The Lawfare Podcast

Candace Rondeaux, Senior Director at New America's Future Frontlines and an expert on the Wagner Group, dives into her book about Yevgeny Prigozhin and the rise of mercenaries in Russia. She discusses Prigozhin's journey from culinary entrepreneur to influential military figure, examining Wagner's role in key geopolitical events like Crimea and Ukraine. Rondeaux also shares insights on the effects of mercenaries on modern warfare and how recent upheavals may reshape Russian power dynamics in the future.

Sezaneh Seymour is the Vice President at Coalition and a former Senior Adviser on the National Security Council. Brandon Wales serves as Vice President for cybersecurity strategy at SentinelOne, having led CISA. They explore the shifting dynamics of private-sector involvement in offensive cyber operations amid rising cyber threats. The duo discusses the need for a structured framework to define objectives, authorized activities, and legal considerations, while assessing the risks of escalation and the potential benefits of private-sector collaboration in cybersecurity.

Join a lively discussion delving into the Supreme Court's controversial rulings on executive agency independence. Explore the complex case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia and its legal ramifications, alongside the implications of recent budgetary decisions affecting U.S. agencies. The hosts tackle whistleblower integrity within the Justice Department and dissect claims of conspiracy tied to the previous administration. Plus, hear about the Ninth Circuit's ruling on birthright citizenship and the intricate legal strategies shaping future challenges.

Former NSA and CIA director Michael Hayden, former CIA deputy director John McLaughlin, and Juan Zarate, former Deputy National Security Advisor, join the conversation to dissect the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and the intelligence community. They delve into the implications of political rhetoric on morale, the challenges of effective communication during presidential briefings, and the potential undermining of the intelligence community's credibility. The trio emphasizes the necessity of collaboration and truth-telling during these divisive times.

In this discussion, Alexander "amac" Macgillivray, former Principle Deputy Chief Technology Officer of the U.S., delves into navigating AI policy amidst rapid technological changes. He explores the White House's AI action plan, the complexities of regulating AI, and the crucial role of tech experts in governance. Macgillivray addresses the interplay between public and private sector missions, the challenges of clear communication in AI predictions, and the implications of the AI Bill of Rights for competition and innovation. He concludes with thoughts on the evolving landscape of AI.

Tim Fist, Director of Emerging Technology Policy, Neil Chilson, Head of AI Policy, Janet Egan, Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security, and Jessica Brandt, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, discuss the recent AI Action Plan. They delve into the balance between fostering innovation and managing risks in AI integration, the need for robust cybersecurity measures amid international competition, and the urgency of developing infrastructure for AI advancements. The conversation also touches on the implications for national security and the role of collaboration in AI diplomacy.

In this insightful discussion, Ali Nazary, the head of foreign relations for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, sheds light on the group's evolving position and the implications of Russia recognizing the Taliban. He emphasizes the urgent need for democratic support in Afghanistan's tumultuous landscape. Meanwhile, Sam Charup, from the RAND Corporation, analyzes Trump’s pivot on Ukraine, debating the sustainability of new U.S. military strategies and the potential future of the ongoing conflict, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy.

Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor for The Economist, dives into how European security dynamics are evolving as countries seek independence from U.S. defense. He highlights the debate over arms spending versus building independent capabilities post-Ukraine conflict. Iris Ferguson, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Arctic, discusses the Arctic's strategic importance amid major power competition, emphasizing critical challenges like climate change and the need for international cooperation. Together, they explore a new landscape of global security.

Noah Feldman, Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard, dives deep into the Supreme Court's recent decision limiting universal injunctions, which emerged from a Trump-era case on birthright citizenship. He argues that the Court may be playing a strategic long game, aiming to safeguard the rule of law and avoid direct confrontations with the executive branch. Feldman critiques Justice Barrett's majority opinion for its flawed use of originalism and explores alternative legal avenues like class actions, raising intriguing questions about the judiciary's role in today's political landscape.

Shane Harris, a Staff writer at The Atlantic with a focus on intelligence, joins Mark Goldberg, a noted host on international affairs, and Alex Ward, a national security reporter for the Wall Street Journal. They discuss the recent ban on Defense Department officials from the Aspen Security Forum, revealing tensions in U.S. foreign policy. The panel highlights a shift towards 'mini multilateralism' and examines how AI technology is reshaping national security discussions. They also reflect on global diplomatic challenges and the evolving nature of international alliances.