Foreign Policy Live

Dive into the evolving geopolitics of U.S.-China-India relations. Explore how China's transformation reflects in a cashless society and advancements in clean energy. Discover the rise of Labubus toys as a symbol of Chinese soft power. Examine the intricacies of U.S.-India ties under Trump's administration, including trade tensions and tariffs. Unpack the challenges of decision-making in a transactional political landscape, highlighting the stakes as superpowers navigate their complex relationships.

Michael McFaul, a former U.S. ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, delves into the complexities of Trump’s evolving stance on Ukraine. He discusses how Trump's policies could alter U.S. support amid the ongoing conflict and impact global oil prices and inflation. McFaul examines the implications of sanctions and challenges facing President Zelensky's leadership. He also explores the resilience of Ukrainian civil society and strategies for U.S. involvement, emphasizing the importance of democracy as a weapon in this geopolitical struggle.

Kenneth Rogoff, a Harvard professor and former chief economist at the IMF, dissects the recent 10% decline of the U.S. dollar. He discusses whether this drop signals a severe threat to the dollar's dominance as the global reserve currency. The conversation touches on historical parallels with past economic decisions, the potential rise of alternative currencies, and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. Rogoff highlights that the dollar's weakening could reshape international alliances and economic strategies amid rising global tensions.

Former Indonesian Vice Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal shares insights on Indonesia's global role as the world's largest Muslim-majority democracy. He discusses Indonesia's strategic balancing act with China while navigating tensions in Southeast Asia. Djalal also reflects on how U.S. foreign policy changes could influence Indonesia, particularly in trade relationships and regional stability. He highlights Indonesia's evolving stance on the Israeli-Gaza conflict and its ambitions within frameworks like BRICS, advocating for a rules-based global order.

Thomas Friedman, a three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for the New York Times and author of 'From Beirut to Jerusalem', shares insights on the recent Trump-Netanyahu meeting. He discusses the complex negotiations concerning a potential ceasefire in Gaza and the impacts on Israeli domestic politics. Friedman analyzes the broader geopolitical landscape, including the U.S.'s bipartisan support for Israel and its implications for relations with China and Iran. He emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue in addressing contemporary conflicts.

Edward Luce, a columnist for the Financial Times and author of a biography on Zbigniew Brzezinski, sheds light on the influential strategist's legacy. He delves into Brzezinski's views on human rights and U.S. foreign policy, revealing how they evolved through significant historical events like the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Luce also discusses the current challenges in U.S.-China relations, the unique dynamics between presidents and their advisors, and the need for fresh thinking in today's multipolar landscape.

Shivshankar Menon, former national security advisor of India and author of 'Choices: Inside the Making of Indian Foreign Policy,' delves into India's response to a changing global environment shaped by the Trump administration. He discusses the escalating tensions with Pakistan, the rise of India as a geopolitical player, and the implications of a less engaged U.S. on its foreign policy. Menon also explores how nonalignment might resurface and the necessity for agile partnerships in an increasingly fragmented global order.

At the NATO summit in The Hague, European leaders are stepping up defense spending to align with U.S. expectations, raising questions about funding sources. The potential implications on social services are a hot topic. Discussions also dive into the unpredictable nature of a Russia-NATO conflict, which would differ greatly from the Ukraine situation. Meanwhile, experts weigh in on America's waning influence as Europe reclaims more self-reliance in security matters, and the complexities surrounding U.S. military strategies in Iran add another layer of intrigue.

Vali Nasr, a Middle East expert and professor at Johns Hopkins University, dives deep into the escalating Iran-Israel conflict. He unpacks Israel's military strategies and the challenges of striking fortified Iranian sites. The discussion highlights leadership changes in Iran's Revolutionary Guard and their influence on regional dynamics. Nasr also explores how domestic issues in both nations impact international relations and the delicate balance of power, as well as the role of major players like the U.S. and China in this complex crisis.

Jared Cohen and George Lee from the Goldman Sachs Global Institute discuss the escalating AI rivalry between China and the United States. They explore how China's advancements in AI and its rare earths exports could shift the balance of power. The conversation dives into the unpredictability of the tech competition, U.S. export controls, and the impact on global supply chains. They also examine geopolitical dynamics, including the role of swing states like India and Vietnam, and emphasize the need for dialogue to set international AI norms.