What Really Matters with Walter Russell Mead Trump, China, and the Tariff Wars
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Mar 7, 2025 Imagine a world where the U.S. cuts intelligence ties with Ukraine! This week, a deep dive into how this affects military dynamics against Russia. The conversation shifts to a Republican rift over support for Ukraine and the need for strategic realignment in diplomacy. Don't miss the excitement around TSMC's massive investment in Arizona, reshaping U.S.-Taiwan ties. Finally, unpack the ever-changing tariffs under Trump and their ripple effects on international relations, especially with China. A geopolitical rollercoaster awaits!
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Impact of Intelligence Cut-off
- Cutting off intelligence sharing with Ukraine significantly impacts their targeting of Russian forces.
- This action, however, is likely temporary given Trump's unpredictable nature and desire for a deal in Ukraine.
Trump's Motivation for Peace
- Trump's desire to end the war stems from its unpopularity among his hardline MAGA base, despite broad support elsewhere.
- He aims to find a compromise that satisfies enough people on both sides, prioritizing ending the war over specific terms.
State Department Leaks and Resistance
- The State Department, a change-averse institution, has leaked plans to close consulates, demonstrating resistance to restructuring.
- Mead humorously expresses a preference for being a consul in Florence over more challenging locations like Peshawar.