Foreign Policy Live

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Greg Grandin explores Trump’s foreign policy, tracing its roots to American expansionist ideals inherited from the Founding Fathers. He argues Trump selectively revisits historical narratives to suit his agenda, likening his presidency to a 'scarcity president.' Grandin discusses the implications of U.S. sanctions on Russia and how Trump’s approach revives 19th-century gunboat diplomacy. He also highlights the contrast between U.S. and Latin American political traditions, shedding light on contemporary international relations.

Diana Buttu, a Palestinian-Canadian lawyer and former spokesperson for the Palestine Liberation Organization, shares her insights on Gaza's post-cease-fire landscape. She discusses the catastrophic impacts of war, including widespread destruction and suffering in health and education. Buttu expresses deep anger over the lack of accountability in cease-fire negotiations. She critiques the two-state solution as ineffective and emphasizes the need for Palestinian leadership accountability, highlighting resilience and hope despite ongoing adversity.

In this engaging discussion, conservative journalist Emily Jashinsky, known for her insightful analysis of youth movements on the right, explores why 43% of voters under 30 supported Trump in 2024. She attributes this trend to cultural backlash and anti-left sentiment, citing figures like Zach Bryan and Joe Rogan as influencers. Emily distinguishes new right ideals from old ones, emphasizing a shift toward populism. She also raises concerns about future conservative principles post-Trump and connects these dynamics to broader global nationalist movements.

Stephen M. Walt, a Harvard professor and Foreign Policy columnist, dives deep into the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attacks and their drastic global repercussions. He discusses unexpected shifts in regional power dynamics, the waning credibility of international law, and the role of great powers in shaping the UN's effectiveness. Walt also highlights the polarization between the Global South and the West, rising antisemitism linked to Israeli policies, and the profound impact of social media on public perception. It's a thought-provoking exploration of an evolving geopolitical landscape.

Jill Lepore, a Harvard historian and author of 'We the People', dives into the complexities of the U.S. Constitution amid rising political polarization. She discusses the challenges of amending the Constitution, linking it to the framers' supermajority requirements and modern partisanship. Lepore highlights the implications of government shutdowns on foreign policy and the erosion of democratic norms. The conversation touches on originalism, the relationship between income inequality and civic engagement, and the urgent need for constitutional evolution.

Majed al-Ansari, Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson and advisor to the Prime Minister, discusses Qatar's unique role as a mediator in the Middle East. He addresses Israel's recent strike in Doha, framing it as a serious violation of Qatari sovereignty. Despite potential shifts in regional dynamics and threats to its mediation efforts, Majed insists Qatar will continue its diplomatic approach. He highlights the importance of maintaining strategic partnerships, particularly with the U.S., while navigating the complexities of international law.

Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and former Prime Minister of Estonia, discusses critical EU foreign policy issues. She shares insights on navigating U.S.-European relations amid the Trump administration's unpredictability and the implications of Russia's war in Ukraine. Kallas highlights EU sanctions and aid strategies while addressing China’s cautious stance on Russia. Furthermore, she explores the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizes the importance of two-state recognition for Palestine, and underscores a united European vision for engaging with a transactional U.S.

Adam Tooze, an economic historian and professor at Columbia University, delves into the recent dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development and its repercussions for global development. He argues that the core driver of development has always been power, not values. With the U.S. retreat, he discusses whether China can seize the opportunity to lead in global aid. Tooze also critiques the failed 2015 Development Agenda while sharing insights on China's clean energy initiatives and the evolving landscape for new development professionals.

Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin discusses her ambitious "war plan" aimed at revitalizing the middle class to better position the Democratic Party against Trump. She emphasizes aligning foreign policy with public concerns about economic security and job stability. Slotkin also addresses the challenges of navigating government funding and healthcare negotiations for Democrats, and highlights the need for bipartisan discussions. Her insights provide a roadmap for the party’s strategy in a changing political climate.

Emma Ashford, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center, discusses the evolving nature of U.S. foreign policy in a post-unipolar world. She argues that the U.S. is no longer the unchallenged superpower and emphasizes the need for adaptive strategies, especially in relation to rising powers like China. The conversation covers influences on American foreign policy perspectives, from 'America First' to progressive views, and touches on how public sentiment, particularly among younger generations, is shifting towards collaboration in international relations.