GoodFellows: Conversations from the Hoover Institution Drones, Dictators & Debt: India Flirts, Ukraine Fights, Trump Takes on The Fed | GoodFellows | Hoover Institution
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Sep 5, 2025 The discussion kicks off with Indian Prime Minister Modi's balancing act between Russia and China, igniting debates on global realignments. As Ukraine transforms its conflict into a drone warfare strategy, insights into the resilience of its infrastructure emerge. Tensions surrounding the Federal Reserve's independence reveal the complexities of governmental influence on monetary policy. The podcast also dives into modern fascism discussions, contrasting historical and current governance dynamics, and humorously touches on free speech and spontaneous performances in London.
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India's Schizophrenic Foreign Policy
- India balances fear of abandonment and fear of entrapment in its foreign policy choices.
- This explains Modi's simultaneous courting of Russia/China and attraction to Western market democracies.
Posturing Over Partnership
- Modi's high-profile meetings with Putin and Xi were largely symbolic rather than substantive.
- India has long pursued a 'both ways' or 'polyamorous' strategy that resists full alignment with authoritarian powers.
Accept Good Trade Offers
- If India offers zero tariffs, the U.S. should accept to secure gains and encourage reform.
- Saying yes after achieving leverage can deliver significant economic and developmental benefits for India.
