Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor for President Obama and co-host of ‘Pod Save the World,’ dives into the turbulent landscape of Biden's foreign policy as he prepares to transition to Trump. The conversation highlights the precarious situation in Syria, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and the stalemate between Russia and Ukraine. Rhodes critiques Biden's approach and explores the lasting impact these conflicts will have on international relations. Tune in for a deep analysis of the geopolitical chaos shaping today's world.
Biden's foreign policy legacy is shaped by the need for vigilance in Syria, where new power dynamics raise human rights concerns.
The ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza amid U.S. support for Israel reflect complex geopolitical tensions and potential long-term instability in the region.
Deep dives
Shifts in Syrian Power Dynamics
The recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria marks a significant change in the region's power dynamics after 13 years of civil war. The U.S. is concerned about the implications of this shift, particularly regarding the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its leader, Abu Muhammad al-Jalani, who has links to terrorism. President Biden emphasized the need for vigilance and caution, recognizing that while the collapse of Assad's government is celebrated, the new power holders must be closely monitored for potential human rights abuses. With Israel's military actions intensifying in response to this turmoil, the potential for regional escalation remains high, illustrating the delicate balance in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Israel's Ongoing Conflict in Gaza
The war in Gaza continues to create devastating humanitarian crises, with Amnesty International recently accusing Israel of committing genocide amid heavy casualties and ongoing hostilities. The lack of a public break between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has drawn criticism, as Biden's administration appears to maintain unwavering support amidst ongoing conflicts. This support may be influenced by personal beliefs, donor pressures, and a historical context that discourages imposing conditions on aid to Israel. The situation raises concerns about the long-term stability of the region and the potential for further humanitarian disasters if conditions do not improve.
Challenges and Complexities in Ukraine
The ongoing war in Ukraine, marked by a stalemate that defies early predictions of a quick Russian victory, highlights both successes and failures in Biden's foreign policy approach. Initial support from the Biden administration has played a crucial role in sustaining Ukrainian resistance, but the protracted conflict poses significant challenges for the U.S. moving forward. Critics argue that sanctions on Russia have not achieved their intended effects, and there are fears that a lack of American engagement could embolden Russian aggression in neighboring former Soviet states. As the responsibility for managing this crisis shifts to the upcoming Trump administration, concerns mount about the long-term ramifications for European security and stability.
It’s a tense time in international politics right now. And it’s coming at a pretty tough time for the U.S., as President Joe Biden gets ready to hand over the foreign policy reins to President-elect Donald Trump. Syria’s fate is a big question mark as it prepares for a new government, Israel’s war in Gaza is still raging, and Russia and Ukraine are stuck in a stalemate. Ben Rhodes, former deputy national security advisor for President Barack Obama and co-host of Crooked’s ‘Pod Save the World,’ joins us to discuss Biden’s foreign policy legacy and the conflicts Trump inherits.
And in headlines: President Biden defended his economic policy during a speech at a Brookings Institution event, New York Attorney General Letitia James says her office will not drop the almost $500 million fine Trump owes the state, and former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz gets a new job.