World Review with Ivo Daalder
World Review with Ivo Daalder is a weekly podcast that helps listeners keep up with global events. Each Friday, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder brings together leading journalists and experts to break down what's happening, why it matters, and what comes next. The podcast is produced by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School.
Episodes
October 7 Three Years on, U.S. Oil Deal with Putin, Ebola Outbreak Spreads
The panel assesses the Middle East after years of regional war, asking whether Israel’s military gains have come at the expense of lasting security, political stability, and international support. They also discuss how the conflict has reshaped American politics and weakened confidence in U.S. leadership across the region.The conversation then turns to Ukraine, where battlefield developments, pres
Xi is Feted, US Leaves Iraq, Reversing Brexit
China, Iraq, and Brexit: three shifts with global consequencesIvo Daalder is joined by Ken Moriyasu, Carla Anne Robbins, and Giles Whittell to examine the strategy and symbolism behind three major international stories. The panel discusses Xi Jinping’s Washington visit and how the language around World War II could support Beijing’s preferred historical narrative. They consider whether the White H
Trump's Busy Week, Russia Threatens, The Far Right Wins in Europe
Key TopicsWhat Trump’s UN speech and meeting with Xi tell us about the current state of diplomacyHow seriously to take Europe’s warnings about Russian threatsThe challenges NATO faces in deterring—and responding to—gray-zone attacksWhether Germany’s far-right gains foreshadow a wider European trendWhy cultural identity and distrust of established parties are reshaping politicsLinksKaren DeYoung -&
The Fed Raises Rates, Carney Swoons Europe, and the Saudis Confront the Houthis
Key TopicsMartin Wolf argues that the Fed’s move is politically significant as much as economically justified, because Donald Trump’s demand for 1 percent rates is, in his words, “insane.”Missy Ryan adds that Trump’s economic focus seems centered less on inflation itself and more on the stock market and the AI boom, especially with the midterms looming.Peter Spiegel links Fed policy to the broader
25 Years After 9/11 — A Look Back
Key TopicsNicholas Burns recounts being the new U.S. ambassador to NATO when the attacks happened and describes the urgent push to invoke Article V for the first time in NATO history.Meghan L. O’Sullivan explains how 9/11 helped push a generation of foreign policy professionals into government and public service, including her own move from Brookings to the State Department.Juliette Kayyem recalls
Venezuela Oil Deal, A Depleted Military, and the CIA Warns Moscow
Key TopicsThe Venezuela oil deal is framed as a huge geopolitical gamble, with claims of 65 billion barrels and a U.S. stake in a private Venezuelan company.Nahal Toosi explains why the deal is surrounded by legal, constitutional, and practical doubts, including questions about infrastructure, financing, and corruption.Alex Ward argues the deal reflects a Trump-era foreign policy that treats oil a
US Canada Trade War, Economic D-Day, Trump's Playbook Falters
Key Topicas
Canada’s resistance to U.S. tariffs and what it means for Prime Minister Mark Carney
Whether economic pressure can succeed against Iran where military action has not
The weakening of U.S. leverage when allies are no longer willing to cooperate
How Trump’s approach is changing the transatlantic relationship
What fragmentation in Europe and the Gulf means for future global power
L
How AI is Changing the World
Key Topics
Artificial intelligence as a world-changing technology
The promise and risks of AI
AI’s potential to improve science and medicine
Power, agency, and democracy in the AI era
The US-China race for AI dominance
China’s centralized approach to AI development
Europe’s role in AI governance and sovereignty
Why infrastructure and data centers matter for AI
The tension between innovat
Iran, Ukraine, Cuba: Success? Failure? Stalemate?
Show Notes
In this episode, Ivo Daalder is joined by Steve Erlanger, Christopher Miller, and Carla Anne Robbins for a wide-ranging conversation about three tests of U.S. power: Iran, Ukraine, and Cuba. The discussion begins with Iran, where the panel explores whether Tehran is outlasting Washington in a long war of patience and why sanctions and military threats may not produce the outcome the U.S
Hormuz Truce Deal, Ceuta Cracks the EU, Europe Bakes
Iran and Oman appear to have reached a tentative agreement over the Strait of Hormuz, but is it a genuine diplomatic breakthrough or simply a pause in a much larger geopolitical conflict? At the same time, Europe is grappling with renewed migration pressures in Ceuta and record-breaking heat that underscores the growing political and economic consequences of climate change.
Host Giles Whittell is
U.S.–Saudi Nuclear Deal, More Tariffs, New British Government
Key Topics
The details and potential consequences of the US-Saudi civil nuclear agreement and its departure from previous non-proliferation standards
The strategic importance of the Iran war, nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, and regional reactions to new US policies
The Trump administration's approach to tariffs aimed at combating forced labor and their impact on international trade
Looking Back at the World Cup: Politics, Nations and Who Gains Financially
In this episode, we take a critical look at FIFA, global sports politics, and the way major international events can reveal deeper institutional problems.
Key Topics
Criticism of FIFA leadership and governance
How scandals reveal an organization’s true priorities
The political meaning of the World Cup and other major sporting events
Large events can temporarily distract from deeper structural
The Strait is Closed Again, Gaza Forgotten, Ukraine's Internal Division
In this episode of World Review, we explore the shifting dynamics shaping global security, from tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and U.S.-Iran brinkmanship to the political and military challenges facing Ukraine. The conversation also examines Gaza’s stalled recovery efforts and the role leadership style plays in both diplomacy and war.
Key topics include:
Escalation risks in the Middle East
In
Iran War Resumes, NATO Lives Another Day, Russia Fuel Crisis
Key Topics
Renewed fighting between the United States and Iran
Whether the Strait of Hormuz could become a toll-based choke point
NATO unity, Trump’s unpredictability, and Europe’s response
Greenland tensions and the future of transatlantic relations
Russia’s fuel crisis, drone strikes, and domestic pressure on Putin
The broader shift toward rearmament and a more fragmented world order
America at 250 – What the U.S. Means to the World
Key Topics
How the American experiment of government based on consent and inalienable rights ignited global movements and reshaped societies, from Europe to Asia.
The complex legacy of America’s post-1945 institutional order, the Marshall Plan, NATO, United Nations, and whether this framework still works or if it's fundamentally broken.
The rise of competing models like China’s authoritarian c
Brexit Turns 10, Iran Deal Delay, Ukraine Turning Point in Crimea
Key Topics
The evolving political landscape in the UK a decade after Brexit, including public sentiment and potential reintegration into the EU
The current state of Iran's nuclear deal negotiations, sanctions, and regional power dynamics
Ukraine's recent large-scale strikes on Crimea targeting Russian military infrastructure and the implications for the ongoing war
Links
Catherine Philp - htt
The Politics and Economics of the World Cup
Key Topics
Geopolitical implications of the World Cup and its representation of global powers.
Economic analysis of hosting the World Cup and its impact on host countries.
FIFA's political dynamics and relationships with global leaders.
Cultural and national identity shifts in international football.
Stories of players with diverse backgrounds representing different nations.
Links
Giles Whi
Iran Deal Redux, Europe and U.S. Decouple, The AI Revolution
Key Topics
The implications of SpaceX's IPO valued at trillions in the context of AI's environmental and geopolitical impact
How the US's withdrawal from NATO commitments and reconsideration of missile deployments reflect shifting transatlantic relations
The ongoing US-Iran negotiations and their impact on regional stability and global diplomacy
The rise of AI and its regulatory challenges
Iran Frozen War? Ukraine's Gains, Ebola U.S. AWOL
Key Topics
The evolving situation with Iran and Israel, including negotiations and proxy conflicts
Ukraine's recent territorial gains and the shifting momentum in the war against Russia
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, highlighting US and global response deficiencies
The impact of US political dynamics on foreign aid and international policy
The significa
Iran Deal or No Deal, Will Europe Lead in Ukraine, The Pope Takes on AI
Key Topics
Iran's potential nuclear agreement and regional implications
Europe's diplomatic paralysis and its impact on Ukraine and Russia
The Vatican's moral challenge to AI and the political repercussions
Europe's defense posture and NATO readiness amid escalating threats
U. S. tech industry influence and regulatory debates on AI
Links
Shona Murray - https://events.euronews.com/euronew
Is Cuba next? Will Taiwan fall? British Politics in Crisis.
Key Topics
The implications of the US indicting Cuba's former president Raul Castro and what regime change might look like
The impact of President Trump's summit with Xi Jinping on Taiwan’s security and US strategic ambiguity
The political crisis in Britain, the decline of the Labour Party, and the future of UK leadership
How European countries view US and China strategies in the context o
Trump in Beijing, Russia in Trouble, Stalemate in the Strait
Key Topics
The symbolism and outcomes of President Trump's meeting with President Xi in Beijing
Russia's economic and military challenges amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine
The strategic stalemate in the Persian Gulf and its global implications
The evolving U.S.-China relationship and its impact on global geopolitics
Iran's nuclear ambitions and the potential for diplomatic resolutions
Justice in Syria, the UAE Saudi Break-up, and Tensions Across the Atlantic
Key Topics
The emergence of war crimes trials in Syria and their impact on societal reconciliation
The break between Saudi Arabia and the UAE over oil production and regional influence
The decline of US-European relations amid troop withdrawals, trade disputes, and strategic disagreements
The instability in Lebanon and the implications for Israeli and Lebanese relations
The evolving natur
Iran War Stalemate. The King Takes Washington. Germany Rearms.
The Iran War stalemate and dual blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and the mounting pressure on both sides to reach a deal
Iran's hardliners consolidating power and the growing likelihood the regime pursues nuclear weapons as a deterrent
King Charles III's address to a joint session of Congress and its surprising ability to unite a deeply divided chamber
The diplomatic lesson of royalty and wh
Iran War Ceasefire, Lebanon & Israel Talks, Ukraine’s New Vibe
The evolving ceasefire and military dynamics in Ukraine, including the Western response and Ukraine's increasing technological resilience
Lebanon’s fragile ceasefire extension, Hezbollah's role, and opportunities for strengthening Lebanese sovereignty
Iran’s nuclear ambitions, domestic fractures, and the prospects for a diplomatic resolution amid US-Iran tensions
The impact of US foreign poli
Iran: Blockade or Negotiate, Hungary Earthquake, President vs. Pope
Key Topics
The Iran ceasefire and US naval blockade: what's holding and what isn't
US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan: prospects for a deal and the limits of unilateral diplomacy
Europe's divided response: the Paris talks between Macron and Starmer and the question of inserting Europeans into the negotiations
The Strait of Hormuz as Iran's ultimate leverage — and what "open" really means for tr
Iran War Fragile Ceasefire, Strategic Mistakes, NATO Lives Another Day
Key Topics
The fragile Iran ceasefire: achievements and uncertainties
US presidential objectives and their evolution during the Iran conflict
NATO's membership challenges amid US skepticism and strategic disagreements
The influence of domestic politics on international alliances
The strategic implications of the Strait of Hormuz closure
The future of transatlantic relations and alliance coh
Trump's Speech Leaves Many Questions, Impact of the Strait's Closure, Israel's Security Strategy
Key Topics
The real implications of the Strait of Hormuz closing—how it’s causing energy shocks, economic disruptions, and geopolitical shifts.
Why Israel’s military campaign, despite overwhelming strength, might be eroding its long-term security stability.
The calculus shaping Gulf leaders’ fears and hopes amid rising regional tensions.
Inside the secret strategies and political dilemmas that thr
Iran: Diplomacy or escalation? The big rift in NATO. Europe's fragmented politics.
Key Topics
President Trump's claims of Iran begging for a deal and the US military's posture in the Gulf
The rift between the US and Europe, NATO's limited involvement, and European responses
The impact of recent European elections on future political directions
The emerging global payment systems bypassing traditional US sanctions
The broader implications of US and European foreign policy s
Iran War Escalation?, Trump's China Summit Off, Is Cuba Next?
Key Topics
The escalation of the Iran war entering its fourth week, with detailed analysis of Iran’s military capabilities, sanctions, and the potential for reopening the Strait of Hormuz
The impact of the Iran conflict on US-China relations, including the fate of the planned US summit with Xi Jinping and China's strategic positioning amid military pressures
The US approach to Cuba, including
The Iran War: When Does it End? What's the Global Impact? Israel’s Many Wars
Key Topics
The strategic objectives and possible endgame of Israel’s multi-front military campaign
The impact of U.S. political shifts and unilateral military actions on global credibility
Iran’s resilience, nuclear ambitions, and the regional threat after recent conflicts
The European response and evolving alliances amid U.S. disengagement
How global energy markets, especially oil prices, a
Iran War Goals Uncertain; War Consequences Spread; Pentagon vs Claude
Key Topics
Iran war escalation and regional reactions
The role of AI in military operations and security
Energy sector disruptions due to Middle East conflict
Nahal Toosi | politico.com/author/nahal-toosi
Anton La Guardia | economist.com/our-people/anton-la-guardia
Prashant Rao | semaphore.co/author/prashant-rao
Year 5 in Ukraine, Tariff shock, Is Cuba's time finally running out?
Topic Breakdown
Ukraine war stalemate and future prospects
Impact of US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs
US strategy towards Cuba and regime change efforts
Chapters
00:00 The Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
10:07 Trump's Legal Setbacks and Economic Implications
19:53 Cuba's Political Landscape and U.S. Strategy
Guest links
Politico - https://www.politico.com/author/felicia-schwartz
The Observer -
War in Iran? Peace in Syria? MAGA goes European
In this episode, we explore the current state of international relations, focusing on the potential for conflict with Iran, the evolving situation in Syria following U.S. troop withdrawals, and the broader geopolitical strategies involving Europe and the Middle East. Our panel of expert journalists provides detailed analysis, timestamps key moments, and discusses the implications for global stabil
Europe and America Meet in Europe—Rupture, Rift, Revival?
In this episode of "World Review," Ivo Daalder, Alexander Ward of the Wall Street Journal, Steven Erlanger of the New York Times, and Karin Axelsson of Politiken explore significant geopolitical developments as of February 14, 2026. You’ll discover how European leaders are fiercely defending their version of the rules-based order against American actions they see as disruptive, from Greenland to N
Iran - Strike or Talk; Is Peace a Real Possibility in Ukraine; Middle Powers and Trade
In this episode of "World Review," Ivo Daalder explores significant geopolitical developments as of February 6, 2024. The discussion begins with Iran's nuclear negotiations in Oman, highlighting the shift in focus towards nuclear issues and regional tensions. The episode examines the impact of US military posturing and the potential influence of former President Trump on these negotiations. The co
Iran – What’s the Mission; Derisking from the US; “Donroe Doctrine” One Month Later
In this episode of World Review, substitute host Carla Anne Robbins, along with journalists Karen DeYoung and Philip Stevens, delves into the intricate dynamics of current global tensions. The discussion begins with the U.S. military's strategic positioning near Iran, examining whether this is a move towards deterrence or a precursor to conflict. The conversation then shifts to Europe's evolving s
Possible Greenland deal; Trump's Peace Board; Global Economy under Trump 2.0
In this episode of World Review, Carla Anne Robbins leads a discussion with journalists Stefanie Bolzen, Robbie Grammer, and Prashant Rao on the latest global developments. President Trump's Greenland deal remains uncertain, causing diplomatic tensions.The Board of Peace is seen as a challenge to the UN's authority.Global economy shows resilience despite US tariffs.European allies express distrust
Iran on the Brink, The West Divided, Trump Unbound
Ivo Daalder discusses the week's major global events with Yasmeen Abutaleb, Gideon Rachman, and Chris Miller on this episode of World Review. The conversation covers the escalating tensions in Iran, the geopolitical implications of Greenland, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The panel examines President Trump's foreign policy strategies, the credibility of security guarantees, and the potentia
US Strikes Venezuela; Greenland in Crosshairs; Demonstrations in Iran
Join Ivo Daalder and a panel of leading journalists as they explore the latest geopolitical developments. The episode kicks off with a discussion on Venezuela, where President Trump's military operation to capture Nicolas Maduro has sparked international debate. The conversation then shifts to Greenland, where Trump's interest in acquiring the territory raises questions about modern imperialism. F
The State of NATO
Join Ivo Daalder in a special edition of World Review as he engages with NATO's Deputy Secretary General, Radmila Šekerinska, at the Belfer Center, Harvard Kennedy School. This episode explores NATO's strategic responses to contemporary challenges, including hybrid threats and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The discussion highlights NATO's adaptability, the importance of collective security, and
Escalation in Venezuela, Ukraine Endgame, Fighting Undermines Peace President
In this episode of World Review, Ivo Daalder is joined by Nahal Toosi, Alex Ward, and Giles Whittell to discuss the latest developments in global politics. The panel examines the U.S. blockade on Venezuelan oil and its implications for the Maduro regime. They also explore the ongoing negotiations with Ukraine and the potential for a ceasefire by Christmas. The conversation touches on President Tru
The World Reacts to Trump’s New National Security Strategy
In this episode of World Review, host Ivo Daalder is joined by Anna Sauerbrey, Ken Moriyasu, and Anton LaGuardia to dissect the latest U.S. national security strategy. The panel discusses the document's unexpected brevity and its significant implications for international relations. Key topics include the U.S.'s shifting stance towards Europe, the strategic balance with China, and the emphasis on
Putin Says No, Boat Strike in the Caribbean, Trump Berates Europe
Join Ivo Daalder in this episode of World Review as he navigates the intricate web of global politics with esteemed journalists Carla Anne Robbins, Steven Erlanger, and Matt Kaminski.Delve into the ongoing Ukraine conflict, where diplomatic efforts seem to stall amidst geopolitical tensions. Explore the controversial U.S. military actions in the Caribbean, raising questions about legality and inte
Will Trump's 28-Point Plan End the War in Ukraine?
A highly contentious 28-point US peace plan, reportedly drafted by President Trump's Peace Envoy Steve Witkoff and a Russian envoy, was presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aiming to end the war by giving Russia significant concessions while offering Ukraine a security guarantee and the US financial benefits. Immediately following the plan's delivery, Vice President JD Vance report
Welcome to the World Review — From Our New Home at the Belfer Center
Ivo Daalder announces World Review's new home at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs.
Every Friday, Ivo and leading journalists and analysts cut through the noise to explain the global stories shaping our world — clearly, honestly, and without jargon. If you’re looking for sharper insight and deeper context, you’re in the right place. Welcome to the new W
World Review Live: Conflict in Africa; the Far Right in Europe
Thank you Brenda Elthon, Jay Lapidus, Richard Burger, Monte McMurchy, Richard McFarlane, and many others for tuning into my live video with Anna Sauerbrey and Bobby Ghosh! Join me for my next World Review on Friday, November 14, in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
World Review Live: Trump visits Asia, meets Xi
Thank you Brenda Elthon, Jay Lapidus, Thomas Wright, arvershbow@atlanticcouncil.org, Paul k, and many others for tuning into my live video with Gideon Rachman and Ken Moriyasu! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
World Review Live—Trump-Xi to Meet; US Sanctions Russia
I was thrilled to be joined by Jane Perlez, host of the Face-Off podcast on US-China relations and long-time reporter of the New York Times, and Anton LaGuardia, diplomatic editor of The Economist. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
WORLD REVIEW LIVE: Missiles for Ukraine? French Government survives no-confidence vote, with Karen DeYoung and Steven Erlanger
Thank you Elise Labott, Brenda Elthon, Peter Sukowski, Bob Fleischman, arvershbow@atlanticcouncil.org, and many others for tuning into my live video with Steven Erlanger and Karen DeYoung! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
Gaza Chaos, Rubio’s Rise, Iran Deal or Strike
Israel is under fire this week as international frustration mounts over chaotic aid efforts in Gaza and fears of an expanded ground offensive. US Envoy Steve Witkoff’s new ceasefire proposal, however, has sparked cautious hope, with talks ongoing despite setbacks. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is undergoing a shakeup as Marco Rubio consolidates power in his add-on role as National Security A
Trump-Putin Call, Taiwan-China Dialogue, Syria Sanctions
President Trump’s decision to step back from peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war after a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin has rattled NATO allies and raised fears of weakening Western unity. Critics warn the move emboldens Moscow, while Trump touts future trade with Russia. Meanwhile, in Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te marked his first year by calling for dialogue with China while ple
Trump’s Middle East Tour, Peace Talks in Disarray, Trade War Ceasefire
This week, President Trump’s whirlwind tour of the Middle East sees him striking arms deals and declaring an end to nation-building, even as he engages in tense discussions with former jihadist-turned-Syrian leader Ahmed al-Shara. Meanwhile, in Istanbul, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators prepare for the first peace talks in three years — without Putin, Trump, or Zelenskyy at the table. Russia’s b
Putin-Xi Pact, India-Pakistan Crossfire, Netanyahu’s Push
This week, Chinese leader Xi Jinping visits Moscow for a Victory Day parade and meetings meant to showcase and strengthen a strategic alliance. Both Xi and Russian President Putin have taken aim at US economic and military policies and are presenting themselves as a counterbalance to Western influence. Meanwhile, India launches airstrikes against Pakistani targets after a deadly Kashmir attack, pr
100 Days of Unmaking the World America Made
This week marks the first 100 days of President Trump’s second term. From dismantling key alliances and trade agreements to sidelining democratic values and global institutions, are Trump's actions rapidly unraveling the post-WWII world order and 80 years of American-led international leadership? What does this mean for US influence, global stability, and the trust of allies? Stefanie Bolzen, Bobb
Ukraine Plan, Kashmir Crisis, Pentagon Chaos
This week, after President Trump floated a plan for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, Moscow launched its deadliest strike on Kyiv since last summer. While the attack drew rare criticism from Trump, the administration has offered Kyiv only vague assurances about the country’s future security under the proposed plan that was presented as an ultimatum. Meanwhile, a deadly militant attack in India
Easing Chinese Tariffs, Defying Judicial Orders, Wobbling German Government
This week, the Trump administration quietly eased tariffs on a wide range of Chinese goods, a move critics say exposes weakness in the US trade war stance. Meanwhile, President Trump has refused to secure the return of Kilmar Ábrego García, who was unlawfully deported to a prison in El Salvador, escalating showdown between the president and the judiciary. And in Berlin, Germany’s new coalition gov
US-China Trade War, Tariff Whiplash, Iran Talks
A dramatic escalation in the US-China trade war sent markets reeling this week and raised fears of a prolonged economic standoff between the world’s two largest economies. Both sides seem to be playing a game of chicken, unveiling new rounds of retaliatory tariffs almost daily. And American businesses and consumers, as well as American allies and trading partners, are struggling with tariff whipla
Liberation Day Tariffs, Hegseth’s Asia Tour, and Le Pen Conviction Fallout
President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs announcement on Thursday sent shockwaves through global markets and sparked promises of retaliation from both adversaries and allies. And earlier this week, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit to Asia signaled a shift in US military strategy, with key meetings in Japan and the Philippines that could reshape alliances in the region. Meanwhile, in Fra
Signalgate Blows Up, Turkey in Crisis, Vance Visits Greenland
This week, news that top Trump administration officials discussed operational details of a US attack on the Houthis in an unsecure Signal group chat raised profound questions about the administration’s security procedures, as well as demonstrating what those officials really think about Europe. Meanwhile, the arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, mayor of Istanbul and presidential candidate of Turkey’s main o
Germany Gets Serious, Israel Breaks Ceasefire, Trump Threatens Iran
This week, Germany bets big on its future as parliament approves Friedrich Merz’s bold €1 trillion push for defense and infrastructure, shattering borrowing limits to counter Russia and cut reliance on the US. Is the debt gamble worth it? In the Middle East, Israel’s renewed assault on Gaza shatters a fragile ceasefire, killing more than 400 and igniting protests in Jerusalem. Political maneuver o
Putin Stalls Ceasefire & Europeans See Trump as a Threat
This week Russia hints at openness to a cease-fire in Ukraine but with tough conditions—stalling tactic or real breakthrough? Meanwhile, European allies increasingly see President Trump as a growing security threat, raising questions about reliance on the US and the impact on nuclear deterrence. And a judge rules President Trump overstepped by freezing USAID funds but stops short of ordering the r
Trump’s Trade War, China’s Warning, and Europe’s Challenge
This week before delivering his address to Congress, President Trump sparked a trade war with America’s three largest trading partners—Canada, Mexico, and China—triggering swift retaliatory tariffs and rattling global markets. Meanwhile, during China’s National People’s Congress annual meeting, Premier Li Qiang announced increased defense spending, reaffirmed Taiwan reunification plans, and declar
Germany Moves Right, US Abandons Ukraine, and Gaza Truce Extension
The center barely held in Germany, as Germany moved sharply to the extremes, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) doubling its support in just four years. Can Germany retake the lead in Europe, which is now more urgent than ever? Meanwhile, President Trump continued to walk away from Ukraine, siding with Russia at the UN and forcing Kyiv into signing a mineral agreement for little in r
US-Russia Reset, New Gaza Plans, and Xi’s Big Tech Bet
US and Russian negotiators met in Saudi Arabia this week and, in a stunning reset, agreed to re-establish normal relations and work together to end the Ukraine war. Meanwhile, from Mar-a-Lago President Trump blamed Ukraine for the war and called President Volodymyr Zelensky “a dictator.” What does this shift mean for Ukraine, NATO, and US security commitments? Then, we examine Arab states’ alterna
Leaders meet in Munich to discuss future of NATO and Ukraine
As world leaders gather in Munich this week for their annual security conference, Ukraine will once again take center stage – though mainly because of the two people who won’t be there. Presidents Trump and Putin discussed the war and committed to work towards peace in a phone call, but didn’t commit to involving Ukraine in the talks. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told his counterparts
Trump’s Gaza Plan, USAID Overhaul, and Tariffs
President Trump’s proposal for US control of Gaza and relocating its population sparked global backlash this week and was deemed unrealistic and illegal. Top administration officials are now walking back elements of the proposal, insisting US troops won’t be used to clear the territory and relocation would be temporary. Is this just another Trump negotiation tactic as some have suggested? Meanwhil
Trump’s World—The Return of Great Power Politics
Donald Trump’s first week in office has ushered in a new era in America’s relationship with the world. Pax Americana out; Great Power Competition is in. Whether it is buying Greenland, controlling Panama, threatening tariffs on Colombia, Mexico, Canada, and China, Trump wields American power to get what he wants. That creates both new opportunities. And new dangers. James Lindsay of the Council on
Europe and Asia Respond to Trump’s Return
On Monday, European leaders watched the inauguration of President Trump from Davos and fretted about his threats to impose sweeping tariffs, his demands for significant increases in European defense spending, and the possibility he may shift America’s stance toward Ukraine. He already has followed through on withdrawing from the Paris climate agreements and the World Health Organization. Soon afte
Biden’s Foreign Policy Legacy and What Trump is Inheriting
President Biden entered office with ambitious foreign policy goals and is leaving a complicated legacy. Though he navigated the global COVID-19 pandemic, rallied allies to support Ukraine, and implemented policies to address climate change, challenges such as the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal, record illegal border crossings, the war in Gaza, and high inflation marred his term. The Gaza cease-fir
Trump's Expansionist Ambitions and Tech Titans' Disruptions
In this episode, we unpack the first major global stories of 2025. Donald Trump’s expansionist rhetoric this week toward Greenland and Panama reflects his “America First” doctrine and risks violating international law, alienating allies, and deepening global tensions. How serious is he? Meanwhile, tech titans Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg stir misinformation controversies. What does Musk hope to g
Syria’s Revolution, Europe’s Support for Ukraine, and Trump’s Media Battles
In our final episode of 2024, we’ll dig into the stories that are not only dominating the headlines this week but also will command attention well into 2025. First, how is the Syrian revolution already reshaping the Middle East and how will it affect the balance of power in the region? Then, European leaders, including Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO chief Mark Rutte, gathered in
The End of the Assad Regime
This week we saw the end of one of the world’s most brutal dictatorships with the swift and unexpected fall of the Assad Regime in Syria. The Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former Al Qaeda affiliate that broke with the group years ago, has formed a transitional government that is pledging inclusivity while emphasizing accountability for former regime abuses. Meanwhile, Israel launched
South Korea's Martial Law, France's No-Confidence Vote, and Syria's Rebels Advance
Political chaos reigned this week as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared and then lifted martial law within hours amid public outrage, parliamentary backlash, and mounting calls for his impeachment. Meanwhile, France’s political upheaval came with the passing of a no-confidence measure against Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his cabinet on Wednesday, leaving the government in caretaker
1,000 Days of Ukraine War, Global Summits, and RFK Impact on Global Health
This week marked the 1,000 day of the Ukraine War. We'll unpack recent developments, including Ukraine's use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory for the first time, intensified Russian attacks near Kurakhove, the pause in operations at the US embassy in Kyiv, and Russia's updated nuclear deterrence doctrine. Then world leaders met this week in Azerbaijan for the UN Climate S
Trump's Cabinet Picks Point to Significant Shifts in Global Policy
This week, we’ll analyze what Donald Trump’s early picks for key positions reveal about his approaches to foreign policy, national security, and international economic policy. We’ll explore who may benefit from his return to office—including potential gains for Russia, Israel, Gulf states, and the Global South—as well as those who may face setbacks, such as Ukraine and US allies in Europe and Asia
Trump's Election Victory: Reactions, Implications, and Expectations
This week, Americans overwhelmingly voted for Donald Trump to become the 47th president of the United States. While the polls predicted a tight race, they underestimated Trump's support, and he soared back to the White House along with large Republican gains in the House and Senate. Susan Glasser, James Harding, and Peter Speigel join World Review with Ivo Daalder to discuss the implications of Tr
Japan's Snap Election, Gaza Humanitarian Crisis, North Korean Troops in Kursk
Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party faced a major setback in Sunday's snap elections after failing to obtain a majority of seats in the Lower House for the first time in 15 years. How will this shocking parliamentary loss affect the long-standing party, and what will it mean for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s future? Then, aid entering Gaza is at its lowest since the start of the war, exacerbating t
Gaza After Sinwar, Biden's Farewell Tour, Canada-India Conflict
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, architect of the October 7 attack, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza earlier this week. How will Hamas respond, and how will this affect the war and its eventual end? Then, President Joe Biden is expected to visit Germany this week and Angola later this year (his first visit to Africa as president). In what are seen as farewell trips, President Biden will discus
Gaza War Anniversary, Latest from Ukraine, Mexico's New President
In the year since October 7, the war that began with Hamas attacking Israel has spread from Gaza to the West Bank and Lebanon. Now at the center of global attention, the Middle East faces its biggest crisis yet with no end in sight. Matt Kaminski, David Luhnow, and Catherine Philp join World Review with Ivo Daalder to look back at lessons learned and not learned from the Israel-Hamas war. Plus, th
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