Economist Podcasts Suspicious mines: Putin-proofing the Baltics
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May 22, 2025 
David Rennie is the Geopolitics editor at The Economist, while John Fasman serves as its Senior culture correspondent. They discuss the tense defense strategies in the Baltics as Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia brace against potential Russian aggression. The conversation also dives into the striking decline in crime in Baltimore, attributing this change to transformative community efforts. Lastly, they reflect on a new biography of Mark Twain, highlighting his influential views on race and his unique contributions to American literature.
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Baltics Prepare Landmines for Defense
- Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia fortify their borders fearing Russian aggression. They reluctantly prepare to deploy landmines despite previous international bans due to security needs.
Return to Great Power Conflict
- The post-Cold War era of peace may be over according to some Western countries. They now accept the return of great power conflicts requiring harsher military measures.
Baltimore's Crime Decline Story
- Baltimore's homicide rates have dropped significantly with fewer than 50 murders this year. Community violence interruption programs offer therapy and job training to at-risk youth, complementing policing reforms.