Fareed Zakaria GPS

Today on the show, Fareed speaks with The Economist’s editor-in-chief Zanny Minton Beddoes and hedge fund billionaire Ray Dalio about America’s economic turmoil in the first 100 days of the Trump administration and President Trump’s problems with Fed Chair Jerome Powell.  Next, Victoria Nuland, a former senior State Department official, joins the show to discuss the Trump administration’s efforts to negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine. Finally, what will Pope Francis’ progressive legacy mean for the election of the new Pope? Fareed speaks to The New York Times columnist Ross Douthat.   Guests: Zanny Minton Beddoes (@zannymb), Ray Dalio (@RayDalio), Victoria Nuland, Ross Douthat (@DouthatNYT) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lee Bollinger, former President of Columbia University and a prominent First Amendment scholar, dives into the alarming attacks on academic freedom by the Trump administration. He discusses the implications of government power on prestigious institutions like Harvard, emphasizing the risks to free speech. Alongside him, author Michael Lewis sheds light on his book, revealing the often-overlooked, vital work of America's civil servants amidst a climate that diminishes their value. This lively conversation navigates the crossroads of education, politics, and public service.

Larry Summers, former US Treasury Secretary, critiques Trump's tariff policies, discussing their implications for American capitalism and the potential rise of crony capitalism. Lingling Wei, Chief China Correspondent for the Wall Street Journal, shares insights on China's response to the escalating US-China trade war. They delve into how tariffs affect middle-class Americans and debate economic independence versus inflation. The conversation also touches on the political controversies surrounding these policies and the possible long-term effects on international trade.

Ehud Barak, former Israeli Prime Minister and a decorated military officer, shares gripping insights on Israel's renewed conflict in Gaza, warning of dire consequences for hostages as Prime Minister Netanyahu expands territory. The discussion highlights the leadership challenges amidst crisis and the broader geopolitical ramifications. Barak's analysis sheds light on the complexities of recent events, making this conversation a must-listen for those interested in international relations and political dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, Alexander Dugin, a prominent Russian philosopher often called "Putin's brain," shares provocative insights about the growing alignment between Trump and Putin. He suggests that the war in Ukraine is justified within a broader geopolitical strategy. The conversation also touches on the U.S.'s contentious plans for Greenland, the complexities of military presence there, and the implications of tariff policies on the American economy. Dugin's unique perspective offers a thought-provoking lens on current global political dynamics.

Ari Shavit, an esteemed Israeli journalist known for his insights on Israeli politics, delves into the fervent protests erupting in Israel as Prime Minister Netanyahu reignites the Gaza conflict and moves to dismiss key security officials. He discusses the escalating tensions and the implications for governance in Israel. The conversation also draws parallels between Israel’s political turmoil and broader global crises, highlighting the challenges of leadership in times of unrest.

Zannie Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, shares her expert insights on the geopolitical ramifications of recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. She discusses the shifting alliances in Europe due to U.S. foreign policy changes and how these dynamics may reshape global defense strategies. The conversation also navigates complex issues surrounding free speech on university campuses amid rising political tensions. Beddoes presents a captivating analysis of these intertwined global challenges and their impact on international relations.

Dmytro Kuleba, the former Ukrainian Foreign Minister, discusses the fallout from the U.S. pausing military aid to Ukraine. He shares Kyiv's concerns about America's reliability in support amid ongoing Russian threats. The conversation also dives into Europe's capacity to step up and fill the support void. Additionally, Kuleba emphasizes Ukraine's urgent defense needs as geopolitical tensions evolve, raising questions about the shifting balance of power and the implications for international alliances.

Bill Maher, a sharp-witted comedian and political commentator, shares his unfiltered views on the future of the Trump presidency and the Democratic Party's direction. He explores the implications of Trump's controversial leadership style and the potential fallout from a second term. Maher also reflects on the broader state of American democracy, addressing issues of polarization and governance. His insights are both humorous and thought-provoking, as he navigates the chaotic waters of current politics.

Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, a vocal advocate for Ukraine and critic of Putin, shares crucial insights on the future of the Ukraine conflict. He discusses the evolving U.S. foreign policy toward Europe and the implications of a closer relationship with Russia. Sikorski emphasizes the importance of European unity in facing threats while exploring the complexities of international diplomacy. With the backdrop of political shifts, he reflects on how recent U.S. decisions impact global aid and the humanitarian landscape.