Silicon Curtain #75 - Dissecting the Zelenskyy Interview Conducted by Lex Fridman in Ukraine

[@JudithBlair-o9q]

One of the fundamental errors of Lex was in his introduction, saying that Ukraine declared its independence from the USSR. In fact Ukraine Russia and Belarus reached a formal agreement at the end of 1991, called the Belovezha Accord” where they each agreed to respect the independence and sovereignty of one another. The first of MANY agreements Russia has completely ignored. The government of the USSR then dissolved the USSR. I would like you to bring this to everyone’s attention.

[@Howiex-is8gq]

"All three respect each of its undependence" like russia has to fear belarus or ukraine...goid joke man😂😂😂...

[@zipperpillow]

Thank you. Important point.

[@АндрейОбухов-в5н]

In fact, by USSR Constitution from its establishing in 1924, every soviet republic had formal right to quit Ussr without dealing with central government, by it's inner referendum, that established in Ukraine by the end of 1991. Later Belovezh agreement of disbanding of Ussr looks weird as it had only 3 participants having 15 republic . But still,Ukraine self decision was enough to quit Ussr. Why bolshewicks let this option from the beginning?-probably they planned not to give practical chances to quit to the republics, and it's worked for 70 years, but at last crisis of central power has arrived, and Ukraine used its chance

[@Scarletpimpanel73]

​@@usausa1858It did. It was not pitching to be included in NATO at the time of the invasion. If they were in NATO they would have shared the same fate as the other neighbouring NATO members that didn't stay neutral - peace.

[@vanettevanhuyssteen5548]

Very important and valuable point. How many people even know this...?

[@DD-uq8qg]

As a Ukrainian I see that Friedman has misrepresented Zelensky’s words to fit his anti-Ukraine narrative. For example he falsely “translated” Zelensky’s strong words about his war against corruption as just a mere “slap on the hand”. Zelensky never said such a thing.

[@ldt6513]

@@DD-uq8qg Thank you!

[@DixieLane304]

So what Did he say?

[@Hochspitz]

I too should like to know what he actually said.

[@cigarsid7445]

Friedman is not a Ukrainian speaker and this was clearly AI translated so it might not be a conscious choice, but I am also really curious as to what was actually said.

[@Meatlooaf]

Which is why he wanted to conduct the interview in Russian, because he does not trust translators. He says this in the video, if you watched it (which you clearly haven't)

[@erithion]

Zelensky actually used a stronger word than "bullsh*t". I guess Fridman just softened it. Whether deliberately or not, I can't tell. But this particular word was a Russian obscene language, and I would have translated it using some f-word derivatives. For example, "f-ked-up sh*t". This just demonstrates the degree of anger hidden under. And as a Ukrainian, I feel the same way. It has cost us so many lives that no one can bring back.

[@BruceRickett-vr4tc]

Slava Ukraini! Putin and Russia are all part of a monstrous genocidal imperial tsarist venture from a long-bygone era. Fridman is clearly a naive buffoon, and it is no wonder that Zelenskyy was barely able to control his anger at this man's ignorance and stupidity.

[@eafadeev]

He indeed used a full suite of cusswords, impressive, isn't it?

[@Twoncho]

Demonstrates how unqualified this clown is to hold any sort of office.

[@beepseatsfindingfoodtreasu8756]

There comes a time when being "polite" is pointless. When speaking with orcs, it's just after hello.

[@johnwalsh4857]

hahah true, I found it funny, that Zelensky told him his Russian was so so, a underhand remark on how much Zelensky did not like Friedman.

[@anneallen5207]

President Zelenskyy 's passion and care for Ukraine came through very strongly. The long format conversation was a great platform for him to educate people at length about Ukraine' s existential fight against russian imperialistic terrorism. He may have even won over some haters.

[@benahaus]

@@anneallen5207 Despite the interviewer's style.

[@robertevansiii1445]

@@benahausAnd the interviewer’s Russian talking points.

[@palimpalim5291]

Yeah, great care discarding the ready-to-sign peace deal of Istanbul in April 2022 and sending over 1,000,000 of his people into sure death, selling out his country to Blackrock and ruining the entire European economies, while enriching himself, being a dictator because according to the Ukrainian constitution his term ended in May 2024, having young men kidnapped on the streets, thrown into uniforms without training and fed into the meat grinder. While of course making hundreds of Millions of the Western tax payer money himself. Give him a Nobel Peace price. He is then in good company with another mass murderer, Barack Hussein Obama.

[@saberint]

When the 2nd invasion started and we were making our way across Ukraine to safety, both my wife and I would call family, friends and colleagues in Russia. Out of say 60 phone calls, only 2 Russians agreed that the way was bad. This was on day 1 of the 2nd invasion. They did not care that in the least that innocent people were being killed.

[@andibpunkt-o8c]

Lex is so naive; it felt like an adult trying to educate a child. If Putin genuinely cared for his people, he wouldn't send hundreds of thousands to their deaths on the battlefield. Instead, he would focus on improving their living conditions: increasing the average life expectancy, which is currently just 67 years, ensuring the 19% of households without indoor plumbing gain access to it, and providing pensioners with enough support to live with dignity. (Edit: I strongly recommend the channel VASYA IN THE HAY. It provides a stark and grim look at life in Russia outside the big cities.)

[@ldt6513]

Fridman is not naive. He is a putinist, and has been for a very long time. He is best friends with musk, and musk talks directly to putin. Rogan is also best friends with musk and has also been spreading right wing / putinistisc ideas. Just look at Fridmans interview objects the last 18 months. Google everyone of them and controversies and political position on all of them. You will find a vast majority leaning far right, and you will find Fridman asking very few critical questions towards those right wing interview objects vs other interview objects he has had.

[@pinkfloyd870]

@@ldt6513 Bought and paid for. Another gig guide for Luigi & The Bullets Great band

[@sballantine8127]

Thank you for suggesting this podcast from Vasya. I look forward to taking a look at it.

[@EEX97623]

Fridman has pandered to his target audience for years, his "intellect by rote" act works perfectly for his subscribers. There is perhaps some naivety, he certainly isn't versed in geopolitics or all the subjects discussed on his podcast, as much as Rogan isn't a medical expert nor a scientist or archeologist but does his best to pretend he knows something.

[@ldt6513]

Fridman suggesting to Zelensky that he and Ukrainians should forgive putin is an absolute bonkers suggestion which show Fridmans inability to empathy. Fridman is just not able to put himself in the position of Ukrainians who lost their sons, daughters, husbands, fathers and mothers... or those who even had relatives, friends, colleagues tortured, raped, molested with hideous methods... and thereafter seing putin handing out medals to the perpetrators. There is something wrong with Fridman, and giving people with loose nuts and bolts a microphone and a seat at the table where important topics should be decided is a grave mistake. History has taught us that lesson way too many times. Fridman runs a small part of Musks show. He even asked Zelensky what Zelensky thought about Musk, and vocalized narratives that musk has already spread before. Given musks involvement in spreading false narratives about a lot of things. These days spreading false news about Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Bill Gates, hours after Støre critized musk for fueling far right opposition in Germany and the UK. It should tell you that Fridman is also on the very far right and / or on the same slope as musk and putin. These people are the supporters of the enemy's false narratives, and supporters of a world that would not be good to live in, except for people void of empathy and narcisistic traits that can ignore, forgive and forget tyrants mass murders. Ffidman is thus an enemy of real freedom. He / they are not an annoying part of a possible solution.

[@chrystya]

Zelensky nailed it

[@sheilabrolly]

Fridman interviewed President Zelensky first so that Putin would have the opportunity to reply with his poison

[@Favorites3827]

Zelensky is a fantastic speaker. Eloquent, passionate, intelligent, very sharp and witty. Unfortunately, the English dubbing doesn't do him justice. Lex annoyed me immensely. Dull and incompetent AF. However, despite Lex's inadequacies, the interview was awesome!

[@moffig1]

Well said

[@melodyprogressive]

I fully agree with you. Lex annoyed me too. It wasn’t a true interview. Lex was constantly saying: “I have a dream…”. At one point it sounded quite childish to me and it became clear he didn’t prepared well his questions”. Luckily Zelensky went on and explained clearly and straightforwarded the issues”. I’m happy that Lex did an interview, because Zelensky revealed new information or better to say more detailed than before, but I’m disappointed about the fact Lex kept repeating his dream and didn’t deepen some of Zelensky’s points, and by doing that he missed an opportunity”. I think that Lex is super naive, but he doesn’t see that yet. To me he sounded like a 23 year old student. I wish that Stephen Kotkin and Timothy Snyder interviewZelensky. I would be happy to organize such an event.

[@Favorites3827]

@@melodyprogressive For over 3 hours, I have been wishing for Lex Fridman to shut up and boy, was it ever painful. However, I have to thank Lex for inviting this brilliant and remarkable guest. Would be great indeed to see somebody competent and sharp to interview Zelensky.

[@LanciaStratosZero]

He's an actor, so... LOL

[@Favorites3827]

@@LanciaStratosZero …And?

[@Flintknappingtips]

Lex saying Elon musk and trump deeply care about corruption made me laugh out loud!

[@Wintage1073]

Yes, that was hilarious.

[@ChristyBermingham]

@Flintknappingtips I know I heard you and I live in ireland 🇮🇪 😄 🤣 😂 😆

[@BruceRickett-vr4tc]

Hilarious, if it wasn't so sad.

[@jeffPeters-ue8wi]

Trumpish in nature, Fridman and Rogan when do we get out of the age of simplemindedness?

[@pearlyung]

Lex is obviously corrupted by Pootin

[@bernardkealey6449]

Thank you, I don’t want to give Fridman clicks, so great to get this

[@shooster5884]

For Ukraine.. the interview needs to get clicks. Maga supporters have probably never listened to Zelensky speak..or know anything about the Ukrainian situation.. we need them to listen to this one... And if Zelensky gets on Joe Rogan... though whether Friedman would push for that ..or Rogan agree to have Zelensky on his show... I have my doubts.

[@sballantine8127]

@@shooster5884 Why do you think Joe Rogan wouldn't have Zelensky on?

[@dropbridge]

You actually should. I'm a Ukrainian and I got angry and exasperated like 30 times listening to it. BUT when I cooled down I had to admit the net result is positive. I have already seen among the top 10-15 comments people saying they came in with a negative perception of Zelensky but came out with respect. I liked the video for algorithm purposes and hope it spreads, however painful Lex's mental contortions are. The interview is helping.

[@dropbridge]

​@sballantine8127 he had a whole tirade on one of his podcasts where out of fear of a global war he told Zelenskyy to f himself. And then made quite a toxic joke asking Zelrnskyy for a drug test, playing on the insulting russian hoax of him being an cocaine addict. He then proceeded to laugh like a hyena.

[@Favorites3827]

@@dropbridge You are right. The translation really sucks, but the right message definitely came through.

[@jeansdaughter]

Thank you for a very considered critique. I had never come across him before I watched his interview and I shared your judgement that he is often naive - almost offensively so. Nevertheless, Zelensky was enabled to express himself in a frank , intelligent, nuanced and compelling manner. I think Zelensky owned the interview.

[@kidcasco1966]

It's telling of his (Fridman's) audience's perspective that they can't see this naiveté even when so blatant. I wish I could understand such people. My hope is that juxtaposed with Zelenskyy's reason, passion and patience, some might actually see some truth and perspective.

[@AJD09FB]

@@kidcasco1966 I am one of Fridman's audience (for his interviews with scientists, rather than politicians), and I have long recognised that he is naïve and extremely over-optimistic in his geo-political worldview and faith in the innate "goodness" of humanity more generally. It is probably his biggest blind spot: he always tends to take people at their word, and believes that they share a common morality. Therefore, in his view, any problems that arise must be because of a miscommunication between ultimately well-meaning, rational actors. Consequently, those problems can only be solved through face-to-face dialogue and compromise. It comes from a genuine and loving place on his part (and I don't think that it is right for people to simply label him a russian shill - he's not), but it is an almost laughably oversimplistic way of thinking, with a strong element of moral relativism thrown in.

[@dukenukem8381]

Either Lex is infinitely naive child , uneducated on the matter, or in russia's pocket. All three disqualify him from intelligent discussion on Ukrainian topic.

[@drewmalesky9869]

Naive, and in denial.

[@Peter_S_]

Indeed. I have a difficult time accepting he is anything but an infinitely naive child who is uneducated on the matter and in russia's pocket.

[@Scarletpimpanel73]

He uses naivety in the same way he uses "neutrality". As his push to do the interview in Russian demonstrates, Lex is neither naïve or neutral. He uses the garb of each of these terms as a shield from criticism. He is in my view one of a complex of influential podcasters/youtubers that are on the Russian payroll.

[@neilwilson5785]

Spot the Joe Rogan fanboy: easy difficulty.

[@JH-pv6rd]

He is not naive, he is a russian asset doing his dirty work for Kremlin.

[@Peter_S_]

Fried-man is quite a tool, but Volodymyr Zelenskyy is the Winston Churchill of 21st century. Glory to Ukraine! 💙💛🌻🔱

[@karinfend2980]

Fridman is not a tool at all. Just show.

[@Peter_S_]

@@karinfend2980 I would disagree given his insistence to use russian language in this. How disrespectful. He also demonstrated his preference for tabloid over truth during the lockdowns a few years ago.

[@mbrights3158]

Yes Zelenskyy is absolutely brilliant. Absolutely BRILLIANT!!!!

[@peabody3000]

@@Peter_S_ as much as this fridman seems to be a rather despicable reptile, fridman and zelenskyy are both native russian mother tongue speakers, so i can't automatically condemn the idea to speak russian, but of course i applaud zelenskyy's decision not to. i hope russians will be able to view an accurate translation of the interview.

[@Thomas...191]

@Peter_S_ you really cannot see the woods for the trees imo

[@charangohabsburg1]

That's what I have stated yeas ago: the quality of Lex Friedman's interviews depend entirely on his guests. Friedman himself is extremely naive and arrogant too, but he also gets easily manipulated and loves to hear himself speak, believing he was genious. When his guest is gold the iinterview is gold, and when his guest is, let's diplomatically say "the opposite of gold" then the interview is exactly that. No doubt, Zelenskyy is the purest gold imaginable, not only for Friedman interviewing him.

[@andriidubinin955]

Fridman kept calling putin "a wise leader who loves his country" and not acknowledging the fact of genocidal war resulting in thousands of civilian losing their lives and hundreds of cities being leveled to the ground. It was a hard interview, it seemed that Zelenskyy had to explain to Fridman basic knowledge about good and bad. And Fridman mistranslated on purpose or not - "beating someone on his hand" - which means preventing someone from doing a bad thing and punish him harshly - into "a slap on the wrist" - which has absolutelly different meaning. Thank you! 👍❤

[@nattygsbord]

I guess it depends. Surely did Hitler also love his own country in the same sick unhealthy way. Putin do probably like his own country even less so, given how much he hates the people and are willing to let them die by the thousands each week, and russias economic standing, international reputation and the russian peoples standard of living doesn't matter much to himself. Putin and his elite lives in luxury. They are not put into power through meritocracy, but rather through the opposite: corruption. And the incomes from fossile fuels allows russia get money despite incompetence. And the nuclear weapons allows it to get away with bad behaviour by scaring foreign powers. However with the first test of reality, which was the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 did russias incompetence, corruption, and mismanagment show its true face on the battlefield.

[@moffig1]

Your analysis was fantastic. Thanks for what you do. I hope the Lex Fridman interview helps Ukraine

[@danmcclelland6112]

Long live Ukrain, honesty, and democracy!

[@GARDENER42]

Zelenskyy was magnificent & showed immense patience with Fridman's clear, pro Russian bias. The more I see of him, the more admiration I have for him.

[@BronnBlackwater]

Zelensky is a thuggish tyrant who kidnaps americans like Gonzalo Lira and robs his own treasury

[@Favorites3827]

Zelensky's patience was Zen level.

[@t_broek]

Lex's idea of "peace" seems to be to hand Putin everything he wants, because at no point was Lex talking about justice.. Just empty words like peace and dreams and hope.. No word on how to restore Ukraine, bring justice.. nothing like that.

[@darialexn]

How is Friedman a pro Russian? How stupid this notion.. everyone who dares to criticise Zelensky - automatically becomes pro-russian? Lmao

[@palimpalim5291]

Pro-Russian biaas? Fridman IS Ukrainian and he is a clear stooge for that insanely corrupt, Nazi ridden country.

[@JaneSoole]

I've watched a number of Fridman's interviews in the early days of the war but stopped as I found his apparent support, ultimately, for Putin, very unpalatable. Jane Soole 81. Willing to give this another go...

[@JH-pv6rd]

Same here, stopped as couldn't listen to his biased videos.

[@johnbucher2077]

Agree, in the early days he had some good interviews. But as time went on I started catching a whiff of pro Russia. But the interview with Zelensky was a shocker. Fridman's true colors were on public display; Russian fan boy.

[@BruceRickett-vr4tc]

​@@johnbucher2077It's truly hard to understand how such ignorant and slavishly pro-Putin schmucks like Fridman can be so prejudiced and naive. Gawd help us!

[@Flushjon]

Can you interview Zelenskyy? This would be worthwhile for the english speaking world

[@SiliconCurtain]

Of course I’d love too… not so easy though!

[@Jemawin]

You would do a superb job, Joanathan.

[@Peter_S_]

@@SiliconCurtain I look forward to your interview with the President after Ukraine's victory.

[@ChristyBermingham]

​@SiliconCurtain but yet he gives an interview to a putin supporter ! Mind boggling ?

[@Peter_S_]

@@ChristyBermingham The President is conducting information warfare and meeting the enemy face to face. The audience this encounter brings needs to be educated and there is nobody better to listen to.

[@WM-ln4dz]

I wonder whether Lex feels Japanese or German were the appropriate languages to interview FDR during WW2.

[@SpecialOperationsExecutive]

An excellent summary Jonathan. For me, Zelenskyy came across as extremely intelligent, compassionate and measured. Regardless of Lex's failings he does let people make their points without interuption. If the Putin interview happens I suspect it will be no better than Tucker Carlsons (just a perverse history lesson)

[@SiliconCurtain]

I agree - in some ways lex’s weak questions goaded Zelenskyy to strong answers - and it’s good that Lex does not interrupt him!

[@moffig1]

Agreed. Zelenskyys patience with such ignorant and insulting questions from biased and ignorant pro-russian partisan hacks like Lex Fridman is genuinely impressive to me

[@avishnevsky7394]

small correction, alternative history lesson

[@palimpalim5291]

So, you are on drugs as well?

[@CurtOntheRadio]

Fridman's inadequacies work for Zelensky here. Thanks for vid!

[@theresamcpherson7352]

Thank you Jonathan for all you are doing here and Happy New Year!

[@Semenovych99]

If Zelenskyy had agreed to only speak in Russian no comment would have been made about the issue. By insisting on NOT speaking Russian he has got across the much needed message that Russian language is NOT the Ukrainian language and that they are different. This decision by Zelenskyy celebrates the the differences between the two countries. As a result of not speaking Russian it has resulted in a significant section of the interview (including the long introduction) showcasing the differences. This will inevitably result in even more people learning about the Ukrainian language and Culture. What a great advert. Maybe we will return the GCSE Ukrainian examinations here in the UK. Bonus points for Zelenskyy EDUCATING LEX 😊

[@Rockall57]

Putin attempt to educate Carlson....😂...

[@allenhill1223]

Lex has some good interviewer. But I do see what they call Russian soul in him Hard to believe he educated in the states.

[@allenhill1223]

Seems to me he was frustrated by the language😮 what his expressions

[@larzkruber822]

The reason why they invaded was to protect russian speakers in ukraine Did Lex just forgot that? Wonder why he refused🤔🤔🤔

[@pearlyung]

Obviously, Lex is a Russian propagandist

[@MichaelBrown-be7vn]

Brilliant parsing of Fridman's weaknesses and Zelensky's state craft and leadership

[@nad88912]

Excellent analysis! Thank you, Jonathan. I was deeply impressed by President Selenskyj's eloquent answers!

[@rafaelsanz3441]

Orc Frid was indeed absolutely indifferent to the deaths and suffering of Ukrainian people, but Zelensky clearly beated him.

[@ldt6513]

@@rafaelsanz3441 Touché! Lex is often rambling about suffering and bla bla bla...forgiveness, but you never get the impression in any of his interviews that he truly care about people. It sounds as an act. The contrast becomes even greater in this interview with Zelensky because he often expresses historical events and attitudes which shows he truly care about people.

[@phloxdiffusa]

Yes, he normalizes genocide or the mass murder of innocent children by suggesting the murders should be forgiven.

[@moffig1]

Yup. I just hope at least some of his viewers will realise this but I have little hope for that. Maga people are genuinely ignorant, stupid and self-destructive

[@rafaelsanz3441]

@ Exactly ! Can you imagine a decent person saying in 1944 or 1945 that the mass murder of Jews should be forgiven ?

[@rafaelsanz3441]

@ Yeah, he is quiet emotionally cold as most Russians, sharing a culture that see emotions or empathy as a weakness; in Russia nobody smiles, everybody trying to looks like tough. Zelensky has something that is lacking in Friedman and Russians in general : he believes in democratic values and that makes the difference.

[@ShinyCopperpot]

I'm glad you processed the interview, because I unfortunately get bilateral rashes from Lex's pseudo-naive, poser hypocrisy. Unfortunately, it seems more and more like that the geek peace fighter is a narcissistic psychopath, who sees everyone else as supporting characters in his own movie.

[@peterc4082]

He's an American superstar 'intellectual'. He's like most of you guys. You guys all think you know better than others. I've worked with US medical 'experts' and even when they have less experience, they think they know better.

[@Favorites3827]

Just what we call "the useful idiots".

[@benahaus]

​@@peterc4082who are "you guys"?

[@benahaus]

"Pseudo naive, poser hypocrisy"...if I had put my comment up above with more thought, it would have been more like yours. Well said.

[@juliechristianson8009]

Well said indeed

[@williamolenchenko5772]

Thank you for the excellent review of this Zelensky interview. Lex Fridman came across as just another putin lover.

[@toby9999]

When Lex in the intro claimed that Putin loves his country, I decided that the interview wouldn't be worth watching. Zelenskyy's response (laughter) was brilliant. One other point... Zelenskyy's english is excellent.

[@shooster5884]

It was what Zelensky said that mattered..not anything Lex said...

[@richarddietzen3137]

His English is good, but you probably heard an AI voice as Lex explained during the introduction.

[@AJD09FB]

He does love *his* country. He just doesn't care about any of its people, other than himself. He wouldn't have clung to power for so long if this weren't the case.

[@dsnewby]

Wonderful analysis and commentary! Thank you for all you do Jonathan!

[@michelemarr76]

I admire Zelensky so much! I will never understand hoe he keeps his cool. Amazing! The corruption comments are not lost on me today as my beloved country elected a corrupt rapist.

[@LanciaStratosZero]

You're a fool.

[@johnnytampocao7671]

Yes, you’re exactly correct 😀😀😀

[@FionnCr]

Haha at some points when Friedman said something like I have a dream (was he trying to be MLK?) I actually knew jerk shouted "I f**k off!"

[@LanciaStratosZero]

@@FionnCr these people are ridiculous, they have no self awareness at all at this point. LOL

[@aadilansari5997]

Mandela was also a felon..😂😂

[@mbrights3158]

Yes you have made so many wonderful points. Thank you so much for your insights!!

[@3373just]

Bad faith fridman came across like a patsy! A fool with no backbone, he adds NOTHING to the discussion!!!

[@CrazyYurie]

That interview was painful to listen to. Lex came off as incredibly naive - as if he actually thinks pootin is someone worthy of trust, when he has very much demonstrated otherwise.

[@bobouzala]

As I gnash my teeth knowing full well the best investigator to conduct president Zelenskyy’s interview is Jonathan Fink, our host is always humble and makes lemonade out of lemons, and discusses the positives of a naïve dolt giving this interview! It should have been you Jonathan!!! 🍋🍋🍋

[@Jemawin]

This is by far the best analysis I’ve heard on the Zelenskyy-Fridman podcast. Thank you, Jonathan.

[@akapralova]

😅Jeez! You don’t spot any propaganda that is imbedded into every F ing word that comes out of his disgusting mouth? (Jonathan’). You are not very smart then.

[@ericwillis777]

I never liked Lex Fridman he seems to me to be a practiced hypocrite, pretending great concern for his fellow man but actually being in it just for himself. You are absolutely right, he is not genuine. He comes across as some one with a big ego, but he pretends that his us just a " humble man". That's the very worst kind of deceit. That is why he asks naive questions - he's trying to pretend that he is naive and simple, when in actuallity he is manipiulative and calculating.

[@grufgoinHAHAHA]

this comment!!! absolutely true

[@ericwillis777]

@@grufgoinHAHAHA Thanks, good to know I'm not alone in this.

[@garymelnyk7910]

Probably the best of the hundreds of comments here. Well observed; and well spoken. Shakespeare gives us many examples of this sort of “theatricality of the self”.

[@benlybech]

Victory for Ukraine, EU for the Ukrainian people, NATO for all of Europe. Ceterum censeo Moscovia esse delendam

[@haraldthi]

For Lex Friedman: There's a difference between wanting to see yourself as a good person and actually being one. The clincher is that we often don't want to be honest with ourselves, we rather deny ourselves the possibility of thinking through certain topics as it's "too depressing" or something. It's a basic human defensive feature, and it allows us to fall into very destructive patterns while *still* trying our best to defend the morality of the hell we drag people through. Please be aware of that, okay?

[@haroldellis9721]

Thank you for this very good commentary. I also listen to Vlad Vexlar, which was also helpful.

[@renatacaramaschi445]

thanks ..as always ..human can be good or evil .. nobody can tell why we are still able to make the difference .. but I'm happy to stand with Ukraine with all my heart ..

[@GARDENER42]

Fridman isn't in the least naive; he's being intentionally disingenuous.

[@cliffarroyo9554]

I've felt for a long time that he was a psyop.... comes out of nowhere gets this big following for the most banal 'insights' in existence.... propped up.

[@Кислыефрукты-ш9м]

Fridman is not naive he is cynical

[@susanacton5007]

I hope you are right about who will be watching this interview - those who would not normally follow content dedicated to Ukraine and her struggle against the occupiers. Lex is soooooo naive about russia and russians. If he ever gets the chance - he will probably simper his way through any interview with Putin. President Zelenskyy was sincere, passionate and showcased his brilliant mind. Left poor Lexie in the dust with his simplistic "dream"

[@Sneaky1923]

Thanks for the analysis Jonathan. You make me think, I love that! I watched the entire video, though I did skip the intro!

[@albertfunk1176]

A great comment, Jonathan!

[@BitJam]

Sadly hilarious that Lex thinks the man who just bought the US presidency is concerned about corruption. Seems like he was just echoing Kremlin talking points.

[@Thomas...191]

That's an interesting choice of words, the first American president in history to spend LESS than their counterpart on their election campaign and win was trump, very odd indeed. I'm not a trump fan in the slightest measure, but I am still fond of the truth.

[@zipperpillow]

Kremlin tool. Useful idiot.

[@dmytroklokol4030]

Rather lex is kremlins loud mouth

[@pongmaster123]

*IMPORTANT* soon after the start of the war in 2022, lex friedmann went to the ukraine and did a lot of interviews etc., i remember that well from his social medias. and he also mentioned in this interview with selensky with that he did a lot of interviews and spoke to hundreds of people in ukraine. so why the hell did he NEVER PUBLISHED THEM? russsian money? also for rogan and the other guys???

[@peterc4082]

100s of people? That's not even representative of that country.

[@pongmaster123]

thats lex's words. why?

[@sballantine8127]

IMO he's lying.

[@marionhutton8141]

Enjoyed your stream, giving us lay people a down to earth take on the interview. Thank you, Jonathan, as always

[@fuzzyspackage]

Orc lex Luther trying to take down superman again.

[@fuzzyspackage]

Episode 1: be nice/get close

[@drewmalesky9869]

He's not an orc, or a shill. He's just in denial.

[@Ptolemy336VV]

Zelenski did great. I listened all 3 hours. Zelenskindid great because he directly addressess the republican followers of which 40% atleast is not entirely of the idea that USA shouldnt meddle with Ukraine etc, and is a chance to educate them

[@Bac4-qu6qg7sk4v]

@@drewmalesky9869 Born and bred in russia. Recently said "none of my many relatives in russia have anything but love and adoration for Mr. Putin" It's as orc as you can get.

[@JustAGoopyGuy]

Fridman seemed to go into the interview with only two thoughts 1. I have this dream... 2. Ukraine is responsible for the war?!!! Thats the only reason i can find for comments such as ukraine needs to give russia a good enough offer to make russia happy and Ukraine needs to FORGIVE russia!?!! In the whole 3 hours there was nothing commendable about lex other than letting zelenskyy speak

[@nattygsbord]

He seems to think that the two countries somehow got into a clash with each other, and both are equally responsible for it. Which is of course total nonsense. Russia was the attacker that started an unprovoced war. And just because you speak russian does not mean that you are a russian, just as speaking English doesn't make you English... I guess that many Americans, Irish, Scots, Australians and such do not consider themselves English. And especially not if England turn cities into ruins and commit all kinds of warcrimes down to building torture chambers for children. I guess that the English speakers outside of England would after that rather belong to any other country on the planet instead.

[@king-dy1ch]

Great review of this interview, looking forward for next part

[@collintrytsman3353]

SICK OF hearing media talk about negotiation & peace...............................Putin has no interest in this unless it serves him!!!

[@laura9tube]

Thank you so much! 🙏❤️🙏

[@hatac]

There are 4 stories of weapons being diverted that I know of: 1. Weapons showing up in Germany and France not Ukraine! It turned out the Ukrainians were secretly training with them in Germany, etc, because its safer to train there and its close to good NATO medical facilities. The Ukrainians included walking wounded training while recuperating. 2. Weapons sent to Ukraine but found in other NATO countries because they had been swopped for other NATO weapons that were more appropriate. 3.Weapons captured by Russians and sold on the web using fake Ukrainian accounts as a propaganda operation. 4. One shipment of weapons that got stolen in transit before it even got to Ukraine. The perpetrators were not Ukrainian and are now in Jail.

[@Warekiwi]

Superb analysis IMHO

[@sannip7404]

The truth is that Russian is spoken in Ukraine because the Russian and Soviet empires imposed this language on the Ukrainians. Similarly that it was done in the Baltics (against the will of the native people).

[@leonstenutz6003]

Holdomor.

[@sannip7404]

@@leonstenutz6003 Totally. :( Those were all Ukrainian speakers in East Ukraine, who would've had a ton of children, had they survived. :(

[@gheorghebirca]

Lex Freedman said that he is sort of unbiased, looking for humanity in everyone... However he interviewed a number of Ukrainians since 2022, but didn't upload any of those interviews.

[@johnbucher2077]

He is a Russian fan boy.

[@sballantine8127]

Because he lied about doing those interviews??

[@gheorghebirca]

@ one of the interviews I know he did with Alexey Arestovich, and Arestovich said that he didn’t upload it.

[@johnbucher2077]

@@sballantine8127 I don't know anything about other interviews in Ukraine so I can't comment on that. However, Lex pretending that Putin is just some poor misunderstood Russian guy that you can make a deal with is a pretty good clue of where he stands, don't you think? Lex is proud to be a native of USSR and mentions it frequently. Good for him. I don't care if he was born in USSR or on the moon. He is a Russian fan boy because he acts like a Russian fan boy. HIs own words accuse him.

[@ramunejonaityte4160]

@@gheorghebirca Arestovič is a Russian fan boy too

[@Lizardo451]

The money allocated "to Ukraine" goes to replace old obsolete materials that we would otherwise pay more to decommission.

[@MsZeeZed]

The barrier to getting the Belgium bankers to give up the interest on the frozen Russian war chest was getting them to surrender most of their fees on the transactions. To liquidate that Russian money these guys want a massive slice of that pie, that feels more like graft than business.

[@roelej]

Alexei Fedotov sorry i mean Lex Fridman comrade.

[@WangMingGe]

He is very proud of his Russian heritage and his grandfather's service in Stalin's forces.

[@JG-nm9zk]

Saying that the guy that personally tried to blackmail Zelensky, "cares about corruption" is a thing that happened.

[@mnoot7209]

Jonathan, I'm a longtime US subscriber, but rarely comment. Sometimes I disagree with you, er, strongly... but I think that's mostly when your passion gets the better of you. Your analysis of LF's Zelinski interview was the most concise, fair, and intuitive, spot-on segment I've ever heard you do. The best of all 15-20 analyses I've heard so far. Very kindly, observant and well put. Thank you for sharing your keen & humane mind with us. FYI- I've watched many LF podcasts to date and couldn't have been more disappointed with Lex's performance and amateurishly concealed bias and baiting. Or was it the _other_ earlier Lex Fridman pods that were a performance? I've lost esteem for Lex.

[@aleksbakman7562]

Дорогой мистер silicone curton, вы в тысячу раз глубже и интереснее, содержательнее, умнее Алёши Федотова в скобках: Лекс Фридман

[@mkcl911]

Great work Jonathan and briliant logic in your analysis.

[@ninaotan7811]

Johnathan, excellent analysis, exceptional delivery. Looking forward to the next part.

[@juliatodhunter6454]

Very good, thank you for this excellent analysis!

[@roytaylor2161]

Jonathan Fimk, you are do good at elucidating the facts. Thank you.

[@blakekeithley3400]

I think an important point is always missing these discussions about democracy. There was democracy through the Radas with the Cossacks. There has been democracy in Ukraine, for centuries, only to be interrupted by periods of imperial occupation.

[@shyamdevadas6099]

Prior to today, I had never heard of Lex Fridman. I only learned about him after seeing Jake Broe's video today about the Zelensky interview. It seems clear that Fridman is morally/ethically/politcally neutral about the Russo-Ukrainian War...and possibly a crypto-Putin supporter. What I don't understand is why someone like him considers himself relevant to the public discourse on geopolitical issues. From his bio, it appears that he is a well-educated academic in the fields of computer science and electrical engineering. He rose from academic obscurity in 2019, due to Elon Musk issuing a rather self-serving praise of his non-peer-reviewed study on autonomous driving. He quickly parlayed this into some online fame, which included these interviews. Even so, it is absurd that Fridman enters the fray on such a critical and momentous issue. He must have a very shallow conscience, since he seems to ignore the fact that Putin waged an illegal war of aggression that has since devolved into a string of international war crimes. Frankly, this guy is too young and has led too sheltered a life to have any credibility in this subject area. In this regard, he's a total bozo.

[@tetianavarvynska2125]

Jonathan, thank you for this. Most balanced and grounded take on this interview that I've heard.

[@connectwithyourdeck]

At an excellent summary with examples to back up your arguments - live your work

[@coolhand67]

5:30 I thought it was quite interesting that Zelenskyy made a point about weapon deliveries being monopolized by US carriers at a cost to Ukraine instead of allowing them to use their own logistics. This was especially interesting as the interview seemed tailored toward Trump. It was fascinating and the most full, open and honest interview I have seen with Zelenskyy.

[@TheFeldhamster]

That was something that was new to me and it's so despicable. The whole time American media bash Ukraine for being corrupt and a drain on the American budget and in reality it's American companies secretly pocketing all the money. And not just the defense industry (which is pretty obvious), but on other levels, too, like these cargo carriers. Seriously, wtf?!

[@beepseatsfindingfoodtreasu8756]

Freedman is a jerk. This interview was proof of that. How he ever got to this level is testament to the lowering of the impartial reporter bar. We need more Walter Cronkite's in the world.

[@johnbucher2077]

This Lex Fridman interview was good for the purpose of removing any doubt that he is a Russian fan boy. Not to mention that it was crass, shallow, and bordering on disrespectful towards the people of Ukraine. Starting with the suggestion that the interview be conducted in Russian it just went down hill form there.

[@shermoore1693]

When I lived in the outskirts of Bucharest with a Rumanian family (in the late nineteen seventies), I saw how capillary corruption was. It permeated every sphere of life. I know Rumania was not, strictly speaking, part of the Soviet Union, but its administrative/governative system closely copied that of Russia. Seeing as corruption was an integral part of life, getting rid of it will, of course, be difficult and take time. I presume the same could be said of Ukraine. Knowing that, Zelensky's giant steps towards freeing the country of corruption are admirable.

[@rachelkraut46]

23:26 you hit the nail on the head, Jonathan! Lex is simply incapable of believing that anyone could be truly evil... that's what makes his questions seem so naive.

[@melissabruhn1429]

Thank you for analysis. Lex is either naive or seeking an interview with Putin.

[@cliffarroyo9554]

He's been trying to get an interview with putain since before the invasion.... so.... yeah.

[@MDKJFK]

Amazing analysis and insight. Thank you for this. I wish you could interview Friedman.

[@lipgloss202]

Lex adores Musk and Rogan. That alone is horrific. He is naive (dagerously so) when it comes to love and peace and geopolitics. He think Trump is a good guy that loves America. I mean... I hope something good comes out of this interview because it was kind if painful.

[@nattygsbord]

The upside is that Zelensky got the chance to time and time hammer home his message through presenting many kind of arguments from different angels.

[@lipgloss202]

@@nattygsbord yes, Zelensky was good (as always).

[@rhondabrueggeman2316]

Really soaked in your astute analysis of the Zelenskyy/Fridman interview because it was so right on in my opinion. Personally I find Fridmans interviews don’t pass for real journalism.

[@IcarusFlyby]

My wife and I were caught in a rip-tide when a local river shifted its course - in the moment, our adult children, who had children of their own, could not do anything to help us without endangering themselves. The failure of the Russian people while not commendable, is understandable given the reality of life living under Vladimir Putin. Vladimir Putin however threatens the entire world and this is something the entire world should consider and respond to otherwise we all fall down.

[@laurie9557]

Not immediately relevant to the current war, but Zelensky's account of his grandfather who fought in ww2 was very interesting.

[@Beya045]

Best analysis of the interview I have yet to hear. Thank you.

[@paulwhite6995]

A hugely important contribution responding to the Fridman interview. It started very well but became a little disconnected and overlapping in places. Suggest more planning and editing needed, together with clearer contrast between interview quotes and your own commentary.

[@SiliconCurtain]

Fair comment

[@paulwhite6995]

@@SiliconCurtain Only my opinion, Jonathan, most kind of you.

[@tages_matuna]

I appreciate Zelenskyy effort to counter russian propaganda putting logic right

[@michelleagnew8780]

Thank you for a good breakdown of the interview. I’m looking forward to seeing part two.

[@tinayang3845]

Great analysis, Johnathon.

[@florys1210]

good work, thank you for it

[@free2dialogue]

I loved your break down and the highlighting of key moments in what you found helpful to support the victory of Ukraine. I watched about half of the interview. I dislike Fridman. In particular he has led interviews with Ukrainians in the beginning of the war and then did not publish them. Can you find more about that? What is that all about?

[@sballantine8127]

I think he's lying and there are no such interviews.

[@michaelpaine8849]

Well written content, thanks!

[@magpiegirl3783]

Thank you for this breakdown. I'm impressed with your analysis on this interview and it gave me something to think about. I watched the interview for about 2.5 hours before I couldn't listen to one more of Friedman's juvenile questions/comments. His total disrespect, insensitivity to the plight of Ukraine was obvious coming across as naively ignorant. His implication that somehow it was Ukraine that was not supportive of peace was clear and that Putin was a patriotic leader who loved his country ignoring the hundreds of thousands of Russians he has sent to death or despair. I believe Lex has certain intellectual and humanitarian deficiencies. His golden rainbow statement of peace is purile - as though Ukrainians don't want peace, that they should be responsible for bringing peace, all the while ignoring that Ukraine is dealing with a leader and country that are seeking subjugation of them as people and their country as an asset. I'm going to listen to your next review on this topic.

[@Digmen1]

A very good summary thanks Simon

[@noone-he8xe]

I find it difficult to understand how Lex can be so NAIVE. Geopolitics isn’t about love or respect-it’s about interests and power, period. Putin is a modern version of Stalin or Hitler-a psychopath with a complete disregard for human lives. Just as Stalin implemented 'no step back' policies and sent poorly equipped soldiers to die as 'cannon fodder,' Putin is following a similar path. His actions in Ukraine are driven purely by a desire for power. He has caused the deaths of over 500,000 Russians, abducted children, and shown himself to be utterly soulless. @Lex why you do not go deeply in the REAL reasons of the attack, this is what the world needs to know. Russia invaded Ukraine driven by geopolitical ambitions-specifically, to assert regional influence and maintain control over key gas pipelines. This has nothing to do with legitimate security concerns (seriously, does anyone believe Russia will be under threat of attack having all these nukes?) or historical claims. If those claims were genuine, why was Putin supporting the independence of Catalonia, and independence of other states in Europe? The reality is simple: it’s about power and regional dominance, period. As a result, over 1 million lives have been lost, globalization has been disrupted, and Russia’s future has been severely compromised. The country is likely to face 20-30 years of economic stagnation, with much of its talent fleeing abroad. Its economy has devolved into a war economy, focused entirely on sustaining the conflict. This catastrophic situation stems from Putin’s belief that the invasion would be a swift and easy conquest. He miscalculated, and now, rather than admit defeat, he is doubling down, prolonging the devastation. Let me be clear-many leaders in the Western world also prioritize power, but there are mechanisms in place to hold them accountable, such as free media. In societies without free media, leaders can act as megalomaniacs, lunatics, or psychopaths without restraint because there is no one to challenge them. Countries like North Korea, Russia, and Iran face bleak futures because of this lack of accountability, and my heart goes out to the people living under such regimes.

[@Tango_Alpha_Charlie]

Very valuable. Thank you! Sir William Browder pointed out, before the full-scale invasion of russia into Ukraine, that financial punitive measures must be taken to dissuade putin ahead of time. He is one of the most insightful observers, and Zelenskyy by implication seems to agree with that premise.

[@saskhiker3935]

Lex Friedman isn't naive. He is disengenuous.

[@judithcampbell1705]

Thank you 💛 Johnathan I enjoyed your breakdown of the interview.

[@arturasp9738]

Thanks for this

[@OmegaDrifters]

Thank you for this video. It was extremely interesting. I look forward to the next