The Rachman Review

Historian Rana Mitter, an expert in contemporary Chinese politics at Harvard Kennedy School, joins Gideon Rachman to delve into Xi Jinping's rise to power. They discuss Xi's evolution from a party bureaucrat to a strongman leader, showcasing his consolidation of authority and the creation of a personality cult. The conversation also examines Xi's unique relationship with Vladimir Putin amid geopolitical tensions, alongside the implications of China's growing global influence and recent political purges within the Communist Party.

Dive into a riveting conversation where Martin Wolf and Paul Krugman dissect the economic upheaval following Trump's election. They explore the trade war's far-reaching effects and examine how political decisions shape economic landscapes. The discussion veers into the implications of artificial intelligence, making for an insightful blend of politics and economics. With so much at stake, this dialogue is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of global economics.

Jake Sullivan, President Biden's National Security Advisor, shares insights on his four-year tenure navigating tumultuous global events. He discusses the rapid Taliban resurgence in Afghanistan, the geopolitical fallout from Russia's Ukraine invasion, and the intricate balance of U.S. support for Israel amid humanitarian concerns. Sullivan also reflects on the interplay between domestic upheaval and foreign policy, stressing the need for renewed American strength in a competitive international landscape. This conversation provides a deep dive into the complexities shaping today's global affairs.

Paschal Donohoe, Ireland’s finance minister and president of the Eurogroup, dives into the euro's potential to challenge the dollar amidst rising nationalism and tensions. He champions deeper European integration, emphasizing the importance of immigration and a revised UK-EU relationship. Donohoe also tackles trade dynamics with the Trump administration, highlighting the need for stronger internal EU agreements. Plus, he discusses the digital economy and workforce mobility, advocating for standardized qualifications across member states.

In this engaging discussion, Sushant Singh, a Yale lecturer specializing in South Asian studies, dissects the delicate ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He explains how both nations claim victory despite escalating tensions. The conversation touches on the complex dynamics of U.S. diplomacy, highlighting India's mixed feelings towards perceived concessions. Singh also explores the influence of Chinese involvement and military strategies on their geopolitical rivalry. Overall, he provides vital insights into the future of this fraught relationship.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Senator Andy Kim, the first Korean American in the U.S. Senate and a former diplomat, shares insights on how Democrats can effectively counter Donald Trump. He emphasizes the need for a unified message that resonates with voters and explores grassroots activism alongside dialogue. Kim discusses the implications of Trump's immigration policies on national security, the erosion of checks and balances, and the urgent need for anti-corruption reform, all while stressing the importance of protecting Medicaid and ensuring electoral integrity.

Lawrence Freedman, an Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London, discusses the complexities of achieving peace in Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. He delves into the contrasting expectations of Russia and Ukraine, territorial disputes, and the impact of American strategies. The conversation also highlights the evolution of warfare, particularly the role of drones, and the divided U.S. perspectives on foreign policy. Freedman emphasizes the potential for the conflict to persist, influenced by economic challenges and political motivations from both sides.

Gideon talks to the FT’s Michael Stott about Nayib Bukele, president of El Salvador, whose friendship with Donald Trump has been in the spotlight over his willingness to imprison US deportees, notably Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia. Clip: The White HouseFollow Gideon on Bluesky or X @gideonrachman.bsky.social, @gideonrachmanFree links to read more on this topic:Nayib Bukele: the TikTok authoritarian feted across Latin AmericaEl Salvador’s Bukele refuses to repatriate man wrongly deported from USHow El Salvador became a model for the global far rightTrump is halfway to making America a police stateEl Salvador offers to swap Venezuelan US deportees for political prisonersSubscribe to The Rachman Review wherever you get your podcasts - please listen, rate and subscribe.Presented by Gideon Rachman. Produced by Fiona Symon. Sound design is by Breen Turner.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sanam Vakil, the Director of the Middle East Program at Chatham House, shares her expertise on Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional geopolitics. She discusses the urgent nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, emphasizing the potential for military action prompted by Israel. The conversation navigates shifting alliances, particularly Iran's diplomatic overtures to Saudi Arabia, and the complexities of U.S. foreign relations involving both nations. Vakil highlights the implications of these talks on Middle Eastern stability and the prospects for future agreements.

Harold James, a Princeton University history professor and author of 'Seven Crashes,' delves into the ramifications of Donald Trump’s tariffs on global trade. He draws parallels to the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act and discusses how protectionism could reshape U.S.-China relations. The conversation touches on the future of economic globalization, the risks to the U.S. dollar's reserve status, and the potential for financial crises. James also highlights the contrasting economic prospects in Europe, especially among Eastern European nations, amid these shifts.