Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews 1/30/26 Gordon Hahn on the Impediments to Peace in Ukraine
Feb 2, 2026
Gordon Hahn, author and senior researcher on Russia–Ukraine relations, breaks down recent Abu Dhabi talks and the energy truce. He outlines territorial bargaining over Donetsk, explains why Russia may resist concessions, and examines Ukraine’s domestic pressures from ultra‑nationalist forces like Azov. He also explores security‑guarantee pitfalls, EU/referendum delay tactics, and risks of social collapse amid blackouts.
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Energy Truce Driven By Grid Collapse
- The energy truce to Feb 1 arose because Ukraine's grid was near collapse from Russian strikes.
- Hahn argues Ukraine proposed the freeze to avoid nationwide blackout and buy time amid plunging electricity and economy.
Territorial Talks Vs. Battlefield Reality
- Territorial talks center on demilitarized zones but are overshadowed by Russia's battlefield gains.
- Hahn warns Russia's rapid advances make Ukrainian territorial cards vanish, risking a fait accompli by year-end.
Internal Politics Prevent Concessions
- Domestic Ukrainian politics block concessions because ultra-nationalists and mainstream parties oppose territorial compromise.
- Hahn notes laws equating talk of concessions with treason silence proponents and tie Zelensky's hands.
