

"Playing With FIRE" John Mearsheimer + Ian Bremmer On Putin + Israel
Jun 13, 2025
Ian Bremmer, a leading political scientist and president of Eurasia Group, is joined by John Mearsheimer, known for his insights on great power politics. Together, they dissect Ukraine's audacious drone attack on Russian airbases and its implications for global conflict. The duo debates the evolving dynamics of U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel's aggressive strategies against Hamas, and the broader geopolitical repercussions of these conflicts, including the threat of nuclear escalation and the moral complexities surrounding warfare.
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New Tech Shapes Warfare
- New military tech is reshaping geopolitical calculations dramatically.
- Ukraine and Israel showcase daring drone use that shifts battlefield dynamics profoundly.
Putin's Dual Pressure
- Putin faces dual pressure to retaliate aggressively yet pursue ceasefire talks.
- This duality complicates conflict outlook, increasing odds of both escalation and negotiations.
West's Role in Russia Conflict
- West's failure to fully integrate Russia post-Soviet Union contributed to current conflict.
- NATO enlargement isn't the issue; lack of real inclusion and response to aggression fueled tensions.