Hodges: 'I believe the Ukrainians have achieved irreversible momentum' | DW News
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- Опубліковано 18 вер 2022
- Ben Hodges, former commander of US forces in Europe, tells DW News there's "irreversible momentum" for Ukraine in the war with Russia. "In my view, the defeat of Russia, Ukrainian victory, which means total restoration of all of its sovereign territory, including Crimea, is inevitable."
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#Ukraine #Russia #Hodges
This is excellent reporting. No shouting, no talking over one another, no trying to "score points". Informative, thoughtful, insightful.
Excellent to know how much he cares for locals.
DONETSK REPUBLIC patriots have been defending their families and homes for years now⚫🔵🔴
@@babblo1389 They should maybe have thought better before following Pootin blindly, and starting this Donbass conflict!
Pretty much, I watch DW and read The Independent now instead of watching US cable news, CNN and FoxNews are two sides of the same coin.
Turchinov of Kyiv started it by ordering t a n k s on civilians of Donetsk Republic on 7th Apr 14.
People did not elect him. He came to power during the coup in '14
I got to say as an American, it’s rare to see such a level headed interview on a big news media channel where the interviewer and interviewee can disagree without trying to “own” one another for points from their “teams”.
True
America is weird. Your politics is closer to a sporting rivalry.
Having a level-headed conversation, especially in a professional setting such as an interview on a public TV broadcaster, is the norm and not the exception in Germany and frankly should be the norm everywhere.
@@halfalligator6518 because americans are not under threat, unity only comes naturally when your combined identity is at risk, and the united states just doesn't have to worry about as much as other nations, political or economically.
the only threat to the united states is itself XD
i just hope americans remember that no matter which side of the politics you are on, you are all still americans and you share more values between parties than you have differences
What you describe is not an exclusively American phenomenon.... but it's mostly one. News outlets in Europe and elsewhere are not so far removed from understanding what their jobs actually are.
What a pleasure to watch and listen Michaela Kufner interviewing General Ben Hodges!... Greetings for both, from Portugal. Go on.
This is how a interview should be done! Respect ❤
I think he hit the nail on the head with "Germany is spoiled." I think in many ways, this is true. Though I think Europe, in general, has become spoiled due to US military protection.
Germany isn't weak or poor. They could easily commit a lot more, the US and UK and Poland are all going hard. Germany should be leading Europe, not pilling excuses. It's not inspiring confidence.
Facts but we kinda have to protect em and Germany is drunk of Russian gas
@@wombatdk 😂 go give your head a wobble.
@@wombatdk WTF 😳
@@wombatdk I need whatever you are smoking sir you are too lit in this wendys
@@wombatdk there was No Germany before 1990 and it was two German states Split for 40 years. The West wanted the Reunion. We Don't Care If the french or brits exist after what they did for millenia, Germany can aswell.
The best explanation of situation and criticism. Bravo General Hodges!
different stakes though. US economy won't suffer from Russian gas shortages. US has the largest military budget on Earth. US is 6000 miles away from Russia and would be the last country to be invaded. Germany has much more at stake when it comes to pissing of the Russians.
Bollocks
@@kieranloughlin8104 🤪😉.
My bravo-bot. Well done. Bonus is yours.
@@kieranloughlin8104 yep, far from revealing the deep explanation of the situation. I mean who planned this, and what is the actual purpose.
I believe US, UK and Polish support for Ukraine at the outbreak of this conflict will be seen in history as a critical element (the tenacity of Ukrainian forces being somewhat more critical, of course) to Ukraine's survival as an independent state.
Ukraine is USA vassal, not independent state.
True 👍
Well said. Germany is never heard of in this conflict. I hear of British aid, Polish aid and a bit of US aid, but no one else.
@@Clem_Fandango11 Nobody remembers the one who paid all the bills. Only who danced on the tables.
Was that 8 years ago - appauling ignorance
Ben Hodges makes always good analysis Thanks to DW for uploading this interview.
Ukrainians, we stand with you 🇺🇦❤️🇺🇦.
We´re all Ukranians. Thank you Werner Tognetti, for your support. Freedom, Human Rights and Democracy will win the Tyrany, the Dictatorship, the evil.
He is an American spy. He was involved in tapping the phone of our Chancellor.
That is a severe crime. And that is why he is in Frankfurt, not in Berlin.
I wonder why he is not in prison.
Thanks a lot from Ukraine for support. It really helps us🙏
@@Lepice99 It's my pleasure. I agree, muscovits will never win this colonial war.
@@nextstop1228 I's my pleasure.
This is an elevated and high level conversation/interview. In a world of "CNN vs FoxNews" rhetoric, it's nice to listen and watch sensible people discuss current events.
Its elevating to hear Ben Hodges caring for locals of DONETSK REPUBLIC. They have been defending their families and homes. ⚫🔵🔴
@@babblo1389 There is no Donetsk Republic. And the biggest threats to the people of the Donbas is the Rooskie occupation force and their separatist sympathizers.
Which the recently found mass graves prove.
13 civilians h i t by Zele. RiP.
No we see how these g r a v e s are created by the vogue hero.
13 in Donetsk, yesterday alone. R i P.
@@babblo1389
Gen. Hodges hit the nail, in the most diplomatic way possible. :) Thank you Gen Hodges Sir.
Well done, my nail-bot. Exaggeration tactics. Now pick up your bonus.
Agreed, but I felt he was holding back his frustration. He obviously has learned diplomacy from the best.
@@disturbingdevelopment4308 The man's been in the business for a long time. He only retired relatively recently.
@@managerofthebotfarm7111 lol true
Great interview👍The BBC could learn a lot from the lady interviewing Ben Hodges. Note how she never interrupted him, letting him answer each question fully. It is so annoying when an answer is interrupted before being completed, something that interviewers for the BBC & the like do all the time.
Such a great interview, I agree with the rest of what you wrote.
I totally agree.
Why is it so rare to hear people talking such "common" sense? Thank you, Bob Hodges!
Not sure the idea that Ukraine can win total victory is a very widely held point of view.
I have so much respect for this man! I don't think I've ever heard anybody else who has the insight, prescience and ability to explain the essence of complex interactions in such a clear, straightforward way. General Hodges is the man when it comes to Ukraine.I always look forward to his interviews.
Well he is speaking from an American perspective and interest. As Europe is the biggest loser in this conflict, Germany obviously hasn't been looking after it's own interest, which is cheap Russian gas.
@@henli-rw5dw well it was good while it lasted but Germany was warned about the consequences…
Just in case all this does not play out as the General asserts leading to a Ukrainian victory within a year; then there could be a global war a few years down the line.
@@henli-rw5dw Germany decided on economic suicide, and doesn't show any signs it could be reversible. So long Germany and EU, was good while it lasted.
@@henli-rw5dw Germany should be more concerned about its security interest more than cheap gas. Many countries can provide cheap gas. Keeping the war criminals as far as possible from its borders is much more important
Well Dear Gen. Hodges, you are really very smart and articulate how you communicate, and I think people cannot help but be influenced and persuaded by what you say. You certainly have my respect and deep appreciation.
Smart and articulate as Donetsk locals defending their families and homes. ⚫🔵🔴
Doesn't know about Germany's "reticence" which means "silence." Excuses their slow walking on "mixed messaging" and Poland is our most important ally.
@@babblo1389 You do know that real Donetsk locals and patriots defending Ukraine as a part of UAF? And the people you are talking about are simply enemy collaborators that sold the future of their region for Russian roubles.
Hodges is excellent!!!! Thank You DW for hosting him!!!
DW's coverage of this war and all its angles has been truly fantastic. Much appreciation for General Hodges right now--voice of experience, telling it like it is.
I have so appreciated receiving DW news in the USA. They are far superior at covering international issues compared to our major TV broadcast stations. I have to go online to MSNBC for any serious coverage here. Yes, I know there are plenty of bots around to poke fun at MSNBC. Have at it.
The Germans offered to send Marder IFVs but they said they couldn't do that because they had no ammunition. They offered to send Leopard I tanks but once again they couldn't find any ammunition despite NATO members still using that ammunition. They offered to send Pzh.2000s but once again they couldn't locate any NATO standard ammunition anywhere. See a common theme? The German empty cupboard excuse is BS! That ammunition is in widespread use worldwide. They want the conflict to end one way or another so they don't have to live up to their promises. Because if Ukraine loses Germany hopes it can maintain its relationship with Putin because they didn't provide aid. If Ukraine wins they get to brag about what a wonderful ally they are. German realpolitik at its worst!
Send my greetings to your Lynndie England.
Hodges have been my favourite general when I need sober information and assessment in this conflict. I really appreciate his opinion and it seems to be correct when history has unfolded the truth.
I support the Ukrainian government. They are are right that the citizens of Donbas and Crimea should not be allowed to join Russia. They are right to crush opposition parties and conscript people. They are right to refuse to negotiate with Russia just because the US told them not to. It is much more important to sacrifice your country for US goals than to embrace military neutrality with a long-time neighbour, or to allow insidious democratic regional self-determination. They were also right to use US/UK weapons and training to shell and kill 11,000 civilians in East Ukraine for 8 years. Russia is completely ridiculous and evil for objecting to this and the violation of the Minsk Accords. I mean, what did they expect? They are also insane and evil for objecting to missiles and biological (which are doing necessary 'death-methods' research) laboratories sprouting up along their borders. Victoria Nuland and her colleagues who are behind these policies are humanitarian heroes, also for their work in killing a million in the Middle East since 2000. They must continue to show zero regard for human suffering in their campaigns to crush by any means any opposition to their vision of a truly wonderful unipolar world which we all need.
Thank you to all of you here (and I especially thank the bots because they are people too) for supporting the heroic Kiev regime in their work for the US government. Under no circumstances should they instead make decisions that would benefit the people within their country. And thank you to the beautiful current US & UK regimes. They show so clearly what necessary and effective tools hypocrisy and lies are in controlling public opinion. Only when the information reaching the masses is completely controlled will these great governments be safe to continue their tireless work on behalf of people none of us will ever meet or hear of. So they must continue to make up the news for us, and Google, you must continue to help them. Please! But more than that - it is important that the governments and tech companies continue to collaborate in also making up the public response to that news, which is why I salute UA-cam and the Intelligence Agencies of the US and UK for their excellent AI programs that can generate thousands of comments from 100s of ‘bot-inclusive’ accounts, which make such interesting and thought-provoking reading! Thank you! Long live the Kiev, Washington and London regimes! Long live UA-cam and Google! I…I…I kiss you !!
Easily one my favorite commentators on this conflict. Well thought out and well spoken always, all around. You represent the U.S. so well. Thank you for that. -GW
Very good conversation. Thank you Ben Hodges for your insight. Invaluable.
Ben Hodges needs to LISTEN to locals.
DONETSK REPUBLIC patriots winning ALREADY ❤️❤️
@Lee Cudmore differently from you I'm not commenting for money.
Keep your rubles to yourself, bot.
@@babblo1389 Right, it's insane to call roubles money. 😁😁
@@leeii337 Id rather rubel than pathetic us dollar! usa is a wef puppet! needs to fall!
@@AlexV6 its insane people like u get an opinion!
The problem here in Germany is a lack of leadership. As General Hodges mentioned people in the EU look to Germany to take the lead, but Scholz seems incapable or unwilling to do so. Plus we have a lot of baggage with the Russians here. Decades of Putin-friendly politicians. They seem afraid of being attacked by Russia, which I personally cannot relate to. That is quite frankly never going to happen. Time for clear messages and strong leadership. The UK did it, with all the problems they are having. Why not here?
I have never seen a comment section so united in praising a news piece.
I for one, thank you so much for creating this.
God I wish the news in my country was of this calibre.
It's called mass delusion
Let's not forget that the Germans bad energy policy allowed Russia to blackmail the EU - in many ways, their policies enabled Russia - Germany needs to step up
They're already now diversifying their energy policy.
Just tell the chancellor to send the damned tanks that Ukraine urgently needs.
Other countries did the same mistakes as Germany did. We are not responsible for everyone else. That is also true.
Making mistakes is unfortunate and normal. But Germany has a good opportunity to gain confidence by helping in the rebuilding. A favorable trade policy with Ukraine as well as giving humanitarian aid.
@@stefans.6858 The main issue is Germany and France are sitting on their hands regarding the supply of weapons to Ukraine.
I also wish my country Norway would give even more weapon systems than we have done. The Ukrainian sacrifices on the battlefield are horrible because it is a meat grinder of Russian artillery etc. German tanks would be a BIG contribution at this stage of the war. The logistics should be pretty easy for you guys. Ukraine needs to breach the occupied areas with the proper hardware.
@@stefans.6858 Yes, but Germany is a leading economy and kinda leader in EU (at least it used to be), so it showed the way for other countries. And No, not everybody else did the same. We in Baltic states knew what can happen and prepared for it.
Talking about German energy policy. Ok, I understand the closure of Nuclear plants for safety reasons. But burning gas to make electricity and then calling it green electricity...
That cameraman handles the camera the same way the Russians handle their tanks.
Too much "Pumpernickel Bread" ?
😅😅😅😅
I'm a photographer and the "stability issue" is something you can always solve with things you have at hand. Always. (for instance, you can use your own shoe laces around your neck and tense it to the camera, acting as a strap).
I cannot understand what the cameraman was trying to do by holding the camera or mobile phone that way... Even more, that "human movement" is used in cinema when you want the expectator to feel inside some tense scene, whereas in news, you want the opposite. Man, this is DW, you can even stabilize the video with Google Photos at zero cost!
Lol was going to say poor video quality. I would like they do a better job filming
@Lautaro Tessi he wanted you to instantly feel DOMBASSED 😅
The reason this is such an important interview is the authenticity of the expert and the professionalism of an informed interviewer that is not focused on getting their own air time
Ben Hodges is a great man. His 38+ years of experience always shines through.
He might be that. But I had to pause the video after he said Germany is USA's greatest ally. Couldn't stop laughing!
Got to like Ben Hodges. He helped organize Ukrainian training, and is staking his reputation on their success. He's walking the talk.
Yep
Trained where? Oh the UK. Apparently not the most important USA allie as we're behind Germany.
@@ChuckAmadi You might want to be a better listener, the man is a little too subtle and intelligent to just grab a sound bite, as you have quoted.
The history of western military doctrine training in Ukraine has been ongoing since 2014, by a number of nations.
He clearly stated European, several times, in relation to important ally.
@@managerofthebotfarm7111 would you go bot yourself, please?
Your arrogance and ignorance at this time is appauling
“Germany is the United States’ most important ally.” I can picture several million Britons choking on their tea when they heard that. 🤣
@Gavin Doyle Don't forget the Canadians as well!!!
Every ally is the most important ally when you are talking to them.
Well there is Ramstein airbase and Germany continental power so it's the gate their gate to Europe.
The Anglos are no doubt our best allies, Brits, Canadians, Australians... but Germany is up there in the top tier, and they need some friendly encouragement at the moment with the French. The way the French & Germans are bickering with England, trying to punish them for stepping away from EU needs to be called out also, esp during these difficult times. Poland & Baltic States are once again stepping up during this conflict & earning respect. We have many wonderful allies including ones not mentioned, we need greater cooperation, internal accountability, and more prudent approach to adversaries!
The British are excellent allies because they can persuade many other nations to fight on their behalf
I served with the US Army in Germany in the late 80's. Back then, Germany had a large and very capable military. However, since the collapse of the USSR, Germany has been taking a long nap. They allowed their military to atrophy to embarrassing levels. So they don't have a lot to give at this point. And even when they do contribute, they often seem to do so in a timid, lackadaisical, and bureaucratic manner, as if their was no urgency. While they wring their hands over trivialities, people are DYING in Ukraine. Germany isn't the only large member of NATO that has put forth a poor effort- Spain, Italy, and France haven't been stellar either. But no one thinks of those nations as a leader in anything (other than wine or pasta), so I think less is expected of them.
I am glad, however, that Germany seems to have awoken from it's slumber and is finally putting some money into it's military after 30+ years of neglect.
Couldn’t agree more. Most important ally? This guy is too loved up with Germany. In short, they’ve sat on their hands for too long, had not contributed enough to NATO until recently and continue to be mawkishly embarrassed about their past. Nobody in their right mind blames modern day Germany for that and they need to man up and fulfil their potential.
I am from Germany - and unfortunately you are absolutely right. Germany these days is a bureaucratic clown-show, with naive politicians who lack the will to make decisions. And no: i dont think we have awoken from our slumber yet..
@@nuntana2 The media here in germany is constantly telling us to be ashamed of our past. Making us feel guilty about WW2 is literally part of the education-system here.
@@urigeler9223 It was the same in the late 80's, but the German military was fairly powerful back then. Germans should learn about and be ashamed of what they did during WW2. But that doesn't mean they should fail to contribute meaningfully to NATO.
As always, Hodges delivers an astute and nuanced analysis. I always learn so much from listening to him. I also appreciate the intelligent questions of the reporter. Thanks.
You are so superior
General Hodges is almost always correct in his analyses, and subsequently corrects himself when he isn't. Amazing man, amazing mind.
LOL he said that Germany is America's most important ally...wrong!! That's supposed to be Israel, remember??
American apologists disguised as human rights advocates...U.S. Out of North America!!
@Ivan Vlatkovic keep drinking that kool-aid, 😂
how is he correct? are you a millitay specialist to be able to confirm? or you just some Dem bot lol
DW is a great channel. Actual proper discussion, no judgements or partisan side. Really good content well done. Send more help Germany 🇩🇪🇩🇪🇩🇪 🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦
Really good reporters who ask the best questions. Excellent interviews.
Delusional European mafia .
@@ronreinhold8997
DW is a german channel, so do not expect it to be fair and transparent, concerning about what's happening in Ukraine war.
@@marcuslawrence6733 Cope
@@Fauxbourg
Cope what ?
Be straight forward with your comment.
Couldn’t agree more with Mr. Hodges. Germany needs to step their game up. Mr. Scholz can start complaining about being pushed around when he has delivered even a 10th of what the U.S. and the U.K. have shipped. So embarrassed by my government. Scholz fails to recognize the importance of this moment in the war. Ukraine has built momentum and has shown that they can actually win this. Now is the time to give them everything they need. What is Scholz waiting for!?
Do not underestimate the Russians who faced heavy losses in the 1940's but victoriously marched to Berlin.
Finally! This is the first time I've heard anybody with a public voice say this is democracy vs autocracy! That's exactly what this is about.
Lol, first learn history then you will know that US invaded most sovereign countries and killed millions of innocent people. Hypocrites
It is also about a big country invading a smaller neighbour.
Technically, Russia is a democracy; the people elect members of the Duma.
@@harrybarrow6222 Russia is not a democracy, there are degrees to democracy and Russia doesn't make the cut. I'm currently embarrassed that my country is falling down the democracy scale but we are still a democracy, for now. Anyway, Ukraine isn't the only front in this war but it is the front in front. Autocracy's are much simpler, Russia is a bureaucratic autocracy which is a little but not a whole lot more complicated than an autocracy. I'm really not trying to be confrontational it's just that I'm tired of countries saying they are democracies when they are not and I think they should be called on it every time they say it. But since the subtleties of democracy won't fit in a sound bite I guess their ducking to make fools out of us is how it's going to be. Yes it's a big guy vs a little guy but if this were just two autocracies at war to decide who gets to tax a population I wouldn't be supporting either one.
@@harrybarrow6222 Oh, lol I'm tired and I forgot to add; technically Ukraine was a bit short of being a democracy before Russia attacked in my opinion but they were making a real effort and I think they would have made it. I still think they will make it. Democracy is hard.
@@MarkM001 Neither is Ukraine
This was the most brilliant interview I've ever experienced. You dealt with every issue. I have never seen this man but he's amazing! Thanks, from Canada
He’s an American who lives in Germany (I believe his wife is German). He is uniquely qualified for this kind of interview.
Excellent interview. Respectful, yet very clear.
Such a friendly and yet impressive fellow. One of America's best.
General Hodges, you are doing the Ukrainians, the world community and your country a great service by your analyses and thoughts and criticisms about the war in Ukraine. War is something I have never known; in fact, I've never been in the military, but I can tell you that by listening to your take on what is going down in the Ukrainian/Russian war, it is great to know there are people with the expertise and experience like you on the side of the allies. What we all need to realize is that war is the most serious business of all and every day 20 Ukrainian soldiers on average are getting killed and as many or more on the other side. Innocent people and civilians are dying as well which is why we all have to stay focused on getting a solid win for the Ukrainians.
I don't consider lies a great service. Sad that you and anybody listening and believing this man will be sorely disappointed. He has a long track record of lying.
do you really think thats all Russia have got?
Yep. General Hodges is the bomb. Did a great job with Europe command.
They're saying Ukraine 🇺🇦 has one of the best Generals in the Entire globe currently
@@she825 if you love Russia so much, why don't you live there?
Hodges is a good man. Proud to have had him sign some of my awards.
LOL
Why camera of interwiever not being held still?
very informative....great interview.....many thanks.
General Hodges gives a very good overall assessment ...level headed and knowledgeable
Thanks for this reporting
Alla Pugacheva (73), the queen of Soviet pop music, as the General cites, had better avoid windows in tall buildings. I commend her for her courage, and her values, and frankly, concern for her country.
Same age as Charles the T (h) u r d
I can see someone missing the Soviets. Ok, enjoy your queen.
BATTLETANX
@@babblo1389 I don't think you understand the comment. Alla Pugacheva is against the Russian war.
@@babblo1389 Whooosh... (that is the sound of his point going far over your head).
Alla Pugacheva has cristisiced Putin and the war and now she risk getting killed, that is why she better avoid windows in tall buildings as that seems to be one of the methods to get rid of those that critisice ...
This is how it should be done. Excellent stuff DW!
The interviewer is so professional. DW are an awesome crew in general.
I always appreciate both the analysis of General Hodges and the journalism of Ms. Kufner.
Agree. She deserves kudos as well as he.
Ditto that.
Thank you, US and Germany for yours support of Ukraine. You are the real friends, along with other countries supporting us. Thank you.
Slava Ukraini from the USA! 🇺🇦🇺🇸
I love this guy, he is incredibly in tune with current events, and he understands all the complicated motions of this multipolar world.
Great interview!
This is true about Ukraine and Belarus lost more people than moskowia in WW2. Thank you for mentioning this!
It was Ukrainians and Belarusians that captured Berlin after all
This fellow speaks very sharply and has had steady faith in Ukraine from the beginning. In regards to Germany it seems the problems arise from the way they process their History. Maybe Germany is looking for encouraging language from its allies and on the other hand accept it has to step up as a European power. Any reticence is costing Ukraine lives.
DONETSK REPUBLIC patriots winning ALREADY ❤️❤️
There is no reason that Germany stands up and becomes the strongest country in Europe only because Germany is doing well in business. Most of the German's have enough from the last WWII and they don't want it. Being a low profile country is much better for all of us.
Regarding following blind the American is also dangerous because in the past too many lies were used starting a war....
@@babblo1389 Republic patriots with Russian passports - what a joke 😂😂🤣🤣
You are right that the problem stems from Germany's history.
WW2 taught Americans that every problem can be solved with violence. Germans learned the opposite. People aren't necessarily directly aware of this, but these lessons are deeply engrained in the respective cultures.
Germans still carry a moral weight with them. They are very resistant to being seen as involving themselves militarily with anything. Germans do not want to be seen as being unjustly hostile ever again, but wars are hostile by definition.
For example, the US run drone campaign in the middle east lead to tens of thousands of dead and crippled civilians, including women and children. This came at no political cost the the US. Germany isn't wrong to think they would be judged much harsher under the same circumstances, or even much lesser circumstances. An honest one-off mistake of that kind could tear Germany apart, and in wars mistakes always happen. Even the idea of a German tank being internationally televised blowing up something it shouldn't (even if it was Ukrainians pulling the trigger) makes Germans extremely uncomfortable.
Germany has a tiny military. It is intended to only ever fight on German soil. It's equipment again being deployed to eastern Europe understandably makes them nervous.
As far as I can see Germany is now the 2nd biggest donor after the US.
This guy is speaking out of my heart . Der Mann spricht mir aus der Seele.
An educated, great guest to have the fortune to listen too. Thank you very much. RS. Canada
The thing I find amazing about this is that Ben Hodges is able to give very frank criticism without sounding like he is playing to a political base or trying to get noticed on social media.
@@arthurkjr lol people here are not too bright
@@arthurkjr which political base?
Thanx Ben Hodges, it's been a real pleasure and a sobering experience listening to your assessments.
Alongside Fiona Hill, informative, measured and insightful. Good Q&A session. Well done DW.
I always enjoy commentary by General Hodges.
Thank you, General! Respect!
Outstanding! He is a most excellent commentator on the situation from several perspectives. He really ought to shift into a full-time analytical analyst role for contemporary military issues.
He also already has an important full-time job.
I like ben, this guy is level headed and knows what's coming from his mouth.
Thx
Excellent commentary by General Hodges, and good questions form the interviewer too! Some reticence on the part of German leadership is understandable, but it is time to go past that hesitancy and commit fully to the right side.
One must always keep in mind the wise old saying, "Sie können sich immer darauf verlassen, dass Deutschland das Richtige tut. (Nachdem ich vorher alles andere versucht habe.)"
Are you saying that Germany should commit to all out war on Russia and damn the consequences ?
Brilliant interview with one of the best and most knowledgeable people on the subject of Ukraine. I do feel for Germany, because it has done many things right since WWII. But a prolonged war in Ukraine may mean more years of high energy prices and cold winters for the German people. I'm actually more annoyed at France; they are the other 'big leader' of Europe, they are geographically further from the conflict and less dependent on Russian energy, yet are not taking a more decisive role in Ukraine.
As a French, I can only agree with you :/
Our President is too cautious, we should be more engaged in our help to Ukraine
The Europeans have a lot to lose they are not interested in being nuked by Russia, this is not Iraq who did not possess nuclear weapons or an army willing to get organize and fight like Russia will in a 2nd if threatened further by NATO allies, for now Ukraine is a distant problem for Western Europe, and the energy crisis in Europe is largely self inflicted. They would have suffered anyway due to derange climate change policies long before Russia invaded Ukraine. Putin looked to have brought Europe back form the brink without meaning to do so by simply disrupting Ukrainian ambitions for greater European integration.
@@archimedes2261 Absolute nonsense. Most European nations are members of NATO and fall under its nuclear shield. Two European states also retain independent nuclear deterrence. No country can attack a NATO state without the direst reciprocity. To suggest otherwise is scaremongering.
Yup fench sucks
I am German and I am not worried about cold winters in Germany. This one may become expensive (got a hefty price increase from my gas provider just the other day) but on medium to long term, Germany will diversify its providers for gas. They're already building LNG terminals and such.
Things will become more expensive but on the same side more secure and robust. If the German government does a good job, we'll be fine here the winter after and if the winter is not too rough and we reduce consumption a little, we'll make it through this winter without people being cold.
Thank you General Hodges. Very clearheaded answers and commentary.
Superior interview; excellent discourse.
Such measured and balanced explanations , peppered with passion, insight, and experience to deliver his message
He's a liaR
Ben Hodges needs to LISTEN to locals. DONETSK REPUBLIC patriots have been defending their families and homes. ⚫🔵🔴
@@babblo1389 Ukrainians have to
@@babblo1389 Really? They love Russia? Let's see how many of them retreat with you to Russia. Evidently you lack patriots to form a new surge and go begging in prisons instead, blather bot.
Absolut Respect for Ukraine and supporters such as Ben 🙏🇺🇦🙏
Ben Hodges needs to LISTEN to locals.
DONETSK REPUBLIC patriots winning ALREADY ❤️
The hardships of winter war must surely fall most heavily on the side which is failing to achieve its battle objectives, is running out of willing and competent conscripts, and which does not enjoy the support of the local civilian population.
What explains German reticence are two lost wars. I know that Germans rarely mention their experience in the two world wars, but the experiences still inform opinions strongly today. My grandfather, who was a high ranking officer in WW2 wrote a letter to his sons and grandsons, who he would never meet, telling us to never fall for anyone telling us that some war is our war. He fell soon after that. If you understand Germany you know that the country is deeply traumatized by its own history. You don‘t have to have sympathy, but if you want to understand the country you need to understand that Germany will make decisions based on that trauma.
Outstanding, level headed, no grandstanding. Maximum respect Hodges
Agree that Germany should supply more weapons including Leopard, Marder and IRIS-T. That said, Germany will have an opportunity to redeem itself when, after Ukrainian victory, it comes to reconstruction - an endeavour which will require significant investment.
Unless Ukraine is enabled to prevail, there'll be no Ukraine to rebuild.
you forgot jet fighters, submarines, warships and some warheads from usa why not? might as well go all in don't you think 🙄
Ok I agree but why wait now? Also, the Ukrainians won’t forget and will give those nations that did the most during the war effort to have the inside track in helping with reconstruction (ie- USA, Poland, GB…)
😂😂 I hope these comments are generated in the bowels of Langley, Virginia. Because if they are real, the Euros are in for a "big surprise".
They where sure they where the good guys during WWII too, i can´t blame them if they are skeptical. Maybe history would once again look back at Germany as the country that escalated a world war. Could you even imagine doing it for the third time?
Right on point, Sir.
Why the camera is so unstable in studio
Superb interview. Candide, insightful information from former General Ben Hodges. Excellent questions and follow up by the interviewer. 16 minutes jam packed with highly pertinent information. Not a wasted word.
How to spot my bots? They are using exaggerated words to praise and thank
Hope you enjoy all the cheesy comments:)
Great interview… thank you Mr Hodges …
And yet the Rhine is drying up and just like the Colorado River things have changed specially in Risk Assessment.
Another great insight. Thank u sir.
Great interview with Mr. Hodges. Thanks.
We are proud that he decided to live in Germany.
Agreed. I am originally from Scotland but lived in Germany for many years. I have the deepest respect for German society and the hard work and efficiency of your country
@@McConnachy Thank you for this assessment.
Also my experiences with Scottish people in their home country are more than positive. Very proud and very friendly people with a beautiful landscape.
True - but since his wife is German, perhaps after relocating with him for decades that's a deal they struck ;-).
I was born here by accident.
Excellent interview from both 👍
What an amazing interview!
"He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protests against it is really cooperating with it" Martin Luther King Jr
The handheld camera is ENTIRELY unnecessary.
I stand with Ukraine & Taiwan , hoping world leaders come together and do the right thing.
Zombie
Fool...
Same here❤
i'm sorry u r a war monger in mindset. n where is the timelines for peace talk, from nato? and no precipitation no rain, dude. what is the right thing? provocation?
With all due respect, how does your opinion influence actually reality?
Thanks Again DW You're the best news source in the world and I mean that whole heartily❤
It's good to hear straight talking Americans. Good interview, Germany should listen and up their game..
Perhaps The UN should taking Russia off from being a permanent member of the Security Council and give it to A country that respects
Borders and international law?
Usa respects borders and laws?
@@zaxarispetixos8728 i mean it invaded iraq because iraq invaded kuwait 😪
@@zaxarispetixos8728 Canada and the United States have the longest peaceful non militarized border in the world. Tell me, which neighbor of Russia has a non militarized border? Georgia? Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, China,the Baltic States? Finland? Poland?
@@NinjaBehindTheScene that happened in 90s they advamced a few km and went home, in the 2000s they destroyed iraq because they did not like sadam.
@@craigshagin5506 Belarus and ukraine before 2014 was non militirised people in villages walked aroumd the borders of thoose countries without checks is mexico and cuba non militirised also you have aborder with russia in alaska.
Amazing interview and totally agree General Hodges about the momentum but Ukraine still needs all the help it can get. We can help by donating to Ukraine, writing government reps and demand more action and sanctions against Russia or aid for Ukraine. I just feel like we the free world have to do as much as possible for these brave Ukranians.
Yes we will.
My bot, well done. Pick up your bonus.
We have to do it for ourselves. It reinforces our security to dissuade dictators from invading peaceful countries.
All for the Ukraine! Because it's such a special country, with brave, heroic, amazing, freedom-loving people! It deserves an absolutely special treatment. It deserves your salary, your home and your girlfriend. Give them everything they ask! Who cares about Middle East, about Africa. Only god-given and god-blessed country such as Ukraine deserves your attention.
@@user-yj7um6hv1d Yes.
Agree 100% with Mr. Hodges. We’ll said!
Very good discussion
Communication good and questions answered
Germany is getting such a bad rep because of the decades of close relationships with Russia. Germany needs to be proactive but Germany always is seen as always backtracking.
I wonder if Germany is still afraid to not only look aggressive but be aggressive. They need to understand some fights are worth fighting for!
uhh yeah, thats because despite Germanys attempts to act like they can go through winter without Russian gas, they cant. Germanys domestic population might be able to handle a house that is some degrees colder each day BUT the German industry cannot continue without energy. If Germany have to make a choice between heating their peoples homes or reducing industry, it will be reducing industry which will effect their economy and the people who in those industry.
Germany/EU economies are doomed - they are realizing they have been played by USA.
Germany needs to stand up to Russia and de industrialised it economy from cheap Russians gas and oil it will only take 20 years to be poor why not ✌️
@@HassanZargari If some fights are worth it (and I don't disagree here), why waiting for Germany? Great Britain, France, Spain, Italy could deliver tanks to the Ukraine without German permission. Perhaps Germany would contribute to such a coalition.
When Europeans call for Germanys leadership they rather intend a leading amount of German money, but not real leadership.
Thank you for posting this interesting interview.
General Hodges provides excellent analysis and is being very diplomatic with respect to Germany. Germany as a share of its GDP is well behind many other EU nations in support of Ukraine. And, in actual dollars it is tracking with Canada which has a much smaller economy. Not sure what game Germany is playing; but, its performance in this crisis does not invoke much confidence.
Good Interview. I am Member of the pro and pan european Party Volt in Germany and I wrote a Paper 2 Months ago, arguing for a European approach to the weapons delivery for Ukraine. If we combine the defence industrie capabilities in Europe, we could equipp all of the Ukrainian Armed forces with modern equipment. It would still take time, but would deliver the numbers necessary.
Once Ukraine has its needs met and won this war, the same supplychain could then backfill the eastern european EU/NATO Members. Which would also help standardisation in Europe.
Exceptional,succinct,well reasoned questions and responses.We are mere beggars and fools here in the U.S. when it comes to our major news programs.I subscribe to your channel because you are head and shoulders above the gratuitous tripe that passes for intelligent discourse in my wrongheaded country,alas.
Same for me, from the UK
In UK the most useful news on Ukraine comes from Telegraph Newspaper podcasts. Sadly leftists, who support opposition to Putin, refuse to admit the Telegraph (newspaper) output is worth hearing.
I'm convinced that Fox News is responsible for 3/4 of the political conflict in the country. It is doing Russia's job of creating civil unrest and confliict.
@@DorianLS I am in perfect agreement with you Dorian.The other 25% is toxic fluff that serves to bookend the advertising in my opinion.There are no innocent impartial bystanders in this rigged game.Sincere fools and seditious scoundrels: a perfect fustercluck.
very good news. support to Ukrania from Brazil
There is apparently discussion in the U.S. about sending tanks - specifically the M1. But there some hesitancy about how well a gigantic 60-ton tank would be able to navigate around Ukraine's infrastructure.
Outstanding interview and great comments by our General ! Thank you for your service sir !
R.T. Wilson USA.
You the man Hodges.
Not sure why they are skirting around the elephant in the room - which is that Germany became over-reliant on Russian energy. So they have had to prevaricate about providing weapons to Ukraine to win more time to pivot away from Russian hydrocarbons.
@Sonomacats It does matter re legitimacy of German leadership. Let's say we are starting there from a very very very low point.
It doesn't really matter since Putin stopped providing gas for the entire past month and still don't hear Scholz come running arouns the corner yelling things he wants to deliver. We should all just face the truth. It's not economy, it's not gas, it's no nothing. It's just this one person having no balls. It's this simple. The other coalition parties want to deliver tanks gas or no gas. It's just this guy simply having no balls and he's gonna block everything as long as it's scholzingly possible.
great journalism and analysis of both interviewer and interviewee.
I was thinking the same thing about the momentum of the war after the counter-offensive. How could Russia possibly swing the see-saw back the other way when morale is so low and their supply chains are being obliterated? If Ukraine wants to take Crimea back, there's not much Russia will be able to do about it.
If Russian logistics and morale had collapsed then they wouldn't be encircling Bakhmut, the key city for the Ukrainian defenses, right now...
@@jayfrancis3020 maybe that's all they can do right now