

Is diplomacy failing Ukraine and is Thailand music’s Tomorrowland?
Sep 4, 2025
Michael McFaul, former US ambassador to Russia and a leading voice on global diplomacy, dives into the complexities of Ukraine's ongoing war and the shortcomings of current diplomatic efforts. He highlights critical geopolitical tensions and critiques the strategies of past U.S. administrations. On a lighter note, McFaul also discusses Thailand's exciting leap into the global music scene with Tomorrowland, showcasing the country's cultural appeal and youthful energy as it sets the stage for international festivals.
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Putin Sees War As Ideological Expansion
- Vladimir Putin views the war as ideological expansion, not a transactional bargaining chip.
- Michael McFaul warns this makes him willing to pay high costs and expect time to be on his side.
Two-Pronged Strategy For Ending The War
- Increase sanctions and supply long-range weapons to reduce Russia's capacity to advance.
- Separate border negotiations between Zelensky and Putin from allied security guarantees discussions.
Consistency Trumps Rhetoric In Support
- President Trump has threatened sanctions but not imposed new ones, while attacks have escalated on his watch.
- McFaul expresses embarrassment that the US is profiting from arms sales rather than providing direct aid to Ukraine.