Next Comes What
Episode: Do the Right Thing — Ukraine, Russia & How to Push Back
Host: Andrea Pitzer
Release Date: March 6, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled "Do the Right Thing — Ukraine, Russia & How to Push Back," Andrea Pitzer delves into the complex geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting the implications for the United States and global stability. Through an in-depth conversation with an unnamed contributor, Pitzer explores the rise of authoritarianism, the manipulation of information, and the critical need for collective action to support Ukraine and safeguard democratic institutions.
Background: The Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Andrea Pitzer opens the discussion by recounting her personal experience during the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. She describes waking up to explosions in Moscow, emphasizing the sudden and brutal nature of the attack. This personal narrative sets the stage for understanding the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
Notable Quote:
"[...] I woke up in Moscow to the sound of a television showing tanks crossing the border. It was a very grim morning."
— Andrea Pitzer [09:30]
The Domestic Impact in the US
Pitzer juxtaposes the international crisis with the current state of American politics, particularly focusing on the actions of former President Donald Trump and his allies. She critiques Trump's recent public humiliation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, arguing that such behavior undermines US credibility and support for Ukraine.
Notable Quote:
"Trump and J.D. Vance broke with past foreign policy to belittle and taunt Volodymyr Zelensky. [...] it was clear that what was intended by the current elected officials of the US Government was a ritualized hazing of someone with lesser power."
— Andrea Pitzer [17:30]
Rise of Authoritarianism and Disinformation
The episode delves into how authoritarian regimes like Russia manipulate information to maintain control. Pitzer discusses the extensive use of state-controlled media to propagate false narratives, such as the conspiracy theory of US-funded biological weapons labs in Ukraine. She draws parallels between Russian propaganda and similar trends within the United States, highlighting the dangers of disinformation.
Notable Quotes:
"Most of Russia's homegrown free media has now been silenced. [...] they enacted a new law that promises punishment of up to 15 years in prison for frankly reporting the truth about Putin's invasion of Ukraine."
— Andrea Pitzer [07:25]
"Independent journalists, anti-corruption campaigners, opposition activists, opposition leaders, many people have died, some in strange and unexplained deaths, others in just straight out assassinations."
— Andrea Pitzer [06:55]
Historical Context and Comparisons
Pitzer provides a historical perspective by comparing the current situation in Russia with past authoritarian regimes, such as Nazi Germany. She emphasizes that the creation of oppressive systems requires extensive propaganda and societal manipulation, contradicting the notion that inherent human nature leads to such atrocities.
Notable Quote:
"In the case of my research, those authoritarian voices and propagandists had been condemning those who would be victims in the camps. [...] It was like, we're really baffled. But if you flip the tables [...] it still lets you put people in camps."
— Andrea Pitzer [14:15]
Current US Political Landscape
The conversation shifts to the current US political environment, focusing on the influence of corporate power, income inequality, and the erosion of democratic institutions. Pitzer critiques the alignment of major corporations and wealthy individuals with authoritarian tendencies, arguing that this trend mirrors the rise of dictatorial regimes.
Notable Quotes:
"We've had four decades of capitalism on steroids, promoting business interests over people and expanding income inequality, pauperizing whole sections of the population and destroying faith in government."
— Andrea Pitzer [22:15]
"We have disinformation on a massive scale that promotes the idea nothing can be done, that it's better to lie low and keep from provoking anything that might disrupt your job or trigger actual violence against you."
— Andrea Pitzer [22:58]
Solidarity with Ukraine: Actions and Support
Pitzer outlines actionable steps listeners can take to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. She emphasizes the importance of public demonstrations, political advocacy, and direct support through donations. By highlighting specific actions, Pitzer aims to empower listeners to contribute meaningfully to the cause.
Notable Quotes:
"First, we need to continue to support Ukraine [...] showing public support is simple. There's some easy things to do. Fly a Ukrainian flag. Show up at demonstrations [...] call your governor, your representative or your senator."
— Andrea Pitzer [31:27]
"For now at least, you can still donate to a wide range of relief and supply efforts in Ukraine. I would encourage people to give now, while it is still straightforward and legal to do so now."
— Andrea Pitzer [32:36]
Combating Ignorance and Building Resilience
Addressing the internal challenges within the US, Pitzer stresses the need to counteract ignorance and foster a more informed populace. She advocates for supporting independent journalism and developing new information networks to effectively combat the spread of disinformation.
Notable Quotes:
"That will require new information networks that are more effective than legacy journalism is right now. We need a bigger vision to help tie that together. But still you can be a part of it in small ways by supporting what is working."
— Andrea Pitzer [34:58]
"Making this change will also require the public and politicians to put forth a new vision that stands not for mealy mouthed accommodations to hatred and resentment [...] but instead offers a real future and better lives for all Americans together."
— Andrea Pitzer [35:49]
Conclusion and Call to Action
Andrea Pitzer concludes the episode by reiterating the dual approach needed to address both international and domestic crises. She underscores the importance of supporting Ukraine to protect its sovereignty and holding US politicians accountable to prevent the erosion of democratic values.
Notable Quote:
"We have to address those wrongs too. And when the country takes a step to introduce new and significant harms, it's important to call attention to it and where possible, to stop it."
— Andrea Pitzer [30:25]
"We are capable of it. And unlike so many countries that have fallen to authoritarianism, for now we have the freedom and the means to act. Every action matters. So pick one thing and do it. That's it."
— Andrea Pitzer [36:56]
Key Takeaways
- Support for Ukraine: Actively support Ukraine through public demonstrations, political advocacy, and donations to relief efforts.
- Combat Disinformation: Strengthen and support independent journalism and new information networks to counteract propaganda and misinformation.
- Political Accountability: Hold US politicians accountable for actions that undermine democratic institutions and international alliances.
- Public Awareness: Increase awareness of both international conflicts and domestic issues to foster a more informed and resilient society.
Final Thoughts
"Do the Right Thing — Ukraine, Russia & How to Push Back" serves as a compelling examination of the intertwined nature of international conflict and domestic political instability. Andrea Pitzer effectively highlights the urgent need for collective action to support Ukraine and safeguard democratic values within the United States. By providing both a nuanced analysis and practical steps for listeners, the episode empowers individuals to contribute to meaningful change in turbulent times.
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