Hopefully, this will be Palestine’s “Tet” moment. For years we were told that the Vietnamese had been defeated and that the war was simply a “mopping up” exercise. Suddenly, the second largest city in the country was occupied and the US embassy in Saigon was under attack. If Gaza can result in a united front against Israel, it’s mini-hegemony over the region can be weakened or ended.
Wonderful discussion! Took me 8 hours to watch it all? Mark and Brian have been two of my favourite military analysts for some time now, so they should not take offence at the questions which will follow below as I try to order my thoughts.
This port city has been an obvious target for Russia since day one and moreso since Mariupol fell. In the early days of the SMO I could imagine it being such an obvious 'trap' as to be avoided. However, the port has not been blockaded; even after the end of the "Grain Deal"? After 2 years of war degrading Ukrainian forces, this must have drawn equipment and manpower away from Odessa?
I understand the cultural and historic value of the city, but that would not justify leaving the maritime approaches open to shipping and mine free?
Is the freedom of Odessa, just a symbolic plum held in front of Ukraine? Presenting a ray of hope for a viable and 'non land-locked' Ukrainian State' when this war ends?
That was a great discussion -- love when you two collaborate.
Hopefully, this will be Palestine’s “Tet” moment. For years we were told that the Vietnamese had been defeated and that the war was simply a “mopping up” exercise. Suddenly, the second largest city in the country was occupied and the US embassy in Saigon was under attack. If Gaza can result in a united front against Israel, it’s mini-hegemony over the region can be weakened or ended.
Kudos
What does Mark have against women in combat?
Always enjoy listening to Mark and Brian
Wonderful discussion! Took me 8 hours to watch it all? Mark and Brian have been two of my favourite military analysts for some time now, so they should not take offence at the questions which will follow below as I try to order my thoughts.
#1) Odessa?
This port city has been an obvious target for Russia since day one and moreso since Mariupol fell. In the early days of the SMO I could imagine it being such an obvious 'trap' as to be avoided. However, the port has not been blockaded; even after the end of the "Grain Deal"? After 2 years of war degrading Ukrainian forces, this must have drawn equipment and manpower away from Odessa?
I understand the cultural and historic value of the city, but that would not justify leaving the maritime approaches open to shipping and mine free?
Is the freedom of Odessa, just a symbolic plum held in front of Ukraine? Presenting a ray of hope for a viable and 'non land-locked' Ukrainian State' when this war ends?
Self answered I think (and probably soon resolved)
Occupying Odessa will completely landlock Moldova?
Moldova's recent actions make that less problematic.