The President’s Inbox

Hal Brands, a distinguished professor of Global Affairs at Johns Hopkins and author of The Eurasian Century, joins James M. Lindsay to dissect the critical U.S. interests in Eurasia. They explore the historical struggle for power in the region and the implications for national security. Brands highlights China's ambitions and the risks posed by rising autocracies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of military readiness and allies in maintaining global stability, arguing against neo-isolationism in favor of active U.S. engagement.

Edward Alden, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and expert on immigration policy, dives into the intricate landscape of Trump's proposed immigration reforms. He discusses the historical context of U.S. border control and compares current asylum issues to past conditions. Alden highlights the economic impact of deportations on critical industries and emphasizes the importance of high-skilled immigrant labor in fostering innovation. Additionally, he critiques nationalist immigration strategies, advocating for a balanced approach that merges effective border management with diplomatic initiatives.

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.