Everything Everywhere Daily

The Long Telegram

Sep 9, 2025
Delve into the pivotal Long Telegram, a groundbreaking missive that shaped U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. Discover how Kennan's insights into Soviet behavior exposed the complexities of American-Soviet relations. The discussion highlights his containment strategy and its implications for the Truman Doctrine. Explore the evolution of Kennan's ideas and their lasting influence on international relations. It's a revealing look at how a single message can dictate decades of geopolitical strategy.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Postwar Friction Was Systemic

  • The wartime alliance unraveled quickly after WWII due to Soviet entrenchment and disputes over Eastern Europe.
  • Kennan's Long Telegram responded to this precise postwar uncertainty with deep analysis.
INSIGHT

Soviet Behavior Rooted In Ideology And Paranoia

  • Kennan argued Soviet actions sprang from Marxist-Leninist ideology and historical Russian insecurity.
  • He said the USSR needed external enemies to justify internal repression and secrecy.
INSIGHT

Soviet Strategy: Patient Probing Not Reckless Attack

  • Kennan predicted the USSR would use parties, propaganda, and front groups to weaken Western unity.
  • He saw Soviet policy as patient and opportunistic, probing weak spots and avoiding direct risk.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app