GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

In a compelling talk with Ian Bremmer, Father James Martin, a Jesuit priest and bestselling author, delves into the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pontiff. He discusses how Leo XIV might unite progressives and traditionalists within the Church, citing his early stances on war and migration. Martin emphasizes the Pope's advocacy for LGBTQ Catholics, particularly the trans community, and reflects on Pope Francis's lasting influence. With a clear mandate, Martin envisions Leo XIV as a bridge-builder amid global and internal divisions.

In this episode, Daniel Kokotajlo, a former OpenAI researcher and executive director of the AI Futures Project, shares vital insights from the AI 2027 report. He discusses the alarming pace at which artificial general intelligence (AGI) is developing, predicting an 80% chance of its emergence within five to six years. Kokotajlo emphasizes the potential for either a dystopian or utopian future due to AGI and warns about the concentration of power within a few tech firms. He calls for democratic oversight and transparency to mitigate existential risks.

Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen shares insights from his visit to El Salvador, where he addressed the wrongful deportation of Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia. He critiques the Trump administration's policies, arguing that financial incentives have distorted justice. Van Hollen stresses the importance of due process and the need for evidence-based immigration policies. He also discusses America's global leadership retreat and the harmful effects of chaotic trade policies on small businesses, calling for a vision that supports working people.

In this engaging discussion, Ilya Shapiro, a conservative legal scholar, and Jeremy Peters, a New York Times journalist, dive into the heated topic of free speech in America today. They explore how the Trump administration's actions impact speech on campuses, especially concerning immigration policies. Shapiro highlights the dangers of selective free speech enforcement, while Peters warns against using aggressive measures to silence dissent. They also tackle the complexities of antisemitism and the challenges universities face in upholding free expression in today's polarized climate.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen, known for his acclaimed novel The Sympathizer, and historian Mai Elliott, author of The Sacred Willow, as they reflect on the enduring impact of the Vietnam War 50 years later. They discuss their personal experiences as children in postwar communities and the emotional struggles faced by Vietnamese refugees. The conversation shifts to Vietnam’s remarkable economic growth and its precarious balancing act between China and the U.S., revealing a nuanced path shaped by history, resilience, and diplomacy.

Dmytro Kuleba, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister, shares insights from his pivotal role in Ukraine's fight for survival. He discusses the stark realities of negotiating with Putin, emphasizing that as long as Russia perceives potential victory, meaningful compromises remain elusive. Kuleba critiques the Trump administration's approach, suggesting that U.S. pressure on Moscow is crucial for progress. The conversation also tackles Ukraine's strategic offers in pursuit of peace and the complex dynamics shaping the ongoing conflict.

In this insightful discussion, Arjun Murti, a veteran energy analyst and founder of Super-Spiked, teams up with Greg Ebel, CEO of Enbridge, to explore the complex landscape of global energy transitions. They delve into how geopolitical shifts like the Russia-Ukraine conflict shape energy strategies, emphasizing the balance between sustainability and reliability. The duo also reflects on U.S. and Canadian policies' influence on global energy dynamics and the resilience of North American energy trade amidst tariff challenges.

Larry Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary and Harvard University President, critiques President Trump's tariffs as a major mistake in U.S. economic policy. He argues these measures are harmful to U.S. manufacturing and trade credibility. Summers highlights the alarming silence of institutions, including universities and law firms, in challenging the administration's approach, questioning their commitment to democracy. He emphasizes the need for these entities to champion fundamental democratic values amidst rising authoritarianism.

In this discussion, María Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader in Venezuela, reveals her insights on the country's political strife. She asserts that Nicolás Maduro’s grip on power is faltering amidst widespread discontent and international condemnation. Machado highlights the dire socio-economic conditions and the surge of Venezuelan migrants impacting U.S. policies. She calls for accountability regarding human rights abuses and envisions a future where Venezuela can emerge as an energy hub through a democratic transition.

In this engaging discussion, Katie Drummond, Global Editorial Director at WIRED, dives into Elon Musk's audacious attempts to overhaul government efficiency, drawing on his dealings with the Trump administration. She explores the collision of Silicon Valley's disruptive ethos with federal bureaucracy. Drummond also tackles the radical implications of DOGE, Musk's influence on U.S. policy, and the challenges of data access and political manipulation, raising key questions about power, efficiency, and civil liberties in today's political landscape.