
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

32 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 43min
Maddow: Three ways Trump is trying to rig the 2026 midterm elections
Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, brings his expertise to a compelling discussion about Donald Trump's controversial maneuvers ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. They dissect the alarming impact of gerrymandering in Texas and the uneasy consequences of Trump's diplomatic interactions with Putin. With protests erupting and diminishing approval ratings for Trump, the conversation highlights urgent calls for public unity and vigilance against authoritarian tactics in the political landscape.

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.

11 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 41min
FIRE WITH FIRE: Newsom sets plan to counter Trump's gerrymander scheme
Michael McFaul, former US Ambassador to Russia, shares his expertise on the upcoming Trump-Putin summit, hinting at the high stakes involved. The discussion highlights Gavin Newsom's strategic response to Trump's gerrymandering efforts with a proposed district map contingent on Texas's actions. Jen Psaki delves into the unsettling influence of Christian nationalist extremists within the Trump administration. Meanwhile, the legal troubles plaguing Alex Jones further unravel as he faces consequences for his Sandy Hook defamation.

9 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 26min
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.

Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 8min
Michael McFaul: Trump’s Red Carpet & Putin’s Middle Finger
Michael McFaul, a former U.S. ambassador to Russia and senior fellow at Stanford, shares his insights on the recent whirlwind of diplomatic events relating to Ukraine. He examines the stark contrast between Trump's opulent meeting with Putin and Zelensky's important visit to the White House with European leaders. McFaul emphasizes the unchanged war aims of Putin and the dire situation Zelensky faces if negotiations fail. He also discusses the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations, the credibility of ceasefire talks, and the enduring geopolitical dynamics at play.