Ukraine War BREAKING NEWS: Marc Fogel Released, But Questions To Be Answered
Table of Contents 📖
"The only way I could, well, the most plausible way of interpreting that answer is we haven't given much because we've given away Ukrainian leverage."
Hello Team
🎦 00:00-00:30⏩
Jonathan welcomes everyone to a breaking news update about the release of US schoolteacher Marc Fogel, who was imprisoned in Moscow in 2021 on drug charges and sentenced to 14 years. The release was secured through an exchange negotiated by former President Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, with US National Security Advisor Mike Walsh involved in the discussions.
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Marc Fogel Released - What was the cost?
🎦 00:30-02:30⏩
Jonathan expresses concern about the lack of information regarding who or what may have been exchanged for Fogel's release. He questions whether the US might have made concessions related to Ukraine, potentially impacting the ongoing war. He speculates that the US may have relinquished valuable leverage related to Ukraine to secure Fogel's release, hinting at potential negative implications for the country.
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Trump Administration's Prisoner Swap Strategy and Ukraine Linkage
🎦 02:30-05:09⏩
The White House has stated its commitment to securing the release of all Americans held abroad. However, Jonathan points out a discreet link between Fogel's release and the war in Ukraine, implying a possible quid pro quo that could be detrimental to Ukraine's position. Trump's characterization of the exchange as "not that much" raises further suspicions for Jonathan about sacrifices made at Ukraine's expense. Jonathan highlights Steve Witkoff's emerging role in mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict, noting his billionaire status and close ties to Trump.
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Was it a good deal? Jonathan's doubts
🎦 05:09-06:56⏩
Jonathan questions the nature of the exchange and whether it genuinely signals goodwill towards ending the war in Ukraine. He suggests that Ukraine might feel sidelined, as negotiations seem to be occurring on their behalf without their direct involvement. Jonathan is sceptical of the simplicity of the swap, noting that if it were straightforward, the Biden administration likely would have secured Fogel's release earlier. He believes a prisoner of significant value must have been released in exchange or that Ukrainian leverage was compromised. He emphasizes the importance of transparency regarding the deal's terms and any concessions made by the US, especially concerning Ukraine's interests.
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Wrap up
🎦 06:56-07:00⏩
Jonathan encourages viewers to share their thoughts and concludes the video.
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