McKay Coppins, a senior staff writer at The Atlantic, discusses the staggering 1,000 days since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He explores Europe's heightened military strategies, including Ukraine's use of long-range missiles and Russia's alarming nuclear threats. Coppins also delves into Europe's anxieties over a potential Trump presidency, offering insights into how leaders fear shifts in NATO support and rising populism. The podcast also touches on the political landscape in the U.S., including controversial resolutions and the fallout from recent hurricanes.
The conflict in Ukraine intensifies as Ukraine launches long-range missiles into Russia, prompting concerns over escalated nuclear threats from Putin.
European leaders anxiously prepare for Trump's potential re-election, fearing it may undermine U.S. support for Ukraine and embolden far-right movements.
Deep dives
Escalation in the Ukraine Conflict
The podcast highlights the recent escalation in the Ukraine war as it marks 1,000 days since Russia's invasion. Ukraine launched U.S.-made long-range missiles into Russian territory, following President Biden's green light, a significant shift in U.S. policy. In response, President Putin reiterated a dangerous nuclear doctrine that lowers the threshold for nuclear weapon usage, intensifying global security concerns. Amidst this conflict, Ukrainian President Zelensky urged European leaders to remain resolute in their support for Ukraine, contrasting their focus on domestic political issues with Putin's unwavering commitment to winning the war.
European Leaders' Dread Over Trump's Re-Election
European leaders are deeply concerned about the implications of Donald Trump's re-election, viewing it as a potential threat to international stability, especially regarding support for Ukraine. Many officials privately express anxiety about the unpredictability of U.S. policy under Trump, despite outwardly projecting calm diplomatic rhetoric. There's a fear that Trump may pull U.S. support from Ukraine or undermine NATO, which has been crucial in maintaining peace in Europe. As seen in discussions, European officials strategize ways to flatter Trump and potentially secure his commitment to transatlantic cooperation, though they also grapple with rising domestic anti-Trump sentiments.
Impact of Trump's Presidency on European Populism
Trump's re-election is expected to invigorate far-right populist movements across Europe, as many leaders see his win as a validation of their agendas. Political scientists indicated that right-wing movements in countries such as Italy and France might gain momentum, inspired by Trump's perceived success. This dynamic poses challenges for liberal democratic values in Europe, as populism continues to shape electoral politics. The sentiment across Europe suggests Trump’s victory could embolden similar political figures, potentially undermining the progress made by more moderate parties.
Tuesday marked 1,000 days since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, plunging the European continent into its largest and deadliest conflict since World War II. The milestone was marked by yet another major escalation of violence, when Ukraine launched U.S.-made long-range missiles into Russia for the first time. Russian President Vladimir Putin responded by issuing a new nuclear doctrine to lower the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons. It all comes at a tense time for Europe, as leaders prepare for the return of President-elect Donald Trump, who campaigned on a promise to wind down U.S. support for Ukraine. McKay Coppins, senior staff writer at The Atlantic, explains how Europe is preparing for Trump’s return to the White House.
And in headlines: South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace introduced a resolution to ban transgender women from female bathrooms in the Capitol, Trump picked Dr. Oz to run the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the White House says this year’s Christmas tree will come from North Carolina.