How has modern drone warfare transformed Ukraine's fight for survival, and what can ordinary citizens do to help?
On this episode of Peace and Power Ukraine, host Gary Marx welcomes investor, philanthropist, and longtime Ukraine supporter Whitney Tilson for a wide-ranging conversation on the evolving battlefield, humanitarian aid, and why he believes Ukraine has reached a pivotal moment in the war.
Having visited Ukraine multiple times and helped raise more than $22 million in support of the country's defense, Tilson shares firsthand accounts from soldiers, medics, and frontline units. He explains how drone technology has fundamentally changed the nature of warfare, discusses the growing importance of vehicles and battlefield logistics, and outlines why he believes Ukraine's innovation is shifting the strategic balance against Russia.
The episode covers:
Tilson also reflects on his humanitarian work, the importance of bipartisan support for Ukraine, the historical lessons of the Holocaust in Ukraine, and why he remains optimistic about Ukraine's long-term future despite the immense challenges it continues to face.
00:00 — The reality of today's front lines
01:44 — Introducing Whitney Tilson
03:44 — How Ukraine became his mission
05:23 — Raising millions for frontline aid
07:17 — Ambulance convoys into Ukraine
10:59 — Where donations make the biggest impact
12:26 — Drones, Starlink & battlefield innovation
15:23 — Has the war reached a turning point?
21:13 — Life in the trenches today
26:17 — Can Putin sustain the war?
30:23 — Ukraine's future as a defense innovator
31:38 — U.S. support and military assistance
36:32 — Bipartisan support for Ukraine
39:58 — Remembering Babyn Yar and the Holocaust
44:55 — How to support Whitney Tilson's work