Behind The Lines with Arthur Snell

Everything, everywhere all at once: what 2026 might hold, with Dan Kaszeta

Jan 20, 2026
Dan Kaszeta, a historian and security expert specializing in chemical and biological warfare, dives into the tumultuous landscape of 2026. He analyzes the unpredictability of US politics and potential election interferences. Dan raises concerns about the financial fragility tied to an AI bubble, emphasizing regulatory challenges. He also touches on alarming chemical threats from North Korea and the strategic dynamics in the Baltic region, warning about Belarus's instability and its implications. A thought-provoking discussion on a future filled with uncertainties!
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INSIGHT

World Events Meet Rising Hostility

  • The US faces intersecting trends of rising hostility to foreigners and hosting major global events like the World Cup.
  • Dan Kaszeta warns this clash raises real risk of diplomatic incidents or mass travel disruptions.
INSIGHT

Elections May Become Regionally Fragmented

  • US federal elections are state-run, so integrity will vary regionally and may produce a balkanized outcome.
  • Kaszeta expects manipulations will be subtle (postal delays, resource constraints) rather than outright cancellation.
INSIGHT

Personality Over Institution

  • Trump functions as a personal brand holding together diverse right-wing factions, making succession and internal leadership unstable.
  • Kaszeta says that without institutional anchors, internal fights and donor power will decide future leaders.
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