Geopolitical Economy Report

Ben Norton, a journalist focused on the effects of U.S. economic warfare, reveals startling truths about sanctions affecting over one-third of the world's countries. He discusses the deadly consequences these measures have had on nations like Venezuela and Iraq, emphasizing that such sanctions often lead to severe humanitarian crises. Norton critiques the myth of 'targeted' sanctions and highlights how countries like China and Russia are creating alternatives to U.S. financial hegemony. The conversation uncovers the looming risks of a fractured global system as desperation grows.

Ben Norton, an analyst, dives into the stark contrast between European public sentiment and the political stance of EU leaders regarding the Ukraine war. He reveals polling data indicating a strong desire for peace negotiations over military escalation. Norton discusses how many Europeans actually oppose sending more weapons and argues that a compromise settlement is the most likely outcome. He emphasizes that a Ukrainian defeat could signal the end of Western hegemony, raising critical questions about Europe’s future actions.

Ben Norton, an expert on neo-feudalism and tech monopolies, draws eye-opening parallels between today's Big Tech giants and historical feudal lords. He highlights how companies like Amazon and Google manipulate market dynamics, extracting exorbitant fees and controlling digital infrastructure. The conversation dives into the implications of U.S. tech dominance on global relations, especially concerning China. Norton warns of a future where corporate monopolies exacerbate inequality, reminiscent of a digital age marked by feudal-like exploitation.

Muhammad Yunus, cultivated by the U.S. for decades and now interim leader of Bangladesh, discusses the recent regime change alongside geopolitical commentator Ben Norton. They delve into the U.S. support for protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the implications of a potential U.S. military base on Saint Martin's Island. The conversation highlights historical U.S. interventions, the international power dynamics involving India, China, and Russia, and the complex relationship between U.S. foreign policy and Bangladeshi politics.

Ben Norton, a commentator on the geopolitics of sports, delves into the hypocrisy surrounding anti-doping rules. He reveals how the U.S. allows its athletes to cheat, gathering intelligence while accusing Russia and China of violations. Norton critiques the double standards in international sports governance, examining the U.S.'s military actions and lack of accountability. He questions the Western-dominated 'rules-based order' and highlights ongoing imperialistic influences, especially in the context of international athletic competitions.

Economist Michael Hudson discusses the recent stock market crash and looming financial crisis. He dives into extreme market volatility, the unraveling Japanese yen carry trade, and the impact of the AI bubble on Big Tech. Hudson unpacks important geopolitical tensions involving Russia, Ukraine, and Iran, highlighting how these factors influence global stability. He critiques the short-sightedness of current economic analysis and challenges listeners to rethink the disconnect between wealth and real economic conditions.

Radhika Desai, a political economist focused on debt politics, joins Michael Hudson, a financial systems expert, to unpack how wealth flows from the poor to the rich. They delve into the political dynamics of debt, especially during conflict, and explore the IMF's role in failing nations like Ukraine. The conversation highlights historical roots of war debts and the concept of financial colonialism in Latin America, emphasizing the need for new approaches to debt management that prioritize national sovereignty and equitable solutions.

Edmundo González, the opposition leader recognized by the U.S. as Venezuela's supposed president, joins Ben Norton, a commentator critical of U.S. narratives. They discuss the new coup attempt and the hypocrisy of U.S. foreign policy that supports undemocratic regimes while accusing President Maduro of fraud. The conversation dives into historical U.S. meddling, the role of oligarchs like Elon Musk, and Latin America's divided stance on Venezuela. They also highlight how misleading information shapes public perception around these conflicts.

In this discussion, journalist Ben Norton, renowned for documenting U.S.-backed coups in Venezuela, reveals the troubling involvement of the U.S. and figures like Elon Musk in recent coup attempts against President Nicolás Maduro. He examines allegations of electoral fraud versus the claims of fair voting, discusses historical patterns of intervention, and explores the significance of oil in geopolitical strategies. Norton also critiques the role of Western media in portraying Venezuela's struggles while highlighting the nation's complex alliances with China, Russia, and Iran.

In this engaging discussion, analyst Ben Norton dives into the complexities of U.S. interventions in Venezuela. He highlights the country's vast oil reserves and their significance in geopolitical strategies. Norton elaborates on Venezuela's Bolivarian Revolution and its role in fostering a multipolar world, particularly through partnerships with Russia and China. He examines the implications of U.S. sanctions, economic blockade, and coup attempts, shedding light on how Venezuela’s resistance challenges U.S. imperialism and promotes regional integration.