The Lawfare Podcast

Renee DiResta, a researcher focused on online information operations, joins the discussion with Kate Klonick about the EU's hefty fine on X (formerly Twitter) for misleading verification practices. They explore how X's paid verification enabled impersonation scams and the impacts of this on user trust. The duo also delves into the Digital Services Act's requirements, the political implications of tech regulation, and the challenges of enforcing compliance in an evolving digital landscape.

Caleb Withers, a research associate at the Center for a New American Security, dives into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity influenced by AI. He explains how frontier AI models create advantages for attackers, increasing the scale and sophistication of cyber threats. Withers highlights persistent software vulnerabilities like SQL injection and the dual role of AI in both creating and detecting security flaws. He also emphasizes the importance of robust authentication measures and the necessity for agile policy responses to emerging risks in cyber warfare.

John Drennan, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations specializing in U.S.-Russia relations, and Matthew Sharp, a fellow at MIT's Center for Nuclear Security Policy, dive into crucial discussions about the New START treaty's potential expiration in 2026. They explore its historical significance and the risks of linking arms control with geopolitical tensions like Ukraine. The duo also examines the implications of new Russian military systems and how emerging technologies and the global multipolar landscape might reshape arms control strategies.

Benjamin Wittes, a Lawfare editor and expert on national security, joins leaders Eric Ciaramella and Natalie Orpett to dissect recent U.S. foreign policy mishaps. They delve into the chaotic shuttle diplomacy regarding Ukraine, revealing how the Trump administration’s shifting strategies confuse allies. Natalie critiques recent military actions against narcotics boats, highlighting legal violations and potential war crimes. The team emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and discusses the implications of the current legal environment on military conduct.

Reynolds Holding, a seasoned journalist and author, joins U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff to delve into the critical role of district judges in the legal system. They discuss Holding's book highlighting resilient judges who defend judicial authority amidst a 'war on the courts.' Rakoff shares his firsthand experiences with rising threats against judges, and they critique the Supreme Court's emergency rulings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of district judges in ensuring access to justice and maintaining the integrity of the legal process.

Seth Jones, President of the Defense and Security Department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, dives deep into America’s defense industrial base. He discusses the differences between industry giants like Lockheed and smaller firms like General Atomics. Seth also explores China’s wartime production strategies and the challenges of U.S. consolidation, particularly the impact on competition. He highlights the vital role of private sector innovations in conflict and warns about the risks of commercial interests influencing national security.

Mark Montgomery, a retired Rear Admiral and Senior Director at the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation, dives deep into the cybersecurity landscape. He critiques the Trump administration's cuts that weakened essential agencies and discusses alarming findings from the Cyberspace Solarium Commission's latest report. Montgomery highlights the risks posed by nation-state threats, the need for a robust cyber workforce, and the dual threats posed by AI in cybersecurity. His insights reflect an urgent call for action in a critical defense area.

Marlene Laruelle is a Research Professor at The George Washington University, focusing on Russian politics and transnational far-right movements. She explores the historical ties between America's far-right and Russia, highlighting ideological connections and the role of the Russian Orthodox Church. Laruelle discusses how 'traditional values' serve as a soft power tool and the impact of Ukraine on far-right sentiments. She warns that domestic divisions may strengthen illiberal networks and emphasizes the danger of mislabeling movements as 'fascism' instead of recognizing their illiberal nature.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Mirasola, an Assistant Professor of Law specializing in national security, dives into the critical legalities of deploying military forces at the U.S. southern border. He explains how a potential national emergency declaration could reshape military roles, including contrasting support functions with direct law enforcement duties. Chris also explores the implications of the Insurrection Act and the National Guard's unique position, while addressing logistical challenges of military construction and potential delays from litigation. The conversation sheds light on the profound implications of such military involvement in domestic matters.

Anastasiia Lapatina, a Lawfare Ukraine Fellow with deep insights into wartime politics, joins Eric Ciaramella, a policy expert at the Carnegie Endowment, to discuss Zelensky’s ambitious five-point victory plan. They dissect Ukraine's call for NATO membership and the need for long-range weapons without restrictions. The conversation also explores Kyiv's frustration with Western allies, the mixed domestic response to the plan, and the potential implications of a possible Trump presidency on U.S.-Ukraine relations.