The Foreign Affairs Interview cover image

The Foreign Affairs Interview

Total War Is Back. Can America Adapt?

Dec 5, 2024
Mara Karlin, a Professor at Johns Hopkins University and a defense strategy expert, delves into the resurgence of total war and its impact on the global stage. She explores the evolving dynamics of modern warfare highlighted by the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing U.S. military strategies amidst rising tensions with China. Karlin discusses the intricacies of U.S. involvement in the Middle East, examining its influence and limitations. Finally, she underscores the critical need for technological adaptation in warfare, particularly in drone capabilities.
46:30

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The resurgence of total war, exemplified by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, demands a comprehensive reevaluation of U.S. military strategy and deterrence approaches.
  • Ukraine's unexpected resilience against Russian aggression highlights the unpredictability of modern warfare and the need for adaptive military planning in complex conflict environments.

Deep dives

The Return of Total War and Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

Recent years have witnessed a resurgence of major conflicts, indicative of a new era characterized as a return of total war. Key instances include Russia's invasion of Ukraine and escalating tensions in the Middle East, which challenge the long-held belief among American policymakers that large-scale wars between states were unlikely. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of U.S. military strategy amidst increasing geopolitical complexities, particularly as relations with China grow strained. The contemporary conflicts reveal that warfare is now more comprehensive and entangled, calling into question established national security paradigms.

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