

Wednesday, September 24, 2025
107 snips Sep 24, 2025
President Trump's remarks at the U.N. highlight his controversial approach to global diplomacy, emphasizing hard power over soft power. The episode delves into the U.N.'s identity crisis amid rising autocratic influence and discusses the pressing agendas of the 80th General Assembly, including Israel-Gaza tensions and the Israel-Palestine question. Recent shifts in Western recognition of Palestine are explored, revealing the complex interplay between domestic politics and international relations. The conversation raises critical questions about the U.N.'s effectiveness in problem-solving.
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U.S. Guarded Sovereignty In UN's Design
- Mohler emphasizes U.S. insistence on retaining national authority when creating the UN.
- He notes the UN headquarters was placed in New York so U.S. leaders could maintain oversight.
Hard Power Over Soft Power
- Mohler highlights Trump's rejection of soft power and preference for hard power.
- He contrasts Joseph Nye's soft-power theory with Trump's focus on military and direct leverage.
Trump–Zelensky Meeting Shifted Signals
- Mohler recounts Trump's private meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky at the UN.
- He says that meeting signaled a major potential shift in U.S. policy toward Ukraine and Russia.