Economist Podcasts
Ode to dread: Europe after Trump
Feb 28, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Shashank Joshi, Defence editor for The Economist, and Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent, delve into the shifting dynamics of European security post-Trump. They discuss the anxiety surrounding America's potential pullback from NATO and the implications for European defense. Joshi highlights Europe's reliance on American support, especially amid the Ukraine conflict. Gardner sheds light on France's military withdrawal from the Sahel and its impact on regional stability, including the rise of Russian influence.
24:02
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Quick takeaways
- Europe must urgently enhance its military capabilities to prepare for potential conflicts amid waning American military support.
- The Mahakumbh Mela's growing elite participation highlights the intertwining of religious observance with national identity in India.
Deep dives
France's Military Withdrawal from Africa
France's recent withdrawal of military forces from several African countries marks a significant shift in its historical presence in the region. The exit follows years of counterterrorism operations, particularly in Mali, which have faced criticism for failing to curb the rising threats of jihadism. This sudden departure has led to a vacuum that military regimes in the Sahel region, like those in Mali and Burkina Faso, are eager to fill with alternative partnerships, such as with Russian mercenaries. While these regimes claim increased sovereignty and an aggressive military posture, escalating violence against civilians suggests that the problem of insecurity may be far from solved.
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