The Rachman Review

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.

Jörg Wuttke, a seasoned German businessman and President of the European Chamber of Commerce, shares his deep insights into the dynamics of US-China relations. He discusses China's evolution from a backwater to a superpower, the challenges posed by US sanctions on its tech firms, and Europe's role as a trading partner. Wuttke also explores the precarious situation surrounding Taiwan, the implications of demographic changes in China, and the contrasting political landscapes of China and America under Xi and Trump.

Catherine Belton, an award-winning journalist for the Washington Post, and Arkady Ostrovsky, a prominent author for The Economist, delve into Vladimir Putin’s ambitions. They explore his quest to re-establish Russia as a global superpower, reflecting on the costs involved. The duo examines his rise from obscurity to dominance, the shift in his relationship with the West, and the complex dynamics between him and Donald Trump. Their insights shed light on the psychological motivations behind strongman leadership in today’s geopolitics.

Thirty years ago Mexico made a fateful decision to open its economy and engage with the US. Now that decision is being tested by Donald Trump’s tariff threat. Gideon talks to Mexican economist Luis de la Calle about the impact this could have on his country's economy and that of the US. Clips: ABC News; Claudia Sheinbaum PardoFree links to read more on this topic:How Trump could destroy his own political movementHalf of Mexico’s exports to US risk steep tariffsMexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum is riding high on Donald Trump’s trade warChina delays approval of BYD’s Mexico plant amid fears tech could leak to USSubscribe 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.Follow Gideon on X @gideonrachmanRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arancha González Laya, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs and former Spanish foreign minister, delves into Europe's defense challenges amid shifting global dynamics. She highlights how Germany is pivotal in shaping Europe's military response, particularly towards Russia. The conversation explores the impact of U.S. tariffs and stresses the need for a cohesive European strategy against emerging threats. González Laya also emphasizes the importance of democratic decision-making and the long-term sustainability of Europe's economic approach.

Canada’s Liberal party will elect a new leader this weekend and Chrystia Freeland is running to replace Justin Trudeau as prime minister. Donald Trump’s belligerence towards his northern neighbour seems to have restored the party’s popularity ahead of a general election this year. Chrystia tells host Gideon Rachman that Canadians are sticking together and that they have some strong cards to play.Follow Gideon on X @gideonrachman or Bluesky @gideonrachman.bsky.social.Gideon Rachman is the chief foreign affairs commentator at the Financial Times. You can find his column here. Want more? Free links:Donald Trump’s tariffs loom suddenly through the fog of trade warEurope has bought Zelenskyy some timeDonald Trump warns tariffs will cause ‘a little disturbance’ in defiant speechPresented by Gideon Rachman. Produced by Fiona Symon. Sound design is by Breen TurnerRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.