In this very special episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we are honoured to speak with General David H. Petraeus: former CIA Director, Commander of U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and one of America’s most respected military leaders.

Across a remarkable career at the highest levels of military and intelligence service, Petraeus has had a front-row seat to the great struggles between democracy and dictatorship; from the Cold War to counterinsurgencies in the Middle East, and now to the rise of authoritarian powers in the 21st century.

In this wide-ranging conversation, General Petraeus reflects on:

• His path from a childhood near West Point to leading U.S. forces abroad.
• How democratic values were tested throughout the Cold War and beyond.
• The methods authoritarian regimes use to maintain power: coercion, propaganda, and control.
• Why deterrence and alliances remain essential in confronting Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.
• His candid assessment of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and lessons from strategic successes and failures.
• What young people disillusioned with democracy should demand of their leaders.
• The importance of service, mission, and values and why soldiers really fight.

From the battlefield to the CIA, from Iraq to Ukraine, Petraeus shares unique insights into the global contest between autocracy and democracy and why he still believes free societies will prevail.

🔑 Key Parts:

• Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others. Quoting Churchill
• History is back with a vengeance
• Deterrence rests on capabilities, and the will to use them; both must be clear
• Soldiers don’t fight for democracy in the moment, they fight for the man or woman on their left and right

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💬 Question for you:
Do you agree with Gen. Petraeus that deterrence and alliances are the key to keeping democracies safe, or do democracies need a different strategy in facing today’s autocrats?

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