The front in the Ukraine war appears frozen at first glance. However, in the Lyman region, Ukraine has launched a remarkable counteroffensive with the so-called Operation "Vivaldi." In a conversation with Tim Deisinger, retired General Erhard Bühler explains why the Ukrainian armed forces were able to regain territory there and what role drones, reconnaissance, and deep strikes play.
Despite many headlines, Bühler does not want to speak of a revolution in warfare. In his assessment, the success is primarily due to Ukraine's consistent combination of modern drone technology with classic principles of combined arms combat. Tactical surprise was also crucial: the Russians expected an attack, but did not recognize the actual focus of the operation.
Another topic in "Was tun, Herr General?" (What to do, General?) is the election of the Bundeswehr's Inspector General, Carsten Breuer, as the future chairman of the NATO Military Committee. What makes this office so important? How does the election take place behind the scenes? And what influence does Germany actually gain from this?
Note: The episode was recorded on September 30th but could only be published two days later due to technical reasons.
Table of Contents:
01:00 Military situation in Japan 03:20 Current situation in the Ukraine war 09:20 Mutual air attacks 14:30 Lyman and Operation "Vivaldi" 24:12 Meeting Lavrov - Wadephul 28:08 Breuer becomes head of the NATO Military Committee 43:00 Farewell and podcast tip
If you have questions: Write to general@mdraktuell.de or call toll-free at 0800 6373737.
Podcast tip: 11KM Russia without Starlink: How satellites decide the war
The next issue of "Was tun, Herr General?" is planned for October 7, 2026.
What to do, Herr General? – The podcast on the Ukraine war War in Europe. What strategy is the Russian army pursuing, what are the chances of the Ukrainian defenders? Assessments of the military situation and the consequences of the war from former NATO General Erhard Bühler.
