The Secrets of Statecraft

The rabbi of America’s oldest Jewish congregation discusses his new book, Providence and Power.

Experts Andrew Roberts and Michael McFaul discuss the background and intentions of Vladimir Putin, reflecting on the collapse of the Soviet Union, cooperation with Russia in the White House, Ukraine's potential NATO membership, the weakness of Putin's regime, false flag operations, and an assassination near the Kremlin.

Former prime minister of Australia Tony Abbott is in characteristically forthright form when discussing the past, present, and future of Western institutions.

Lord (Charles) Powell recalls his service as Margaret Thatcher’s closest advisor during her three historic premierships.

Lord (George) Robertson, Former Secretary-General of NATO, discusses the importance of studying history, understanding tensions in the Balkans, Scottish nationalism, the creation of the Joint Rapid Reaction Force, the significance of aircraft carriers, and the role of NATO in Western security. They also analyze Putin's views on Ukraine and his historical delusion.

Alexander Downer, the longest serving Australian foreign minister, shares his experience in crisis management, including during 9/11. Topics discussed include Australian history and Indigenous debates, the decision behind the Iraq War, the role of think tanks in politics, conformity in universities, and the potential impacts of the Battle of Trafalgar.

Lord Julian Fellowes, Oscar-winning creator of Gosford Park and Downton Abbey, discusses his personal connections and family history that influenced his writing. They also talk about the complexity of religion in the 17th century, controversy over censorship in Roald Dahl's children's books, breaking typecasting for actors, captivating books and counterfactual scenarios, and reflections on the Habsburg family.

Andrew Roberts, Hoover Institution, speaks about the life and trials of Bill Barr. Topics include Barr's early influences, the context of the US Constitution, the unitary executive theory, the capture of General Noriega in Panama, reflections on power and crises, history and national security, 'American Ulysses' by Ronald White, and corruption scandals.

Bret Stephens, Pulitzer-winning journalist, discusses the dangers of attacking the founding fathers, cancel culture's impact on liberal society and Jews, arming Taiwan to deter China, Salman Rushdie's years in hiding, the consequences of Obama's response to Assad's chemical attack, and the Obama administration's foreign policy disappointments and betrayals.

Former US Ambassador to the UN and National Security Adviser John Bolton considers the global challenges to the West.