Bill Kristol, Editor-at-large of the Bulwark and a prominent conservative thinker, joins Michael Weiss, Editor of The Insider and an expert on Russian geopolitics. They discuss Trump’s combative rhetoric and its implications for congressional integrity. The duo navigates the fragile aftermath of Assad's reign in Syria, stressing the need for resilience against a rising nihilistic mindset. They also delve into the moral complexities of political accountability and the human rights issues still affecting Syria, emphasizing the dire necessity for a proactive global stance.

In this discussion, Thomas Zimmer, a democracy scholar from Georgetown, and Michael Weiss, a seasoned investigative reporter focused on Russia, delve into the alarming implications of Russ Vought's radical constitutionalism. They analyze how populist influences have reshaped the Republican Party and the potential risks posed by competent yet extremist figures. The conversation also tackles the geopolitics of Syria's recent turmoil amid distractions from Russia and Iran, raising concerns about the global stability in an era of shifting power dynamics.

Michael Weiss, Editor at The Insider, and Owen Matthews, a writer and historian specializing in Russia, dive into the unexpected collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime. They explore the implications for regional powers and the potential restoration of the Arab Spring spirit. The duo examines how this may reshape U.S. foreign policy and Iran's weakened influence amidst shifting alliances. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of jihadism, highlighting its shift from terrorism to a more nationalist approach.