Mark Leonard's World in 30 Minutes

Hugh Lovatt, an ECFR policy fellow specializing in Middle Eastern politics, and Tahani Mustafa, a visiting fellow focused on governance and security in the West Bank, dive deep into the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. They discuss Israel's military actions, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the chaotic aid distribution. Tensions are rising, particularly with the role of Israeli settlers in the West Bank. They also evaluate the Palestinian Authority’s challenges and the crucial role that Europe plays in mediating peace efforts and preventing further loss of life.

Tobias Gehrke, an ECFR senior policy fellow specializing in trade policy and EU-US relations, joins to discuss the fallout from a sudden threat of tariffs from the U.S. He examines the EU's potential €93 billion retaliation package and the pressing need for political engagement to navigate these tensions. The conversation delves into how the Ukraine crisis complicates trade discussions and highlights the importance of Europe's Anti-Coercion Instrument in responding to external pressures. Ultimately, can Europe leverage its economic power to prevent a trade war?

Jana Kobzova, an ECFR senior policy fellow and former foreign policy advisor, and Camille Grand, an ECFR distinguished policy fellow and NATO alum, dive deep into Europe’s long-term strategy for Ukraine. They discuss the evolving relationship between Ukrainian and European security, advocating for stronger defense ties. The duo assesses the shifting role of the U.S. in supporting Ukraine and the need for European nations to reassess their military strategies. Their insights provide a compelling glimpse into the future security landscape in Europe.

Henry Farrell, ECFR council member and professor at Johns Hopkins University, explores the concept of 'weaponized interdependence' in his discussion. He explains how America leverages its global economic power for strategic advantage, reshaping international relations. The conversation highlights the challenges posed by the rise of China and BRICS, and examines the implications of digital currencies on global finance. Farrell also delves into how AI and social media influence political discourse, impacting perceptions of authority and power dynamics.

Ivan Krastev, a prominent political scientist and expert on European strategy, joins Carl Bildt, former Swedish Prime Minister and a seasoned commentator on geopolitics, to discuss how Trump is reshaping European politics. They delve into the fears surrounding security and the rise of Euroscepticism influenced by American politics. The conversation touches on the need for reform in European defense strategies amid global uncertainties, alongside the challenges posed by demographic changes and immigration, highlighting their effects on societal attitudes across Europe.

This week, Mark Leonard is joined by Camille Grand, former NATO assistant secretary general and ECFR distinguished policy fellow, for a 15-minute Emergency Room episode dissecting the high-stakes NATO summit in The Hague. Against a turbulent geopolitical backdrop, world leaders navigated President Donald Trump’s push for a 5% GDP defence-spending target, their ongoing support for Ukraine, and Russia’s long-term threat. Mark and Camille explore the summit’s carefully choreographed outcomes, including a reaffirmed Article 5 commitment and no formal withdrawal of US troops—despite looming reviews of America’s presence in Europe. Can NATO balance Trump’s demands with European autonomy? Or is this merely a fragile truce among a shifting alliance?This episode was recorded on June 25th, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellie Geranmayeh, Deputy Director of ECFR’s Middle East and North Africa programme, shares insights on the Israel-Iran conflict from the Iranian perspective, focusing on European diplomacy. Joining her is Eran Etzion, former deputy head of Israel’s National Security Council, who discusses Israel’s strategic challenges and military preparedness. They dive into the potential repercussions of U.S. involvement, the erosion of trust within Iran, and the pressing need for diplomatic solutions amidst rising tensions.

Ellie Geranmayeh, the Deputy Director of the ECFR’s Middle East and North Africa programme and expert on Iran, delves into the repercussions of Israel's extensive airstrikes on Iran, targeting critical military and nuclear sites. She discusses Iran's potential retaliatory strategies, including drone attacks, and the urgency of the situation as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks spiral towards collapse. The conversation highlights the geopolitical landscape, examining how Europe can play a crucial role in easing tensions and preventing a large-scale regional conflict.

This discussion features Dan Caldwell, a former senior adviser at the Pentagon, and Curt Mills, executive editor of the American Conservative. They explore the shifting landscape of American foreign policy under Trump, emphasizing a departure from traditional military buildup. The conversation navigates complex issues like Iran, Ukraine, and China, detailing internal conflicts and conservative anti-globalism. They also touch on the necessity for European nations to bolster their defense, accompanied by thoughtful book recommendations that shed light on historical contexts.

Alberto Rizzi, an ECFR policy fellow based in Rome and author of 'Markets, Migrants, Microchips,' dives into the complex topic of Europe’s demographic transition. He explores the implications of a shrinking and aging population on geopolitical power. Rizzi discusses the contrasting experiences of European nations like Germany and Italy versus France and the UK. He emphasizes the necessity for Europe to strengthen international ties, particularly with Africa and the Indo-Pacific, in light of shifting demographics and labor demands.