The Back Channel
A Memoir of American Diplomacy and the Case for Its Renewal
Book • 2019
In *The Back Channel*, William J. Burns recounts his experiences as a diplomat, drawing on newly declassified cables and memos to provide insight into American diplomacy.
The book covers his involvement in seminal moments such as the end of the Cold War, the collapse of relations with Putin’s Russia, post–9/11 Middle East tumult, and secret nuclear talks with Iran.
Burns makes a compelling case for the importance of diplomacy in a volatile world, offering a reflective and candid story of his career as a professional diplomat.
The book covers his involvement in seminal moments such as the end of the Cold War, the collapse of relations with Putin’s Russia, post–9/11 Middle East tumult, and secret nuclear talks with Iran.
Burns makes a compelling case for the importance of diplomacy in a volatile world, offering a reflective and candid story of his career as a professional diplomat.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned by Anatole Lieven as the author of a memoir, and someone who would have been ideal to send to Moscow.
Behind the News: Why the US Needs “Better Elites” w/ Samuel Moyn
Mentioned by Anatole Lieven as an example of someone who has been conducting back-channel communication, but focused on de-escalation rather than negotiation.
Negotiating Peace in Ukraine
