Guests Sarah McCammon, Asma Khalid, and Greg Myre discuss President Biden's foreign policy dilemma, including the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and the divisions within the Democratic Party. Topics covered include Israel's shift in strategy, U.S. isolation, and controversies in both parties
The Israel-Hamas war has entered a new phase with Israel launching a major offensive to destroy Hamas, risking disapproval from Americans.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has reached a stalemate, with concerns about potential Russian targeting of Ukraine's electricity grid this winter.
Deep dives
Current status and goals of the war between Israel and Hamas
Israel has launched a major offensive against Hamas, with the goal of destroying Hamas instead of just degrading it. They have been bombing Gaza daily for over two months and have taken control of the northern part of Gaza. They are now pushing into the southern part, focusing on the city of Han Yunus. Intensive combat operations are ongoing, with Israel unchallenged from the sky. The war has entered a new phase, but the duration is uncertain.
Stalemate in the war between Russia and Ukraine
The war between Russia and Ukraine has seen limited movement on the front lines over the past year. While there have been some gains and losses, the conflict has largely reached a stalemate. Ukraine's offensive over the summer and fall did not result in significant territorial gains. However, Ukraine has been able to push back against the Russian naval fleet in the Black Sea and export grain through the region. The fighting continues daily, and there are concerns about the potential for Russia to target Ukraine's electricity grid this winter.
Challenges for the Biden administration and domestic politics
The wars in Israel and Ukraine have presented challenges for the Biden administration. President Biden's handling of the conflicts, particularly the Israel-Hamas war, has faced disapproval from Americans. The administration has adjusted its rhetoric, with President Biden expressing concerns over civilian casualties and the indiscriminate bombing of Gaza. The conflicts have also exposed divisions within both the Democratic and Republican parties. Some Democrats have called for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, while some Republicans oppose funding for Ukraine. The domestic politics surrounding these conflicts have shifted the focus and priorities of the Biden administration's foreign policy agenda.
This year saw the continuation of the Russia-Ukraine war and the start of the latest Israel-Hamas war. President Biden's response risks fracturing his base in 2024.
This episode: political correspondent Sarah McCammon, White House correspondent Asma Khalid, and national security correspondent Greg Myre.
This episode was edited by Erica Morrison. It was produced by Jeongyoon Han and Casey Morell. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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