Judging Freedom Ray McGovern : Can Ukraine Rely on US Guarantees?
Feb 16, 2026
Ray McGovern, former CIA analyst turned independent intelligence commentator, discusses high-level Geneva talks and which Russian officials are involved. He covers timing and messaging around the Valdai drone strike. He examines past negotiation choices, Western influence on Ukraine, and the realism of U.S. security guarantees.
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Russia Signals Seriousness In Geneva Talks
- Russia is sending a relatively high-level delegation to Geneva, signaling seriousness about negotiations.
- Ray McGovern says their delegation upgrade reflects a real push toward diplomacy despite tensions.
Drone Piece Given To U.S. Attache
- Ray recounts that Russians gave a piece of a drone to the U.S. military attache claiming American origin.
- He and Scott Ritter debated whether the drone's parts proved CIA involvement or broader NATO technology use.
A Missed 2022 Deal Changed The War
- McGovern says a negotiated April 2022 agreement would have left Ukraine with most territory and limits on NATO movement.
- He blames Western leaders for persuading Kyiv to reject that deal, prolonging the war.