Foreign Policy Live

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.

Ian Bremmer, a leading geopolitical risk expert and founder of Eurasia Group, dives into the seismic shifts seen in Donald Trump's initial 50 days as President. He analyzes the emergence of a new foreign policy doctrine focused on transactional relationships, particularly with Middle Eastern allies. Bremmer highlights the implications of these changes on NATO and global alliances amid rising tensions with Russia. He also critiques the potential threats to democratic norms arising from Trump's approach, providing a revealing look at America's evolving role on the world stage.

Rush Doshi, a former Biden administration official and director at the Council on Foreign Relations, delves into the intricate dynamics of U.S.-China relations. He discusses the significant rise in tariffs on China since 2017 and how Trump's and Biden's foreign policies differ in tackling the China challenge. Doshi explains China's perspective on U.S. military strategies, especially regarding Taiwan, and highlights the importance of cultural understanding for effective diplomacy. He also examines the implications of U.S. policies on global stability and economic strategies.

Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch for nearly 30 years, discusses the troubling state of human rights under rising authoritarianism. He believes there's a path for Trump to make positive changes, despite his tumultuous past. The conversation delves into China's repressive regime, challenges faced by human rights organizations, and the illusory nature of autocratic prosperity. Roth emphasizes the link between a nation’s treatment of LGBTQ communities and broader human rights issues, advocating for international cooperation and accountability in combating oppression.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb, a prominent figure in European politics, discusses critical issues surrounding European security in the context of the Trump administration and the ongoing war in Ukraine. He emphasizes Finland's unique defense strategy and military readiness while navigating pressures from Russia. Stubb highlights the economic ramifications of conflict, draws parallels with historic events, and urges for stronger transatlantic ties amidst evolving global dynamics. His insights underscore the complexities of peace negotiations involving Ukraine and European leadership.