The Truth of the Matter

Erin Murphy, Deputy Director at CSIS, specializes in subsea cables and their link to global security. She delves into why these cables are crucial for internet connectivity, handling 95% of online activity. The conversation highlights the risks of sabotage amidst great power competition, particularly with China. Murphy discusses Egypt's key role and the geopolitical intricacies involved in managing these infrastructures. Additionally, she shares insights on the need for innovative policies and international cooperation to ensure the resilience of this vital backbone of the internet.

Max Bergmann, director of the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, shares insights on the turbulent state of European security. He discusses the shifting dynamics of U.S.-Europe relations, highlighting the contrasting approaches of Trump and Biden. The rise of far-right politics in Germany is examined, alongside its implications for coalition-building. Bergmann also evaluates potential negotiations regarding Ukraine, weighing scenarios that could affect its sovereignty and NATO ambitions.

Ann Lee, co-founder and CEO of CORE Response, brings her expertise in disaster relief to the discussion. She delves into the complexities of California's wildfire issues, emphasizing a tailored recovery approach for affected families. The conversation highlights the importance of cash assistance and navigating the regulatory landscape to support long-term solutions. Ann also sheds light on smarter rebuilding strategies for fire-prone areas, advocating for a comprehensive response that involves community engagement and government action to foster resilience.

Philip Luck, Director of the CSIS Economics Program and Scholl Chair in International Business, dives deep into the implications of the U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. He uncovers how these tariffs may reshape trade relationships with Canada and Mexico. The discussion reveals the hidden costs of tariffs, including increased manufacturing expenses and potential job losses. Luck also highlights the broader national security concerns related to domestic steel production and the complexities of relying on international sources for critical materials.

Noam Unger, the Director of the CSIS Sustainable Development and Resilience Initiative, delves into the precarious state of USAID and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. He discusses a recent executive order that halted foreign assistance, causing confusion within the agency. Unger highlights how the agency is crucial for global health and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing potential geopolitical risks posed by its operational decline. The conversation also covers the interplay of USAID with emerging powers like China and Russia, alongside evolving foreign assistance strategies.

Philip Luck, the economics program director at CSIS and a tariffs and trade expert, dives into the ramifications of the Trump administration's tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. He discusses the motivations behind these measures and their impact on trade relations. Luck sheds light on the complexities of diplomatic negotiations amidst growing tensions and how these tariffs have historically affected supply chains. He highlights the economic risks involved, particularly for farmers, and the changing landscape of international trade policies.

Michaela Simoneau, an associate fellow for global health security at CSIS, sheds light on the recent bird flu outbreak's impact on the poultry industry and U.S. egg prices. She discusses the crucial red flags researchers monitor to assess pandemic risks. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of government investment in vaccine development and public health communication. Michaela highlights the challenges in building public trust and misinformation management during health crises, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts to mitigate future infectious diseases.

Gregory C. Allen, Director of the Wadwani AI Center at CSIS and co-host of the AI Policy Podcast, dives into the competitive landscape of artificial intelligence. He discusses the origins of DeepSeek, a rising Chinese AI company, and its new DeepSeek R1 model, which is shaking up U.S.-China relations. The conversation highlights its impact on stock fluctuations, particularly with NVIDIA, and the ethical concerns surrounding intellectual property theft. Allen emphasizes the importance of leadership in the ongoing AI race and how major U.S. tech firms adapt to this evolving landscape.

Catherine Nzuki, an associate fellow in the CSIS Africa Program, delves into U.S. policy impacts on Africa amid potential Trump returns. She discusses how African nations can strategically leverage great power competition between the U.S. and China. Catherine highlights Africa's demographic shifts, projecting one in four people will be African by 2050, and tackles the continent's debt crisis affecting essential services. She also reflects on the cultural resurgence driven by internet access, showcasing African voices in the global arena.

Paul B. Stares, an expert in conflict prevention and foreign policy, provides insights into the urgent findings of the 2025 Preventive Priorities Survey. He discusses rising geopolitical threats, including tensions in Gaza, Ukraine, and the South China Sea. Stares highlights overlooked global conflicts and humanitarian crises in Sudan and Ethiopia, urging for increased intervention. He also examines the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and its challenges in navigating peace amid seemingly contradictory actions.