Talking Geopolitics

Join geopolitical analyst George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures, as he unpacks the complex dynamics of Russia's war beyond Ukraine. He discusses Trump's engagement with Central Asian leaders, revealing the U.S. strategy to pull these nations away from Russia's influence. Friedman also explores the psychological implications of U.S. diplomacy and the significance of the South Caucasus. He highlights Russia's military economy, battlefield tactics, and potential diplomatic setbacks, offering a strategic perspective on evolving global alliances.

George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures and a leading expert on global strategy, dives into the escalating military dynamics in the Asia-Pacific. He explains China’s substantial naval expansion and its implications for Australia’s national security. Friedman highlights the significance of AUKUS and the Quad, emphasizing Australia’s strategic need for nuclear-powered submarines. He also discusses the complex relationship between economic interdependence and military risks, and the critical role of Taiwan in maintaining regional stability.

George Friedman, chairman of Geopolitical Futures and a leading geopolitical analyst, delves into the power dynamics of the US, China, and Russia. He discusses the internal crises facing these nations, like America's political polarization and China's economic decline. Friedman analyzes how domestic issues influence international behavior and the implications of these crises for global predictability. The conversation also touches on military tensions, economic decoupling, and the shifting landscape of alliances, making for a captivating exploration of today's geopolitical challenges.

George Friedman, Chairman of Geopolitical Futures and author of The Next 100 Years, shares insights into the pivotal meeting between Trump and Xi. He discusses China's leverage over rare earths and the implications for U.S. supply chains. Friedman also analyses the risks of military confrontation due to economic dependence and highlights the internal tensions within China fueled by slower growth. He emphasizes Japan's growing military role and strategic importance in East Asia, shedding light on the shifting dynamics of U.S.–China relations.

George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures and a renowned geopolitical analyst, joins to discuss the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. He explores the implications of the Monroe Doctrine and why it remains relevant today. Friedman highlights the threats posed by cartels and Russian influence in the region, emphasizing how geography and sea power shape U.S. security. The conversation also touches on potential U.S. military actions and the psychological dynamic reminiscent of Cold War strategies.

George Friedman, Chairman of Geopolitical Futures and a renowned geopolitical forecaster, shares his insights on America's current crises and the broader cycles shaping its future. He discusses the inevitable shift away from the Cold War-era global economy and the impact of the US-China trade tensions. Friedman examines the 80-year government cycle and the ongoing culture war, arguing that Trump's role reflects deeper societal changes. He emphasizes the need for the US to limit its global exposure while navigating the tumultuous landscape of domestic reinvention.

Two years ago this week, Hamas' October 7 attacks stunned Israel and the world. And now for the first time there is palpable excitement that the war in Gaza may be on the path to an end. The first part of Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan seems to have been agreed by Israel and Hamas, though the plan still faces many hurdles. Geopolitical Futures Chairman and Founder George Friedman has joined host Christian Smith on this week's episode of Talking Geopolitics to discuss how we got here, whether the plan will work and also why the Gulf states are so important to the plan's success. This interview was recorded on Thursday, October 9th 2025. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Kamran Bokhari, a geopolitical expert and senior director at the New Lines Institute, dives into Turkey's potential as a major Middle Eastern power. He discusses George Friedman's predictions, highlighting Turkey's strategic opportunities amid regional instability. Bokhari explores Turkey's influence in Gaza, the emergence of Saudi Arabia as a competitor, and how weakened regional players benefit Turkey. He also addresses economic constraints, military expansion, and historical rivalries with Saudi Arabia, painting a complex picture of Turkey's future on the global stage.

Join George Friedman, founder of Geopolitical Futures and a seasoned geopolitical forecaster, as he delves into Putin's provocative airspace violations and their implications for NATO and Ukraine negotiations. Friedman argues these actions are strategic attempts to pressure NATO while revealing Russia's military weaknesses. He also discusses Poland's rise to power, shaped by its geography and historical role as a buffer state. With insight into Poland's military evolution and its strategic partnership with the U.S., Friedman outlines its potential role in negotiating peace in Ukraine.

In this insightful discussion, Kamran Bokhari, a GPF contributor and expert in geopolitical trends, delves into Israel's evolving strategy in the Middle East. He highlights significant geopolitical shifts, including regional threats and Israel’s military responses post-October 7th. Bokhari elaborates on Israel's use of buffer zones in southern Syria, particularly the Golan Heights, and how these moves are reshaping Israeli-Syrian relations amidst external pressures from Turkey and Saudi Arabia. His predictions on future regional dynamics are both thought-provoking and eye-opening.