KQED's Forum Edward Fishman On the Age of Economic Warfare
Mar 20, 2025
Edward Fishman, a senior research scholar at Columbia University and former U.S. sanctions official, explores the current landscape of economic warfare. He discusses how sanctions, tariffs, and embargoes shape global relations, particularly in the context of U.S.-Russia dynamics. Fishman critiques the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia and highlights challenges in achieving political goals through economic means. He also examines the implications of emerging alliances and the role of cryptocurrencies in shifting power dynamics.
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Appealing to Trump
- Putin and Zelensky recognize Trump's focus on business deals.
- They frame requests in terms of economic opportunities to appeal to him.
Congressional Check on Sanctions
- Trump considered lifting Russian sanctions unilaterally but was checked by Congress.
- The Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act requires congressional approval for lifting sanctions.
Iran Sanctions Success
- Sanctions brought Iran to the negotiating table after seven years of economic pressure.
- This pressure led to the election of Hassan Rouhani and an opening for the nuclear deal.
