The Foreign Affairs Interview

Henry Farrell and Abraham Newman, political scientists and co-authors of 'The Rise of the Economic Security State,' dissect the shift from U.S. dominance in global financial networks to the emergence of rivals like China wielding their own economic leverage. They explore the implications of 'weaponized interdependence,' how this transformation blurs lines between national security and economic power, and the evolving dynamics of sanctions and technology. Their insights reveal a critical turning point in geopolitics and the need for new strategies to navigate these challenges.

Margaret MacMillan, a renowned historian and professor emeritus at Oxford University, dives into the shifting landscape of U.S. foreign alliances under the Trump administration. She discusses how Trump's approach undermines traditional diplomacy, posing risks similar to historical appeasement before World War II. MacMillan warns against normalizing territorial conquests like those seen in Ukraine, reflecting on the repercussions for global relations. The conversation also explores NATO dynamics and how historical narratives influence modern political identities.

Nicholas Eberstadt, a leading political economist at the American Enterprise Institute, delves into the world’s stunning decline in fertility rates. He highlights that we may be entering an era of depopulation, with the U.S. hitting its lowest birthrate ever in 2024. Eberstadt discusses how this demographic shift will reshape societal structures and global geopolitics. He also emphasizes the potential of migration to address workforce shortages and the role of AI and automation in navigating these profound changes.

In a riveting discussion, Stephen Kotkin, a leading Russia expert at Stanford, and Orville Schell, a prominent China scholar, delve into the motivations behind Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin’s leadership. They explore how both leaders draw from their tumultuous pasts, shaping their autocratic styles. The conversation highlights the impact of historical narratives on modern geopolitics, especially in the context of the Ukraine war and Sino-Russian relations. Their insights expose the complex interplay of power, ideology, and the ambitions driving these formidable figures on the world stage.

Ashley J. Tellis, a scholar and former U.S. official, makes a case for India's closer alignment with the U.S. to counter China, stirring debate. Dhruva Jaishankar counters that the U.S. isn't offering India a true alliance, pushing for a multipolar order instead. Nirupama Rao emphasizes India's need for strategic autonomy amidst complex international dynamics. The trio dives deep into the challenges of U.S.-India relations, the implications of India's political shift, and the need for effective collaboration to tackle regional threats.

Robert Keohane, a prominent scholar of international relations, shares insights on the legacy of his friend and collaborator, Joseph Nye. They discuss Nye's groundbreaking concept of soft power and the implications of President Trump’s focus on hard power. The conversation navigates U.S.-China relations, the rise of populism, and the importance of international cooperation. Keohane reflects on the future of American foreign policy, the challenges of economic disparities, and the evolving landscape of global alliances influenced by technology and political dynamics.

Pranay Vaddi, formerly overseeing nuclear policy at the National Security Council, discusses the urgent nuclear landscape today. He highlights the alarming expansion of China's arsenal and Russia's nuclear threats in Ukraine. Vaddi argues that the U.S. must revitalize its nuclear strategy, especially in the context of alliances that may falter amidst rising tensions. They also delve into Iran's nuclear ambitions and the proliferation risks that complicate global stability, urging a reassessment of deterrence tactics in this unpredictable era.

Mira Rapp-Hooper, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Rebecca Lissner, an associate professor at the Naval War College, delve into the transformative impact of Trump's presidency on American foreign policy. They discuss the resilience of global alliances despite disruptions and the implications of a potential second Trump term. The duo emphasizes the need for innovative strategies in a multipolar world and argues that the current landscape offers a unique opportunity to redefine U.S. diplomatic engagement and partnerships.

Celeste Wallander, the executive director of Penn Washington and a former top defense official, discusses Europe’s recent defense spending surge and its implications for the U.S. She warns a stronger Europe may become more independent, potentially challenging U.S. priorities. The conversation highlights the outcomes of the NATO summit, Europe's response to Russian threats, and the evolving U.S.-European relationship, especially in contexts like Ukraine and regional stability.

In a fascinating discussion, Eric Edelman, a seasoned U.S. foreign policy expert, alongside Middle East specialists Suzanne Maloney and Andrew Miller, dissect Iran's nuclear ambitions and the repercussions of recent military actions. They explore the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, including domestic pressures and strategic military considerations. Key topics include the effectiveness of strikes on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, implications for Israel's policies, and the evolving power dynamics within Iran. Their insights shed light on a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.