The Lawfare Podcast

Steven Cook, a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of 'The End of Ambition', dives deep into America's complex history in the Middle East. He discusses the intricate dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, revealing how oil and alliances shape decisions. Cook critiques attempts at promoting democracy and highlights the repercussions of U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He also addresses the lingering instability in Gaza and calls for a pragmatic approach to U.S. engagement, emphasizing the region's pivotal role in global politics.

In this discussion, Anastasiia Lapatina, Lawfare's Ukraine Fellow and expert on Ukrainian politics, is joined by Eric Ciaramella from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, focusing on security and foreign policy. They delve into Ukraine's surprising military incursion into Russia, exploring strategic objectives, shifting frontlines, and the implications for U.S. policy. The conversation touches on the evolving morale among Ukrainians and Russia's chaotic response, highlighting the critical interplay of military and political narratives in the ongoing conflict.

Dean Ball, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation and former Senior Policy Advisor for AI at the White House, shares captivating insights from his time shaping AI policy during the Trump administration. He discusses the complexities of navigating federal AI regulations and the balance between personal skill and bureaucratic challenges. The conversation also delves into societal impacts of AI, the need for cohesive national strategies, and reflections on recent technological developments like ChatGPT-5.

Anastasiia Radina, a member of the Ukrainian parliament and head of the parliamentary committee on anti-corruption work, shares a revealing perspective on Ukraine’s recent turmoil. She discusses how governmental actions threaten independent anti-corruption agencies, leading to nationwide protests. Radina highlights legislative changes that centralize control over corruption investigations, revealing political challenges and the implications for democracy. This tumult intertwines with the evolving role of Western partners in supporting Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts, shaping the path toward European integration.

Benjamin Wittes, Editor-in-Chief at Lawfare, joins Daniel Byman, a CSIS Scholar and Georgetown Professor, and Kate Klonick, a law professor and tech expert, to tackle pressing national security issues. They dissect Israel's controversial plans to occupy Gaza City amidst international pushback, exploring the political ramifications. The trio also delves into the U.S. deal allowing chip exports to China, raising eyebrows about its legal and security implications. Their discussions blend serious analysis with lighthearted commentary on workplace fashion trends.

Steve Brooks, a Government Professor at Dartmouth and co-author of 'Command of Commerce,' joins Ben Vagle, a JD and PhD candidate at Stanford, to discuss U.S.-China economic competition. They challenge the belief that China holds significant economic power, arguing that a decoupling would hurt China more. Brooks and Vagle highlight the importance of U.S. alliances and explore strategies for reducing manufacturing dependence on China. They also consider the long-term consequences of potential economic separation for both nations.

Seth Harp, an investigative reporter, U.S. Army Reserve veteran, and former Texas Assistant Attorney General, dives into the dark underbelly of Fort Bragg. He discusses his book on drug trafficking and two shocking murders linked to elite military units. The conversation reveals startling truths about PTSD, addiction, and the normalization of violence within the special forces. Harp also uncovers the complex connections between military operations and drug trade in Afghanistan, raising critical questions about accountability in the military.

Peter Harrell, a Lawfare contributor and expert on tariffs at the Carnegie Endowment, joins the discussion alongside Lawfare’s senior editors. They delve into the D.C. Circuit's recent legal rulings affecting Trump’s IEEPA tariffs and the intriguing legal crises in Texas over redistricting. The trio examines the complexities of mandamus and contempt, along with the implications of Justice Kavanaugh's views on national security. They also humorously dissect the legal intrigue surrounding Texas legislators fleeing their duties, showcasing the confluence of law and politics.

Kavitha Chekuru, director of Al Jazeera's Fault Lines, leads a discussion on her documentary highlighting the struggles of Palestinian families amidst the Gaza conflict. She’s joined by Emily Tripp from Airwars, who documents civilian casualties, and Lawrence Abu Hamdan, who utilizes sound analysis for human rights. Samaneh Moafi from Forensic Architecture focuses on the destruction of medical infrastructure. They explore civilian suffering, the impact of U.S. involvement, and innovative investigative methods, bringing to light the harrowing realities of life in war-torn Gaza.

In this discussion, Brian Winter, Editor-in-Chief of Americas Quarterly and seasoned Latin American journalist, evaluates Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's first 100 days in office amid political turmoil. He highlights Lula’s attempts to revitalize Brazil’s global standing while navigating tensions with the private sector and foreign relations. The conversation also addresses Lula's environmental policies regarding the Amazon and the growing challenges to democracy in Brazil. Lastly, they delve into the significant intersections of race and politics in the country today.