Neutrality Studies

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.

Dr. Michael Rossi, a Rutgers University lecturer and geopolitical analyst, discusses the complexities of Trump's 28-point peace proposal for Ukraine. He explores conflict resolution fundamentals, the implications of territorial concessions, and the domestic pressures facing President Zelensky. Rossi also analyzes the motivations behind the U.S. and European support for ongoing military actions, stressing the risks of ignoring Ukraine's role in peace negotiations. The conversation delves into Russia's historical distrust of Western promises and the potential for future alignments.

Join Rainer Rupp, a former East German spy who infiltrated NATO, as he shares riveting insights from his espionage days in the 70s. Rupp discusses his motivations for joining intelligence, the strategic leaks he initiated, and how they influenced East-West relations. He delves into NATO's enduring mentality post-Cold War and critiques Western propaganda and military strategies. With a clear view on Russia’s military strengths and potential outcomes for Europe, Rupp paints a compelling picture of the geopolitical landscape that challenges mainstream narratives.

Kishore Mahbubani, a former Singaporean diplomat and influential academic, delves into Asia's transformation into a global powerhouse. He argues that the era of Western dominance is fading, with China's peaceful rise reshaping international dynamics. Mahbubani critiques Europe’s traditional outlook and calls for a reform of global institutions, including the UN Security Council, to better reflect today's multipolar world. He highlights ASEAN as a model for multicultural coexistence and underscores India's emergence as a significant independent power in the 21st century.

David T. Pyne, a former U.S. Army officer and commentator on geopolitics, dives into the nuances of the competing 28-point peace plans regarding Ukraine. He highlights key deal-breakers likely to hinder Russian agreement, such as troop caps and reparations. The conversation also critiques the ambiguity of NATO membership in the EU proposal. Additionally, David addresses the implications of amnesty clauses for peace deals and the internal U.S. politics affecting negotiations. His insights reveal the complexities of achieving lasting stability in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Armando Mema, a political activist and former European Parliament candidate, discusses his controversial protests against EU policies and the intense media backlash he faces in Finland. He explains how a major newspaper labeled him a Russian agent without seeking his side of the story. The conversation delves into media censorship, the repression of dissenters across Europe, and NATO's control over narratives that stifle alternative views. Armando argues that these tactics jeopardize peace efforts while highlighting the psychological pressure and intimidation aimed at critics.

Dr. Nicolai Petro, a Political Science professor at the University of Rhode Island and author of "The Tragedy of Ukraine," dives into the intricate dynamics of the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the recent Russian advances and the impact of leaked corruption tapes on Zelensky's legitimacy. The podcast highlights a potential 28-point peace plan backed by the U.S., exploring its implications for NATO, EU membership, and reconstruction. Petro critiques Europe’s lack of a substantial peace strategy and examines how U.S.-Russia agreements could reshape geopolitical alliances.

Zhang Sheng, a non-resident visiting researcher focused on Chinese foreign policy, discusses China's intricate stance on Gaza and Palestine. He reveals China's historical solidarity with Palestinians while detailing recent shifts due to economic ties with Israel. Zhang highlights China's cautious response to the Gaza conflict, public outrage in Chinese social media, and debates on anti-Israel sentiment. He explains China's abstention in the UN resolution, emphasizing strategic neutrality while critiquing perceived double standards in global narratives about human rights.

Stanislav Krapivnik, a former U.S. Army officer and supply chain executive, shares his insights on rising U.S. military tensions with Venezuela and Nigeria. He critiques the rationale behind U.S. naval buildup, questioning claims about drug trafficking and religious protection. Krapivnik warns of potential escalation mirroring Vietnam, suggesting that a conflict in Venezuela might serve as a distraction from failures in Ukraine. He highlights the geopolitical motives tied to resources, illustrating how Trump's need for quick victories shapes current military policy.