Ray Takeyh, the Hasib J. Sabbagh Senior Fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, discusses Iran's reactions to Trump's election. He highlights the complexities of the nuclear negotiations and Iran's precarious geopolitical situation amid economic turmoil. There’s an intriguing analysis of the Trump administration's dual strategy of diplomacy and sanctions, and how previous U.S. negotiations influence current dynamics. Takeyh also reflects on Jimmy Carter's foreign policy legacy regarding Iran, challenging conventional perceptions.

Stephen Heintz, President and CEO of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, emphasizes the need for the U.S. to adapt its foreign policy to a multipolar world. He discusses the challenges of existential threats like climate change and nuclear risks that demand collaborative solutions. The conversation critiques traditional views of international relations, advocating for a shift towards multipolar pluralism. Heintz also explores the evolving U.S.-China dynamics, suggesting the establishment of a U.S.-China secretariat to enhance communication and cooperation.

Charles A. Kupchan, a senior fellow at CFR and Georgetown University professor, shares insights on U.S. foreign policy amidst great power competition. He discusses the vital role of grand strategy in navigating a dynamic global landscape. Kupchan contrasts traditional and liberal realism, focusing on the intricate balance of power and domestic politics. He examines the U.S.'s evolution from isolationism to liberal internationalism and the challenges of operating in a multipolar world, advocating for a pragmatic approach that embraces both competition and cooperation.

Zoe Liu, the Maurice R. Greenberg Senior Fellow for China Studies at CFR, offers keen insights into how China is reacting to Trump's election. She discusses the potential impacts on U.S.-China economic relations and the complexities of diplomatic communication. Zoe highlights the tensions around trade tariffs and China's pivotal role in critical mineral supply chains. Additionally, she explores shared economic challenges like inflation and wage stagnation in both nations, emphasizing urgent reforms needed to align growth with citizen welfare.

Sheila Smith, the John E. Merow senior fellow for Asia-Pacific studies at CFR, discusses Japan's nuanced reaction to Trump's election win. She highlights concerns over U.S.-Japan relations amidst Trump's hawkish approach to China. The conversation delves into Japan's evolving security strategy, balancing its pacifist history with rising threats. Smith outlines the implications for Japan-China relations under U.S. policies and explores the challenges facing Japan's new Prime Minister in navigating this complex geopolitical landscape.

Will Freeman, a Fellow for Latin America studies at CFR specializing in rule of law and organized crime, discusses the reactions to Trump’s election across Latin America. He highlights how leaders braced for shifts in U.S. policy, particularly regarding migration. The diverse responses from conservative and left-leaning governments showcase the region's complex political landscape. Freeman also examines the intricate ties between drug trafficking and U.S.-Mexico relations, arguing for long-term solutions to persistent issues rather than simplistic approaches.

Liana Fix, a CFR fellow focusing on European security and transatlantic relations, and Matthias Matthijs, a senior fellow specializing in Europe’s political economy, join James M. Lindsay to unpack Europe's strategy for a potential second Trump administration. They discuss how political turmoil in Germany could reshape EU relations and the pressures of trade policies and defense spending. The conversation also touches on the EU's digital regulations amid U.S. tensions and the growing perception of China as a security threat, influencing European economic strategies.

Christopher M. Tuttle, a senior fellow at CFR and former policy director for the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, dives into Trump’s national security appointments. He discusses the challenges of unifying a diverse team and possible implications for foreign policy towards Ukraine, China, and the Middle East. Tuttle scrutinizes potential selections like Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense and considers the impact of figures like Tulsi Gabbard. The conversation also covers the intricacies of Senate confirmations amid evolving political dynamics.

Steven A. Cook, a senior fellow at CFR and expert on Middle Eastern politics, joins to dissect reactions from the region to Trump’s electoral win. He shares insights on how countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia view Trump's return with optimism, while also touching on Iran's muted response. The discussion navigates the evolving U.S.-Egypt relationship and the implications of the Abraham Accords. Cook emphasizes the delicate balance of U.S. foreign policy amid regional tensions and the future of U.S.-Middle East dynamics.

Stephen Hadley, a former national security advisor to George W. Bush, shares his insights on the intricate process of presidential transitions and the staffing challenges new presidents face. He discusses the crucial impact of personnel choices on foreign policy and emphasizes the need for communication between outgoing and incoming teams. Hadley highlights the balancing act of upholding campaign promises while addressing unfolding global events, as well as the importance of effective crisis communication and structuring a cohesive National Security Council for optimal decision-making.