The Truth of the Matter

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.

In this insightful discussion, Gregory C. Allen, Director of the Wadwani AI Center at CSIS, and Joseph Majkut, Director of the Energy Security and Climate Change Program at CSIS, delve into the Biden administration's Executive Order on AI infrastructure. They unpack motivations behind enhancing U.S. AI leadership and the critical need for a robust energy grid. The conversation touches on the significant investments likened to a modern Manhattan project and anticipates how future administrations might shift energy policies, balancing fossil fuels with renewable resources.

Gregory C. Allen, Director of the Wadwani AI Center and expert on AI policy, delves into the Biden administration's new AI Diffusion Framework. He discusses its strategic implications amid rising global competition, especially from China and Russia. The conversation highlights breakthroughs in AI technology, including OpenAI's O3 model, and addresses changes in U.S. export controls affecting semiconductor firms. Allen also anticipates potential shifts in policy with the incoming Trump administration and the challenges faced in semiconductor supply chains.

Vincent Rigby, a former national security and intelligence advisor to Justin Trudeau, shares insights into the surprising resignation of the Canadian Prime Minister. He discusses the political pressures and public discontent that precipitated this landmark decision. Rigby explores the ensuing political turmoil, including the impact of a deputy prime minister’s departure and the rise of populist leader Pierre Poliev. He also highlights the potential implications for U.S.-Canada relations amidst this transition.

Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, a key figure on the House Select Committee for U.S.-China competition, dives into pressing topics on national security and technology. He discusses TikTok's legal challenges and the national concerns surrounding Chinese-made internet routers. Krishnamoorthi emphasizes bipartisan efforts to enhance U.S. defense capabilities and address immigration and workforce gaps. He also highlights the critical role of Taiwan amid escalating tensions, underscoring the need for strong military readiness in the Indo-Pacific.

Eva Dou, a technology policy reporter at The Washington Post and author of 'House of Huawei,' dives deep into the fascinating rise of Huawei, detailing its transformation from a small startup to a global tech giant. She discusses the complexities of the company's business practices amidst U.S. national security concerns and covers its pivotal role in 5G technology. Additionally, Eva sheds light on Huawei’s military-inspired culture and the political challenges it faces in maintaining its competitive edge in the global market.

Norman Roule, a former CIA officer with 34 years of experience focused on the Middle East, discusses the survival of the Assad regime and the roles of Iran and Russia. He explores bureaucratic issues in these countries that have allowed groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to gain ground quickly. Roule also critiques the military strategies of the Syrian regime, highlights the current geopolitical struggles, and suggests actions the U.S. can undertake to promote peace and stability in the region.

Natasha Hall, a senior fellow at CSIS's Middle East program and a Syria expert, delves into the precarious state of the Assad regime. She unpacks the internal rifts among militia groups and the shifting power dynamics influenced by external actors like Russia and Iran. The discussion spotlights the pivotal rebel groups and their strategies, as well as the pressing humanitarian issues faced by civilians, particularly women. Hall calls for increased international support to navigate the complexities of Syria’s recovery and leadership challenges.

Join Jon Alterman, Middle East Program Director at CSIS and a seasoned expert on Middle Eastern politics, as he delves into the dramatic developments in Syria. He discusses the cautious optimism following the Assad regime's potential collapse and the complexities of geopolitical alliances involving Russia, Iran, and Turkey. Alterman also reflects on Iran's tough decisions amidst regional turmoil and assesses the challenges facing Israel amid ongoing conflicts. The conversation is rich with insights on the intricate dynamics shaping the future of Syria and its neighbors.

Tom Karako, Director of the Missile Defense Project at CSIS and a leading expert in missile defense, discusses the critical role of missiles in global conflicts. He highlights escalating tensions in Ukraine and Russia's nuclear threats, particularly focusing on the RS-26 missile. The effectiveness of U.S. missile support, like the Precision Strike Missile (PRISM), is examined alongside the strategic dilemmas posed by North Korea and Iran. Karako underscores the need for military readiness and a coherent strategy to navigate these complex geopolitical dynamics.