Geopolitics Decanted by Silverado

Dmitri Alperovitch chats with Dr. Jeffrey Lewis, a nuclear nonproliferation expert from the Middlebury Institute, about the recent damage to Iran's nuclear program. They dive into the operational status of facilities like Fordow and Natanz, the challenges of reconstituting capabilities, and the significance of highly enriched uranium. Discussing the impact of the assassinations of nuclear scientists, they explore the resilience of Iran's ambitions. Lewis examines the complexities of nuclear strategy and the potential future moves Iran might take amidst geopolitical tensions.

Join retired Israeli General Amos Yadlin, a key figure in dismantling nuclear threats in the Middle East. He discusses strategic objectives against Iran, revealing the intricacies of military operations and the psychological state of Khamenei. Yadlin emphasizes the potential dangers of euphoria following military successes and the volatile implications for the region, particularly regarding Iranian proxies and the stability of the Strait of Hormuz. Insightful and candid, this conversation sheds light on the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Dmitri Alperovitch hosts Andrei Lankov, a North Korea expert and professor, alongside Sergey Radchenko, a Cold War historian. They discuss the dire threats from North Korea's nuclear ambitions and the potential for a second Korean War. The conversation covers the intricacies of North Korea's relationships with China and Russia, revealing China's growing frustrations. Lankov shares insights on life under the regime, including the extensive surveillance, the realities of prison camps, and the surprising role of technology and female empowerment in this repressive society.

Chris Weafer, CEO of Macro Advisory, shares insights on the Russian economy, drawing from 26 years of experience. He discusses the duality of Russia's economic situation, facing high inflation and a collapsing ruble despite low unemployment. Weafer reveals how sanctions are reshaping trade partnerships, particularly with China and India. He highlights the crucial role of fluctuating oil prices and government spending in maintaining economic stability, and underscores the implications of $300 billion in frozen Russian assets amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Join expert Jeffrey Lewis, a professor and director at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, as he delves into the complexities of nuclear deterrence. He discusses Putin's diminishing nuclear blackmail tactics and the implications of Russia's new nuclear doctrine for global stability. Lewis also unpacks lessons from the Ukraine conflict and critiques the recent resurgence of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Additionally, he explores U.S. nuclear needs and the growing Chinese nuclear threat, illuminating vital geopolitical dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, Andrey Liscovich, Founder of the Ukraine Defense Fund and expert in drone warfare, reveals the cutting-edge developments in Ukraine's battlefield technology. He delves into the revolutionary use of Ground Unmanned Vehicles and FPV drones, while highlighting the game-changing impact of electronic warfare systems. Liscovich also covers the strategic advantages of autonomy in unmanned systems and the implications of satellite imagery on warfare tactics. Discover how the landscape of military operations is evolving in unexpected ways!

In this engaging discussion, Constantine Kalinovskiy, a Ukrainian combat veteran currently supporting friends on the front lines, shares insights into the surprising successes of the Ukrainian offensive in Kursk. He elaborates on the challenges of holding newly captured territory and the role of strategic planning in military engagements. Furthermore, Constantine highlights his charity, LibertyUkraine.org, which provides crucial support equipment like excavators to troops, showcasing the resilience and determination of those fighting for Ukraine.

Dmitri Alperovitch, a military strategy expert, joins Justin Bronk, a Senior Research Fellow specializing in airpower and technology, to discuss the arrival of F-16s in Ukraine. They examine how these jets might not transform the battlefield but can be strategically integrated with systems like Harpoons and Storm Shadow missiles. The conversation dives into the growing threat of Russian drones, the performance of PATRIOT systems, and the future of air combat, particularly the integration of UAVs with manned aircraft.

Dmitri Alperovitch discusses his book 'World on the Brink' detailing how China might invade Taiwan, along with topics such as U.S.-China conflict, Taiwan's strategic importance, Cold War similarities, and deterrence strategies.

Sergey Radchenko, a Cold War historian, discusses declassified Soviet and Chinese archives revealing China's role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, Soviet intelligence failure in the Korean War, and Breznev's actions during Watergate. They explore lessons for Cold War II with China, the possibility of detente, and America's path to victory.