The President’s Inbox

William Henagan, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, discusses the shifts in U.S. foreign aid following Trump’s reforms. He highlights a potential $20 billion decline in aid and the importance of programs like PEPFAR in combating diseases. The conversation critiques the rise of effective altruism and its risks to U.S. competitiveness against China. Henagan also explores the U.S. Development Finance Corporation's role in promoting investments and warns about the implications of weakened humanitarian support on national security.

In this engaging conversation, Elliott Abrams, a senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies and former Deputy National Security Advisor, shares insights on the challenges of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. He discusses the intricate dynamics of hostage negotiations and how they complicate peace efforts. Abrams highlights the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing impact of the conflict on regional diplomacy, especially Israel's relationships with Gulf states. The conversation also touches on the internal complexities of Israeli politics and the broader geopolitical implications.

In this engaging discussion, Jack Rakove, a Stanford history professor, delves into why the U.S. declared independence in 1776 and its enduring significance today. He highlights key figures like Samuel Adams and Benjamin Franklin, illuminating the build-up to the Revolution. Rakove also explores the evolving interpretation of 'all men are created equal' and examines the dual revolutions led by the Founding Fathers, tackling the complex legacies that include both liberty and issues of slavery.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Erin Dumbacher, a Stanton Nuclear Security Senior Fellow at the Council specializing in international security, sheds light on the recent U.S. airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities. She breaks down the strategic implications of the operation and potential Iranian retaliation strategies. The conversation delves into the challenges facing the Iranian military, the geopolitical tensions with China and Russia, and the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations as diplomacy becomes crucial for navigating the aftermath of these strikes.

Sarang Shidore, Director of the Global South Program at the Quincy Institute, dives into the complexities of today's geopolitics. He discusses the concept of spheres of influence and its relevance in modern diplomacy, showcasing shifts in power dynamics, especially between the U.S., China, and Russia. Shidore highlights the rise of nationalism in the Global South and its effect on foreign relations, urging a more collaborative global approach. He warns against hasty foreign policy decisions, advocating for a strategy that aligns actions with American values.

Steven Cook, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and expert on Middle East politics, discusses Israel's bold Operation Rising Lion targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure and military leadership. He delves into Israel's strategic military operations and the critical implications for regional stability. The conversation also touches on varied Arab perspectives regarding these actions, highlighting the shifting alliances in the Middle East. Cook illustrates how this conflict intertwines with the ongoing war with Hamas and its broader consequences.

Edward Luce, U.S. national editor and a columnist for the Financial Times, sits down with James M. Lindsay to discuss what we can learn from the life, career, and writings of Zbigniew Brzezinski, national security advisor to President Jimmy Carter.   Mentioned on the Episode:   Edward Luce, In Spite of the Gods: The Strange Rise of Modern India   Edward Luce, Time to Start Thinking: America in the Age of Descent   Edward Luce, The Retreat of Western Liberalism   Edward Luce, Zbig, The Life of Zbigniew Brzezinski: America's Great Power Prophet   Zbigniew Brzezinski, Out of Control: Global Turmoil on the Eve of the 21st Century   Zbigniew Brzezinski, The Fragile Blossom: Crisis and Change in Japan   Zbigniew Brzezinski, The Grand Chessboard: American Primacy and Its Geostrategic Imperatives   For an episode transcript and show notes, visit The President’s Inbox at: https://www.cfr.org/podcasts/tpi/zbigniew-brzezinski-edward-luce

Derek Grossman, a senior defense analyst at RAND and an expert in Indo-Pacific security, dives into the fraught standoff between China and the Philippines over territorial claims in the South China Sea. He discusses the historical significance of the Sierra Madre ship and the broader geopolitical implications for U.S. foreign policy. Grossman elaborates on China's aggressive territorial claims and maritime assertiveness, the environmental impact of overfishing, and the evolving defense dynamics involving U.S. support and regional partnerships with Japan and Australia.

Reuben Brigety, the U.S. Ambassador to South Africa from 2022 to 2025 and President of Busara Advisors, joins James M. Lindsay to discuss the recent meeting between Presidents Trump and Ramaphosa. They unpack the complex U.S.-South Africa relations through historical and contemporary lenses. The conversation delves into the controversial claims of genocide against white farmers, South Africa's role in BRICS, and the anti-American sentiment within the ANC, highlighting the need for a strong partnership as global power dynamics shift.

Šumit Ganguly, a senior fellow and director of the U.S.-India Program at Stanford's Hoover Institution, dives into the recent military clash between nuclear powers, India and Pakistan. He sheds light on the deadly terrorist attack that sparked the conflict and examines India’s shifting military strategies, moving from restraint to aggression. Ganguly discusses U.S. influence on ceasefire agreements and the role of China in the geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the fragile nature of treaties and the escalating tensions in South Asia.