Husband and wife team, Dr. Anita and Ryan Kellogg, take on the latest international news and events with their lively discussions and occasional debates on these issues. Having grown up in red states in conservative families, the Kelloggs bring their unique perspective living in multiple countries overseas and subject expertise in their chosen fields. Join us for a conversation that began in South Korea and continues through the present day.
In this episode, we feature an interview with Sam Erhlich, a manager at McKinsey and Company and a student in my Strategic Materials Industry Study. We discuss why critical minerals are crucial to national security and how best to strengthen the U.S. industry
First, however, we look at the runoff elections in Colombia and what a far-right win would mean for the country and the region.
We next turn to North Korea’s surprising economic trajectory since the pandemic and the latest on its diplomatic efforts.
Ryan updates us on one of his favorite topics— aliens and what—if anything—was actually revealed on “Disclosure Day.”
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Topic 1: Colombian Elections
Topic 2: North Korean Economic Resurgence
Topic 3: Disclosure Day Bust
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In this episode, we continue our coverage of the war with Iran. Where are we on the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran? How soon can we expect the Strait of Hormuz to reopen?
We then discuss the stunning upset of Orban in Hungary. How far will his successor go in returning the country to a liberalized democracy? What does this mean for far-right movements across the globe?
Finally, we return to Venezuela to discuss the current situation there and examine the implications of this case for U.S. goals in Cuba.
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Topic 1: Iran-US Peace Talks & Energy Markets
Topic 2: The Downfall of Orban and What it means for the Global Far Right
Topic 3: The Donroe Doctrine: Venezuela Success and Is Cuba Next?
Anita's article "Operationalizing Economic Statecraft," in War on the Rocks
Anita's webinar on the above article
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This episode follows up on our previous two, focusing on Iran. Where are we one month into this war? When and how is it likely to end? We also wonder about the U.S.’s strategic plans for this war. And does regime survival in Iran mean that it may be losing battles but ultimately winning the war?
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We are bringing you an emergency podcast on the war with Iran.
It seems like only yesterday that we put out a bonus podcast on the strikes in Venezuela. That’s because it was just two months ago, and it may have encouraged a sense of military adventurism that has led to full-on war with Iran.
Today, we are talking about who is currently ruling Iran at present. What are the U.S. goals? And what is likely to happen in the future? Will the regime fall? And if it does, what kind of government would likely replace it?
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The protests in Iran are largely over, but will the heavy-handed crackdown result in the U.S. taking military action? Is Iran poised to be the next Venezuela?
Trump demanded, then backed down over U.S. ownership of Greenland. What was the final agreement, and was anything really accomplished?
Greenland wasn’t the only thing that grabbed headlines at Davos. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared the end of the rules-based international order. If this is true, what comes next, and what steps will middle powers, like Canada, take to serve the best interests of their countries?
Finally, we discuss the recent purge of China’s top military leaders. What does it signal about potential military action against Taiwan?
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On Saturday, the U.S. announced that it had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, who, along with his wife, arrived in New York a few hours later to be tried on drug trafficking charges.
Then, President Trump said that the U.S. would be running Venezuela in the near term. So what does this all mean? We cover the latest on this stunning development and what is likely to happen over the next few days and weeks.
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The United States has a new National Security Strategy. What does the world look like under the Second Trump Administration? Should the U.S. no longer strive to be a superpower? We take a look at what in the document seems to strengthen U.S. security, as well as what elements might undermine it and alarm us the most.
Next up, we discuss whether progress has been made on the Ukraine Peace Plan. Are we closer than we have ever been, or is peace still a distant prospect?
Finally, we continue the discussion on Venezuela. The U.S. has taken out more ships and begun seizing oil tankers. What does this escalation mean for the future of Venezuela and U.S. operations there?
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The New US National Security Strategy
Ukraine Peace Plan: Actual Progress or Not?
Venezuela: Enforcement of the Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine
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President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping reached a consensus on trade between the two countries. We discuss what each side gave up and who appears to be winning. Next, we address the possibility of a war with Venezuela and why all signs seem to be pointing to yes. Finally, Trump is going after Nigeria for a supposed slaughter of Christians in the country. We get after the truth of these claims and how Christians and Muslims co-exist in the country.
But first, the government shutdown. How is it affecting the everyday lives of Americans, including Anita, and when will it end…well, the next day apparently!
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Xi and Trump Meeting: Is there a trade deal?
Looming War with Venezuela
Christian Persecution in Nigeria?
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Trump and Netanyahu agreed to a Gaza Peace plan. How much should Trump be lauded for the deal and will Hamas sign on? Trump was also busy bailing out his friend, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, announcing a $20 billion bailout of the economy. Was this deal really necessary, and will it be enough to lift Argentina out of its economic woes? Finally, we discuss the growing popularity of far-right policies and the MAGA foreign policy supporting these groups. Plus, Ryan tries once again to convince Anita that aliens have visited Earth.
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UFO Update (US Congressional UAP Hearing on September 9th)
Gaza Peace Plan: Trump Done Good?
Argentina First, America Last?
Illiberalism on the March in Western Europe
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Trade has been a major issue for the Trump administration, and Anita recently spoke with William A Reinsch, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, on all aspects of this topic. They discuss what Americans really think about trade, tariffs and why they might be around to stay, why some of our trading partners are getting extensions, and the need to work with our allies to become less dependent on China.
Another major story in the headlines is the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly Trump’s meeting with both leaders. Ryan and Anita discuss the outcome of these meetings, their unusual nature, and the chances of peace.
We also explore potential U.S. military strikes into Latin America to go after cartels and the current situation in Iran.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine Peace Efforts
US Planning Strikes on Latin American Drug Cartels?
Iran after the 12-day War: Still a Threat?
Interview with CSIS’s William A. Reinsch on Trump’s Trade policies
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We look at the current state of U.S. trade deals. Who has a deal? How many will get signed by August 1st? Will there be another extension? And what is their economic impact on the U.S.?
We then discuss the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which has recently turned deadly for the first time since 2011. What are they fighting about, and what are the political consequences for both countries?
Finally, we provide an update on the Russia-Ukraine war. We discuss the pressing questions as to: Which side seems to be making progress? How is U.S. policy evolving under Trump? And what does this foretell for the future of the conflict?
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Liberation Day Redux: Trump Tariff Fallout Prediction
Thailand-Cambodia Border Conflict
Russia-Ukraine War
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In this episode, Anita speaks with Lt. Col. Alex Montgomery and Lt. Col. Shannon Waller about the Autonomous Systems and Robotics Industry and how these technologies are changing how wars are fought. They also share insights about the industry in South Korea and what the U.S. can learn from the Korean experience.
But first, Anita and Ryan discuss the latest events between Israel, the U.S., and Iran, in what Trump has dubbed the 12 day war. What did Israel and the U.S. accomplish with their airstrikes, and how will it affect Iran’s future?
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12-Day War
Interview with Lt. Col. Alex Montgomery and Lt. Col. Shannon Waller
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In this episode, Anita speaks with Daniel Markey, who is an expert on South Asia. They cover a host of issues, ranging from the India-Pakistan conflict, Pakistan’s relations with the U.S. and China, India as a potential replacement to China as a manufacturing hub, and India’s vision for a multipolar world. They also talk about the U.S. Institute of Peace on its importance to policy, particularly with regards to decreasing conflict, and what it means to be a non-partisan institution of Congress.
Events escalated between India and Pakistan after Anita’s interview with Dr. Markey, and we provide an update on the latest events and continue the discussion on the significance of this conflict.
We then cover Trump’s first overseas trip to the Middle East, where he announced big deals with Qatar and Saudi Arabia, announced the end of sanctions on Syria, and got OPEC to pump more oil. We also look into the current status of an Iran nuclear deal.
Plus Anita talks about her latest video game obsession, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from French developer, Sandfall Interactive.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Interview with Daniel Markey
India-Pakistan Conflict in Kashmir
Trump’s Middle East Trip
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In this episode, I spoke with Dr. Robert E. Kelly, who is a professor at the Pusan National University in South Korea. We talked about the recent impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, changes that we might see to the U.S. - South Korea alliance under Trump, and whether South Korea should develop its own nuclear weapons.
But first, Ryan and I talk about April 2nd's liberation day with its unprecedented increase of tariffs on all countries and its impact on both the U.S. and global economy.
We also discuss the U.S.’s apparent move to walk away from the Ukraine Peace deal and what that potentially means for the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
The Fallout from Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’
US walking away from Ukraine Peace Deal?
Interview with Prof. Robert E. Kelly (Pusan University)
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Ukraine has agreed to a U.S. cease-fire deal that resumed American aid and intelligence. How will the Trump administration get Russia on board with this proposal? Moving on to China, which recently held its annual National People’s Congress meeting, we discuss how the country is growing its global leadership by taking advantage of the U.S. withdrawal from the liberal international order. Finally, we look at the backlash to MAGA amongst U.S. allies and its effect on their domestic politics.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Anita’s article in The Hill:
Russia-Ukraine: Is Trump a Betrayer of Ukraine or a Realist Stud?
China: Defender of the Post-War World Order?
MAGA’s Toxic Brand Abroad: Domestic Politics of Canada and EU
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Trump’s plan to end the Russia - Ukraine war heated up with Wednesday’s call to Putin. With Ukraine and Europe sidelined from negotiations, can this administration bring about a lasting peace that both sides agree to? Also hot are Trump’s trade wars, which include a directive to impose reciprocal tariffs on all countries. How practical is this plan, and what will it achieve? Finally, most U.S. foreign aid is frozen, and the agency that distributes much of that aid, USAID, is being dismantled. How will it affect U.S. national security?
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine: Trump’s Perfect Phone Call Part II and the Munich Conference
Trade Wars Incoming
US Soft Power Collapse: End of USAID and Freezing of all Foreign Aide
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President-elect Donald Trump recently made his own challenge to the liberal rules-based global order by articulating an expansionist U.S. foreign policy focused on regaining control of the Panama Canal, owning Greenland, and referring to Canada as the 51st state. We discuss the likelihood of such a foreign policy agenda and how seriously we should address Trump’s tendency towards blustering remarks. Then we review and grade the last four years of Biden’s foreign policy. Is the U.S. better or worse off than when he took office?
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Trump’s Imperial Grab Bag: Panama Canal and Greenland
Biden’s Foreign Policy Report Card
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It has been an eventful week with the declaration of martial law in South Korea and the sudden collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria. We analyze both events and their impact on the United States. Additionally, we look at Donald Trump’s picks for key foreign policy positions and what they bode for the future.
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South Korea’s Wild Week
Syria’s Assad Regime Collapses
Trump’s Foreign Policy Nominees
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On this episode, we react to Donald Trump’s historic victory for the U.S. presidency and what it means for the world. Will Trump be able to end the Ukrainian war on day one? How will he pursue this goal? What will be his policy in the Middle East? How will he show strength towards China? And what does this election mean for NATO and other U.S. allies?
But first, is this the end of democracy as we know it in the U.S.?!
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US Election
Trump’s Ukraine Peace Plan
Israel-Iran Conflict
China: Tariffs and Taiwan
Trump’s Foreign Policy Posse
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This is a special 50th Episode recorded live with Pyotr Kurzin of the Global Gambit. The discussion was wide-ranging, including China's growing international influence, geopolitics at the UN, The Israel-Iran conflict, and the growing global demand for energy.
You can watch the video stream at: https://www.youtube.com/live/hFWcI2bri80?si=F_fmr_szagNJhwk-
While you are there, check out the Kellogg's Global Politics channel.
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**On this episode, we are delving into the foreign policy vision of Project 2025 and to what extent it previews what we can expect from a Trump administration. What will the world look like if we reshape our relations with competitors and allies? We discuss what the report says about our relationships with China, Ukraine, Iran, and Mexico. We also address how the culture wars influence foreign policy and explain their so-called fair trade agenda.
In our news brief, we cover the Ukraine Kursk Offensive into Russian territory and ponder the lack of Iranian retaliation for the Israeli assassinations of key Hamas and Hezbollah figures in Lebanon and Iran.
Topics Discussed in this Episode**
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Ukraine Kursk Offensive
Why hasn’t Iran retaliated yet?
Project 2025: Foreign Policy Breakdown
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What a difference a month makes! The Democrats have a new Presidential nominee in Kamala Harris. But what are her views on Foreign Policy? We talk about the potential differences between her policies and those of the Biden Administration.
Also in this episode, Anita had the pleasure of speaking to Angela Stent, a senior non-resident fellow at the Brookings Institution and Senior adviser to the U.S. Institute of Peace. We covered a range of topics, including how the U.S. elections might affect Putin’s execution of the Ukraine war, the current domestic situation in Russia, and Russia’s relationships with the large number of neutral countries that haven’t bought into the West’s story of the Ukraine war as an existential threat to democracy and the global order. We also discussed the far-right’s white nationalist dream of allying with Russia against China.
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Kamala Harris Foreign Policy
Interview with Angela Stent
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking to Sameer Lalwani, a senior expert on South Asia at the U.S. Institute of Peace on India’s Foreign Policy. We touched on topics ranging from how India would likely respond to a Chinese invasion of Taiwan to technological and defense cooperation between the U.S. and India. We also discussed the importance of the U.S.-India alliance with respect to strategic competition with China and the problematic nature of India’s relationship with Russia.
First, however, we react to last night’s televised Presidential Debate between President Biden and Former President Trump. Focusing on foreign policy topics, we cover what each side said and their potential impact on Americans and U.S. global standing.
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US Presidential Debate Fallout
Interview with Sameer Lalwani
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**The past few weeks have seen several important elections in India, the EU, and Mexico. We discuss the impact in their respective regions and to the larger international environment.
We also discuss the latest in the EV battery wars. Is there a path forward for the U.S. to decrease dependence on China, and does it come at the cost of meeting U.S. environmental climate goals?**
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Ryan’s op-ed article in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Democracy Tested in India, the EU, and Mexico
Winning the Battery War with China
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**Anita has been traveling all month, and there are a lot of big stories that have happened in the meantime. We begin with China and the surprising passage of a ban on TikTok. We also discuss a provocative article arguing that we need to change our policy to win the war with China.
In the also surprising, but welcome category, an aide to Ukraine bill finally passed. What was behind Speaker Johnson’s change in position, and how will the aid change the situation on the ground?
Israel and Iran traded military hostilities and the war in Gaza still rages. What is the significance of the recent events? And what is happening on US campuses, where waves of protests and arrests have been occurring?**
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TikTok Bill and New Cold War with China
Ukraine Aide Bill Passes, but What Next?
Israel-Iran Exchange Blows and Protests on US Campuses
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**On this episode, we begin with some short updates on the situation in Ukraine and Israel. We also discuss the US House vote on TikTok and whether the social media platform is a propaganda tool of the CCP.
We then take a deep dive into life in the UK after Brexit. Were promises kept and who is better off?
Finally, we look at the extraordinary story of Poland’s democratic revival and examine its battle back from its recent flirtation with authoritarianism. What lessons can Western nations learn from as they fight their own right-wing populism?**
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Ukraine and Israel Updates
Post-Brexit UK: Looking back after 7 years
Poland: How to fix a democracy?
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On this episode, we are talking about several big wins for Putin over the past week, including Navalyny’s demise, the opportunity to spread his propaganda to Western audiences through Tucker Carlson, and Russia’s solid economic growth.
**Another big win for Putin is Trump’s threats to withdraw from NATO by not respecting our treaty commitments were he to become the US’s next president.
The news keeps getting better for Putin with Ukraine’s struggles on the battlefield, while future military assistance continues to be blocked in the US Congress.
Finally, we look at the continuing conflict in Gaza, frustrating the White House and its hopes for a ceasefire that would see the release of the remaining hostages.**
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Putin’s Very Good Week
Ukraine Battlefield Struggles
Israel-Hamas update
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Welcome to a New Year and a new season of Kellogg’s Global Politics!
**As funding for Ukraine has been held up by negotiations on the US Border Crisis, we take a deep dive into the recent history and the current status of immigration to the United States through its Southern border..
We then turn to the Middle East and concerns over the increase in military violence throughout the region and the implications of the escalating threat of war with Iran.**
Finally, we discuss the latest in East Asia and whether there might be an increased chance of war with North Korea. We also look at the implications of the recent Taiwanese presidential elections.
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US Border Crisis
Middle East Spiraling Out of Control?
North Korea Preparing for War?
Taiwan’s Election
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There have been several big stories since we last recorded. We begin with Ukraine and the fight over continued aid and military support in the U.S. Congress.
Then, tensions have been heating up between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. What does this mean for the U.S.? Tensions are also rising in South America over a territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana. Will the U.S. need to intervene?
Right-wing populists made another gain with the election of Geert Wilders in the Netherlands. As former residents of the country, we offer our perspective.
Finally, we made some foreign policy predictions for the year ahead.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Anti-Semitism or Anti-Zionism: Case Study at Montgomery County Public Schools
Ukraine’s Very Bad Week
China-Philippines Tensions in the South China Sea
Venezuela claims most of Guyana
The Rise of the Dutch Trump: Geert Wilders Wins Big
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**Recent headlines have been focused on the Xi-Biden meeting at APEC in San Francisco this week. We talk about what happened and the implications for the future of U.S.-China relations.
But first, we discuss the Israel-Hamas war, now in its sixth week of fighting. Can Israeli military actions achieve their objectives of destroying Hamas and recovering the more than 200 hostages? Are they doing enough to protect civilian lives in Gaza?**
Then we turn to the Russia - Ukraine war, which seems to have hit a stalemate. With the popularity of continued support from the West waning, where does the war go from here? What does “success” look like?
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Israel-Hamas War
Russia-Ukraine War: Stalemate, Rethinking Success, and Russia Resurgent?
Xi-Biden Meeting at APEC
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Last week, shortly before we recorded our episode, we woke up to the news of the Hamas attack on Israel. Very little was known at the time, and so we kept our reactions brief. We felt the need to go deeper into this significant conflict, however, and decided to record an episode just on the Israel-Hamas war. We hope this brings you greater insight into this terrible event in a very complicated region of the world.
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Hamas Attack on Israel and Preparing for Gaza Invasion
US Policy Options and a Vision after the War
Hezbollah, Iran, and China
China’s soft message on Hamas is part of a much bigger strategy (Politico)
Show Website: www.kelloggsglobalpolitics.com
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On this episode, Anita interviews Dr. Carla Freeman, a senior expert on China at the United States Institute of Peace. They discuss a wide range of issues, including what has been accomplished through the flurry of high-level diplomatic talks between the U.S. and China and whether there will be a Biden-Xi meeting at APEC in California next month. They also talk about the importance of the U.N. and other global institutions in China’s strategy in the Global South and its challenge to the current international order.
We begin the episode with breaking news about the recent attack on Israel. Moving on to our main stories, we explore waning support for Ukraine in the U.S. and how it will affect the future of Russia-Ukraine war. Next, we discuss Indian nationalism in the wake of the diplomatic dispute between Canada and India. We then conclude with the interview with Carla Freeman.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Hamas Surprise Attack on Israel
Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine Funding and Support in Danger
India’s Hindu Nationalism Goes Abroad
Talking China with Dr. Carla Freeman
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On this episode, we begin by exploring the future of the Wagner group given the death of its leader, Prighozin. We also look at the slow progress of Ukraine’s counteroffensive and whether the conflict is headed towards a stalemate. Then, have we reached peak China? We discuss the causes and implications of China’s weakening economy. Finally, we explain what is so concerning about Republican Presidential hopeful, Vivek Ramaswamy’s foreign policy proposals.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine’s Counteroffensive Breakthrough?
Peak China is Real: China’s Economy in Crisis
GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s Foreign Policy
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On this episode, we begin with an update on Ukraine’s counteroffensive and its slow but steady progress to take back territory from Russia. We then discuss the Niger coup, delving into what happened, the impact on US foreign policy, and the expansion of Wagner and Russian influence in Africa. Finally, we look at Israel’s democratic crisis with recent passing of legislation that limits judicial oversight of government power. We also consider the possibility of the U.S. brokering a peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
But first, has the Earth been visited by aliens? And if so, why is the US the only country talking about it?
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Congressional Hearing on UFOs: ‘Non-human’ biologics, Murder, and Interdimensional travel, oh my!
Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine’s Counteroffensive Breakthrough?
Niger coup and Russia’s growing influence in Africa
Israel in Crisis and Saudi-US Dealmaking
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On this episode, Anita speaks with Daniel Hamilton, a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and a Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Institute of Johns Hopkins University SAIS. He is also the President of the Transatlantic Leadership Network and a former senior State Department official. We discuss the ups and downs of the Transatlantic Alliance and how the war in Ukraine and strategic competition with China affect the US’s relationship with Europe.
There have been several substantial developments in the Ukraine-Russia war. First, we discuss the Wagner rebellion and their march to Moscow, which was halted by a deal between Wagner leader Yevgeny Proghozin and Belarus’s President Alexander Lukashenko. Then, we catch up on the latest in Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia.
China is also in the news, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s trip to the country, and we talk about what the US hopes to achieve with these talks. Finally, we discuss China’s announcement on limiting exports of metals critical to the manufacturing of semiconductor chips.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine: Wagner Mutiny, Ukraine’s Counteroffensive, and Cluster Munitions
China Strikes Back: Export limits on semiconductor inputs
Interview with Daniel Hamilton on US-European relations around Ukraine War and China
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On this episode, I speak with Deborah Larson, a research professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. As a former student of hers, while undertaking my Ph.D. at UCLA, I found her research on Russia’s leaders very insightful. More recently, she has been writing about the China - Russia relationship, which we discuss. In particular, we look at what China gets from the relationship, how far it will go to support Russia in Ukraine, and how Russia avoids being the little brother in the strategic partnership.
We begin the episode delving into the most recent developments in the Russia - Ukraine war, including speculation on Ukraine’s future counteroffensive, the impact of the F-16s now being provided to Ukraine, and possible NATO membership.
El Salvador’s president has become the latest authoritarian-leaning darling of the Right in the US. We discuss why he has received so much praise from the likes of Tucker Carlson, Michael Flynn, and Roger Stone. Why is he so popular at home and abroad, and what are the consequences of the steady dismantling of democracy in the country?
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LIVE Twitter Space on June 11th at 1 pm EST
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine Update
The U.S. Right’s New Darling: El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele
Interview with Deborah Larson: Russia-China Relations
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On this episode, Anita interviews Dawn Murphy, an Associate Professor of National Security Strategy at the US National War College, specializing in research on China and the Global South. We talk about China’s Belt and Road Project, its relationships in the Middle East, and China’s use of multilateral organizations.
We begin the episode by discussing the recent Turkish elections, where hopes were high for the opposition to oust the autocratic President Erdogan. As the country heads to a runoff, what are the odds of the opposition succeeding?
Biden attended the G7 meeting in Japan but cut the rest of the trip short to deal with the debt crisis at home. What does this say about US commitments in the Pacific and the confidence of these nations in dealing with the United States?
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Turkish Elections
G7 Meeting and US Debt Crisis Distraction
Talking China in the Global South with Dawn Murphy
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On this episode, we begin with South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol’s 6-day state visit to the United States. South Koreans have become increasingly concerned about the nuclear threat from North Korea. We discuss if South Korea got the security guarantees they desired. We also look at other key issues in the US-South Korea relationship.
Fierce fighting in Sudan has been capturing headlines. But what are they fighting about? We go over the key actors, what is at stake, and why Americans should care about this conflict.
Finally, we introduce a new segment: Changing Tides, where we read a book, set of articles, or in today’s case, speeches that are either changing the world or reflecting on how the world is changing. Today, we discuss two recent foreign policy speeches by the Biden administration that were given in recent days. That of Janet Yellen on economic policy towards China and Jake Sullivan on Biden’s foreign policy for the middle class.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
U.S.-South Korea Summit
Crisis in Sudan
Changing Tides: Discussing the ‘new’ Washington Consensus and "foreign policy for the middle class"
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On this episode, Anita speaks with Bates Gill, the Executive Director of the Center for China Analysis with the Asia Society Policy Institute. We discuss the troubling aspects of China’s military modernization, the rise of military-industrial technocrats to leadership positions in the Communist Party, and the importance of understanding China from the inside out.
We begin the show with an update on the Russia-Ukraine war, focusing on the recent intelligence leaks. We also consider whether there are limits in the West’s support to the Ukrainian war effort.
China is not the only country talking about a multipolar world. We discuss Macron’s infamous trip to China and his attempt to carve out a unique foreign policy agenda for Europe while setting himself up to be a distinguished statesman. Brazil’s president, Lulu, also visited with Xi this week with proposals for a closer relationship with China and restoration of the BRICS power bloc of developing nations.
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Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine War: DoD leak revelations
Macron and Lulu meet with Xi
Interview with Dr. Bates Gill from the Asia Society Policy Institute
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On this episode, we begin by discussing China’s diplomatic blitz, having brokered a deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume diplomacy and Xi’s visit to Russia to meet with Putin and promote its 12-point peace plan for the Russia-Ukraine war.
We move on to the elections in Africa’s largest democracy, Nigeria, and what the controversial elections say about the state of democracy in the country.
Finally, we look to the world’s largest democracy, India, and consider the steady rise of authoritarianism there.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
China’s Global Diplomacy Blitz
Nigerian Elections
India’s BJP and Modi Eroding Democracy
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On this episode, Anita speaks with David Maxwell, a retired US Army Special Forces Colonel, a Senior Advisor to the Center for Asia Pacific Strategy, and a Senior Fellow at the Global Peace Foundation. We talk about the various ways North Korea presents a national security threat to the United States that goes beyond its nuclear weapons program. We also discuss resetting the goal to place unification with South Korea first led by an informational warfare campaign and then denuclearization rather than the current policy of denuclearization before unification. Dave warns that the U.S. and our partners need to be prepared for a period of violent instability if the Kim regime loses its iron grip on North Korean leadership.
We begin the show by marking the one-year anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war. We discuss the remarkable unity of the West, while the rest of the world has largely opted for neutrality—of which many of these countries are helping Russia’s economy survive. We look at the historical reasons the West has less influence on the Global South than it often presumes. Finally, we cover China’s 12-point plan for peace and whether China or India might have a role as neutral arbiters of peace.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine 1-year Later: Global South is Not on Board
China’s Peace Plan: Self-serving Ploy or Useful Framework?
Interview with David Maxwell
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On this episode, Anita speaks with Bonnie Glaser, who is the managing director of the German Marshall Fund's Indo-Pacific program. Our conversation is all about China as we discuss spy balloons, Taiwan, and the conditions that might spark China to risk war with the United States.
We begin the show with the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war. Ryan explains the conspiracy theory that posits that the US critically damaged the Nord Stream pipeline that brought gas from Russia into Germany.
The current head of the World Bank unexpectedly resigned this week. We explain why he is leaving and why it matters. We also discuss the mission of the World Bank and why many want to have it have a larger role in addressing the issue of climate change in developing countries.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine Update: Russian Offensive and Nord Stream Allegations
World Bank: Politics and Climate Change
Interview with Bonnie Glaser
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We begin with the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine War and how Russia’s sheer numbers in manpower might help it regain momentum. We also discuss the debate over whether the US should support a Ukrainian offense in Crimea and why Western sanctions on Russia have had an underwhelming effect on the Russian economy and its ability to wage war.
One of the biggest stories in the US this week was the discovery of a Chinese surveillance balloon. We discuss this and the news of the US expanding its military presence in the Philippines. We wrap up by talking about US hopes to divert its supply chains from China to its allies.
Finally, we cover the latest Israeli strike on Iran and how Israel - Iran relations are likely to fare under the new Netanyahu administration.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine Update: Sanction Failures and Crimea End Game
Chinese Balloon Drama and US Alliance Building in Asia
Israel Strikes Iran and the Prospects for War
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On this episode, Anita spoke with Jonathan Fulton, a Professor at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi and a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. We discussed China’s relationships in the Middle East and how they go beyond seeing the region as a source of cheap oil.
We also talk about the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, including the flow of Western military equipment into Ukraine and Germany’s refusal to provide its Leopard 2 tanks. We also discuss why Putin is losing the energy war with Europe.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is in Africa this week. We explain why she is there and what the US hopes to achieve. We consider the trip in light of Russia’s and China’s recent diplomatic tours of the region.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine War Update: Tanks, tanks, and more tanks
Janet Yellen goes to Africa
Interview with Jonathan Fulton
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On this episode, as we begin to record, we find out the breaking news about Pro-Bolsonaro’s supporters breaking into government buildings, including the Supreme Court, the Presidential Palace, and Congress, in a clear echo of the US’s January 6th.
We continue our conversation on the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, including the significance of the continuing battle for Bakmut, increasing Western military aid and support, and some good news for Europe’s energy crisis.
Then we are onto the main story, the Republican takeover of the U.S. House of Representatives and the implications for US Foreign Policy. We discuss the new select committee on China, the promised hearings on the Afghanistan withdrawal, and, last and least, Hunter Biden.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Ryan and Anita’s War on the Rocks Article
Russia-Ukraine War Update
Republican Takeover of US House and the Foreign Policy Implications
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Today we are celebrating an important milestone for the podcast: our 25th episode. We thank all of our listeners for their support and hope that you continue to enjoy the show.
On this episode, Anita talks with Emma Ashford, a senior fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center. We talk about her new book: Oil, the State, and War: The foreign policies of petrostates. She explains how categorizing the different types of petrostates helps better understand oil’s relationship to violent conflict. We also discuss Russia as a petrostate and the war in Ukraine. We conclude with an assessment of the Biden administration’s National Security Strategy and whether it represents more of the same or a new vision for the future.
We also look back at 2022 and talk about how the two biggest stories of the year: the Russia-Ukraine war and the complete shift to viewing China as a security threat, have changed the world.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
2022 Lookback: Russia-Ukraine War
2022 Lookback: New Cold War with China
Interview with Emma Ashford, The Stimson Center
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In this episode, Anita talks with Jason Hsu, chairman and CIO of Rayliant Global Advisors (RGA), a global investment management group that specializes in the Chinese market. We discuss the tradeoffs between investing in China and preserving the national security of Americans. Jason also shares his views on why he believes the U.S. will continue to out-innovate China.
We also cover the latest on the Russia-Ukraine war, including the Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian military bases and the start of the G7 sanctions on Russian oil. Next, we discuss the massive protests in China and the government’s rollback of its zero Covid policy. Finally, there were two coup attempts this week; one in Peru and one in Germany. We talk about what this means for these two countries.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Joseph Asunka and the Afrobarometer
Russia-Ukraine Update
Chinese protests and the end of the Zero Covid policy
This Week in Feckless Coups: Peru and Germany
Interview with Jason Hsu, Rayliant Global Advisors
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In this episode, Anita talks with Sarah Bauerle Danzman of Indiana University, Bloomington. We discuss the Biden administration’s latest actions on preventing the transfer of intellectual property to China and creating high-paying union jobs at home.
We also dive into the latest on the Russia-Ukraine war and the missile that crossed into Poland, killing two people. Finally, we discuss the rise of the far right in Israel and what we can expect from Benjamin Netanyahu’s return to power.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine Update
Israeli Election and the return of Netanyahu
Interview with Dr. Sarah Bauerle-Danzman
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In this episode, Anita interviews renowned China expert Dr. Shaun Breslin of Warwick University. We discuss the worrisome aspects of Xi’s consolidation of power. We also consider whether some of the rhetoric that perceives all Chinese activities as being a national security threat has gone too far.
**We begin the episode by assessing the surprising midterm results and what they suggest for the future of U.S. foreign policy. Then we move on to the first in-person meeting between Biden and Xi as national heads of state. Can they find areas to cooperate on? Finally, in a significant blow for Russia, Russia ordered a retreat from the city of Kherson, the strategically important provincial capital of Ukraine. We discuss the significance of this event and the possibility of a negotiated end to the conflict.
Topics Discussed in this Episode**
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Impact of U.S. Midterm Elections
Biden-Xi Meeting at G20
Russia-Ukraine Update
Interview with Dr. Shaun Breslin
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In this episode, we report on China’s 20th Party Congress, where Xi further consolidated his power. We also consider whether the U.S. is going down the right path with its own Industrial Policy to counter China. As usual, there is a lot on the Russia-Ukraine front, including Russia’s attack on Ukraine’s electrical grid.
We then turn to Iran to discuss the resilience of their ongoing protests. The U.K. has a new Prime Minister. Will he bring stability to the politics there, and is that enough? Finally, Brazilians went to the polls last Sunday to vote for their next President, and we cover what you need to know about this election.CORRECTION: The author of the twitter thread on negotiating with Putin was attributed to Dan Nexon, but was actually @ProfPaulPoast.
China - 00:04:00
Russia-Ukraine - 00:47:00
Iran - 01:05:00
UK - 01:09:00
Brazil - 01:15:00
Some of the Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
China’s 20th Party Congress: Takeaways and Implications
Economic War with China and Industrial Mobilization: Are we taking the wrong approach?
Russia-Ukraine Update
UK Leadership Shuffle
Brazil Election: Final Round
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Putin's Birthday Gifts and Economic War with China
In this episode, we discuss Russia’s growing losses in Ukraine, signs of dissent from Russian elites, and intrigue in global energy markets. We move on to East Asia, where North Korea’s Kim Jong-un is vying for attention with a missile launch over Japan. We also discuss Biden’s new economic war with China, particularly in light of the recent moves to ban the selling of semiconductor chips to Chinese companies.
NOTE: We did not get to the updates on Iranian protests and the presidential election in Brazil, so if you are interested in the topics, stay tuned for the next episode.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Putin’s Birthday present and latest developments in Ukraine
Energy Intrigue: Nord Stream sabotage and OPEC’s snub
North Korea Missile test
Growing Economic War with China
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In this episode, we discuss the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, in particular Russia’s mobilization of an additional 300,000 troops from a partial draft. Putin has also revived his nuclear weapons threats. We explain why we should take them seriously.
Britain has a new Prime Minister who has proposed a very controversial budget that combines tax cuts with increased government spending. We discuss this issue in the context of Britain’s long-term economic decline.
Finally, this week has seen widespread protests throughout Iran. We explain the cause and significance of these protests, as well as the latest status on a new nuclear deal with Iran.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Russian Mobilization and the Nuclear Threat
UK Budget and the Market’s Reaction
Iranian Protests and Nuclear Deal Update
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On this episode, we discuss the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war. After two months of the front lines unchanged, Ukraine has begun its first counter-offensive to recapture the city of Kherson, which would isolate Russian troops in the South. We also consider the meaning of the G-7 agreement on a price cap on Russian oil and more on Europe’s struggles to deal with its ongoing energy crisis.
Brazil’s presidential election will be held in October, but there are reasons to be concerned about a military coup as the current president, Bolsonaro, borrows from Trump’s playbook by questioning the integrity of the voting machines. Finally, we look at how the latest violence in Iraq may lead to a civil war.
**Ryan and Anita also share the latest on their own research projects on energy security and China’s asymmetrical trading relationships.
Topics:**Ryan's Research on Energy Security - 08:25
Anita's Research on Chinese bullying - 18:10
Ukraine and EU Energy Crisis - 34:50
Brazil's Presidential Elections - 51:40
Iraq's Descent Into Civil War - 01:01:00
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Kherson Counteroffensive and EU Energy Crisis
Election Roundup: Brazil
Iraq Civil War?
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In this episode, Anita interviews Joseph Asunka, the CEO of Afrobarometer, about democracy in Africa. Afrobarometer is “a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that has been conducting public attitude surveys on democracy, governance, the economy, and society since 1999.” Before joining Afrobarometer, Asunka was previously a program officer in the Global Development and Population program at the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and a lecturer in political science at UCLA.
We also discuss the aftermath of Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan and whether it has led to a new normal in the Taiwan Strait. We look at the specter of populism in Italy, as well as Kenya’s third democratic election and what it portends for the future of East Africa. We wrap up the show by looking at the non-aligned movement and why these countries refuse to take sides in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Ryan’s article in War on the Rocks
Rising US-China tensions over Taiwan
Election Roundup: Italy and Kenya
Democracy in Africa: Interview with Joseph Asunka
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In this episode, we interview Sir Mark Lowcock, the former United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, about the possibility of the world’s second famine in the 21st century. We discuss the factors driving the current food crisis and what steps nations can take now to avoid millions of people starving by next year. Lowcock is currently a Visiting Professor in Practice at the Department of International Development at the London School of Economics and a Distinguished Non-Resident Fellow at the Center for Global Development in Washington, DC. He is the author of Relief Chief: A Manifesto for Saving Lives in Dire Times.
We then discuss all the developments from the last week with China: the Biden-Xi call, Pelosi’s potential trip to Taiwan, and the passage of the CHIPs Act in Congress. We discuss the significance of these events and what they mean for US relations with China.
Also, on the show, we talk about Europe’s energy crisis and the latest developments as the continent struggles to prepare for winter.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
US-China Relations
European Energy Crisis: Winter is Coming Part Deux
Interview with Sir Mark Lowcock
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Show Website: www.kelloggsglobalpolitics.com
Episode Summary
In this episode, we talk with Alexander Vindman, a colleague of Anita’s at the Foreign Policy Institute at Johns Hopkins (SAIS), about the Russia-Ukraine War and the potential end game. Vindman’s expertise on Russia and Ukraine military affairs has been featured in numerous media outlets, as well as his articles published in Foreign Affairs, The Atlantic, and The Washington Post. His book, Here, Right Matters: An American Story, details his pivotal role in the first impeachment of President Donald J. Trump in 2020.
Also, on the show, we discuss Biden’s recent trip to the Middle East, where energy politics was at the top of the agenda, and the assassination of Japan’s former Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, which set off shockwaves in Japan and throughout the world. We discuss Abe’s legacy as a statesman in Asia and the controversies during his term in addressing Japan’s imperial past.
Additionally, Anita shares some good news about her new job.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles and Resources Mentioned in Episode
Biden’s Middle East Tour
Legacy of Shinzo Abe
Interview with Alexander Vindman
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The highest inflation rate in 40 years led to the Federal Reserve increasing interest rates by 75 basis points last week, signaling a much higher chance of a recession in the US this year. With global stock markets tanking and consumers beginning to pull back spending, we ask, was the EU decision to sanction Russian energy imports a colossal mistake? Next we look at the Summit of the Americas held in Los Angeles earlier this month and the status of US strategy towards South America, including the implications of the current presidential election in the US’s closest regional ally, Colombia. Finally we wrap up with a discussion about the Ukrainian refugee crisis with my colleague from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, Dr. Steven Schrage, and what more the US can do to help the situation.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
EU Oil Sanctions: A Critical Miscalculation
Summit of the Americas and the Colombian Election
Interview with Dr. Steven Schrage
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In this episode, we talk about Biden's recent trip to Asia as the US attempts to (re)pivot back to this critical region despite the ongoing war in Europe. We start talking about the Yoon-Biden summit, which renewed and expanded security cooperation between South Korea and the US. Next, we discuss the real goal of the trip: the renewal of policies meant to contain China's growing regional influence. Here we discuss Biden's controversial statement on Taiwan and the announcement of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework–what is it, and will anything of substance come from it?
Topics Discussed in this Episode:
Articles Mentioned in Episode:
Foreign Policy Quiz
Colombian Run-off Elections
North Korea and the Biden-Yoon summit
China Containment and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework
In today’s episode, we revisit the latest developments in the Russo-Ukraine war with a focus on the growing split in US policy circles on what the end game for the conflict should look like and the seemingly blasé attitude toward the threat of nuclear war by many experts. From there we’ll pivot to a crisis that’s been impacting US families: the baby formula shortage. How does US trade policy factor in and why can’t foreign imports come to the rescue?
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
NATO Expansion and Turkish objections
Russian-Ukraine War: Food and Energy market impact
Russian-Ukraine War: End Game
Baby Formula shortage in the US: Trade policy failure
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In today’s episode, we take on one of the most pressing concerns for nations worldwide: Inflation! What has caused the historical rise in the U.S., and what policies can help address this problem. We consider how the Russia-Ukraine war impacts inflation and why governments should be franker in how policies like sanctions directly affect consumer prices. We also discuss how immigration may be key to the labor shortage problem and help keep prices down.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Causes of Inflation
Immigration and the Labor Market
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Show Website: www.kelloggsglobalpolitics.com
Help Ukrainians in Need
Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that is unfolding due to the ambitions of an evil dictator. Like many of you, we feel the impotence of not being able to do more to help their fight. Please consider supporting any of the organizations and charities below actively helping refugees during this unprecedented crisis:
We begin the episode by looking at the new phase of the war as Russia narrows its goals to focus on controlling the eastern part of Ukraine. What are the US's and NATO's next steps militarily and are energy sanctions next?
We then discuss the global impact of recent elections in France, South Korea and the upcoming presidential election in Colombia. What are the key issues at the heart of each of these elections? How did the economic strain of both COVID and inflation impact the political debates within these countries? Finally, what do these results mean for US foreign policy, particularly, towards strategic rivals - Russia and China.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
War in the East: The Next Stage in the Ukraine war
Russia-Ukraine War: Energy Sanctions in the EU
Election Roundup: France, South Korea, and Colombia
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We begin this episode by looking at a question that many people have asked: why is the price of gas so high and what can be done about it. We then discuss the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war including the recent negotiations held in Turkey and how the Russian economy is doing. We also look at why Russia is struggling to sell its oil and consider what binds India and Russia. Finally, does Samuel Huntington’s Clash of Civilizations help us understand the war and why the argument remains so popular today.
Help Ukrainians in Need
Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that is unfolding due to the ambitions of an evil dictator. Like many of you, we feel the impotence of not being able to do more to help their fight. Please consider supporting any of the charities below actively helping refugees during this unprecedented crisis:
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Gas Prices: Rockets and Feathers
Russia-Ukraine War: Talks in Turkey, Recovery of the Ruble, and Energy Market Update
Clash of Civilizations Revisited: Was Samuel Huntington right?
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In our first-ever interview for the podcast, Anita speaks with Dr. Shahin Berenji on whether NATO expansion may have led to Russian aggression and war towards Ukraine and his research on why state leaders must be able to emphasize with the other side to resolve strategic rivalries.
Dr. Berenji is the Colin Powell Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow in the Department of Political Science and the John G. Tower Center for Public Policy and International Affairs at Southern Methodist University. He received his Ph.D. in Political Science at UCLA and has recently published in International Security.You can find out more about his research on his website: https://shahinberenji.com
As the war in Ukraine approaches its fourth week, we remain inspired by the courage and sacrifice of the Ukrainian people as they fight for their families, their country, and the right to self-determination.
In this episode we take a step back from the day-to-day events to focus on the strategic decisions that are reshaping the economic and political world in profound ways over the last month. First, we look back and consider the origins of the crisis and ask our first guest on the podcast, Prof. Shahin Berenji from Southern Methodist University, how much weight should be given to realist criticism from prominent international relations scholars, like John Mersheimer, that NATO expansionism is the root cause of the conflict? Does Russia have legitimate security concerns by having NATO members on its borders?
Next, we discuss the greater implications of the unprecedented sanction regime imposed by the West, namely its growing impact on the global economy, the vulnerability of the developing world to these impacts, and the likely lessons being taken away by adversarial regimes. Finally, we wrap up by exploring how unified the world really is in its opposition to Russia’s war.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Dr. Shahin Berenji’s Website: https://shahinberenji.com/
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine War: Energy Markets and 2nd Order Impacts of Sanctions
Russia-Ukraine War: Is the World Really in Support of Ukraine?
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In this episode, we cover several different aspects of the Russia-Ukraine war. First up, we at the latest in the military dimensions of the conflict, including the calls for a no-fly zone, and what support NATO member countries are providing Ukraine short of becoming participants in the war. We then discuss the impact of the financial sanctions and the price increases for oil and natural gas. We also cover what Russia’s military struggles mean for Russia’s standing on the world stage and how the conflict impacts Chinese interests. Finally, we wrap up by talking about what we see as the path going forward for the Russian-Ukraine war.
Help Ukrainians in Need
Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that is unfolding due to the ambitions of an evil dictator. Like many of you, we feel the impotence of not being able to do more to help their fight. Please consider supporting any of the charities below actively helping refugees during this unprecedented crisis:
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Military State of Play: Russian advances, No-fly zone debate, Western military aide
Financial Sanctions and Energy Markets
China’s Dilemma
Exploring the Path Forward
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Watching Russian troops invade Ukraine prompted us to record an emergency podcast episode on the recent developments of this crisis that is now a war. In addition to reflecting on these events, we discuss the tools available to Western countries to support Ukraine and punish Russia. We also go into depth about the role of sanctions in this conflict, including explaining the types of sanctions imposed on Russia and further measures under consideration. While sanctions do not have a good track record of foreign policy change, they are more than symbolic tools.
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In this episode, we begin with the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine crisis, where war appears imminent. We’ll consider how the West will respond and what the Ukrainian resistance might look like. Then onto the Canadian Convoy protest and what it signals for the larger populist movement on the right both in the US and elsewhere. Finally, we’ll wrap up by visiting the national elections in France and Hungary where many of the same themes seen in North America are front and center.
Also, check out Anita’s appearance on the Clubhouse’s ‘The Big Picture’ hosted by Pyotr Kurzin where she fields questions about Russia-China relations and the impact of the Ukraine crisis.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine: Likelihood of war and the West’s response
Canadian Trucker Protest and the Global Right
French and Hungarian National Elections
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Episode Summary
In this episode, we begin with the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine crisis and what the most viable exit strategy there is for Putin short of full-scale war. Next, we discuss European energy insecurity and the countermeasures the US is taking to help its allies. We then move on to what to make of the growing alliance between China and Russia. Finally, we discuss Latin America's diplomatic efforts at the Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Russia-Ukraine: Putin’s Exit Strategy
Russia-Ukraine: US countermeasures to address EU Energy Insecurity
Russia-China Growing Alliance
Diplomacy at the Beijing Olympics
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In this episode, we talk about European energy insecurity with Russia and the escalating crisis in Ukraine. We also look at slowing growth in China and the need to rebalance its economy. Finally, we discuss the growing attacks on Muslims in India and the dangers of illiberalism to the global order.
Topics Discussed in this Episode
Articles Mentioned in Episode
Root causes of EU Energy Crisis
Russia-Ukraine: Imminent War?
Slowing Chinese Economy and Trade Imbalances
Rising Indian intolerance and Global Illiberalism
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In this episode, we discuss what the Chinese-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the largest regional trade pact to date, means for the future of trade and the U.S.’s seeming withdrawal from leading on future international economic cooperation. Next, we discuss the crisis that no one is talking about — the diminishing opportunity for talks over Iran’s nuclear weapon development. Will Israel accept Iran as a de facto nuclear state, or could another Middle East war be on the horizon? We provide another update on Russia-Ukraine and the negations between Russia and NATO. Finally, we look at two recent articles by Francis Fukuyama (see notes below) on the democratic decline in the United States and its impact on U.S. global leadership.
Topics and Timestamps
Articles Mentioned in Episode
New Asian Trade Pact: RCEP
Reviving the Iran Nuclear deal: Mission Impossible?
Russia-Ukraine Crisis
January 6th Anniversary
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In this episode, we look back at two of the more consequential foreign policy issues facing the US today: the global pandemic and the emerging strategy to deal with a rising China. In addition, we give an update on the Russia-Ukraine crisis and the recent buzz about a nuclear energy renaissance.
Topics and Timestamps:
Articles Mentioned in Episode:
Russia Ukraine crisis
Energy in Focus: Nuclear power renewal and Surging LNG Demand
Covid and Vaccine Diplomacy
China Grand Strategy
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Welcome to the official launch of our podcast on global affairs. In this episode, we discuss recent international news stories, beginning with the decision to increase the oil supply and its impact on inflation. We also cover Biden’s Democracy Summit and the diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics by the United States. We then turn to a more in-depth conversation on the implications of the build-up of 175,000 Russian troops along the Ukraine-Russia border. Additionally, Anita discusses her new role as a Brzezinski Postdoctoral Fellow in Foreign Policy and National Security at John Hopkins (SAIS)’s Foreign Policy Institute in Washington DC.
Timestamps:
Articles Mentioned in Episode
OPEC+ Decision on Production Quotas
Democracy Summit
2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and the Diplomatic Boycott
Russia-Ukraine Crisis
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