Net Assessment

Discussing China's increasing presence in the Middle East, the podcast delves into potential concerns for the US. They analyze China's influence, nuclear proliferation challenges, and recent developments in the region. Criticisms are raised on Senator Wicker's call for higher Pentagon budgets and Canada's parliamentarians being accused of foreign influence.

Debater Melanie questions condolences for 'Butcher of Tehran', Chris cautions against major security deal with Saudi Arabia, Zack praises Tsai Ing-wen's leadership on cross-Strait issues. They debate Biden's China policy approach and ponder if US needs final objective in dealing with China.

Discussing the impact of American aid on the Russo-Ukrainian war, Ukraine's negotiation strategies, and Russia's vulnerabilities. Critiques on protest effectiveness and Greenpeace's actions. Conversation includes celebration of son's graduation, doubts on protest location choice, and criticism of Greenpeace's risky initiative.

Chris, Melanie, and Zack discuss Gavin Wilde’s recent article in the Texas National Security Review on foreign media manipulation. How vulnerable are citizens of democracies to manipulation through social media? Is a more open and less hierarchical media space a national security threat? And what, if anything, should policymakers in democracies do about this issue? Grievances for China blocking popular apps, Marjorie Taylor Green for her shenanigans surrounding the foreign aid vote, and to the F-35, the gift that keeps on giving (to the tune of $2 trillion); Attas for Samuel Charap and Sergey Radchenko for an important article on Ukraine, to Mike Johnson for taking a principled stand on the foreign aid bill, and to the first Australian officers to participate in AUKUS nuclear submarine training. This episode's reading.

Chris, Melanie, and Zack assess the warning signs for the US in Southeast Asia, discuss American shipbuilding concerns, and critique American and Japanese leaders' announcements. They explore shifting perceptions in Southeast Asia towards the US, analyze the effectiveness of the US-led Indo-Pacific Framework, and navigate challenges in navy shipbuilding and economic alliances. The dialogue also covers defense policy reform and US-Japan cooperation announcements.

Explore the 2024 Annual Threat Assessment focusing on major threats to the US. From fentanyl threat to China's space program ambitions, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, the podcast debates implications of migration, classified briefings, and global terrorism concerns. Intriguing insights on China's influence, geopolitical tensions, and congressional actions add depth to the discussion.

Exploring neglected US-Latin America ties, competing with China, and addressing immigration effects. Discussing historic neglect, strategic investments, and countering China's influence. Highlighting global issues like Haiti crisis, TikTok saga, and European security disputes. Calling for a new Truman Commission to address war profiteering and analyzing budgetary challenges. Reflecting on conference participation and upcoming collaborations in East Asia.

The podcast discusses the concept of unbalanced multipolarity and explores the potential repercussions of the US pulling back from its leadership role in Europe. Topics include the formation of regional power blocks, lack of progress on funding agreements, criticisms of the New York Times decisions, and debates on defense industry shortfalls.

Discussion on the challenges and opportunities in the new National Defense Industrial Strategy, including workforce readiness and supply chain issues. Criticism on strategy's lack of specificity and alignment with budget. Debates on trade agreements, job opportunities in submarine building, and controversial remarks on NATO. Exploration of congressional departures and challenges in defense budget allocation.

Experts rank the leading threats to US national security, including domestic terrorism, conflicts in the Middle East, and migration issues. The hosts discuss concerns about political polarization, the use of AI, and China's actions in the region. They also address grievances with US Middle East policy and celebrate reaching 1 million listens.