Zeke Faux, an investigative reporter for Bloomberg Businessweek and author of "Number Go Up," discusses the growing rift between the US and Europe regarding the war in Ukraine. He sheds light on the implications of an Argentinian President's memecoin and its connections to crypto schemes involving the Trump family. The conversation also touches on Germany's political shifts, the rise of right-wing sentiments in Europe, and the urgent need for coherent governance amidst global tensions.
The podcast emphasizes the growing divide between the US and Europe regarding their responses to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Discussions on the recent German elections reveal a shifting political landscape and a notable rise in far-right party support.
Concerns are raised about the erosion of national security integrity due to Trump's influence and controversial leadership appointments at the FBI.
The conversation highlights alarming immigration policies leading to inhumane treatment of migrants, stressing the need for compassionate reforms.
Deep dives
Sundaes: Revolutionizing Dog Food
Sundaes offers a fresh dog food option made from human-grade ingredients, focusing on a balanced diet of 90% meat and 10% superfoods, with no artificial additives. This innovative food product has generated positive feedback from dog parents, noting noticeable improvements in their pets' health, such as better fur, breath, and energy levels. Unlike conventional fresh dog foods, Sundaes requires no refrigeration due to its air-drying process, making it both easy to serve and store. With a subscription model that includes discounts and free shipping, Sundaes aims to ensure pet owners never run out of food while saving them money.
Exploration of Historical Texts
The podcast discusses the impact of historical texts on contemporary understanding of fascism, particularly through the lens of the Third Reich. References are made to works such as 'Darkness Over Germany' and 'A Town in the Third Reich,' which provide insights into Germany's societal capitulation to fascist ideologies. This textual exploration serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding history to identify and address similar threats in modern society. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of engaging with historical narratives to better comprehend present-day repercussions of totalitarian regimes.
Unpacking the Russian Invasion of Ukraine
The three-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine was marked by significant developments, including a strong response from European leaders providing financial aid to Ukraine. A $20 billion package from the EU and additional investments from the UK and Spain highlight the ongoing support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The discussion also shone a light on Trump's controversial negotiations, which some view as exploitative of Ukraine's resources, with talks of mineral rights and potential U.S. security guarantees complicating the situation further. This emphasis on what Ukraine must concede in negotiations raises concerns about the broader implications for sovereign nationhood.
The German Election Results
The recent German elections showcased a surprising voter turnout and the resilience of political parties, with the far-right AFD party gaining significant support. The results indicate a shifting political landscape, with electorate dissatisfaction prompting changes in party leadership, including a potential coalition between the CDU and the SPD. However, the surge of the DeLinca party reflects growing opposition to right-wing extremism and dissatisfaction with the current political climate. The conversation underlines the necessity for center-left parties to regain the trust of younger voters, who seem increasingly disillusioned with established parties.
Understanding the U.S. National Security Landscape
The podcast uncovers the growing concerns about the politicization of U.S. national security institutions under Trump's influence, particularly with the recent confirmation of Kash Patel to lead the FBI. The troubling combination of loyalty over qualifications is highlighted by Patel's selection of Dan Bongino, a media personality with no operational experience, as his deputy director. This shift raises alarm bells about the integrity and effectiveness of the FBI's investigative capabilities. The ongoing discussions reflect a larger narrative about the erosion of institutional integrity in governance and national security.
Immigration Policy and Humanitarian Concerns
A critical look at immigration policy reveals alarming actions taken by the U.S. government, particularly the deportation of vulnerable asylum seekers to dangerous conditions in Panama. The report sheds light on the inhumane treatment of migrants detained at Guantanamo Bay, where harsh conditions prevail despite the government's claims. This raises ethical questions about the commitment to human rights and the standards of treatment for those seeking refuge. The discussion underscores the urgent need for compassionate and lawful immigration policies that protect those fleeing persecution.
The Dramatic Shift in Global Leadership
The conversation pivots to the implications of global right-wing movements exemplified by recent events at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Participants included various international right-wing figures who shared their ideologies, illustrating a connected web of populist politics across borders. Increasing collaboration among these leaders highlights an evolving far-right political landscape that could reshape global governance dynamics. The podcast stresses the imperative for the left to organize and counter these movements with their own cohesive strategic initiatives.
Tommy and Ben discuss the increasing divide between the US and Europe on the issue of the war in Ukraine just as the world marks the three year anniversary, including a mineral reserves deal and America’s vote against a UN resolution calling for an end to Russian aggression. They also talk about Germany’s election results and the likely new Chancellor Freidrich Merz, the right wing podcaster who is Trump’s new Deputy FBI Director, firings at the Pentagon, an update on migrants sent to Guantanamo Bay and Panama, a parade of international right wingers at CPAC, and strains in the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel after the return of the remains of the Bibas family. Then, Tommy speaks to Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Zeke Faux about the Argentinian President’s memecoin and how it relates to the Trump family’s crypto schemes.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
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