
War on the Rocks
Discussions over drinks with security, defense, and foreign policy insiders and experts. The original War on the Rocks podcast series.
Latest episodes

Feb 19, 2024 • 35min
Iraq Between Suits and Fatigues
Experts Denise Natali, Doug Ollivant, and Bilal Wahab discuss the fragile state of Iraq, power dynamics including Iranian-backed militias, future of US forces in Iraq, strategic dialogue, and the delicate US-Iraq relationship.

8 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 45min
Security in the Indo-Pacific with Assistant Secretary of Defense Ely Ratner
Assistant Secretary of Defense Ely Ratner discusses North Korean intentions, American military posture, South Korea-Japan cooperation, Chinese military modernization, corruption in the Chinese military, and deterring an attack on Taiwan.

Feb 8, 2024 • 31min
The End of the Golden Era of Arms Control
Ankit Panda and Heather Williams discuss the challenges of strategic stability, arms control breakdown, and the impact of nonproliferation diplomacy. They explore the limitations of nuclear weapons in deterring conflict and the resurgence of interest in nuclear weapons. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of building a more diverse force and reducing nuclear risks through mentorship.

Feb 5, 2024 • 33min
A Conversation with Gen. Randy George, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army
Gen. Randy George, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army, shares his thoughts on warfighting, professionalism, modernizing training and acquisitions, learning from the war in Ukraine, and a new Army initiative called 'transforming in contact' in this engaging conversation.

Jan 30, 2024 • 22min
Ukraine at War, From Avdiivka to Zaluzhny
The podcast discusses the ongoing battle in Ukraine and Russia's relentless approach to war. They also explore Ukraine's efforts to defend its infrastructure and the importance of fortifying their forces. The hosts highlight the missed opportunity for the EU to provide financial support for Ukraine's reconstruction and war effort. Additionally, they discuss the controversy surrounding the potential firing of a Ukrainian General and its implications on the military and the Ukrainian president.

Jan 25, 2024 • 28min
A Very Nerdy Podcast Episode about the Navy
This podcast episode discusses the challenges of auditing the Department of Defense, the importance of culture change within the U.S. Marine Corps, the need for stockpiling and producing munitions, the impact of governing by continuing resolution on the Navy, and the evolution of the Navy's structure and framework.

14 snips
Jan 22, 2024 • 35min
A Conversation with Gen. David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force
Gen. David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, talks about the future of training, logistics, and refueling in contested airspace. He also discusses lessons from Ukraine, the importance of long-term war strategy, and the power of education and leadership.

Jan 5, 2024 • 29min
Ukraine Prepares for 2024
The podcast discusses the current Russo-Ukrainian conflict, including the situation on the front lines, naval developments in the Black Sea, Russia's diplomacy, and Ukraine's offensive. It explores the changing military capabilities, Ukraine's impact on the Black Sea and shipping, Russia's naval warfare, and the need for unity of effort in approaching the war.

6 snips
Jan 4, 2024 • 21min
The Case for Seizing $300 Billion in Russian State Assets
Explore the feasibility and legality of seizing $300 billion Russian state assets held in Western banks. Discuss the significance of these assets amidst the Ukraine conflict. Analyze the proposal as a countermeasure to Russia's aggression and the concerns surrounding it. Examine the application of international law and its impact on the financial system. Explore potential consequences and retaliation of seizing Russian assets.

Dec 22, 2023 • 39min
Gaza and the Gulf
Middle East analysts Nick Danforth, Steven Cook, Joyce Karam, and Faysal Itani discuss how the war in Gaza impacts Israel's relations with the Gulf and American interests in the Middle East. They delve into the future of the Abraham Accords, governing post-war Gaza, the impact of the October 7th attacks on the UAE and the Abraham Accords, public opinion in the Middle East, Hamas's victory, radicalization, Saudi-Israel normalization, and the changing American view of the region.
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