In this week’s episode of China Insider, expert Miles Yu breaks down the first month of Trump 2.0, and where China fits into the new administration’s foreign policy strategy and strategic response from Beijing. Next, Miles takes a detailed look at the developing United States tariff strategy toward China, and why this has been such a focus of headlines the past few weeks. Lastly, Miles explores China’s reckless lab practices and the impact they have on the capacity of global health organizations to respond to future crises.China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute’s China Center, hosted by Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world’s future.

Miles sits down with Damon Wilson, president and CEO of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), the primary American foundation supporting democracy worldwide. They discuss a wide range of issues vital to global freedom and democracy, including NED’s origins, mission and current projects, America's role in the world, and the importance of preserving and expanding the existing democratic world order.

A landmark court ruling against TikTok emphasizes the importance of free speech in the face of foreign threats. The discussion reveals shifting American attitudes toward international engagement, especially regarding China. Increased support for U.S. military leadership signals a growing sentiment in favor of defending Taiwan. Additionally, a survey uncovers the nation's evolving perspectives on U.S. foreign policy and leadership in global affairs.

The discussion kicks off with the dramatic purge of Admiral Miao Hua, revealing shifting power dynamics in China's leadership. Next, the conversation dives into the rationale behind U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports, arguing that they address unfair practices and bolster domestic manufacturing. Finally, the challenges foreign investors face when repatriating capital from China are explored, highlighting the risks posed by stringent government policies and their repercussions on international investment.

Xi Jinping outlined four critical red lines to President Biden, warning against U.S. interference in Chinese affairs. The discussion highlights concerns over Taiwan and human rights, reflecting the Communist Party's fear of dissent. A disturbing rise in violent incidents in China is examined, shedding light on societal unrest and mental health issues. Meanwhile, tensions escalate in Ukraine, with North Korean troops potentially increasing their involvement in the conflict.

Donald Trump's recent reelection prompts intriguing discussions about American democracy and the potential fallout for U.S.-China relations. The impact on trade and national security takes center stage, highlighting a tense diplomatic landscape. Meanwhile, a spontaneous nocturnal bike ride among Chinese youth becomes a symbol of their desire for community and freedom, sparking CCP panic. This cultural shift reveals deeper anxieties within the Chinese regime, hinting at emerging youthful defiance amidst socio-economic challenges.

It's Election Day, and the podcast explores the uniqueness of American democracy and its global influence. Chinese interference in U.S. elections is dissected, revealing disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining democracy. The evolving axis of China, Russia, and North Korea is examined, especially in relation to North Korean troops in Ukraine. The contrasting political journeys of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump offer a historical perspective on American politics. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the importance of civic engagement amidst these geopolitical dynamics.

Hudson expert Miles Yu opens with his assessment of the BRICS summit held last week in Kazan, Russia, and whether it accomplished anything other than a moral victory for Vladimir Putin’s legitimatization campaign. Second, he analyzes the conveniently timed agreement between China and India over their longstanding border dispute in the Himalayas and argues that the solution is more a circumstantial strategy shift than a true settlement. Finally, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te visited the Island of Quemoy to commemorate the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Battle of Guningtou, which Miles likens to both the Battle of Saratoga and the Battle of Midway in terms of significance in shaping Taiwan’s history.

South Korean intelligence services have revealed credible evidence that North Korea has deployed upwards of 12,000 troops for training and ultimately combat alongside Russia in the war against Ukraine. Miles Yu analyzes the significance of this escalation what this signals for the anti-western axis of Russia, China and North Korea.  Second, with the US presidential election reaching its apex, the economy, and tariffs, are in the spotlight. Miles retraces what lead to the tariffs on Chinese imports started during Trump's first term, and why they  have had such strong bipartisan support. Finally, Miles details why China has so few Nobel laureates, and why the four winners they have had don't receive the heroes treatment you might expect. 

We start with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s “Double Ten” speech last week, which commemorated Taiwan’s National Day on October 10. President Lai laid out his government’s agenda and called for cooperation to bring political unity to Taiwan. Next, we detail the dramatic rise and fall of China’s stock market in the last two weeks and why the Chinese Communist Party’s planned economy is losing trust both domestically and internationally. And last, we cover the detention of four Taiwanese business executives working at Foxconn in mainland China.