Talking Geopolitics Ukraine Isn't the Only Frontline In Russia's War Against the West
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Nov 14, 2025 
Join geopolitical analyst George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures, as he unpacks the complex dynamics of Russia's war beyond Ukraine. He discusses Trump's engagement with Central Asian leaders, revealing the U.S. strategy to pull these nations away from Russia's influence. Friedman also explores the psychological implications of U.S. diplomacy and the significance of the South Caucasus. He highlights Russia's military economy, battlefield tactics, and potential diplomatic setbacks, offering a strategic perspective on evolving global alliances.
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U.S. Economies Undercut Russian Influence
- The U.S. offers economic and diplomatic advantages Russia can't match in Central Asia and the Caucasus.
- Friedman warns this creates unpredictable alliances that weaken Russia's historic border control strategy.
South Caucasus Losses Expose Northern Flank
- The South Caucasus sits on Russia's northern flank and losing influence there removes a strategic buffer.
- Friedman explains U.S. diplomacy there reduces Moscow's control over volatile border regions like the North Caucasus.
Misjudged War Duration Sparks Strategic Strain
- Russia miscalculated the war's duration and overestimated its capacity to ignore other fronts.
- Friedman says Putin expected a quick victory and was surprised by the prolonged conflict's strategic costs.