Neutrality Studies

In this discussion, Dr. Hans-Georg Möller, a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Macau and YouTube creator, critiques Germany's evolving political climate. He delves into how being labeled an 'understander' has become pejorative, shifts in media narratives about China, and the historical roots of Western hostility. Möller connects moralization in politics to a decline in democratic debate, warns about the dangers of labeling, and advocates for 'amoral hygiene' to foster healthier political discourse.

Fabian Scheidler, a German author and playwright focused on political economy and peace studies, dives deep into Europe's rising militarism. He critiques Germany's unprecedented defense spending and discusses the shift from common security to pro-military policies. Scheidler warns of the risks of nuclear war amid elite narratives pushing for militarization. He advocates for diplomacy to end the Ukraine conflict, highlighting the role of civil disobedience and youth resistance in opposing war efforts.

Dr. Gabriele Krone-Schmalz, a renowned German journalist and author, delves into Europe’s geopolitical turmoil. She critiques Europe's reaction to US-Russia talks and highlights a misplaced moral stance overshadowing realistic diplomacy. Gabriele discusses the importance of acknowledging military realities for peace negotiations and warns against taboos that hinder dialogue with Putin. She also emphasizes the declining influence of Europe in global politics and advocates for education as a remedy for democracy's credibility crisis.

Ray McGovern, a former CIA analyst known for his insights on U.S.-Russia relations, and Larry Johnson, a seasoned intelligence professional, delve into the recent Moscow talks. They discuss the unusual U.S. delegation that sidelined European allies and analyze the motives behind the talks. Key topics include Russia's battlefield gains increasing their leverage, Europe’s waning support for Ukraine amid corruption claims, and the potential for future formal negotiations, highlighting core Russian demands. The duo also explores the implications of Arms Control and the shifting global balance toward China.

Dr. Maria Kicha, an Associate Professor and expert on Russian policy in the Middle East, dives into Moscow's complex relationship with the region. She discusses the historical context of Russia's ties to Syria and Iran, detailing why it maintains its presence despite regime changes. Kicha also unpacks Russia's evolving relationship with Israel, highlighting past support and current diplomatic stances, including a balanced approach towards Gaza. She explores how cultural and domestic factors shape Russian foreign policy in West Asia.

Dr. Jan Oberg, a peace researcher and director at the Transnational Foundation for Peace and Future Research, shares insights from his recent visits to major conferences in China. He emphasizes the importance of international dialogue for peace and critiques Western militarism, advocating for conflict prevention through institutions. Oberg discusses China's Panchsheel principles and highlights the Belt and Road Initiative as a means for fostering cooperation. He warns of the West's tendency to project threats and calls for visionary leadership to navigate the decline of empire peacefully.

Jean-Daniel Ruch, former Swiss ambassador and founder of the Geneva Center for Neutrality, champions Switzerland's Neutrality Initiative. He emphasizes the global importance of neutrality and its potential for Swiss soft power, advocating for a constitutional definition to enhance credibility. Ruch critiques the Federal Council's responses to geopolitical tensions and warns against oversimplified narratives in the Ukraine conflict. He calls for diversifying security partnerships and boosting Swiss mediation efforts for effective diplomacy.

Dr. Lothar Schröter, an East German military historian and former Major, discusses his insights on the Ukraine conflict and NATO's influence. He argues that the war is a Western proxy operation aimed at weakening Russia. Schröter highlights the war's true origins in 2014, critiquing Western support for the Maidan protests and the consequences of NATO's expansion. He warns about the risks of provocation and false flags, and shares reflections on East German sentiment toward Russian policies. His perspective is shaped by his unique background and extensive research.

Join Professor Ivan Katchanovski, a Ukrainian-Canadian political scientist known for his work on Ukrainian politics, as he unpacks the explosive corruption scandal involving Ukraine's NABU agency. With high-profile politicians implicated, Katchanovski links these revelations to Trump's peace plan and explores how Western influence shapes Ukraine's political landscape. He reveals why Zelensky struggles with NABU's independence, the impact of Western funding, and the potential risks the scandal poses for Ukraine's future negotiations.

Anatol Lieven, director of the Eurasia Program and an expert in Russian affairs, dives deep into the complexities of the US's 28-point peace plan for Ukraine. He reveals internal divisions within the Trump administration and highlights critical diplomatic hurdles in Ukraine's military and territorial compromises. Lieven discusses the potential for European nations to unintentionally sabotage negotiations, the implications of Western promises to Ukraine, and how domestic US politics are impacting foreign policy decisions. His insights paint a picture of a conflict mired in geopolitical intricacies.