Putin Shifting Russia's Red Lines / Dr. Gilbert Doctorow & Lt Col Daniel Davis

Daniel Davis / Deep Dive: The discussion explores potential paths toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war and the growing risks of escalation. Host and guest Dr. Gilbert Doctorow, an international affairs analyst, examine recent developments, particularly Russia’s reaction to the possible U.S. delivery of Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine.

Dr. Doctorow recalls that over a year ago, Vladimir Putin had warned such missiles could only be operated under U.S. control—implying that their use would make the U.S. a direct participant and legitimate military target. Putin recently reiterated that Tomahawk deliveries would severely “damage or destroy” U.S.–Russia relations, suggesting the risk of open conflict.

Doctorow argues that while Russia avoids enforcing red lines directly against the U.S. (to prevent nuclear war), it might strike European powers—especially Germany—if German-made Taurus missiles are used against Russian targets. He believes Moscow would attack the German factories that produce those weapons rather than Berlin itself, assuming NATO’s Article 5 protection might not apply if Germany were seen as a co-belligerent.

The conversation highlights fears of escalation: if the U.S. or Germany crosses these lines, Russia could retaliate militarily, drawing Europe deeper into the war. Doctorow suggests some Taurus missiles may already have been quietly transferred to Ukraine.

The discussion ends with Donald Trump’s comments claiming he once thought ending the war would be easy due to his relationships with Putin and Zelensky, but he now admits it has proven far more complicated—possibly even tougher than resolving conflicts in the Middle East.