Trump, Putin & McGregor: Ukraine & the New World Order with Olesya Khromeychuk
Mar 20, 2025
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The discussion reveals how Ukraine's future is being dictated by Trump and Putin, sidelining the very nation at the center of conflict. Historical echoes of the Congress of Vienna highlight the dangers small nations face in geopolitical negotiations. Conor McGregor’s unexpected political aspirations, backed by influential figures, add a surreal twist to modern politics. Insights into the human cost of war and the importance of representation for smaller countries underscore the urgent need for awareness in global dynamics.
The potential presidential run of Conor McGregor, supported by American political figures, illustrates how U.S. strategies are influencing Irish politics.
The displacement of Ukraine's sovereignty in international negotiations highlights historical patterns where small nations are overlooked, raising alarms about imperialistic politics.
Deep dives
The Rise of MAGA in Ireland
The influence of the MAGA movement is expected to reshape the political landscape in Ireland, particularly with the potential presidential run of Conor McGregor. This scenario highlights how American political strategies are beginning to spill over into foreign nations, creating a chaotic electoral environment not typically associated with Ireland's more ceremonial presidential position. The presence of figures like Steve Bannon is noted, emphasizing a campaign strategy based on misinformation and fear tactics, which marks a departure from traditional campaigning methods in Ireland. Observers are encouraged to recognize this shift, as it challenges the previously held belief that such American-style politics would remain isolated to the U.S.
The Changing Landscape of International Alliances
Recent geopolitical dynamics show a significant shift with the MAGA movement's increasing alignment with Russia and China, posing challenges to established democracies. The discussion highlights how Trump's administration has been perceived as undermining American alliances while favoring authoritarian regimes, creating confusion and uncertainty in global relations. The implications of this alignment suggest that the groundwork is being laid for a new axis that encompasses anti-democratic entities, shifting away from traditional U.S. alliances. This evolving landscape invokes historical parallels to past geopolitical agreements, such as the Congress of Vienna, indicating a return to power-centric diplomacy that may exclude smaller nations.
Understanding the Ukrainian Experience
The podcast emphasizes the rich and complex history of Ukraine, shedding light on the nation's struggle for independence and recognition. Despite being often viewed as a small entity overshadowed by Russia, Ukraine emerged as a significant country in Europe, particularly after its independence in 1991. The contributions of key cultural figures, like Taras Shevchenko, are highlighted as foundational to Ukrainian identity and resilience in the face of external oppression. Recent military conflicts have further underscored Ukraine's determination to assert its sovereignty, revealing a deep-seated sense of unity among its population despite historical divisions.
The Risks of Ignoring Ukraine's Sovereignty
Recent discussions have sparked concern that Ukraine's sovereignty may once again become a bargaining chip in broader geopolitical deals between superpowers. The podcast mirrors apprehension about potential compromises that could undermine Ukraine's territorial integrity, highlighting the past neglect of the region and its people. Ukrainian voices express anxiety about the impression that their fate is being negotiated without their input, evoking historical patterns of small nations being disregarded. This approach not only threatens Ukraine's immediate future but raises alarms about the resurgence of imperialistic politics that prioritizes power over humanitarian concerns.
Ukraine is being carved up—again. This week, Trump and Putin are discussing Ukraine’s future, and the Ukrainians aren’t even invited to the table. We explain why the Congress of Vienna 1815 is the framework through which we should look at the new world order being torn up and rewritten, where might is right and small nations; whether in Eastern Europe or the West of Ireland, are left to fend for themselves. Enter Conor McGregor, backed by MAGA kingmaker Steve Bannon and bankrolled by Elon Musk, McGregor’s potential bid for the Irish presidency is no joke. It’s part of the same global chaos strategy that has seen Trump cozy up to Putin and turn on America’s allies. The playbook is simple: disrupt, distract, divide. In this episode, we speak to Ukrainian historian Olesya Khromeychuk about what’s really happening behind closed doors in Washington and Moscow, why European leaders are scrambling, and what it means when small nations lose their voice. If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu, and right now, Ukraine is the main course.
