Andrew Weiss: Putin’s Secret Strategy and the Russia-Iran Connection

In this episode of the Brian Kilmeade Show, guest Andrew Weiss dissects the deepening crisis within Russia under Putin, highlighting widespread disaffection among Russia's security apparatus—FSB, GRU, SVR—following the Wagner mutiny. Weiss argues that Putin's regime is not only losing the war in Ukraine but also facing internal erosion, with intelligence officers showing indifference or even support for opposition figures like Prigozhin. He warns that this demoralization makes Russia vulnerable to foreign penetration and sabotage, as seen in Ukrainian successes targeting Russian generals. The discussion then shifts to Russia’s growing military cooperation with Iran, including the potential transfer of advanced drones and satellite intelligence, which poses a direct threat to U.S. forces. Weiss criticizes the current administration for downplaying this alliance and for adopting a reckless, impulsive foreign policy that risks overextension. He warns against the illusion of quick fixes, citing failed attempts to topple Iran’s regime and the dangers of a 'seat-of-the-pants' approach to national security. The episode concludes with concerns about the administration’s lack of experienced advisors and its tendency to reward sycophancy over honest counsel, undermining strategic coherence. Key takeaways include: Russia’s internal instability is a strategic vulnerability; U.S. policy must confront Russia-Iran military collaboration head-on; quick military solutions to Iran are unrealistic and dangerous; the U.S. must avoid overextension by aligning strategy with realistic capabilities; and senior leadership must include experienced, independent advisors who challenge the president rather than merely endorse his impulses. The tone is cautionary and critical, emphasizing the risks of overconfidence and poor decision-making in high-stakes foreign policy.