This podcast delves into NATO's air defenses, the China-led global economy, South Africa's election results, and Trump's hush money conviction. It explores the impacts of Western sanctions, Russia-Turkey relations, and Trump's legal issues, offering insights on Ukraine's history and current situation.
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Quick takeaways
NATO lacks sufficient air defense capacities in Europe's eastern flank, highlighting vulnerability to potential threats.
Western sanctions have unintentionally strengthened China-led shadow global economy through increased trading with targeted nations.
Deep dives
Europe's Air Defense Vulnerabilities
NATO's internal calculations reveal Europe has minimal air defense capabilities, leaving its eastern flank vulnerable. Amid Russia's actions in Ukraine, NATO states can supply less than 5% of necessary air defense capacities. While concerns exist, the actual threat of a full-scale attack remains unclear.
Global Shadow Economy Due to Western Sanctions
The unintended consequences of Western sanctions have strengthened ties among nations targeted by sanctions, notably China. Restrictions on Russia, Iran, and others have led to a shadow economy, bolstered by China trading various goods like drones and missiles. Sanctions' efficacy is debated, with calls for caution in their use.
South Africa's Political Landscape Shift
South Africa's ANC faces challenges as its parliamentary majority wanes, hinting at potential coalition governments. Economic struggles under President Cyril Ramaphosa have impacted voter support. The ANC's positioning for coalitions with different parties reflects varied policy outcomes, with potential implications for the country's stability.
This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss NATO’s air defenses, the China-led shadow global economy, South Africa’s election results, and the hush money conviction of Donald Trump.
Each week on What Really Matters, Walter Russell Mead and Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now. For more, check out tabletmag.com/what-really-matters. You can read Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column here, and check out more from Tablet here.