War on the Rocks

This discussion delves into the complexities of Australia’s foreign relations as it grapples with a changing dynamic with the U.S. The hosts analyze the rising challenges posed by China and the need for Australia to rethink its national security strategies. They also reflect on the future of the Net Assessment podcast, celebrating its move to the Stimson Center while discussing its historical impact and ongoing relevance. Additionally, the contrasting military strategies in the Middle East and Asia are examined, shedding light on the intricate nature of U.S. foreign policy.

Lisa Curtis, a security expert from CNAS, discusses critical geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions from China. Zack Cooper, a military strategist, sheds light on the U.S. military's readiness and the nuances of great power competition. Dmitri Alperovitch, focused on U.S.-China relations, emphasizes the importance of Taiwan's security and the strategic significance of semiconductor production. They explore evolving alliances, military investments, and the roles of partners like India and Australia in the region's stability.

Constanze Stelzenmüller, a Brookings expert on U.S.-European relations, and Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at Carnegie focusing on Russian military matters, discuss the current U.S.-Ukrainian tensions following a controversial White House meeting. They explore the ramifications of halted U.S. military aid for Ukraine and its implications for European security. The duo also delves into Ukraine's ongoing struggle against Russian aggression, the changing dynamics in military assistance, and the historical context influencing U.S. public perception towards Ukraine.

Lt. Gen. Stephen D. Sklenka, a U.S. Marine Corps general and logistics expert, shares his insights on military service and strategic planning. He reflects on his journey to becoming a Marine and the impact of mentors on his career. The discussion dives into the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the modernization of Marine Corps logistics. Sklenka emphasizes efficient supply chains, the role of AI in military strategy, and the importance of collaboration with allies. He also highlights influential military literature that shapes leadership and combat philosophy.

Michael Kofman, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, brings his expertise on Russian military affairs, joined by Justin Logan from the Cato Institute, specializing in defense policy, and Liana Fix, a Council on Foreign Relations Fellow focused on European security. They dive into the chaotic diplomacy surrounding Ukraine's future, discussing the role of minerals, the influence of Trump on U.S.-Ukraine relations, and prospects for a European peacekeeping force. Their lively debates uncover the complexities of security guarantees and the shifting dynamics of European defense strategies.

Tom Tugendhat, a seasoned member of the U.K. Parliament and former security minister, shares his insights on pressing global threats, particularly focusing on Russia and China. He discusses the importance of military modernization and the U.K.'s strategic role in the Pacific, informed by his recent trip to Taiwan. Tugendhat highlights the significance of supporting democratic nations and the necessity of credible security arrangements within NATO, advocating for stronger defense partnerships with allies like Japan and India.

Adm. Pierre Vandier, the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation at NATO and seasoned French navy leader, shares insights on NATO's need for innovative strategies. He discusses adapting military structures in the wake of modern threats like cyber warfare and the lessons from Ukraine's conflict. Vandier highlights the importance of preemptive innovation and enhancing interoperability among NATO members. He also touches on the partnership between the EU and NATO in harnessing technology, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

Mike Kofman, an expert on Russian military affairs at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, shares deep insights into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the current military dynamics, particularly the challenges both sides face in manpower and recruitment. The conversation highlights Ukraine's evolving strategies and the slowdown of Russian advances since December. Kofman emphasizes the impact of economic factors and the complexities of war negotiation, setting a thought-provoking perspective on the conflict's future.

Maj. Gen. Dominique Luzeaux, a French general and NATO's digital transformation champion, dives into groundbreaking topics like AI's crucial role in military strategies and lessons drawn from the Ukraine conflict. He discusses NATO's challenges in integrating diverse national forces and the importance of structured training. Luzeaux shares personal anecdotes about influential leaders he's encountered, emphasizing autonomy and leadership trust, while exploring how science fiction inspires technological innovation.

Mike Kofman, a research fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace specializing in Russian military affairs, joins the conversation to dissect strategies in the Ukraine conflict. They explore Ukraine's hesitation in mobilization, critique the Biden administration's strategy, and discuss the implications of security guarantees outside NATO. The conversation also delves into the need for a new security framework for Ukraine, highlighting innovative solutions amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and potential U.S. disengagement.