GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

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.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-chief of The Economist, dives into the tumultuous economic landscape under Trump's second term. She discusses Wall Street's initial optimism and how it contrasts sharply with today's reality of tariffs and trade wars. The conversation highlights the geopolitical shifts resulting from Trump's protectionist policies, particularly their impact on allies and global supply chains. Beddoes also examines the pressures on European defense spending and the emerging opportunities in places like India and Abu Dhabi amidst these challenges.

In seven short weeks, the Trump administration has completely reshaped US foreign policy and upended trade alliances. Will China benefit from US retrenchment and increasing global uncertainty, or will its struggling economy hold it back? On the GZERO World Podcast, Bill Bishop, a China analyst and author of the Sinocism newsletter, joins Ian Bremmer for a wide-ranging conversation about China—its domestic priorities, global administration, and whether America’s retreat from global commitments is opening new doors for Beijing.President Xi Jinping has consolidated power and control in China, but its economy is still dealing with sluggish growth, a property market in crisis, and the specter of deflation. Yet Xi is confident he can bring the People’s Republic into a new era, pushing through major structural reforms, working to transition to a more high-tech economy and ramping up territorial aggression in the South China Sea. So what’s next for the People’s Republic? Can China shake its economic blues? Has the Trump administration's foreign policy approach created new opportunities for Beijing to expand its influence? Bishop and Bremmer break down China's political and economic landscape.Host: Ian BremmerGuest: Bill Bishop Subscribe to the GZERO World with Ian Bremmer Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform, to receive new episodes as soon as they're published.

Baiba Braže, the Latvian Foreign Minister, discusses the pressing security threats to the Baltics from Russia, including cyberattacks and hybrid warfare. She emphasizes the need for heightened defense spending amid rising instability. Dmitri Trenin, a former Russian colonel, offers a contrasting perspective, asserting that decisions about Ukraine should rest with Russia and the U.S., rather than Ukraine itself. Both guests highlight the evolving geopolitical landscape and the urgent need for diverse viewpoints in addressing security challenges in Europe.