The Lawfare Podcast

Itsiq Benizri, a counsel at WilmerHale Brussels, dives into the recently agreed EU AI Act and its global implications. They discuss how domestic politics influenced the final legislation and the significance of its risk-based classification of AI systems. Benizri highlights the challenges in implementing the Act and the balance between fostering innovation and setting minimum standards. The conversation also touches on the regulatory approach to deep fakes, emphasizing the need for transparency amidst the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Molly Reynolds, a Lawfare Senior Editor and Brookings Senior Fellow, joins Benjamin Wittes to discuss the national security challenges facing the newly appointed Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson. They dive into critical topics such as aid for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, revealing the complexities of military funding amid potential government shutdowns. The conversation also touches on the divided Republican perspectives on Ukraine support and the legislative hurdles surrounding national security funding, all underscoring the urgent and interconnected nature of these issues.

Teun Janssen, a policy advisor at the European Parliament focusing on EU expansion and support for Ukraine, engages in a thought-provoking conversation. He discusses Europe's potential to take charge of its security as U.S. involvement wanes. The complexities of Ukraine's EU aspirations are highlighted, along with the necessity for systemic reforms and collaboration among EU nations. Janssen emphasizes the importance of tackling corruption and enhancing governance to facilitate EU enlargement, while addressing the geopolitical dynamics at play.

Lindsay Cohn, an Associate Professor at the Naval War College and Columbia University, dives into the intricate world of civil-military relations during the Trump administration. She discusses the fallout from the unprecedented firings of senior military officials and the implications of prioritizing political loyalty. The conversation also explores the controversial use of military parades and involvement in civilian contexts, raising questions about public perception. Lastly, Cohn highlights military influence in elections, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a representative military aligned with democratic values.

In a compelling discussion, Lindsay Freeman, Director of Technology, Law and Policy at UC Berkeley’s Human Rights Center, delves into the disturbing phenomenon of 'war influencers' in the Sahel. She highlights how influencers linked to private military companies, like the Wagner Group, share graphic conflict content that often serves as disturbing self-incrimination. The conversation also addresses the lack of accountability for these war crimes and Freeman's efforts to close the impunity gap through legal frameworks and international advocacy. A thought-provoking look at modern warfare and its digital presence.

James Pearce, a former Justice Department attorney and current Legal Fellow at Lawfare, joins Senior Editor Anna Bower to unpack pivotal legal issues surrounding the Trump administration. They delve into the Supreme Court's ruling on nationwide injunctions affecting birthright citizenship, explore whistleblower allegations related to immigration case mishandling, and discuss the disbarment of attorney Kenneth Chesbrough in connection with the fake electors scheme. The conversation reveals critical insights into judicial integrity and ongoing challenges within the justice system.

Steve Vladeck, a law professor specializing in national security and constitutional law, dives into the complexities of presidential emergency powers during the coronavirus crisis. He discusses the delicate balance between federal and state authority and the historical reliance on states for public health measures. The conversation also explores military involvement in civilian matters, implications for upcoming elections, and the urgent need for effective testing protocols. Vladeck's insights shed light on the potential for overreach and the legal frameworks governing emergency actions.

Natan Sachs, a Fellow in Foreign Policy at the Brookings Institution, delves into the concept of anti-solutionism in Israeli politics. He argues that the Israeli Right's lack of long-term strategies stems from a belief in the absence of viable solutions to the Palestinian conflict. Sachs discusses how this 'strategic conservatism' might protect Israel but can also hinder peace prospects. He emphasizes the need for U.S. policymakers to understand this mindset to navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern politics effectively.

In this discussion, Eric Ciaramella, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, and Samuel Charap, a Senior Political Scientist at Rand Corporation, dive into the Ukraine-Russia negotiations. They explore the hurdles of achieving peace amid competing national interests. The potential for a negotiated settlement is debated, alongside security arrangements to deter future aggression. The complexities of neutrality for Ukraine and the impact of NATO aspirations also feature prominently, along with the critical need for holding Russia accountable for its actions.

Ashley Deeks, a Lawfare contributing editor and University of Virginia law professor, joins in a lively discussion about recent national security developments. They dive into President Trump's unexpected military support for Israel against Iran, analyzing the legal and political implications of the actions taken. The team humorously unpacks the chaotic U.S.-Israel relations, explores the Supreme Court's recent immigration rulings, and reflects on the ethical dimensions of deportation processes, all while weaving in personal anecdotes for a lighter touch.