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Between Estonia and a hard place: NATO meets

Dec 19, 2024
In this discussion, Adam Roberts details NATO's heightened defense strategies at the Estonia-Russia border amid rising tensions. Ava Renee shares insights on the surge of spiritual influences online, highlighting the quest for genuine practices versus commercialization. Aaron Braun emphasizes conservation of the California condor, revealing its near-extinction plight and the crucial efforts to protect this majestic bird from threats like lead poisoning. Together, they explore urgent global concerns spanning politics, spirituality, and environmental preservation.
23:40

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • NATO member states, particularly Estonia, are debating increased defense spending amid concerns about Russian aggression and shifting American support.
  • The rise of spiritual influencers is reshaping spirituality for younger audiences, merging wellness and monetization in a digital landscape.

Deep dives

NATO's Response to Russian Aggression

NATO countries are intensifying discussions on increasing defense spending in response to ongoing tensions with Russia. Estonia is leading the push, advocating for a commitment to spend 2.5% or more of their GDP on defense, exceeding the current 2% guideline. The backdrop of this meeting is highlighted by recent hybrid attacks and harassment faced by Estonia along its border with Russia, emphasizing the need for a united stance among NATO members. With the war in Ukraine in focus, NATO is considering how to deal with Russian aggression and the economic sanctions needed to undermine Russian exports.

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