How the Wests grandiose illusions collapse in Russia

US Ambassador Jack F. Matlock Jr. discusses the unintended consequences of NATO’s expansion right to Russias door step. Imagine you’re in a high-stakes poker game, and the world’s future is the pot. The players are the US and the Soviet Union, each holding cards that could blow up the entire table. Enter Jack F. Matlock Jr., the man Reagan trusted to keep the game from going nuclear. As the US Ambassador to the Soviet Union from 1987 to 1991, Matlock was the ace up America’s sleeve. Now, let’s rewind. It’s the late ’80s, and the Cold War is ice-cold. The Berlin Wall is on the verge of crumbling, and the Soviet Union is in the throes of *glasnost* and *perestroika*. While the world watched with bated breath, Matlock was in the thick of it, navigating the treacherous waters of diplomacy with a steady hand. His efforts didn’t just contribute to the end of the Cold War—they were instrumental in shaping the fragile peace that followed. Fast forward to today, and Jack Matlock is still in the game, but now he’s calling out the moves from the sidelines. He’s got some pretty strong words about how the US is playing its hand in global politics. From the quagmires in the Middle East to the icy standoffs with Russia and China, Matlock sees a lot of bluffing and not enough strategy. He’s not afraid to criticize what he views as reckless and short-sighted policies that could lead to a losing hand for everyone. But Matlock isn’t just pointing fingers. He’s advocating for a return to smart, thoughtful diplomacy—the kind that values long-term stability over quick wins. He’s seen the game played right and wrong, and today he’s here to tell us how we can get back on track. So, get ready for an eye-opening conversation. We’re about to hear from a true maestro of diplomacy who, to use a cliché, has been there, done that, - and Jack has the track record to prove it.