General Ben Hodges (Ret.): Will Russia Accept Defeat? | Jake Broe Podcast (E009)

Video Summary

The West’s failure to deter Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a result of several strategic miscalculations made by Russia. Retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, a senior advisor with Human Rights First, believes that Russia’s failure to achieve a quick victory in Ukraine has led to a test of wills and logistics, which favors Ukraine. To win, Ukraine needs improved air and missile defense, long-range precision fires, and logistical support. Russia’s advantage in range will eventually be overcome by Ukraine’s ability to interdict supply lines and target Russian forces.

Hodges predicts that Ukraine will liberate Crimea by next summer, but for Russia to accept defeat, Ukraine’s counter-offensive will need to bring significant pressure on Russian forces. This will require Ukraine to use long-range precision fires, disrupt supply lines, and eventually, force Russia to abandon its hold on Crimea.

In a broader context, Hodges emphasizes the importance of why Ukraine matters. He argues that stopping Russian aggression is crucial to preventing further conflicts in Europe and to protecting American prosperity, which is tied to European prosperity. He also notes that China is watching the situation and will be influenced by the West’s ability to stick together and stop Russia’s aggression.