Marvin Kalb, a former CBS News correspondent and anchor of NBC’s “Meet the Press,” has released a new book titled “A Different Russia.” In light of the recent events in Ukraine, his insights are particularly relevant:
With over 70 years in journalism focusing on American foreign policy, I’ve had the privilege of serving as CBS’s Moscow correspondent and diplomatic correspondent. I also covered the historic summit in 1961 between President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev.
This experience taught me that a summit conducted without thorough preparation can result in disaster. The prospect of a forthcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin seems to me a very precarious risk.
Trump has characterized the conflict in Ukraine as a “bloody mess,” vowing to resolve it swiftly. Similarly, Putin is eager to conclude the conflict quickly, but on his conditions.
Interestingly, those conditions appear to align with Trump’s perspective. Firstly, a ceasefire would be established, allowing Russia to maintain control over roughly 20% of Ukraine.
Secondly, Ukraine would be barred from NATO and, likely, the European Union; it would become a “neutral” nation, aligning itself not with the West (which is Ukraine’s preference), but with Russia.
This arrangement could bring an end to the war, as Trump has pledged. However, Ukraine, feeling abandoned, would justifiably respond with cries of “betrayal,” directing their anger at the United States, and likely initiating a desperate guerilla campaign against Russia.
Thus, the conflict would continue in another form.
NATO, once a steadfast defense against Russian aggression, would be weakened, unable to rely on America’s assurances or military backing.
Simultaneously, China might feel emboldened to take aggressive action toward Taiwan, a scenario it has frequently threatened. Would the U.S. provide more reliable support to Taiwan than it did to Ukraine?
If such a deal regarding Ukraine were to transpire, it would signify a harrowing shift, revealing that America has indeed changed. The United States had promised unwavering support for Ukraine for “as long as it takes.” However, a deal that leaves Ukraine in a precarious position would suggest that America’s role as a reliable global leader is now a relic of the past.
READ AN EXCERPT: “A Different Russia” by Marvin Kalb
The seasoned CBS and NBC journalist reflects on covering the 1963 Cold War summit between President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev.
For more information:
- “A Different Russia: Khrushchev and Kennedy on a Collision Course” by Marvin Kalb (BookBaby), available in Trade Paperback format through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Story produced by Liza Monasebian. Editor: Carol Ross.
