The Last Line of Defense

Dr. Ryan Berg, Director of the Americas Program at CSIS, dives into the shifting political landscape in Venezuela following Maduro's departure. He discusses U.S. objectives including counter-narcotics and migration policies. Ryan explains the complexities of the new leadership under Delcy Rodríguez and the implications of existing power structures. The conversation explores lessons from past regime changes and the risks of internal power struggles, shedding light on the future of stability and legitimacy in Venezuela.

Host Seth Jones sits down with Kari Bingen, Director of the Aerospace Security Project and a Senior Fellow in the Defense and Security Department at CSIS, and former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Together, they look back at major defense and military shocks of 2025, including Russia’s poor performance, Operation Midnight Hammer, and China’s military parade, among others. They also forecast potential wildcards for 2026, including a U.S.–China deal and land strikes in Venezuela.

Juan Cruz, a former U.S. Intelligence Community official, shares his insights on the escalating crisis in Venezuela. He discusses the complexities of U.S. objectives in removing Maduro and the challenges posed by Venezuela's role as a hub for drug trafficking. Cruz highlights the risks associated with U.S. military involvement and the asymmetrical threats from local militias and guerrillas. He also analyzes the limitations of foreign support from countries like Cuba and Russia, emphasizing the need for U.S. military readiness for potential jungle warfare.

Host Seth Jones sits down with Douglas Lute, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, to discuss President Trump’s proposed peace plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. This episode was recorded on November 24th, 2025.

Host Seth Jones talks with Mick Ryan, retired Australian Army Major General, about his recent visit to Ukraine's frontlines. They discuss the evolving dynamics of the war, highlighting Ukraine's successes, Russia's challenges, and key developments, including shifts in U.S. policy, the change in air defense posture, and the increasing use of long-range strikes and drones.

President Trump met with President Xi in a historic bilateral meeting amid growing tensions between the United States and China. Host Seth Jones sat down with Jude Blanchette, the Distinguished Tang Chair in China Research and the inaugural director of the RAND China Research Center, for a discussion on the outcome of the meeting and China’s defense strategy moving forward.

In this era of uncertainty, knowledge is power. Hosted by Dr. Seth G. Jones, The Last Line of Defense offers clear and insightful analysis on the latest national security news. Each episode provides practical solutions to the toughest security questions—from war and peace around the world to the role of emerging technology in defense.