News Meeting: Biden authorises strikes into Russia and could Elon Musk make a good diplomat?
Nov 18, 2024
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Join Jess Winch, Tortoise’s News Editor, Katie Riley, Data Editor, and Sanam Anderlini, founder of ICAN, as they dive into pressing global issues. They discuss Biden’s authorization for Ukraine to strike Russian targets, exploring the implications for U.S. foreign policy. The guests assess Trump's controversial cabinet nominations, contrasting them with his previous picks. Sanam offers insights on the delicate art of diplomacy, pondering if Elon Musk could play a role in international relations amid rising tensions.
President Biden's authorization for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia highlights a significant shift in U.S. military policy amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Elon Musk's controversial diplomatic engagements raise questions about the effectiveness and stability of traditional foreign policy channels under a chaotic political landscape.
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U.S. Policy Shift in Ukraine
Recent developments indicate a significant shift in U.S. policy regarding Ukraine, as President Biden has authorized the use of long-range missiles by Ukrainian forces to strike targets in Russia. This move is framed within the context of ongoing battles for strategic territories like Kursk, where Ukrainian forces aim to maintain their gains against Russian advances. Experts suggest that while this action may not fundamentally change the course of the war, it serves as both a tactical maneuver and a potential bargaining chip in future negotiations. The changing U.S. stance reflects broader geopolitical calculations, especially with the looming possibility of a Trump presidency influencing American policy.
The Chaos of U.S.-Iran Relations
In a notable meeting that raised eyebrows, Elon Musk allegedly met with the Iranian ambassador to the UN, which sparked criticism and subsequent denials from Iranian officials. This incident exemplifies the chaotic nature of diplomatic relations within the new administration, where informal engagements could influence serious geopolitical dynamics. Analysts suggest that this reflects a deeper strategic ambiguity in U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran, as Trump prepares to re-enter the political arena. The potential for Musk's influence in these discussions raises questions about the effectiveness of traditional diplomatic channels under a chaotic administration.
Trump's Revenger Cabinet Proposals
The composition of Donald Trump's prospective cabinet is garnering attention, marked by controversial appointments that signal a departure from traditional political norms. Figures like Tulsi Gabbard, known for her far-left background and recent right-leaning views, alongside Matt Gaetz, whose legal troubles complicate his nomination for Attorney General, dominate discussions about the cabinet's future. Additionally, RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine stance exacerbates concerns about public health governance under his potential leadership. These nominations reflect an administration leaning towards extremism, with implications that may disrupt domestic and international stability.
Basia Cummings and guests debate what should lead the news. They discuss President Biden’s decision to let Ukraine use long range missile against Russia, reports about Elon Musk’s latest foreign intervention and Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees.
Guests:
Sanam Anderlini MBE, founder and CEO of International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN) and host of the If You Were In Charge podcast.
Jess Winch, Tortoise’s News Editor
Katie Riley, Tortoise’s Data Editor
Host: Basia Cummings
Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com
Producer: Casey Magloire
Executive producer: Rebecca Moore
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