Celeste Wallander

Celeste Wallander, the executive director of Penn Washington and a former top defense official, discusses Europe’s recent defense spending surge and its implications for the U.S. She warns a stronger Europe may become more independent, potentially challenging U.S. priorities. The conversation highlights the outcomes of the NATO summit, Europe's response to Russian threats, and the evolving U.S.-European relationship, especially in contexts like Ukraine and regional stability.

Caitríona Perry, BBC chief presenter in Washington, and Celeste Wallander, a former Pentagon official, delve into a surprising incident where a journalist stumbled into a top-secret military chat. They explore the implications of using secure platforms like Signal for sensitive discussions, contrasting it with traditional protocols. The conversation touches on U.S. foreign policy and ongoing conflicts affecting shipping routes, while humorously addressing communication styles, including the role of emojis in conveying messages during high-stakes scenarios.

Celeste Wallander, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, delves into the critical dynamics of U.S. support for Ukraine. She discusses how fluctuating American aid during the Trump administration reshaped perceptions in Europe. The conversation touches on the complexities of military planning, interagency collaboration, and the evolution of nuclear deterrence amid rising tensions. Wallander emphasizes the importance of adaptable strategies and European involvement in bolstering Ukraine's defense against ongoing threats.