The President’s Inbox
A New U.S. Grand Strategy: The Eurasia Challenge, With Hal Brands
Jan 21, 2025
Hal Brands, a distinguished professor of Global Affairs at Johns Hopkins and author of The Eurasian Century, joins James M. Lindsay to dissect the critical U.S. interests in Eurasia. They explore the historical struggle for power in the region and the implications for national security. Brands highlights China's ambitions and the risks posed by rising autocracies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of military readiness and allies in maintaining global stability, arguing against neo-isolationism in favor of active U.S. engagement.
36:00
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Hal Brands emphasizes that control of Eurasia has historically been crucial for global power dynamics and U.S. national security.
- The podcast highlights the need for proactive U.S. foreign policy and military investment to counter rising authoritarian influences in Eurasia.
Deep dives
The Eurasian Century Defined
The concept of the Eurasian century emphasizes that the Eurasian landmass has historically been the center of global power struggles due to its population density and wealth of resources. Since the early 20th century, this region has witnessed major conflicts shaped by the intersection of technological advancement and ideological conflict. The development of transportation networks, such as the Trans-Siberian Railway, enabled more rapid military mobilization, while the industrial revolution heightened the intensity and duration of wars. This tumultuous backdrop illustrates how aggressive powers within Eurasia have pursued expansionist agendas while offshore powers, like the United States and Britain, have worked to contain their influence.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
