The Gist

Veteran Diplomat Charles Kupchan Holds Out Hope For a Peace Deal in Ukraine

Mar 5, 2025

Charles Kupchan, a veteran diplomat and Georgetown professor with a rich background in European affairs, discusses the delicate balancing act of potential peace negotiations for Ukraine. He shares insights on meeting Ukraine's needs while navigating political realities. The conversation also touches on recent political antics, including Donald Trump's memorable speech and his unusual priorities, highlighting the complexities and absurdities of government spending. Kupchan's perspective offers a mix of hope and realism amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

43:57

Episode guests

Charles A. Kupchan

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Charles Kupchan believes a balanced security agreement for Ukraine might be achievable, reflecting cautious optimism amidst ongoing challenges.

The political discourse around Trump's address reveals deeper societal tensions and highlights the contentious nature of contemporary political narratives.

Deep dives

Security in the Digital Age

Data privacy is critical in today's digital landscape, as hackers view personal data as a valuable asset to exploit or sell. Security tools, such as those offered by McAfee, provide essential protection by blocking suspicious texts, emails, and fraudulent websites. Additionally, a secure VPN allows safe browsing, ensuring user privacy while online. With identity theft protection and antivirus solutions, McAfee aims to offer comprehensive security for a nominal fee, thus encouraging users to take preventative measures.

Intro

2min

Navigating the Unconventional Landscape of Modern Politics

2min

Ukraine’s Future: Expansion and Support

5min

Navigating Ukraine's Crisis: Strategies for Peace and Security

18min

Diplomacy and Discontent

7min

Empowering the Oppressed: The Rohingya Crisis

8min

Critique of Government Spending Priorities

2min

Charles Kupchan, former European affairs specialist in Obama’s White House joins us to discuss whether a viable security agreement could be brokered that meets Ukraine’s needs without granting them everything they want. Kupchan isn’t entirely pessimistic—but he’s also not holding his breath.

Plus, Trump’s address to Congress was filled with signature moments: a ripped-up protest sign, a joke about annexing Greenland, and a reading of what he deemed an appropriately deferential letter from Zelensky. But in The Spiel, we break down a different highlight—the section where Trump rattled off supposed cost-saving measures, taking aim at everything from Burmese scholarships to circumcision programs in Mozambique.

Produced by Corey Wara

Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com

To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGist

Subscribe to The Gist: https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/

Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g

Subscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: GIST INSTAGRAM

Follow Mikes Substack at: Pesca Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices