Foreign Policy Live

Tanvi Madan, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and host of the Global India podcast, dives into the escalating tensions between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan. The discussion reveals the severe implications of recent military actions triggered by a deadly attack in Kashmir. Madan explores the historical context of the Kashmir dispute, potential de-escalation strategies, and the influence of external powers on the conflict. Insightful commentary on the strategic constraints both nations face and the media’s role in shaping public perception adds depth to this critical analysis.

Dive into the chaotic first 100 days of Trump’s second term, where foreign policy decisions spark intense debate. The hosts dissect the balance of trade with China, exploring what a win would really look like. They analyze the 'America First' doctrine and its implications on tariffs and international relations. Amid shifting global power dynamics, the rise of multipolarity is highlighted, along with America's stance on Iran. Historical context is also examined, linking past crises to today's geopolitical tensions.

Emma Ashford, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center and a prominent realist scholar, shares her insights on Trump's tumultuous foreign policy during his second term. She discusses his chaotic first 100 days, the impact of nationalist ideology on diplomacy, and contradictions in U.S. strategies regarding the Middle East and Ukraine. Ashford highlights the divergence between Trump's approach and traditional realist principles, while analyzing how this shift affects global politics and U.S. relations with major powers like China.

The rollout of the Trump administration’s tariffs has rattled markets, prompting questions of what these protectionist policies mean for the global economy moving forward. Two top experts on globalization join FP Live to share their thoughts. Elisabeth Braw is an FP columnist and the author of Goodbye Globalization: The Return of a Divided World. And Eswar Prasad is a trade scholar and professor at Cornell University.We want to hear from you! Help us shape the future of FP Live by sharing your thoughts on the show by clicking here. Contact us anytime at live@foreignpolicy.com.Suggested reading (FP links are paywall-free):Transcript: Is the World Going to Deglobalize?Elisabeth Braw: What’s the Cost of Doing Business Under Trump?Eswar Prasad: The World Will Regret Its Retreat From GlobalizationJoseph E. Stiglitz: Play by the Rules Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott Kennedy, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies with 37 years of experience in China, teams up with Zongyuan Zoe Liu, a senior fellow for China Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. They delve into the complexities of the U.S.-China trade war, discussing the ongoing tariffs, potential retaliatory measures, and the risks of escalation. They explore China's economic strategies, its focus on domestic consumption, and implications for global markets, highlighting how this trade conflict shapes not just the two nations but the world economy.

Jared Cohen, president of global affairs at Goldman Sachs and a thought leader on AI's geopolitical landscape, dives into the fierce competition for dominance in the AI economy. He underscores the role of 'geopolitical swing states' in global power dynamics. The conversation explores vulnerabilities in AI infrastructure, including critical mineral supply chains and semiconductor demands, and the Middle East's potential as a major player in meeting energy needs for data centers. Cohen emphasizes the complex interplay between technology, resources, and global politics.

Oren Cass, founder of American Compass and author of The Once and Future Worker, confronts esteemed UCLA economist Kimberly Clausing, author of Open, in a lively discussion on Trump's tariffs. They debate how these tariffs are impacting markets and the economy overall. The conversation delves into the complexities of tariffs, their effects on lower-income families, and the role of the World Trade Organization. They also discuss the misconceptions surrounding trade deficits and the necessity for balanced trade policies to safeguard U.S. interests.

Andrew O’Donohue, a political scientist specializing in democratic backsliding, discusses the alarming similarities between the Trump administration's treatment of the judiciary and the tactics of authoritarian regimes worldwide. He highlights the crucial role of judicial independence and civil society in resisting executive overreach. O'Donohue draws parallels with countries like Israel and Turkey, where populist leaders have similarly challenged judicial authority. This insightful conversation sheds light on the fragile state of democracy and the importance of protecting the rule of law globally.

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy joins to dissect the growing influence of billionaires in U.S. politics and the implications for democracy. He highlights how figures like Elon Musk challenge the populist image of political leaders. The discussion reveals escalating concerns about corruption under the Trump administration and the Democratic Party's struggles to address dissatisfaction among voters. Murphy emphasizes the urgency for accountability, reform, and collective action from citizens to combat corruption and strengthen democratic institutions.

In this discussion, Arantxa Gonzalez-Laya, former foreign minister of Spain, and Gabrielius Landsbergis, former foreign minister of Lithuania, dissect Europe's response to the Trump era. They explore Europe's evolving defense strategies amid U.S. shifts, emphasizing self-reliance and military investment due to threats from Russia. The duo also navigates trade tensions, advocating for strategic resilience against rising protectionism while safeguarding open markets. Their insights reveal the complexities of Europe’s geopolitical landscape in these tumultuous times.