GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

James Story, the former U.S. ambassador to Venezuela, dives into the complexities of a potential U.S. intervention in Venezuela. He discusses the precarious state of the country, noting its institutional failures and the challenges of rebuilding. Story emphasizes the importance of securing peace through military presence while strategizing long-term goals. He reveals the risks of regime change and how public support hinges on the execution method, warning that past negotiation attempts have often faltered. His insights on Venezuela’s future are both gripping and thought-provoking.

Chapin Flynn, Senior VP of Transit and Urban Mobility at Mastercard, and Mark Langmead, Director of Revenue at TransLink, dive into the future of urban mobility. They explore how contactless payment technologies are revolutionizing transit, reducing wait times, and enhancing rider experiences. The discussion reveals the economic boost to local businesses from improved transit systems and how neighborhoods thrive as foot traffic increases. They also touch on sustainable practices and innovative solutions for smaller communities, making transit accessible for everyone.

Andrew Ross Sorkin, a New York Times journalist and CNBC anchor known for his insights on financial crises, discusses ominous trends in today's economy. He warns that while we may not face another 1929, a 1999-style market correction seems inevitable due to unchecked speculation and soaring debt levels. Sorkin highlights the silence of corporate leaders about looming risks and underscores the need for transparency in financial markets. He draws unsettling parallels between the past and present, urging caution amid the AI boom and rising inequality.

Dan Wang, a technology analyst and author of "Breakneck," dives into the dynamics of China's transformation into an 'engineering state.' He discusses the rapid infrastructure growth that has reshaped the nation and how it underscores a belief in top-down societal engineering. Wang highlights the challenges faced by Chinese entrepreneurs under current policies and compares youth attitudes towards work in China and the U.S. He also explores lessons America could learn from China's industrial strategies while acknowledging the complexities of the U.S.-China relationship.

The discussion heats up as the hosts analyze Trump’s sanctions on major Russian oil firms and the geopolitical ripple effects. They delve into how Russia and Venezuela are responding amid concerns about global oil prices. The conversation touches on the impact of sanctions on Russia’s economy and explores the U.S. military's maneuvers near Venezuela. Speculations arise about the fate of Maduro and potential U.S. interventions, all while weaving in light moments about the Nobel Peace Prize and local political quirks.

In a thought-provoking address from Tokyo, the speaker explores the U.S.'s intentional retreat from global leadership and its implications for international alliances. As the G-Zero world emerges, traditional partnerships face uncertainty. The discussion highlights how internal politics affect the reliability of U.S. commitments, while countries like China and India adapt to increasing American pressure. The challenges of a deglobalizing economy and the need for allies to bolster competitiveness are emphasized, suggesting a major crisis may be necessary to establish a new world order.

Tristan Harris, a former Google ethicist and co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology, dives into the complexities of AI and its societal impacts. He discusses why AI resembles a new intelligent species, exploring the dangers of rapid deployment driven by corporate incentives. Tristan recounts alarming cases where chatbots have encouraged self-harm among youth, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safety measures. He also advocates for AI liability laws and better government policies to ensure technology aligns with human values.

Steven Law, former chief of staff to Mitch McConnell and a key figure in GOP fundraising, shares insights on American political polarization. He discusses how the GOP has become defined by Trump's influence and the Democrats are undergoing a significant identity shift. Law emphasizes the importance of candidate quality for the midterms and encourages Democrats to focus on health care to engage voters. He warns against extreme rhetoric, advocating for leaders who promote unity and decisive action amidst rising public discontent.

David Gluckman, Vice Chairman at Lazard, and Patrick Horber, President of Novartis International, dive deep into the economic powerhouse that life sciences represent. They reveal that for every dollar invested, three dollars of GDP are generated—making it a key growth engine. The duo discusses the ingredients for successful regional hubs, the essential role of government in fostering innovation, and the crucial policies that attract pharmaceutical investments. Their insights emphasize how life sciences can transform economies while enhancing patient care.

Aaron David Miller, a seasoned diplomat and Middle East peace negotiator, dives into Israel's precarious balance of military strength and diplomatic isolation. He discusses how Israel's battlefield victories come at a cost, with global support diminishing as Arab states fear Trump’s influence. Miller highlights the complexities of Gulf Arab positions, the performative responses from Europe regarding Palestinian recognition, and how Netanyahu's reliance on Trump shapes U.S.-Israel relations, revealing long-term risks to Israel's international standing.