The President’s Inbox

Stephen Walt, a leading figure in international affairs and a professor at Harvard, debates the merits of a realist foreign policy with James M. Lindsay. They discuss the principles of realism, especially the dangers of military overreach and the necessity of understanding power dynamics in global politics. Walt emphasizes a strategic pivot towards Asia amid China's rise and advocates for offshore balancing, arguing for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense. They also touch on the financial benefits of this approach, enhanced by emerging technologies.

Michael Kimmage, a history professor and former U.S. State Department policy planner, delves into the complexities of the Trump-Putin summit. He analyzes the ambiguous agreements made between the two leaders and their implications for Ukraine. Kimmage critiques narratives around the war, exposing misconceptions about Russian strength. He discusses the shifting dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, the need for cohesive transatlantic unity, and the troubling implications of proposed territorial land swaps, emphasizing their impact on Ukraine's sovereignty.

Hal Brands, a distinguished professor of global affairs and author of The Eurasian Century, joins James M. Lindsay to delve into the strategic importance of Eurasia. They discuss how control over this landmass affects U.S. national security and trace its historical context from World War I to today's autocratic regimes. The conversation highlights geopolitics, with Brands emphasizing Mackinder's theories on land versus sea power and the rise of China. The duo warns against U.S. isolationism, stressing the need for robust military alliances to safeguard global stability.

Joshua Kurlantzick, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, delves into the complex border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. He discusses the historical context behind the conflict, tracing its roots to colonial decisions. The conversation highlights the impact of nationalism and military posturing, as well as the recent ceasefire's prospects amid geopolitical tensions. Kurlantzick also examines how international players like the U.S. and China shape the dynamics of regional diplomacy and trade.

Liana Fix, a Fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations, dives into the complexities of the Ukraine conflict and Trump’s striking ultimatum to Putin. She discusses the resilience of Ukraine’s fighters despite internal challenges and explores the shifting military support from China and North Korea. The conversation also addresses the contrasting perceptions of American and Russian motivations in the crisis and the implications for NATO and U.S.-Europe relations amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

Oliver Stuenkel, an associate professor at Fundação Getulio Vargas and a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discusses Brazil's strategic role within the BRICS group. He highlights Brazil's multi-alignment approach amid global tensions and its cautious stance on BRICS expansion, especially regarding China's influence. Stuenkel explores the geopolitical dynamics of BRICS membership in light of the Ukraine conflict, the diplomatic challenges posed by absent leaders, and Brazil's balancing act between the U.S. and other global players.

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.