräsident Köhler was forced to step down after he defended Germany's military engagement in Afghanistan as useful for our national interests. For decades we relied on the occupational powers USA, GB, France and Soviet Union to dirty their hands if needed remaining ourselves in childlike innocence. Putin woke us deftly, but still we hide behind our allies. I think we need several more generations of politicians until we can handle national interests like the US or GB.

[@sbeckwit]

Vlad! Your sense of humor is wicked. "Imagine if the US supported it's own healthcare or infrastructure the way it's supporting Ukraine." (paraphrasing in quotes?) I shot my drink out of my mouth on that comment. Peace my friend.

[@whitehorse4318]

The United States spends billions on upgrading our infrastructure each year. Roads, bridges, communication systems, internet and so on. The United States health care suffers because of pharmaceutical companies and medical lawsuits. Doctors and healthcare center must charge more to pay for lawyers.

[@drthomason7043]

Not only the US

[@whitehorse4318]

@@arisnotheles As you can tell by my name tag. I'm full blooded Native American. I was raised on and off my reservation. On the reservation, you have free healthcare and get funding from our chapter houses for infrastructure (free housing, free tuition for college...etc.) I was fortunate to live off the reservation. Nothing is free, we pay for roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Healthcare is not free and no free housing. Native Americans that are taking care on the reservation, don't appreciate what they didn't earn. Native Americans that live off the reservation, appreciate what they earned. Americans don't appreciate what they have earned, until it's taken away. 🇺🇲🇺🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦

[@whitehorse4318]

@@arisnotheles We we're invaded by Spaniards first, then the French and English. Then the Americans, our religion doomed our people. I know American history is worse than what Germany did in WW2. However, I can't change history. I'm grateful that America today gives me the opportunity to make my future better. I served 8 years in the United States Marine Corp, because I love my people and my country. My grandfather told me, as long as the Eagle is above the flag. It's still our country, not theirs. 🇺🇲🇺🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦

[@colbunkmust]

The reason we don't have healthcare is so we don't have to worry about being in the same position Ukraine is currently in. I'd like free healthcare provided to all US citizens but then again, I also don't have to worry about Kalibr missiles bombarding my neighborhood. The rest of Europe with the exception of Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus also benefit from this same American defense umbrella even if they aren't in NATO due to proximity with other NATO nations.

[@lodjaboy]

First, I think it is up to Ukraine to define "Victory" and to declare it at some point in time--probably when all territories are reclaimed. Russia's ongoing threat is, as you have said, a given. Second, I wonder, if when Ukraine achieves victory, and Putin is out of power, this stated policy of "Ukraine can join NATO when the war is over" won't be a valuable propaganda and radicalising mantra for subversives who want to return to the Putin era of imperialism. (See! When Putin was in power, Ukraine wasn't a member of NATO!) As for the general principal in which the regular "Joe" considers their support or not for Ukraine, I would offer that most who support Ukraine do so in consideration of their own value system; Liberty, Freedom, Self-determination. And as re: declining democracies, I think it is countries like Ukraine who energise our commitment and attention to democracy and democratic institutions. To the smug mushroom who said Ukraine should show a modicum of gratitude, (I'm glad I missed that) I say Ukraine has shown extraordinary gratitude. This guy needs to be slapped in the face with a cold fish. --a U.S. perspective. 🇺🇦

[@sumiland6445]

💛💙💜💙💛 President Zelensky is wise and measured. He still has a twinkle in his eyes, as does President Biden, so there's more going on behind closed doors. I am so glad President Zelensky made it clear "no land for peace" would be made if NATO membership required that. So no timeline is no demands for "peace agreements". 🇺🇦 🌏 🇺🇸

[@sumiland6445]

Ooh! Live stream tomorrow!! Goody!! 👾

[@Julia-Richter]

"After the war" means: No more peace talks talk for Putin. A propos: does anybody of the beautiful community know where the Chinese peace talks talkers are this days?

[@VladVexlerChat]

🌻

[@lukasbrucas3027]

Despite the demanding tone when dealing with NATO members during the closed discussions, Zelenskyy did seem to be very thankful during the subsequent press conferences. And this is something I noticed happening on previous occasions too. It just that his gratitude often gets overhadowed by his assertiveness. So I don't think Zelenskyy is unaware of the fact that pushing too hard is detrimental. It seems more like the issue arises from a miscalculation of pressure-gratitude balance rather than lack of awareness.

[@zemog1025]

Zelensky realized his error.

[@Nebris]

Zelenskyy is, first and foremost, a successful Show Business Lawyer and I suspect knows very well that what he is dealing with is simply a more fraught version of that game.

[@facty_kit1742]

Zelensky is a politician, he wants to satisfy his internal audience, ie people of Ukraine who are defending a Bru tal invasion. Most of his actions should be seen in this light, he is a P O L I T I C I A N

[@WonderMagician]

President Zelensky is a warrior, not a politician. His responsibility is to defend his people and land from a Terrorist invader. To date the West has delivered less than 50% of the weapons promised. Ukrainian soldiers and civilians are being killed every day by the Russian invaders. Europeans are living in peace because Ukrainians are fighting to push Russia back! Shame on the West, especially the US for undermining Ukraine's ability to end the Russian invasion in Ukraine now!

[@susansmith9263]

I think some of Zelenskyy's harsh words are for his domestic audience in Ukraine. They want to see their President fight for Ukrainians and its defenders. Zelenskyy had harsh words for Bulgarian President Rumen Radev at a meeting in Bulgaria, for not providing weapons to Ukraine, though the Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov does want to help Ukraine. Zelenskyy's under enormous pressure. Difficult running a country, a war, with missiles flying around the Palace in Kyiv. 🇺🇲 🇺🇦

[@facty_kit1742]

Yeahh, I too think so. Zelensky is most likely running for future elections. First of all, he is a politician, a very shrewd one, we should not forget that

[@ffff7164]

Why does zelensky resort to such desperate measures if he is winning the war?

[@alicehendriks-boshoff5819]

From a fellow musicologist: thank you very much for your highly interesting and thought provoking videos. And for your ME: I know how debilitating it is.

[@VladVexlerChat]

Sending my warmest wishes your way - and my gratitude.

[@benjamindemontgomery6317]

you made me laugh, you put on your glasses,🤓 and read over them.🙂

[@eddiegoodman9267]

Thanks for the updates. Some people of the US understand but some are always some thinking what do we get... Come on... We don't get WW3... Slava Ukraine 🇺🇦

[@AboveAno]

You get to maintain hegemon status. I think that's good enough.

[@Katoshi_Takagumi]

@@AboveAno Not guaranteed by any means, though.

[@sbeckwit]

What happened in Vilnius, when the Hero of Ukraine pronounced the West's reluctance to ally immediately as "absurd", was THE example of how instant global communication can confront people with the REQUIREMENT that freedom demands risk. He was totally righteous to be angry. In my country's history, we "revere" statements like "Give me liberty or give me death" and, the more current, "Don't Tread on Me"; but when we see the meaning of that being played out in real life we are frightened. Somehow we must come to the realization in my country that Putin is at war with US. No price is too great for freedom, the foundation of all values.

[@zemog1025]

You do realize that every time the West has aided Ukraine, Russia threatened retaliation, including use of nukes.

[@lucassmith1886]

Very well said

[@lucassmith1886]

​@@zemog1025yes, but the American people as a whole aren't exactly willing to attack the problem no pun intended before it rises to necessity. Many Americans and consequently politicians still firmly believe that Putin, Xi, and so on can be reasoned with by using morals and clever diplomacy. But they need to realize that it is inevitable that they will increase aggression towards the US over time and will pounce the first chance they get. I believe that is what OP meant

[@paulgibbon5991]

@@zemog1025 Yes, and every time they've failed to deliver on those threats. Nuclear blackmail must fail and be seen to fail, or the message goes out to the world that nukes let you bully your neighbours with impunity.

[@ianlighting100]

@ zemog1025 - my favourite of the Kremlin’s nuclear blackmail attempts was when Putin said ‘I’m not bluffing!’ And then did nothing! That was last September. It seems likely that both Chinese pressure and explicit warnings of an extreme NATO conventional arms retaliation have poured cold water on that threat.

[@zlukabober8366]

we didn't expect a significant breakout in the short term, so all good. Thanks for support to all ! and if possible, subtitles

[@changeshifter4852]

I hear you. Unfortunately they're not usually available until about an hour after posting.😣

[@oliverbird6914]

There will be no victory and half a million dead Ukrainian s and Russia will take the donbas.. Pointless war

[@effingsix3825]

Click on …more then click on transcript.

[@zlukabober8366]

@@changeshifter4852 thank you

[@zlukabober8366]

@@SlpBeauty333 thank you

[@royalukas8144]

The “west” should hear from Ukrainian leaders the cultural and political contrast between Ukraine and Russia. A bright line underlying how different they are from each other and what the fight is about.

[@aitchtea]

hello from new york. i hope your health is well. thank you for sharing your insights. the cluster bomb chat was so important.

[@AZA21211]

Dear Vlad. I am glad to see you. Thank you.

[@SusanHufford-qh1rd]

Vlad, the reason you are having trouble with the English "h" is that English doesn't actually have an "h" sound. In English, the letter h at the start of a word signifies the absence of a glottal stop, which can also be referred to as an aspirated vowel. The word "uh-huh" has a glottal stop and the absence of a glottal stop in one handy package. You are using an unvoiced velar fricative. There can be no confusion, because English doesn't use that sound, which is why us English mono-lingualists have such trouble pronouncing Kherson, Kharkiv, and Bakhmut. In English, the letter h in the middle of a word is usually part of a digraph -- two letters standing for one sound, such as th, ch, or sh. It can also be a quirk of a loan word. For example, "tech-" comes from Greek, and the "ch" was probably originally an unvoiced velar fricative. English speakers pronounce it as "k" the unvoiced velar stop.

[@titanomachy2217]

Interesting. I did notice he was pronouncing "H" with an actual hard, breathy H sound at the beginning, like "Hayche", while English speakers pretty much just say it like "Ayche". In the Cockney English dialect they didn't even pronounce the H at all most of the time, like "'Ello" and "'Ow are ya?" And in French they don't pronounce the H either, at least not in the French words I know, hospital is like l'hôpital with a silent H. I can never figure out those terms in linguistics for the different sounds the throat and mouth make, and I have trouble reading those pronunciation guide thingies with the weird characters, it's all a bit cryptic to me.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

If the h is silenced how you say it, try the words høre, hæs and hånd. That should be a cute little challenge for you.

[@suzannewman979]

I love that phrase, "We'll make you win and take you in" for Ukraine...and your explanation. I know that nobody can predict even the next minute - or what may happen in Ukraine or in Russia or anywhere else. So, to let Ukraine languish with insufficient weapons is criminal. At least we know what we want to happen in Ukraine so let us go for that with gusto and come what may will come. Then we did the right thing, all we can realistically do. This then is the responsible action. Just like Prigozhin's antics a few weeks ago may have been his responsible action. But if the U.S. will commit to Ukraine's win, come what may, Putin will face an extremes that may hasten an end to him and to this war. This to me is worth any reasonable risk and if Biden won't go for it maybe Europe would. In the meantime I just visualize Putin shrinking and shrinking. Yes I acknowledge Zelensky's tweet was a bit too strong but I think he was speaking for the overwhelming feeling of Ukrainians and Germany and the U.S. must be aware of how the Ukrainians are suffering and enduring everyday life that is so outrageously unfair and affecting them and their President deeply and painfully. For that reason he must be forgiven for expressing a politically unhelpful tweet. Even Zelensky has limits to his thank you's. I give him credit for having a 'real moment'.

[@leonfa259]

1. In the West we do not really care about the wellbeing of the Ukrainians (except for maybe Poland). So if you appeal to that the effect will be limited. 2. The reason why there is so much support for Ukraine is to stop Russias expansion and to avoid a possible future conflict of all of NATO with Russia if they attack Poland. That is why western support will only prop up Ukraine to match Russian military force and not to exceed it. 3. If people like Melnyk start to insult us, our goal quickly goes down from freezing the conflict on the preinvasion borders (2022 or 2014) to be ok with a frozen conflict on the current front lines. 4. I personally can't see Ukraine in NATO ever happening, the only reason that may change it is if we want to discourage china on Taiwan. Nearly all of the West is an a recession, UK worst of all. So while every defense $£€ spend on Ukraine is well spent, there is a limit on how much we want to spend to get Ukraine a better peace deal. I still believe the West prefers to continue working with the current Russia government over another 90s again. Melnyk was an absolute catastrophe for German support, any support that was given was in spite of him. And German support increased after he was finally gone. Leave diplomacy to the diplomats and don't insult the biggest givers for not giving more or we have to rethink our priorities.

[@suzannewman979]

@@leonfa259 Of course your opinion is valid. I had to look up Melnyk to see who he is. I live in California but have heritage from Romania/Austria. That aside, as a human being I have deep feelings against wars strictly for political purposes, such as most of the wars that the U.S. has engaged in since after Korea, and Putin's wars of aggression. I'm not an expert on war. I am an expert on human suffering as an operating room nurse who has worked in conflict areas and treated 100;s of victims with weapon's injuries. I would say that the thousands of people in the West who support Ukraine do so because it is the right course. I realize that Biden's reasons for supporting Ukraine are not as politically simplified as you have suggested, I don't know that much about Europe's reasons, but Biden and this administration are more doves than hawks, a really simplified statement to this complicated mess of Putin's insane war. My take on ending this war is in line with General Ben Hodges and former American General of NATO General Breedlove who both believe the U.S. and Europe have the moral obligation to supply Ukraine with weapons they need to win the war not just what they need to barely survive and that Ukraine should have the right to target the areas in Russia and the Black Sea where missiles are launched into civilian residential targets and infrastructure. I agree with them. I am not afraid of war with Putin. I believe we should be strong and call his bluff. So this is the other side of the coin...the non-political side, the warrior side. But again thank you for you reply. I generally agree that that is how politics works in the West.

[@seabream]

​@@leonfa259I think point 1 may be a bit of an overstatement. Take Canada. Close to 4% of Canada's population was of Ukranian descent according to the 2016 census. In several provinces that rises to over 8%. The Deputy Prime Minister is of Ukrainian descent and Ukranian speaking. There's a significant part of the Canadian population who feels strongly about the well being of their Ukranian friends and relatives. And that's not just the aforementioned people of Ukranian descent, it's their non-Ukranian descended friends and family in Canada as well.

[@AstroGremlinAmerican]

Fichte built on Kant's moral philosophy with the observation that a person will jump into a river to save a stranger, making the moral impulse as grounded as Kant's "Intuitions" of space and time. I know this: Every day I wake up as me, it's now, and I'm the oldest I've ever been. And when I learned about the cruelties in Ukraine, I had to start sending money to make myself feel better. Is this the same as jumping into a river? Because it seems way more comfortable and I might have done otherwise.

[@ChrisEkstedt]

TY Vlad!! 🌻 I have really been looking forward to your take on this question! Also thank you for bringing in another Ukrainian voice to 'pluralize' the rhetoric. Yes, "pluralization" makes sense. We've seen many furious Ukrainian voices on Twitter. The rebuke by Dr. Benjamin Schmitt IMO was appropriate for both Wallace and especially Sullivan for his insensitive demand for gratitude from Daria Kaluniuk. He could have just 'corrected the record' on US motives. @18:23 -> I hear you. I hope you got something out of a restful? stay in the countryside despite computer challenges 🙂 (edited)

[@amado5490]

Nice (British?) tan, Vlad. Looks good on ya.

[@gregoryadair3223]

Thank you Vlad. Hoping you feel OK or a bit better in these summer months.

[@H4ppyCustom3r]

Dude you should be on CNN or NBC ! The whole world should hear this ! Respect and thanks for your amazing perspective 🤟

[@manderson9593]

I'm from the US. Healthcare...public transport (in my region)... ouch 😀. Regarding Ukraine, I'm in it to win it. I think Anna from Ukraine is doing a masterful job of pushing this issue to the forefront, becoming the voice of calling out the west on not doing enough sooner by reminding us about the costs of the delays but also being the voice of appreciating the gift and the positive results of the "gift." In the end, I think Ukraine is fighting a phase of the war for which NATO was formed.

[@normanboyes4983]

Thank you Vlad - great stuff.👍

[@Julia-Richter]

Helping Ukraine is not a gift, but a chance. But The Leaders will not be able to grab it (like Covid, like the financial crisis etc.). Don't tell Zelensky to use another language, copy his language.

[@Julia-Richter]

Why is the world always so upside down? Zelensky showed a lot of self-restraint not to remind GB of the security guarantees in the Budapest Memorandum.

[@phizc]

​@@Julia-Richterwhat security guarantees? Have you read it? I have no idea what went through their heads when they signed. It basically boils down to: USSR, USA, and UK promises to 1. Respect the independence, sovereignty, and borders of Ukraine. 2. Not use threats, force, or their weapons (nuclear, I presume) against Ukraine 3. Not use economical pressure against Ukraine 4. "seek immediate United Nations Security Council action to provide assistance to Ukraine ... as a non-nuclear-weapon state party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, if Ukraine ... should become a victim of an act of aggression or an object of a threat of aggression in which nuclear weapons are used." 5. Oh, and Ukraine aren't allowed to use nuclear weapons themselves against anyone who don't have nukes, unless in self defense, and the attacker is in an alliance that do. (Not sure how they were supposed to do that since they were giving away all their nukes) 6. Consult with each other if this becomes unclear. The same goes for Belarus and Kazakhstan in separate, identically worded memorandums. It's a joke. The so called security guarantees boils down to "we'll take it up in the Security Council of the UN". Which _could_ have been good enough if they were attacked by someone who couldn't veto everything. I.E. not ruzzia, not USA, not the UK, and not France or PRC.

[@Julia-Richter]

@@phizc Yes, I read it and you are right that one could argue that it was Ukraines own fault to sign it. Or one could argue that it contains security guarantees. Not article 5 guarantees, but still. I was searching for some informed (legal) discussion about this some month ago, but couldn't find anything (same about the "we will not expand NATO" issue). If I find the time, I will try again. If you know of sth., please share😊. Yes, it would be very interesting "what went through their minds". Sorry for my poor English.😏

[@randomiapaskaa]

Good talk as always. Always find time to listen to you

[@VladVexlerChat]

grateful

[@valter_vava74]

Personally, I believe that this is all carefully crafted performative politics, which I believe is a justified strategy. We cannot lose sight of the fact that a large percentage of the world has an extremely poor understanding of geopolitics and easily embarks in anti-USA, anti-NATO and anti-Western World narratives. With this, I do not want to say that the USA / Western World has not made huge blunders in many theatres but, even so, we also need to understand where an impulse for humanism and progress still exists, in spite of the incredibly vicious attacks, which are witnessing, coming from fascist forces - which we do not need to name - trying to undermine democracies.

[@renstein8210]

That seems racist of you. And quite colonialist. A large percentage of the world engages in anti-USA narratives because they have been on the receiving end of American foreign policy.

[@Jensmueller137]

You`re such a gentleman! Keep up the good work

[@alexleibovici4834]

Thank you, Vlad !!!

[@nanorider426]

Thank you very much for this video. Please push our concentration more often. ^^

[@jeanneknight4791]

I needed the closed captions on to follow what you were saying. Although I can hear, I always use them to find a sentence in the transcript but today was hard to follow around minute 8 to 12 or so . I had to repeat and repeat most of it and am sure I missed your point. I realize you had some technical difficulies today. I hope you recap today's points in the fuure. Love to you!

[@alenawest6158]

Vlad , Hope you had a wonderful visit ! Its so beautiful there ... Other then my country GREECE , it is my second fave place to be .. Be well xxx Alena

[@VladVexlerChat]

I am missing Greece very much!

[@denisecuthbertson4913]

Interesting discussion, Vlad and I look forward to tomorrow's continuation on today's topics. By the way, nice tan!

[@christophercousins184]

It's a strange feeling to be surprised at how effective and coordinated the NATO response is and, at the same time, feel complete frustration we won't commit to their victory... Sitting around the table last night with my family and I'm not sure even those who favor support for Ukraine (well, everyone "supports" Ukraine, but a couple think we should not send arms) don't really get it is primarily (from our POV) about our national security or that Europe's stability is vital to us ( I have to admit I really don't understand how one could rationalize that what happens in Europe doesn't affect us when that wasn't true 100 years ago). Thanks so much, Vlad.

[@hazzardalsohazzard2624]

From Britain, America's involvement internationally, such as in Ukraine is very important. It lets us live in a world where ships can navigate the seas without fear of piracy or other navies.

[@ffff7164]

The west doesn't support Ukraine, it wants to turn Ukraine into another Afghanistan.

[@bigman23DOTS]

NATO have had their head in the sand for just a little too long now…..alliances between NATO and Russia have existed in particular Germany and Russia financially ,France and Russia advanced night vision and other military capabilities!Who would want to live in the slums that have now been created by this alliance massive amounts of refugees from the product of this union.I would ask the question who would want a to retire in Calais now?

[@faelirra]

I feel you on being here for a long time and not being able to pronounce H. My grandfather was Greek. Lived here from the 50s until he died in 97 and had issues with letters and words that really didn't have a real transfer from Greek to English, like H too.

[@davidarchibald50]

The neurological and muscular programming that allows you to pronounce certain dipthongs, tripthongs and consonants occurs in infancy. Once you pass through that phase of development you have to use more cumbersome mechanics and maybe you will never get it right. I could never pronounce "good morning" in Vietnamese, Vlad can't do "H"...neurology is tough.

[@Leftatalbuquerque]

@@davidarchibald50 All it is is a forced exhalation. Do they laugh without the "h" sound? Do they go "a" "a" "a" rather than ha ha ha?

[@ak5659]

I've never had the info put to me quite that way... Well, I guess that explains why Poles talk to me with full slang and idioms. Curse all that birth-to-3 exposure to the language! That was sarcasm. I'm actually very grateful.

[@Aaron-rw3lv]

Interesting discussion. Something I’m taking away from it is that it is important to know your audience and tailor your message to them.

[@RemusCroft]

Western perspective: Let's keep our trading with Russia. They need our machinery for their plants, we need their titanium. Let's Ukraine fight alone sacrificing it's citizens (not ours). Let's transfer and sell it weapons but no commitment, no guarantees, no obligations, not even whole weapons pack. Let's give them fracture of what they ask for. Let's make them wait till we make our mind about necessity of what they ask for. Let's give them it completely debunking our excuses about "too long to train" in process. Let's transfer those weapons for months giving Russians time to mobilize and build Maginot Line making earlier requests useless because of changed situation. Let's forbid Ukraine to do certain crucial things like attack Russian infrastructure on Russian soil. Let's never mention Budapest memorandum, program of destruction of Ukrainian ballistic missiles, strategic bombers, etc. Let's portray ourselves as generous benefactors dealing with ungrateful greedy beggars. Then you wonder when that hard tone comes from. What western politics count in days Ukrainians count in lives.

[@RemusCroft]

To put this into even more perspective for western viewer: Imagine you go to hospital with complaints. You're put on schedule to make MRI but in 4 months. In 4 months you're shown that you have inoperable tumor that was operable 4 months ago. When you come to doctor to ask for chemotherapy furious (because problem from solvable turned into incurable) doctor tells you that in his opinion you don't need chemotherapy YET and asks you why are you so ungrateful for free MRI? Why so ungrateful?

[@RemusCroft]

At least doctor doesn't tell you to negotiate with your tumor.

[@ulrikschackmeyer848]

Ukraine may feel that they (among other things ) are getting a cold shower. But at least they will not die of thirst or dirt on their undoubted road to victory. Cold as it may feel to them. 🇩🇰🇺🇦Slava Ukraini🇩🇰🇺🇦

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

That I don't find good enough. At least they are not hungry (...)... The promise of support isn't going fast or hard enough. As someone coming from a colonized and occupied country, it's easy to take pitty on a small population instead of a quick, long-term and durable solution

[@ulrikschackmeyer848]

@@charisma-hornum-fries All I'm saying is ' it could be worse'. And that of course Ukraine don't believe we do 'enough'. If we send all we have, we SHOULD have sent it last month, last year, 2014, 2010, 1989... And with all the fighting THEY do, we, the West, allow them to be 'unreasonable' and 'unrealistic' in their demands! But if you think that more should be done why don't YOU volunteer to the Ukrainian International Brigade? I tried, but was too old! Or send money to weapons? But please don't just whine, because somebody else doesn't do everything that you would like to be done. That is a poor lesson to learn from a nation fighting for its survival.

[@extrastuffing7539]

Thanks for the insights on Ukraine and for the reflections on our democracies.

[@sumotony]

Also vlad, thanks to you neighbours it support

[@DrBananaPig]

Non-English media also wasn't helping. German newspapers, for example, went back and forth on Ukraine *demands* and Ukraine *asks for* X. For a long time, "demands" was predominant. Comments were thus quite indignant "how dare they damand something! We are choosing to help!" The issue has become a bit of a punchline in comment section of one newspaper. When there is some article for "Ukraine has expressed a desire for X", the joke at the editors is "demands or asks for 😊?"

[@kraekennedy]

Thoroughly enjoyed all the damns.😉😉 Thank you again for the analysis and food for thought Vlad!

[@OctavChelaru]

The language of the gift. Very well put.

[@larrybuzbee7344]

👋 Hello beautiful Vlad.

[@deadlyarturok]

very interesting take!

[@venezuelaexplained2030]

I don't share the opinion of NATO states' leaders that Ukraine joining NATO before the war is over will somehow start WW3. Yes, NATO will have to invoke Article 5, but they already did it after 9/11. The result: only the US really cared about Afghanistan, the UK sent 3,000 guys at a time, and 15 other countries sent between a few hundred and a few dozen soldiers. That's what would happen if Article 5 was invoked tomorrow for Ukraine.

[@assistant2theregionalmanager]

Ruzzia would back down. They respect only power.

[@Roddy1965]

I didn't think that was a 'NATO war', though. NATO members are free to make their own decisions regarding what operations/conflicts etc they engage in. Just because they are NATO members doesn't automatically means it's an Article 5 siutuation.

[@venezuelaexplained2030]

@@Roddy1965 What you just said is yet another reason for why Ukraine should be let into NATO sooner rather than later. 💪

[@Roddy1965]

@@venezuelaexplained2030 For the record, I am pro Ukraine in NATO. But there are a lot of considerations. NATO membership opens up a lot of classified material that is shared among NATO members. The member nations have to demonstrate they have the security apparatus to handle that, and that is just one, but one large example. It's not like if you can join a golf club. Also, if Ukraine were to be admitted more or less immediately, what would be the obligations of the other members? It most certainly would escalate to a massive conflict, otherwise the Article 5 would become meaningless, and NATO only works because Article 5 has teeth. I think providing Ukraine with massive assistance in materiel and knowedge/intelligence capability is the best way forward until the Ruzzians are stopped.

[@gillesmeura3416]

Thank you ! Most illuminating considerations; you help a lot by giving a framework to thoughts that would otherwise remain at a level of intuitions and feelings. Have a good day (even though it may be a rainy one...)

[@c.augustin]

I find this "chat" channel much more interesting than the "main" channel. You giving your "thought process" and all those related bits and pieces makes it much more relatable and easier to follow along. (Well, hard to express the right way, my English is better suited for technical topics.)

[@nosuchthingasshould4175]

I love the chaotic energy of this talk, I obviously don’t know how you are actually doing but you actually give the impression of for once feeling well enough to have energy! I hope I’m right and I hope you get to continue in like fashion.

[@adbuuk]

You are so right.

[@Lora_Lynn]

Thanks you give me so much to discuss. You put into words what I feel. Know innately.

[@pupper5580]

Yes, definitely - it is an important reminder - that Ukraine is defending all of us. Ukraine's cause is our cause - or like Sweden said during Finland's Winter War: "Finlands sak är vår" translated: "Finland's cause is ours".

[@elguido]

Not really... It is defending finland, moldavia, and the baltics, for sure. But russia has no chance further to the west, or in turkey. They are not defending Afrika, Asia, Australia, and least of all, the US. You could say they are defending democracy, the world order and the rule of law, but that is pretty weak. They are fighting for the territory, and that's that. That isn't to mean that their fight isn't fair or important. But the "they are defending the world" argument is false. There are plenty of good reasons to support ukraine, there is no need to use made up ones

[@pupper5580]

@@elguido Thanks for your reply, it helped me formulate my thoughts. I feel like you're assuming it all stops at Ukraine. Look at history. Why NATO was formed? Because the USSR satellite states were spreading, and they were at the doorstep of western Germany and Italy. Sure, USSR receded. But Russia wants to get back into their old glory. They are trying to spread. Ukraine has insane resources. Resources which will be in key role in the next 50 years. Especially food - food is predicted to be scarce in the next 50 years. Ukraine is called "the bread basket of Europe" - the most fertile lands in Europe. Ukraine has insane untapped natural gas and oil fields. These will be extremely valuable. Whoever gets this treasure will control the world politics in the next era. I'm not saying Europe or USA will get this treasure if Ukraine wins - but I'm saying that if Russia gets Ukraine, all these resources will be leveraged against the West. It wont be traded fairly - it will be LEVERAGED. These resources will be used as a WEAPON. I'm pretty sure you wont understand what I say here, nevertheless. And if Ukraine wins - like I said - these resources wont go to Europe or USA - these resources will go to Ukraine - and Ukraine can then do trade with Europe and USA, if Ukraine so chooses to do. Much better situation than feeding the monster that is Russia. Now let's look at USA. USA's military policy is to be able to fight the 2 next best armies at the same time (Russia and China). Now Ukraine is fighting and weakening Russia. But are you ignoring China? China wants Taiwan. If China senses any weakness from USA, they will invade Taiwan (this is complicated and I'm simplifying things here). Russia being weakened and exhausted by Ukraine will deter China from doing any crazy moves. And so on. I'm going to skip a lot of detail and a lot of angles, and just leaving it here.

[@elguido]

@@pupper5580 I agree with many of your points, especially with not focusing at the consequences in the next decade, but 50 years in the future. Nonetheless, I am not really sure what you are referring to with "I am pretty sure you won't understand what I say here"... A small advice: if you are trying to convince people about your point of view, calling them stupid doesn't work in your favour. Regarding your actual response, yes, Ukraine does have ample resourses, but I consider the most valuable for russia is the human resourse. The main advantage for the russians of controlling the gas, oil, and agriculture of Ukraine would be to eliminate a possible competitor in Europe. Having more is always good, but lack of natural resources is definetely not one of the many problems Russia has. The reason I don't see a real threat to Europe is that for arriving at the borders of Germany or Italy, Russia first have to pass through very strong NATO members which would absolutely despise the idea of joining Russia. The frontline would be far from most of western Europe, defended by a strong alliance with vastly superior technology, against a much weaker and smaller Russia. The Russians might have whatever dreams they wish, but the reality is that they stand no chance. I agree that the current western response is a strong message to China to not try anything funny. At the same time, the western support for Ukraine has heavily strained western suppliies and logistics, which in the case of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would make many players have to choose only one country to properly support. I do believe that the current situation is more benefitial to Taiwan, but it is not completely in their favour. I also doubt that Russia would get involved in a Chinese invasion beyond selling natural resourses. Once again, please don't go through life calling people stupid. It makes you look really bad.

[@zetristan4525]

He squeeezed out a Beautiful Community 😅

[@vaclavkrpec2879]

Re the “doubt about Ukrainian democracy”: the very same could be said about Hungary, Poland and, let’s face it, even the UK and the US. Here in the Czech Republic, we know Ukrainians; and while cultivation of democratic environment is _always_ necessary everywhere, Ukraine included, I have no doubts about Ukrainian trajectory *unless WE fail THEM*. Take this from a member of the nation that suffered the Munich betrayal (as we call it) and subsequent 1948 coup enabled by distrust in the former allies it induced.

[@gaborrajnai6213]

How is your Benes decrees are doing? If someone not knowing you are confiscting lands and properties from non Czech and Slovak ethnicites based on that as far as 2022. The democratic stars shining in our European garden...

[@eveingham9634]

Nice to see you again vlad

[@VladVexlerChat]

Good to see you!

[@lorax8172]

Been enjoying the sun I see :)

[@chrisrose2898]

I feel and hope that success for Ukraine’s military as well as unification of the support from the west will slowly elevate over the next weeks and months. Thank You for your work Vlad!

[@sbeckwit]

BTW, my fellow americans don't want to discuss it either. My simple act of wearing a lapel pin of crossed Ukrainian and American flags makes most of my countrymen uncomfortable. Rarely, one will lean in and whisper, "I like your pin." So far it's been veterans and women. Not a scientific sampling for sure, but I'm just sayin'. We are becoming dangerously depoliticized over here. That's all.

[@itsallminor6133]

America is a sovereign country. The Ukraine flag doesn't even belong up anywhere

[@renstein8210]

I would suggest that many of your countrymen think this war is stupid and the US should not be involved in it. And that the war would not have happened, had it not been for the US involvement in it. They are just polite enough to not say what they actually believe in front of you.

[@nic969]

​@@renstein8210troll

[@renstein8210]

@@nic969 Yes, I'm a troll. Pointing out the fact that many people may actually disagree with someone makes a person a troll. A lot of Americans don't want anything to do with Ukraine and the war going on there.

[@paulgibbon5991]

@@renstein8210 Da, Fellow Americanski. Remember to claim to be a veteran.

[@travellane4537]

Vlad...spot on!

[@AstroGremlinAmerican]

2:47 Yes, it's crumbs of our defense budget and still shockingly impressive. The USA has been captured by the military industrial complex for decades and we keep churning out weapons and paying boots on the ground to the tune of $800 billion a year. What if we turned that spending (actually borrowing) to infrastructure? The United States could have a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage. But we do! We're like a rich kid with a credit card. About time we grew up and sent massive defense to our little buddy, Ukraine. We did it with South Vietnam.

[@MarcosElMalo2]

I think that it is only partially true that the U.S. has been captured by the M.I. We have been captured by business in general and the M.I. is just one section of entangled interests. The M.I. does support our hegemony. It’s a vital part of the hegemonic power the U.S. wields. And there should be no arguments that the U.S. has made terrible mistakes with its hegemonic power. But despite those mistakes, we’ve (Americans, that is) have benefited from the hegemony in two ways. 1) much of our prosperity has flowed from the hegemonic power that is based on rule of law, and 2) by occupying the space of world hegemon, we’ve prevented other worse hegemons to arise. People in other nations have also had the benefits of these two aspects of U.S. power to varying degrees. That said, we’ve made and continue to make mistakes. Some will see our foreign policy as hypocritical and with good reason. There has been great disparity in the economic benefits. Our allies are (imho) a bit restless, and the U.S. is in less and less of a position to dictate policy to friendly sovereign nations (although dictate might be too strong a word, perhaps “forcefully suggest” might be better). The current contraction of the global system is an opportunity for the U.S. to divest itself of some of its hegemonic responsibility, letting it devolve to a regional network of friends. This might be what we are seeing right now-for example in the Pacific, Japan and Australia are shouldering a greater amount of the burden. In South Asia, India is a growing power. I think the trick is to do this while not allowing a brutal and aggressive dictatorship to fill the vacuum (or allowing one of our partners to brutally dominate other less powerful partners). I might be overly optimistic that this is happening, but it seems to me to be the best way forward. And it means that we shouldn’t be cutting our military budget any time soon because the structure and balance of this potential future isn’t yet set.

[@50043211]

Is this really so surprising? In addition, the application process is quite forward and transparent. Lets finish this war first.

[@davidb6576]

I admit to being confused about the issue of "gratitude" in this context. The US and UK signed the Budapest Memorandum, which obligated them to defend Ukraine if they were attacked. As it stands, these two parties have done a good, but far from optimal job of supplying Ukraine with weapons to help in defense, but does not meet the standards of the Memorandum. So when UA soldiers and civilians are dying, being kidnapped, raped, etc. one can understand Zelensky's frustration with the slow pace of support. That the US/UK potentates demand hosannas from Ukraine is disgusting, and I am ashamed for and of my country.

[@judyweeks1480]

Hear! Hear!

[@paulgibbon5991]

As a Brit, I apologise for Ben Wallace being a narcissitic idiot.

[@antonzadorozhniy6605]

Thank you, I was looking for this comment. The whole “gift” rhetoric is just appalling, US and UK just making sure that other nations won’t accelerate nuclear programs.

[@lani6647]

Poppycock. The Budapest Memorandum simply states that if Ukraine, Belarus, or Kazakhstan ever become subject to nuclear attack or the threat of nuclear attack, the NPT Nuclear powers shall try and petition the UNSC to ask for assistance to those countries. It doesn’t say anything about arming any country in case of conventional attack

[@davidb6576]

@@lani6647 The Wiki page on the Memorandum indicates it "prohibited the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States from threatening or using military force or economic coercion against Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan" It may be there's more specific references to nuclear attack, but Russia HAS ALREADY made nuclear threats, and has done so practically from the beginning of the war. So "Poppycock" back at you.

[@elizabethbekes1810]

You're looking great, Vlad, I am so happy to see you, tanned and well-rested.

[@TheReferrer72]

Vlad lets be honest, Putin does not pose a threat to any country that is in NATO. Never did, never will. Russia always relied on nuclear brinkmanship.

[@dadananda]

Well... the Finns, the Swedes, the Latvians, the Estonians, the Lithuanians, the Poles and most other ex-Soviet countries that are now in NATO would disagree with you.

[@TheReferrer72]

@@dadananda Wrong they are doing what every state should do, make sure that they are safe first. Because things can change. But even if the Americans were to say they will no longer help in the European theatre Europe would easily halt any Russian expansion. It's not even a contest now.

[@dadananda]

@@TheReferrer72 Safe from who? They did not join CSTO to protect themselves from unwelcome incursion from the West. They joined NATO to protect themselves from a revanchist Russia whose leaders have openly stated that their foreign policy is to once again control former Soviet Eastern European countries - militarily if they have to. Ukraine being the example that they mean what they say. 'Europe' would easily halt any Russian expansion...? Well, about 1500 Russian tanks have been destroyed so far, which sounds impressive, but they have about 21,000 more in storage. Many of them are old, some are very old. But a tank is a tank and it needs an expensive piece of military kit to destroy it just the same. The UK sent most of its stock of 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine which was enough to keep Ukraine's guns firing for about a week. Russia has burned through about 12 million artillery shells so far and they are still banging away. You underestimate the Russian capacity to just lean on a military obstacle with mass until it crumbles. You underestimate the veneer thin military capacity of every army in the West - except the United States. The West has some very nice and very smart weapons, but smart only beats mass if there is enough mass of smart and frankly, there is not enough smart to counter Russian mass at this time.

[@davidarchibald50]

The weakness and strength of NATO is it is an agreement between many countries. Thus it is virtually impossible to get ultimatums, and that is mostly a very good idea. In the past wars have been fought because one mad statesman willed it, but getting many countries' leaders, where most are modern democracies, to agree to go to war is very difficult. So if Ukraine dreamed it would be at war and then retrospectively sign other countries into that war she is going to be disappointed. However, had NATO issued Russia an ultimatum in January 2022 we would not be in this mess (we can but dream). NATO cannot stop wars, just make wars against her members less likely, that is why there is now a mad rush by all those "neutral" stars to join the club. Nothing like seeing the little kid getting pounded to get the other kids to call the teacher.

[@JameBlack]

Вся ця історія з НАТО трохи живна. Західні політики самі політизують цю війну на свій лад. Наприклад, в перший місяць війни Брюсель несподівано заговорив про пришвидшений вступ до ЄС, хоча Україна про це мовчала. Цей саміт в Вільнюсі не є чимось вирішальним і всі розмови навколо нього занадто драматизовані.

[@EsoxLVCIVS6776]

Ben Wallace comment was politics. Ben Wallace is merely talking about things that he has either witnessed being said or heard rumblings about. That being said, I am fed up of our politicians dragging their heels on supply of equipment to Ukraine. I am going to be contacting my local MP to voice my concerns. Let's see how the cluster munitions do, there are loads stockpiled in Europe that we could get together and give to Ukraine.

[@assistant2theregionalmanager]

Thank you.

[@bron-sconcess.10]

Drop the hatches, Vlad; an 'aitch, from you is worth two in the bush! Spare your blushes and go boldly 🤗❤

[@Kev701]

Hi Vlad, just into what you have said about the crisis of trust we have in democracies, if their is a crisis, how then do we go about fixing or at least alleviating this crisis? Is it through devices like Deliberative democracy (citizen assemblies), greater local government powers?, capping politicians pay? I would just like to know what could be done.

[@symbionese2348]

More voter participation.

[@jessicarowley9631]

Take care of your health first. I can feel the whole post trip exhaustion thing though for reasons different to ME. Take care.

[@davidbreed6708]

A good summary of issues. In particular I thought your point about the language of the gift was very insightful. ... I would like to raise an issue that lurks beneath the surface of the NATO Summit conversation, but hasn't been elaborated. (1) I read Zelensky as representing the deep anxiety of Ukrainians -- reference to Budapest memo, Bucharest summit of 2007, 2014 Crimea and Donbas. On the one hand, the U.S. and NATO say we guarantee security, but their behavior is to back down in the face of Russian aggression. (2) This is related to a second point -- all agree that Ukraine cannot join NATO until the war is over. Yet, Germany was granted NATO membership while "East Germany" was under Russian occupation during a Cold War with the Soviet Union. (3) A third point -- I have not heard anyone talking about doing something similar regarding Ukraine. Turkey seems to be open, for example, saying if Russia doesn't renew the grain export deal, it will provide naval escort in the Black Sea. So if NATO and the EU want eastern flank security, are they willing to provide naval deterrence in the Black Sea, and air deterrence over the Black Sea and Ukrainian air space?

[@pythaesfromtheonionpatch1640]

BAM BAM BAM Its time for some VLAD

[@JRBendixen]

I think there is a disconnect between the west and Ukraine. Take ww2 even in ww2 USA held back untill japan attacked. So when We have an alliance of many countries come together as far as it has done is a miracle and also testament to the shared values. Vilnius was a great achievement for countries not at war. The end. Slava Ukraine.

[@drthomason7043]

Hi Vlad, you are doing marvellously at so many H words, Home, have, had, has, his, harsh, holiday, he, his, him, hesitancy, help .......

[@sherryberry2394]

(Update to my reply below: Watch today's "Ukraine Matters" video. It calmed my soul.) Yeah, I'm feeling quite disappointed in the slow hesitating responses to Ukraine. I want to believe there are prevailing military and political wisdoms at work, but my doubts are increasing with time. Maybe I am so used to "FedEx"-style of life here at home, and about I'm too naïve military operations to understand what's going on with USA and NATO. I also think there's a lot of crowdfunding going on, so I personally feel I'm making monthly decisions on gives out of my little retiree purse to help fund 🇺🇦 troops on the front line directly (they humbly ask and I gladly respond, thanks to groups like NAFO 69th "Smiffers"). Right now, I just feel "Argggghhh!" at my USA leaders and NATO.👎👎.

[@Bricameron]

I stopped using twitter as soon as Musk rendered it useless two weeks ago. Slava KZbin!

[@GardeningMa]

Sorry for the post holiday health hiccup and the computer issues. Thank you for the interesting video. Take care 🇺🇦✌🏻🇬🇧🙏🏻

[@VladVexlerChat]

Thank you!!

[@geraldarcuri9307]

Regarding pro-Ukrainian conversation on social media: "He knows not England who only England knows." - George Orwell Where do we find the conversations that do give Ukraine agency?

[@ulrikschackmeyer848]

Please don't excuse your 'excursions'. They are really quite amusing and lovingly distracting. To the point of INCREASING my focus! Your 'naturelness' is quite endearing and lovely, in all their KZbin non conformity. And by the way, or should I say anyway, your content it brilliant as always. So, in all sincerity, there really is nothing to excuse. But please do go on with all your little antics of 'being Vlad'. We just love you all the more.

[@gaborrajnai6213]

We dont want to be involved in slavic vendettas. One way or another this will lead to genocide, and its our main objective, that noone can blame us for that.

[@emiliat.5881]

I gree, the allies should go all the way and stop being halfhearted!

[@robertbraden4454]

You critique 'the west' for not having a coherent strategy toward end game in Ukraine. This will likely never be truly resolved because different NATO countries want different outcomes. Alignment to resist Russian aggression is 95%. Alignment in support of Ukraine is 75%. This difference is what is stopping a coherent strategy.

[@kristinfrostlazerbeams]

Say "Aich" not khhhckk." 😂 Edit to say I love how you poke fun at yourself in hilarious ways. Oh right khhhckk-larious. 😊

[@jussayin2325]

IF Russia had totally annexed Ukraine in three days, would NATO and the 'West' have been just ok with that today? Or what if Ukraine's leadership adopted a different tone of voice, and instead of asking for NATO membership and arms assistance, proceeded to fast-track their own nuclear weapons as an alternative deterrent to Putin? Ukraine has uranium and is perfectly capable of the technology required. Zelensky has every right to do so if the Ukrainian people agree to it since previous security guarantees were dishonored by the West and Russia. This could have gone much worse several ways for NATO and the West, so they should not complain about the cost of supporting Ukraine today. Now Putin appears to be shipping nuclear weaponry to Iran, which adds a whole new potential threat to global peace. It seems like the West made several arrogant, blinkered assumptions going into this problem, and has long ago lost sight of the potential pitfalls beyond the borders of Ukraine.

[@bombie1138]

A touch of grey,. love ya !!

[@philippajoy4300]

Thanks, I did hear Wallace as sounding somewhat discordant, strident, inept. Did I mishear? Please look after yourself Vlad x

[@dostavki]

15:50 A very realistic and spot on description of the average democratic voter - thanks Vlad. Reminds me of the bulgarian proverb/adage: "приятелите са си приятели, ама сиренето е с пари"

[@Hochspitz]

If only this was a board game, such as Operation Barbarossa I played in the 1970's with little cardboard cut outs spread across maps of Europe and the Soviet Union. The target end game was simple, the game play was NOT, really, really hard to manage logistics, weather, ground conditions. I only played the game once which took long hours into the night over more than a week and I lost! It was exhausting. RuZZia's invasion of Ukraine is Operation Barbarossa in reverse but it is not a game and sadly it is not cardboard pieces being wiped off the map and it may take another year or more to achieve end game result. The time line is only a little out of kilt in an otherwise mirror of history. Stalin had already purged his best generals when Hitler back stabbed him Putler is doing this when he needs them the most! Vlad's philosophic perspective is always informative.

[@salassian3162]

Exactly what it feels like: a cold shower.

[@Rutyos]

Maybe both Russia and the NATO want a buffer zone between them, and they forgot to tell it to Zelensky.

[@gretalaube91]

I think it's cute, your "haaaich!" It reminds me of my yiddish neighbors in Cincy when I was a kid.

[@josephlunderville3195]

It's easier to hear a very rough, demanding appeal when Ukraine looks more pitiable -- when hundreds and thousands of dead civilians were being discovered at a time. Now that Ukraine has imperfect but functional air defense, and the civilians in the unoccupied territories are mostly seen to be safer, I think people see a different character to the situation. That appearance is I think somewhat misleading, because it could all revert very quickly, and the reality of needing more protection is still very much there.

[@doghouse6413]

Very good point on the language being used around this. We in the west shouldn’t need a “thank you” from Ukraine. We should be providing as much resource to Ukraine as responsively possible, and thanking THEM for spilling their own blood, while we are only spending money

[@carolwilliams8511]

Totally 👏