Scott Ritter: Russia remains firm on its "special military operation" goals in Ukraine, including territorial demands, reducing Ukraine’s military, and blocking NATO membership. Russia advances across front lines, targeting infrastructure.
U.S. is cutting critical munitions (e.g., Patriot missiles, artillery) due to depleted stockpiles, leaving Ukraine vulnerable. Ritter calls Ukraine a "hospice patient" nearing collapse.
Larry Johnson: U.S. can’t ramp up production for modern warfare, contrasting slow F-35 production (18-24 months) with WWII-era B-24 bombers (18 hours).
Trump-Putin Dialogue
Ritter: Recent Trump-Putin call focused on re-engagement, Iran, Gaza, and cultural exchanges to counter U.S. Russophobia, not Ukraine specifically. Putin reiterated Russia’s unyielding stance.
Johnson: Putin’s talks with Trump and Macron tested for softening on Russia’s demands, which remain firm on addressing war’s root causes and new territorial realities.
Iran’s Nuclear Program
Ritter: Iranian officials (Oct 2024) claimed near nuclear weapons capability, fueling U.S./Israeli fears. Iran’s 60% enriched uranium makes it a threshold state, though no final bomb decision exists.
Iran agreed (June 2025) to limit enrichment to 3.75% and allow U.S. inspectors, but U.S.-Israeli strikes (June 12-13) disrupted this. Ritter urges Iran to avoid provocative rhetoric; both criticize Israel’s IAEA influence.
Johnson: Loss of IAEA access blinded Western intelligence on Iran’s program, necessitating Russia’s help to restore inspections.
Johnson: Israel’s small size makes it vulnerable (e.g., one airport loss halts civilian flights), unlike Iran, which absorbs damage due to its size and population.
Both: Netanyahu’s U.S. visit (post-July 4, 2025) seeks continued support, domestic political leverage, and intelligence restoration. Rumors of B-2 bomber transfers dismissed due to Israel’s history of leaking U.S. tech.
Netanyahu’s Agenda
Ritter: Netanyahu aims to project U.S. support for his leadership, avoid escalation with Iran, and navigate domestic legal issues, with Trump interfering via sanction threats.
Johnson: Israel needs IAEA access to rebuild intelligence networks in Iran after exposing operatives.
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