Pod Save the World Trump Dances Across Asia
69 snips
Oct 29, 2025 
Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia and expert on U.S.-Russia relations, joins to discuss his book on autocrats versus democrats. He argues that autocrats are gaining ground globally and critiques Trump's foreign policy as dangerous and inconsistent. McFaul highlights the effectiveness of sanctions on Russia while addressing the need for a firm stance in Ukraine. He also touches on the transformation of key Russian figures and the importance of balancing cooperation with China. It’s a compelling insight into global politics today!
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Pageantry Over Substantive Diplomacy
- Trump's Asia trip produced staged "victory lap" moments that largely restore the status quo rather than solve underlying problems.
- Ben Rhodes and Tommy Vietor argue these announcements feed Trump's ego while countries hedge toward China.
Deals That Undo His Own Damage
- The China negotiations mainly reverse damage from Trump's earlier tariffs and aim to return to the status quo ante.
- Rhodes warns episodic announcements without follow-through let partners hedge toward China long-term.
Pardons Bought With Crypto Deals
- Tommy and Ben describe CZ's pardon as bought via a $2 billion Emirati investment tied to the Trump family's USD1 stablecoin.
- They detail hires and legal work CZ used to secure the pardon, framing it as pay-to-pardon corruption.
