The Dispatch Podcast War and Peace | Roundtable
31 snips
Aug 22, 2025 
Megan McArdle, a columnist for The Washington Post, and David French, a senior editor at The Dispatch, join the discussion on the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict. They analyze America's geopolitical strategies and the implications of rising national debt, which has skyrocketed from $22.7 trillion to $37 trillion. The conversation delves into the motivations behind key players in the conflict, the facade of diplomacy, and the looming financial crisis. With humor, they also touch on the relatable frustrations of parking, adding a lighthearted twist to serious topics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
No Deal Can Be Better Than A Bad Deal
- The Trump-Putin summit produced confusion but no binding deal, which many see as a relief given risks to Ukrainian sovereignty.
- David French warns that absence of a deal is preferable to a deal that would eviscerate Ukraine's independence.
PR Over Strategy Risks Ukraine
- Jonah Goldberg argues the administration seeks a PR win more than a workable strategy for Ukraine.
- He warns a wrong theory—security guarantees versus Russian territorial aims—produces bad policy outcomes.
Putin Is Committed To Grinding The War
- David French stresses Putin is fully invested in grinding the war until Russia benefits materially.
- He argues only making the war too costly will change Putin's calculus.
