Anne Applebaum, author of "Autocracy, Inc.", and Shane Harris, national security expert at The Atlantic, discuss the declining trust among allies in U.S. intelligence sharing. They explore the end of the post-World War II order and the implications of recent U.S. foreign policy shifts, particularly in the context of Russia and Ukraine. The conversation highlights concerns over proposed demands on Ukraine’s sovereignty and the broader impact of changing geopolitical alliances on European security dynamics.
The podcast discusses the unsettling decline of international trust among allies in the wake of changing U.S. political dynamics and leadership.
It highlights the potential repercussions of a weakened U.S. stance on global security, especially concerning authoritarian regimes and smaller nations.
Deep dives
The Military as a Path to Purpose
The military offers vast opportunities for individuals seeking meaningful work and personal growth. It allows individuals to be part of a larger mission while also pursuing their personal aspirations. Engaging in military service provides the chance to contribute to something significant, which resonates with many people's desire for a purposeful career. Furthermore, the military environment fosters values such as unity, discipline, and service, enabling members to grow alongside others who share similar priorities.
Shift in Global Alliances
Recent political trends have demonstrated a noticeable shift in the dynamics of international alliances, particularly concerning the United States' relationships with European allies. High-profile comments from U.S. officials hint at a more dismissive approach to traditional partnerships, raising concerns about stability in international order. The lack of support for a U.N. vote condemning Russian aggression signifies a potential realignment or 'switching sides' that could have far-reaching implications for global diplomacy. This change is perceived as a dramatic departure from established norms that have underpinned U.S. relations with allies since World War II.
Concerns Over Intelligence Sharing
There is growing anxiety among allies regarding the reliability of the United States as a partner in intelligence sharing. Following recent shifts in leadership, there are fears that political distractions within the U.S. may compromise the quality of intelligence provided to its allies. This includes concerns about the potential for classified information to be mishandled or disclosed, a worry magnified by past incidents during Trump's presidency. As trust deteriorates, allies may begin to reconsider their level of dependency on U.S. intelligence capabilities, impacting collective security.
The Risks of Realigning Global Power
The implications of a changed U.S. stance on international relations could lead to significant consequences for global security. If assertive measures are taken against allies or recommendations are made that favor adversarial nations like Russia, it could embolden authoritarian regimes. The risk is clear: should Ukraine's sovereignty be compromised, it may create a precedent that allows larger nations to bully smaller ones with little consequence. This evolving situation may lead European nations to seek greater autonomy in defense matters, further complicating the global security landscape.
We talk with staff writer Anne Applebaum about what she calls the “end of the post–World War II order.” We also talk with staff writer Shane Harris, who covers national security, about how intelligence agencies are responding to changing positions under the Trump administration. Allies that routinely share intelligence with the U.S. are reassessing how much to trust the U.S.
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