The Duran Podcast Trump goes up the escalation escalator w/Garland Nixon (Live)
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Oct 16, 2025 
Garland Nixon, an independent commentator and YouTuber focused on foreign policy, discusses U.S. escalation dynamics with insight into Russia, China, and Ukraine. He explains the concept of the 'escalation escalator' and how internal U.S. factions influence foreign policy. Nixon shares his views on Russia's controlled escalation approach, the strategic implications of China's rare earths dominance, and the challenges of U.S. policy amid global decline. He also critiques Trump's diplomatic missteps, highlighting potential risks in escalating military tensions.
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Escalation Becomes Self-Perpetuating
- Once a leader boards the "escalation escalator," it's nearly impossible to step off without severe consequences.
- Garland Nixon and Alexander Mercouris warn escalation begets reciprocal actions that lock in conflict dynamics.
Domestic Faction Battles Drive Foreign Policy
- U.S. foreign policy is driven by internal factional struggles as much as external threats.
- Garland Nixon argues these domestic power fights explain erratic escalation toward Russia and China.
Restraint Preserves Strategic Control
- Russia aims to control escalation rather than react reflexively to NATO punches.
- Nixon says Russian restraint preserves strategic advantage and avoids NATO-driven escalation control.