Fiona Hill, an adviser to three US presidents on Russia, discusses American power, British decline, and the influence of Putin. They explore deindustrialization, rise of populism, and expanding education impact. They also touch upon Gaza, Israel, Russia's role, ceasefire need, and criticism of Netanyahu. Lastly, the significance of the upcoming American election, European security, and the UK's position on the world stage are discussed.
Fiona Hill emphasizes the importance of education and diverse entry points into education, advocating for continuous learning throughout life.
Hill highlights the fragility of American democracy and warns of the potential restoration of Donald Trump, which could undermine democratic institutions and European security.
Deep dives
Fiona Hill's Journey from Humble Beginnings in the North of England to Advising US Presidents
Fiona Hill, a British woman who grew up in County Durham, overcame a challenging background to advise three US presidents on foreign policy, specifically regarding Russia. Despite facing opposition from President Trump, who dismissed her accomplishments, Hill broke barriers and achieved success in American politics. She recently published a memoir, 'There's Nothing For You Here,' examining deindustrialization, the rise of populism, and her unique perspective on American power and British decline. Hill emphasizes the importance of education and opportunities, comparing the accessibility of education in the UK in the past to the current situation of rising student debt. She also highlights the need for more diverse entry points into education and a broader understanding of the benefits of continuous learning throughout one's life.
Fiona Hill's Reflections on Class Attitudes and Social Mobility
Growing up in the north of England during a period of industrial decline, Fiona Hill faced class barriers that limited her opportunities. While she acknowledges that some progress has been made, class attitudes and regional biases persist, impacting social mobility. Hill believes that the nature of work has changed and that traditional working-class jobs have transformed into the gig economy. She suggests that regions like the north of England still face discrimination and limited opportunities compared to the south. Hill also discusses the differences between the American and British class systems, highlighting the interplay between class and race in the United States. She believes that class consciousness and efforts to expand education are crucial for societal renewal and combating demagoguery.
The Threat of Trump's Potential Restoration and its International Implications
Fiona Hill expresses concern about the potential restoration of Donald Trump and the implications it could have on American democracy and international affairs. She believes that Trump's second term would further hollow out democratic institutions, weaken the federal government, and fuel divisions within the United States. She warns that Trump's anti-NATO stance and cozying up to leaders like Putin could jeopardize European security and open doors for Russian influence. Hill emphasizes the need for countries like the UK to prepare for various scenarios, strengthen NATO, build bilateral relationships, and foster resilience in democratic institutions. She also highlights the importance of addressing broader security challenges, such as Russia's role in Ukraine and Iran's involvement in the Middle East.
The Fragile State of American Democracy and the Role of Putin
Fiona Hill discusses the fragility of American democracy and the potential for Putin's interference in the 2024 US election. She highlights the numerous criminal cases and impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump, noting that they have paradoxically strengthened his support among some Republicans. Hill warns that Putin could exploit the current state of American democracy by fueling anti-Americanism and undermining trust in democratic institutions. She emphasizes the importance of European solidarity and proactive measures to counter Russian influence. Hill also calls for greater attention to be paid to the implications of Russia's alliance with Iran and its attempts to reshape geopolitical narratives through anti-Western sentiments.
Fiona Hill is one of the most powerful British people of the 21st century but the chances are you haven’t even heard of her.
She’s advised three presidents of the United States on foreign policy, especially on Putin’s Russia.
She gave evidence at Trump’s first impeachment. at this time of international chaos, of an America which feels inside and out, on the edge, there could be no better time to talk to this woman with a unique perch on American power, British decline, and how in the end, all roads lead back to the Kremlin.
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Laura FitzPatrick
Planning Producer: Alex Barnett
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Producers: Jack McKay & Arvind Badewal
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