Defense & Aerospace Report Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast [Washington Roundtable Jul 25, ’25]
Jul 25, 2025
Michael Herson, of American Defense International, Jim Townsend, former Pentagon Europe Chief, Patrick Cronin from the Hudson Institute, and Dov Zakheim, former Pentagon Comptroller, dive into pressing political chaos. They discuss the fallout from Jeffrey Epstein's case on Congress, rising tensions in Ukraine as President Zelenskyy grapples with anti-corruption efforts, and the implications of a new U.S.-Japan tariff deal. The group also critiques the disconnect between the Pentagon and lawmakers and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, revealing the complexities of today's defense landscape.
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Epstein Files Disrupt Congress
- The Jeffrey Epstein file controversy paralyzed the House Rules Committee, forcing an early summer recess.
- This upset Congressional priorities, delaying appropriations and raising shutdown risks.
US-Japan Deal Sets Tariff Precedent
- The U.S.-Japan tariff deal favors the U.S. with a 15% baseline tariff while protecting key Japanese auto exports.
- This deal sets the stage for similar negotiations with South Korea and India amid broader tariff tightening.
Think Tank Ban Hurts Defense Dialogue
- Pete Hegseth's order to stop Defense Department engagement with think tanks appears to stem from insecurity and harms crucial policy dialogue.
- Think tanks provide a vital venue for explaining, debating, and refining defense and security strategies.