
Michael McFaul
Former U.S. ambassador to Russia. His expertise lies in Russian politics and U.S.-Russia relations.
Top 10 podcasts with Michael McFaul
Ranked by the Snipd community

23 snips
Mar 29, 2022 • 37min
Leadership lessons from Zelenskyy and Putin
Join Michael McFaul, a political scientist and former U.S. ambassador to Russia, as he delves into the stark contrasts between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership styles amid the Ukraine conflict. Discover how Putin's rise has reshaped authoritarianism and the implications for democracy. McFaul reveals insights into Zelensky's resilience and motivations, emphasizing the critical importance of accountability in leadership. The discussion also highlights the differing impacts of their actions on global perceptions and national identity.

16 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 25min
In Trump vs. Zelenskyy, Putin Wins
Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, delves into the fallout from a notable meeting between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy. He discusses how Trump’s criticism bolsters Russia’s position while weakening U.S. influence. The tensions of U.S.-Russia relations and the support for Ukraine from European leaders are examined. McFaul warns about the ideological alliances between the far-right in America and Putin, highlighting the broader implications for global stability.

9 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 29min
Can Trump Bully Russia?
Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and author of "Autocrats vs. Democrats," discusses the changing U.S. stance toward Vladimir Putin amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. He examines how Trump's criticism marks a departure from his past praise and its implications for international relations. The conversation highlights diplomatic dilemmas, escalating tensions from recent military actions, and NATO's strategic responses. McFaul also delves into the complex interplay between autocratic and democratic nations, shedding light on the future of geopolitical dynamics.

8 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 1min
Axis, Rivalry, or Chaos? The US-China-Russia Equation with Michael McFaul
Michael McFaul, a seasoned expert in international studies and former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, discusses the intricate dynamics between the U.S., China, and Russia. He shares insights on the 'Russia Reset' initiative and his experiences during turbulent times in Russia. The conversation highlights the growing partnership between Putin and Xi Jinping, the impact of the Ukraine war on global alliances, and strategic advice for U.S. engagement. McFaul emphasizes the complexities of diplomacy and the need to reevaluate foreign policy in light of shifting power dynamics.

8 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 13min
Episode 2550 CWSA 07/29/24
Michael McFaul, a former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, shares insights on leadership and data integrity in politics. Mark Kelly, an astronaut and U.S. Senator, discusses the importance of coherent governance amid global challenges. Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur, dives into the role of language in political strategy. The trio examines sensitive topics like Biden's public image, misinformation in data, and the implications of a global wealth tax. They also touch on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its regional impacts.

6 snips
Apr 5, 2022 • 1h 6min
A Soviet Reunion: Michael McFaul On What Putin Wants
The war continues in Ukraine while peace talks go forward in Istanbul – the outcome of both endeavors anyone’s guess. Michael McFaul, a Hoover senior fellow and former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, joins Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson, H.R. McMaster and John Cochrane to discuss the chances of a settlement that’s mutually beneficial to the two warring parties and the West, Vladimir Putin, plus the possibility of hostilities escalating.
Recorded April 4, 2022

Jan 3, 2025 • 7min
How Trump can end the war in Ukraine, according to a former ambassador
Michael McFaul, a former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, offers keen insights into the Ukraine war and potential solutions. He discusses a bold proposal for U.S. involvement in peace talks, aiming to balance Russia's claims with Ukraine's aspirations for NATO membership. McFaul also emphasizes the difficult decisions facing future leaders, highlighting the need for compromise and recognition of sacrifices for lasting peace. His analysis combines diplomacy with the harsh realities of negotiation, painting a complex picture of the path forward.

Jul 30, 2025 • 44min
Will Trump Shift the Balance in Ukraine?
Michael McFaul, a former U.S. ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, delves into the complexities of Trump’s evolving stance on Ukraine. He discusses how Trump's policies could alter U.S. support amid the ongoing conflict and impact global oil prices and inflation. McFaul examines the implications of sanctions and challenges facing President Zelensky's leadership. He also explores the resilience of Ukrainian civil society and strategies for U.S. involvement, emphasizing the importance of democracy as a weapon in this geopolitical struggle.

Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 17min
Michael McFaul: Whose Side Are We On?
Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and director at Stanford's Freeman Spogli Institute, shares his insights on Trump’s controversial stance towards Ukraine. He discusses the coercive rare earth minerals deal with Zelensky, framing it as extortion. McFaul analyzes Putin's perspective on U.S.-Russia relations and highlights Trump's admiration for the Russian leader. He warns of America’s waning role as a global leader and the European reaction to these dynamics, probing the broader implications for U.S. foreign policy.

Nov 11, 2024 • 50min
Meet the Press NOW — November 11
Ken Cuccinelli, a former senior DHS official during the Trump era, discusses the president-elect's ambitious mass deportation plans. He shares insights on the influence of key appointees and compares upcoming immigration strategies with those under Biden. Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, offers perspectives on international relations, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. Together, they explore the political dynamics shaping Senate leadership as Trump's second term approaches.