The Foreign Affairs Interview Total War Is Back. Can America Adapt?
75 snips
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.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Misjudging Geopolitical Realities
- Post-Cold War, American policymakers underestimated the likelihood of major interstate wars.
- This was due to a narrow focus on immediate threats like terrorism, neglecting potential great power conflicts.
Surprise in Ukraine War
- The nature of warfare has changed, surprising experts.
- Carlin was surprised by Ukraine's resilience, Russia's initial military ineffectiveness, and the smooth international response.
The Return of Total War
- Modern warfare is characterized by a wider aperture of conflict, blurring lines between conventional, unconventional, and nuclear.
- The demographics of war are also changing, with non-state actors and volunteers playing significant roles.
