The Global Gambit
The Global Gambit is an independent podcast focused on geopolitics, foreign policy, macroeconomics and current affairs. It features live, interactive audience participation and publishes monthly interviews or panels with policymakers, journalists and academics covering international relations around the world. Guests have included experts from the Council on Foreign Relations, the Atlantic Council, the International Crisis Group and Johns Hopkins SAIS. The show is hosted by Pyotr Kurzin, a geopolitical and UN professional with English-Russian roots, and is funded through Patreon.
Episodes
Trump’s Ego Is Putin’s Strongest Asset | Tina Fordham
Weeks after signing a sweeping sanctions law against Russia’s energy revenues, Donald Trump has struck a deal to buy Russian diesel, announced while his envoys sat down with Ukrainian officials to discuss ending the war. Trump calls it a win. In Moscow, it looks like something else entirely.In this conversation, I’m joined by Tina Fordham, geostrategist, founder of Fordham Global Foresight, and Wa
Putin Has Trapped Himself in a War He Cannot Win | Lawrence Freedman
Ukraine has transformed Russia’s vast geography from a source of strategic depth into a growing vulnerability. Its long-range drones are striking oil refineries, supply lines and military infrastructure, while Crimea is becoming increasingly difficult for Moscow to defend and sustain.But Sir Lawrence Freedman warns against assuming that Russia’s mounting failures have made Ukraine’s position easy.
Turkey Could Be Entering the Nuclear Arms Race | Gönül Tol
Russia’s war in Ukraine has done more than redraw Europe’s security map. It has exposed the limits of military alliances—and triggered a potentially dangerous chain reaction far beyond the battlefield.For Turkey, the choice is not simply between Vladimir Putin and NATO. Ankara is maintaining its relationship with Moscow, strengthening its position inside the Western alliance and reducing its depen
Putin Is Already at War With Europe | General Ben Hodges
General Ben Hodges says Russia is already at war with Europe. Not with missiles striking NATO cities, but through drones, sabotage and attacks designed to frighten populations and weaken support for Ukraine. So why are European governments still reluctant to impose meaningful consequences?Hodges joins me to discuss Germany’s far-right breakthrough, NATO’s response to Russian provocations and the g
Iran and Ukraine Have Changed Everything We Know About War | David Petraeus
Iran has been militarily devastated — and yet, six months on, it may be winning. General David Petraeus argues that Tehran's control of the Strait of Hormuz has become a "weapon of mass disruption" more powerful than the nuclear program the war was meant to destroy.In this conversation, I'm joined by General David Petraeus — former CENTCOM and NATO commander, former CIA Director, and Chairman of t
Secrets, Mysteries, and Spies: A Former CIA Officer on Predicting Russia
Description:Intelligence failures make headlines. Intelligence successes rarely do — which is exactly the problem when trying to understand how the West actually predicted Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and what it can and can't tell us about Putin's next move.In this conversation, I'm joined by Charles Finfrock — a former CIA officer with 18 years of experience across the Middle East, Europe, and
Trump's Iran War Was Meant to Break the Regime. It Broke America's Middle East Instead
Summary Iran's regime survives. The Strait of Hormuz is under threat. Gulf allies are furious. And the United States, further from its goals than when the war began, has spent months exposing the limits of its own power in the process. Jason Campbell, joins The Global Gambit to break down how Trump's Iran war became a self-inflicted collapse of American leverage in the Middle East: the depleted mu
Will China Annex Siberia? General H.R. McMaster on the Real Threat to Russia
Description:Former US National Security Advisor Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster joins The Global Gambit to examine why China, Russia and Iran have become the defining geopolitical challenge of our time. We discuss Beijing's support for Moscow, the changing character of warfare, NATO's future, Western fatigue over Ukraine, and why China may ultimately be the greatest long-term beneficiary of today
What Everyone Gets Wrong About NATO, Ukraine & European Defence
In this episode, Pyotr Kurzin hosts Dr. Bence Nemeth to explore Europe's strategic autonomy, defense capabilities, and the evolving landscape of NATO and EU military cooperation amid the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical shifts.Bence Nemeth is a Senior Lecturer at the Defence Studies Department of King’s College London, where he primarily teaches British and international military officers
The Real Reason Trump's Iran Deal Feels So Strange | Ian Bremmer
Trump says he has secured a major breakthrough with Iran, but is the deal even worse than many are already claiming? And are details taking so long to release?Joining me today is Ian Bremmer, founder of Eurasia Group and GZERO Media, to discuss the emerging US-Iran agreement, why many analysts remain sceptical, and whether Washington is actually in a weaker position than before the conflict began.
Something Big is Happening Over Crimea | Mark Kelly
Senator Mark Kelly just returned from Odessa. His verdict: Ukraine has effectively shut down the Russian Navy in the Black Sea — Russia can't operate there anymore.Crimea is next.Full conversation with the Senator on what he saw on the ground, the momentum shift, and why Putin is running out of options.Senator Mark Kelly is a retired Navy combat pilot, NASA astronaut, and sitting US Senator for Ar
Why the Ukraine War Won't End the Way You Think
Ukraine just struck Putin's hometown during the St Petersburg Economic Forum. Is this a genuine shift in momentum or another false dawn in a war that keeps defying predictions?Dan Ridler, Senior Analyst for Europe at the Economist Intelligence Unit, joins to cut through the noise. We get into how the EIU actually forecasts war outcomes, why the battlefield probably won't decide this conflict, what
America Doesn't Know What It Is Anymore | Tom Nichols
America is in a moment of self-inflicted crisis — and the man responsible may not be able to find a way out. Trump has started a war he promised he wouldn't, fractured his own base, and tied his political fate to every price rise and policy failure.In this episode, I speak with Tom Nichols about why Trump's domestic troubles are uniquely of his own making, what the Iran war reveals about the colla
What Everyone Gets Wrong About Iran's Negotiating Strategy
The ceasefire may have slowed the fighting - but according to former JCPOA adviser Alan Eyre, the underlying dynamics between the United States, Iran, and Israel have barely changed at all.In this conversation, we break down why the US-Iran talks remain stuck at “square one,” why Tehran believes time is on its side, and why the current pause in hostilities could simply be the calm before another r
General Mick Ryan on What Trump's Iran War Tells Us About America’s Future
Donald Trump's war with Iran is the reflection of something much bigger, perhaps much worse, happening with the USA, its foreign policy and its standing in the evolving world order. Can the United States still impose political outcomes abroad without triggering wider economic, geopolitical, and strategic blowback?In this part 1 of 2 Retired Australian Major General Mick Ryan joins The Global Gambi
The Real Hormuz Crisis Is Still Coming
The US-Iran ceasefire may still technically be holding — but experts worry and warn that it is already beginning to rot. In this conversation, we break down why Iran is targeting the UAE, why the Strait of Hormuz remains the key pressure point, and why Trump’s attempt to claim victory may be colliding with economic reality. Alan Eyre - distinguished diplomatic fellow at the Middle East Institute,
Something Huge is Happening to Global Democracy
Global democracy is changing and Hungary’s election may signal more than just a political shift — it could mark the beginning of a broader democratic rebound.In this episode, I speak with Katherine Stewart about whether the world is moving out of a decade-long “democracy recession,” why Orbán’s defeat matters, and what it tells us about the resilience of democratic systems. We also explore the glo
What Trump’s Blockade Really Means for the Iran War
The collapse of US–Iran negotiations highlights a deeper structural problem: escalation is now outpacing diplomacy. Following a high-level meeting in Islamabad that failed to produce any meaningful breakthrough, the United States has escalated by moving to blockade the Strait of Hormuz—raising serious questions about strategy, sustainability, and the risk of broader regional spillover.In this epis
How Israel is Threatening Iran and US to Restart War
While Trump's fragile ceasefire with Iran continues to hold, Israel is now going after Hezbollah in Lebanon, putting the entire Middle East on edge. We are joined by David Daoud of the FDD to understand why Israel’s escalation in Lebanon was likely once the Iran front quietened, and why Hezbollah remains far harder to uproot than many assume. We discuss the limits of decapitation strategies, Hezbo
What Really Comes Next for Putin’s War in Ukraine
Russia’s apparent momentum in Ukraine is misleading. As David Petraeus argues, it reflects adaptation and external support rather than lasting strength, while Ukraine’s innovation has been underestimated.The war is also reshaping how conflicts are fought — with drones, decentralised tactics, and rapid adaptation replacing traditional military dominance. Ultimately, the outcome will depend less on
Why the Iran War is Creating Something Even Worse
The conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel is entering a far more complex and dangerous phase than many expected.In this conversation, I’m joined by Ali Vaez - Iran Project Director and Senior Adviser to the President of the International Crisis Group to examine what is actually happening behind the headlines. Why the war has shifted into a grinding war of attrition, why Iran’s leade
Something Doesn't Make Sense in the US-Iran Escalation
The United States has deployed one of its largest military buildups in the Middle East in decades — and yet, nothing has happened. So why assemble overwhelming force if conflict was never inevitable?In this episode, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Con Coughlin, Defence and Foreign Affairs Editor at The Daily Telegraph, to unpack the real strategy behind America’s military pressure on Iran. We explore how
The Biggest Weakness in Britain’s Defence Strategy
SummaryIn this episode I engage Larissa Brown, the defence editor at The Times, to discuss the current state of geopolitics, defence dynamics, and the implications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They explore insights from the Munich Security Conference, the UK's defence spending, military readiness, and the evolving threat posed by Russia. The conversation also delves into the US-UK defence r
How Europe is Going After Russia's Shadow Fleet
SummaryIn this conversation, Edward Lucas discusses the ongoing war in Ukraine, the influence of Donald Trump on NATO and European defense, and the shifting dynamics of power in Europe. He emphasises the need for Europe to enhance its military autonomy and the importance of a united front against Russia. Lucas also addresses the concept of the 'shadow fleet' and the implications of European action
Iran’s Protests and the New Middle East Balance of Power
SummaryIn this episode, Pyotr Kurzin engages with Trita Parsi, the Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute, to discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape in Iran and the broader Middle East. They delve into the implications of the recent leadership changes in Iran, particularly following the death of President Raisi, and how this has affected the political dynamics within the country. Pa
Is the global economy as we know it over?
SummaryIn this conversation, Martin Wolf discusses the current state of the global economy, emphasizing the importance of demographic changes, economic growth, and the resilience of economies in the face of challenges. He highlights the political fragility in Europe and the US, the risks associated with transatlantic relations, and the need for Europe to strengthen its position in a multipolar wor
Has America declared a 'culture war' on Europe?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Dmitri Alperovitch delve into the intricate relationship between geoeconomics and geopolitics, particularly in the context of the United States' National Security Strategy. They discuss the implications of Trump's approach to international relations, the challenges Europe faces in achieving strategic autonomy, and the complexities surrounding tariffs a
Is this newest Ukraine Peace Plan the actual one?
SummaryIn this episode of Global Gambit, host Pyotr Kurzin engages with Lawrence Freedman, a prominent figure in military strategy, to dissect the recent 28-point peace plan regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Kurzin expresses skepticism about the plan's legitimacy, noting its repetitive nature and the lack of serious diplomatic engagement. Freedman elaborates on the origins of the plan, highli
What Is Really Driving Tensions Between Pakistan and Afghanistan?
SummaryThis conversation delves into the complex and evolving tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, focusing on the recent ceasefire, the role of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the broader geopolitical implications of the Taliban's legitimacy. Michael Kugelman provides insights into the historical context of the violence, the political instability in Pakistan, and the international
Will Emerging Markets Lead the Next Financial Revolution?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Mitch Mechigian discuss the evolving landscape of geopolitics and finance, particularly focusing on the role of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. They explore Trump's shift from skepticism to support for crypto, the normalization of digital currencies among nation-states, and the implications of geopolitical events on the crypto market. The discussion
What Happens to the Global Economy After US Hegemony?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Martin Wolfe discuss the evolving landscape of global economics, focusing on the return to regionalism, the implications of geopolitical uncertainties, and the role of currencies in the modern economy. They explore the impact of Trump's trade policies, the rejection of globalization, and the future of the US dollar amidst rising nationalism and protect
Is a Nuclear Iran Inevitable Now?
SummaryIn this conversation, Dmitri Alperovitch discusses the intricate geopolitical dynamics involving Russia, Iran, and China, focusing on Iran's nuclear ambitions and the implications of recent Israeli military actions. The dialogue explores the vulnerabilities of Iran's leadership, the reactions of global powers, and the potential future of negotiations surrounding Iran's nuclear program. The
Is Trump Triggering Gold to Replace the Dollar?
Summary In this episode, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Frank Giustra about the spiralling U.S. debt crisis, the fragility of dollar dominance, and how rivals like China and the BRICS bloc are accelerating moves away from the post-war financial order. From unfunded liabilities to currency alternatives, we unpack whether the U.S. is facing a market correction — or the beginning of the end of its global e
Why Didn't Oil Prices React to the Middle East Crisis?
Summary This conversation delves into the intricate relationship between energy geopolitics and conflict, particularly focusing on the Iran-Israel tensions and the implications for global oil markets. Anas Al-Hajji provides insights into the strategic importance of the Hormuz Strait, the dynamics of oil pricing, and the roles of major players like the US and Russia in shaping energy pol
Are Russia's Tactical Gains Offsetting Its Strategic Setbacks?
Ukraine’s frontline is holding, but the real battle may be behind closed doors. As peace talks falter, Russian forces regroup, and Western support for Kyiv begins to fray. In this episode, former UK Defence Attaché John Foreman joins me to unpack the fragile diplomacy, shifting battlefield tactics, and the deeper power struggles shaping the war’s next phase. We explore how Russia’s economy is adap
How Close Were India & Pakistan to Nuclear War Really?
In this episode l am rejoined by Ankit Panda as we delve into the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly focusing on the recent military clashes and the implications of their nuclear doctrines. Ankit provides insights into the current crisis, comparing it to past conflicts and discussing the role of the United States in de-escalation efforts. The conversation also touches on
How Close Was Wagner Group To Actually Toppling Putin?
In this podcast, I was joined by Candace Rondeaux to discuss her new book, Putin's Sledgehammer, on the rise and fall of Russia’s Wagner Group, particularly the aftermath of its 2023 mutiny. Candace explores the historical origins of the Wagner Group, its ties to Russia's mafia, and its key role in Russia's global operations.She delves into the evolution of the group under Prigozhin, highlighting
Will Trump Actually Try to Retake Panama?
SummaryThe conversation delves into the strategic significance of the Panama Canal amidst rising US-China tensions, exploring the implications of recent US military agreements and the Panamanian government's response to pressure from the Trump administration. Experts discuss the historical context of US-Panama relations, public sentiment in Panama, and the potential economic consequences of climat
As Trump Destroys The US-Led Order, Has BRICS Time Finally Come?
In this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Mihaela Pappa discuss the evolving role of BRICS in the context of global politics, particularly in relation to US foreign policy under the Trump administration. They explore the implications of BRICS as a symbol of a multipolar world, its initiatives in development and health, and the challenges it faces in terms of internal dynamics and divergence among mem
Are Trump's Tariffs Exposing Limits of the BRICS Alliance?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Rohit Goel discuss the current state of the global economy, focusing on the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on economic policies, particularly regarding China and emerging markets. They explore the challenges facing China, the dynamics of U.S.-China relations, and the implications of de-dollarization. The discussion also touches on the potential fo
Is Europe’s Uncertainty Over Russia Worsening Its Vulnerability?
In this conversation, I am rejoined by Dmitri Alperovitch to delve into the latest of the Ukraine War, focusing on the diplomatic engagements between the US and Russia, the strategic decisions made by Ukraine, and implications of Trump's foreign policy. We discuss the limited leverage the US has in influencing both Russia and Ukraine, the challenges of negotiating peace, and the realities of a war
Is Trump Putting the Global Economy at Risk to AI?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin and Chris Fenton discuss the emergence of DeepSeek, an AI technology developed in China, and its implications for US-China relations, national security, and the influence of technology on global narratives. They explore the role of open-source technology, the impact of platforms like TikTok, and the complexities of Trump's foreign policy towards China. The
You Think Trump's Tariffs Are Bad Now? They Will Get Much Worse
In this episode, I react to and explain the implications of Trump's tariffs from both an economic and geopolitical perspective. I highlight the historical context of tariffs, their intended purpose, and the potential consequences for international relations and the US economy. I also argue that while tariffs may seem beneficial in the short term, they could lead to significant long-term challenges
My Biggest Geopolitical Risks In 2025
Welcome to the Global Gambit 2025 - after some minor time off, we're back with more conversations and content, including more from me. This time starting with the 5 biggest geopolitical risks and themes in 2025!This time Pyotr discusses the major geopolitical risks and themes that could shape 2025, including the implications of Donald Trump's return to power, the ongoing US-China strategic compet
How Critical Is North Korea to Putin's War in Ukraine?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Ankit Panda, about the deepening political crisis in South Korea and its wider regional implications. They discuss the impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk-yeol, the potential rise of progressive opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, and the resilience of South Korea’s democratic institutions. The conversation also explores North Korea
What Does Assad's Fall Mean For Syria?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Wladimir van Wilgenburg, journalist at the Kurdish Chronicle, about the dramatic collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and the shifting power dynamics across the region. They discuss the rapid advances by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham and other rebel groups, the fall of key cities including Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, and the surprising absence of interven
What is Putin's Real Vision for Russia?
Summary In this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Marlene Laruelle about the ideological foundations of Vladimir Putin’s regime and Russia’s evolving identity under his leadership. They discuss the tension between restoring the Soviet Union versus the Russian Empire, the influence of strongman politics, and how Russia’s future may unfold amid growing friction with NATO and shifting U.S. leade
Can Ukraine Keep Up with Russia's Military Development?
In this conversation, Pyotr is joined by (ret) Colonel Bob Hamilton and now Head of Eurasia Research at FPRI to discuss the current situation in Ukraine, focusing on Zelensky's victory plan, public sentiment regarding the war, military strategies, and the implications of foreign support. We explore the complexities of defining victory, the role of NATO, and the technological adaptations in warfare
Is the UN in a Permanent State of Paralysis?
SummaryIn this conversation, Pyotr Kurzin speaks with Richard Gowan, UN Director at the International Crisis Group, about the growing challenges facing the United Nations and the leadership of Secretary-General António Guterres. They discuss the contrasting messages delivered by world leaders at the UN General Assembly, including those from President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu, and explore
How is the Ukraine War Transforming Modern Warfare?
Pyotr is joined by the esteemed Sir Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies, King's College London. We focus on the war in Ukraine and the conditions for a negotiated settlement and the challenges in reaching any such agreement. We debate motivations behind Putin's actions and the implications for the use of military force in international relations including role of NATO and the conc
Could Cyprus Become Two Separate Nations?
Cyprus marked the 50th anniversary of Turkey's invasion to the north of the island on July 20th 1974. Since Cyprus and the Cypriot people have remained divided by a United Nations buffer zone to prevent further conflict, including the only remaining split capital city Nicosia. Despite diplomatic efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and even the UK that controls too strategic military bases, pros
Could Israel & Hezbollah Actually Go to War?
Israel and Hezbollah are on the brink of full-scale as the President Benjamin Netanyahu seriously considers sending the IDF into Lebanon. However, Hezbollah is not Hamas, being far more powerful and the flagship proxy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which could threaten escalating the war across the Middle East as the Ayatollah's don't want to lose such a military and strategic asset.This time l
If we're in a New Cold War, does the USA need a new grand strategy for China?
China thinks 'its their historical right to be' the world's foremost power, and the US 'doesn't have a moment to waste' in adequately preparing or responding to the flashpoint that could bring the 21st centuries largest powers to war: War over Taiwan. We truly are in a Cold War II and its time we stop kidding ourselves. That's according to Dmitri Alperovitch - Dmitri Alperovitch, Chairman of Silve
What has the Russia-Ukraine War Done to Human Rights, War Crimes & the Law of War?
Thanks to all who support my work on Patreon - you make this possible If you'd like bonus content, your own questions put to guests, and appreciate my efforts to bring diverse, nuanced conversations consider joining as a patron too or buying me a one-off coffee.Due to being MIA for so long - here is another episode! Normal service of the show will resume hereon-out, with 2 episodes a month. If you
Have the Iran-Israel Clashes put the Middle East in a New Permacrisis?
Israel and Iran’s clashes over April 2024 has left the Middle East in state of permacrisis. While immediate threat of war escalation seems to have subsided, the long term geopolitical implications are unprecedented. Many consider this to be a new reality for the region and how we interpret developments.To explain why, Bilal Saab - professor at Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service & Dr Sanam
Are the Houthis in Yemen permanently reshaping global commercial shipping?
Since Oct 7th the world has been rocked by the Israel-Hamas War. That has caused a series if escalations, including the ongoing Houthi disruptions to maritime security and global commercial shipping.Its so severe, the US and UK have initiated airstrikes in Yemen, but has made little difference and if anything only emboldens the Houthis more and who say they wont stop until Israel ceases its operat
South Asia: A region in Good or Bad Condition?
South Asia - or the Indian subcontinent to others - is going through a concentrated set of shifts. Three of the main players - Bangladesh, Pakistan and India, all have major elections next year with each proposing potentially different directions - but which? Returning guest, Michael Kugelman, Director of the South Asia Program at the Wilson Centre sat down with me to outline, the challenges and d
Can the UN's COP28 deliver on Climate Change?
The United Nations Climate Change Conference - known to most as COP - and in this case, COP28, is the highest-level of international engagement and gathering to find collective solutions to the globe's greatest collective challenge. Yet, COPs have poor reputations, with little tangible products or outcomes occurring - other than an agreement of inaction. But, as l spoke to Nazanine Moshiri - senio
Is the BRICS bloc Overhyped or Underestimated?
2023 was a big year for multinational, multi-forum events, ranging from the G20 to BRICS to the annual UN General Assembly. But of these, the concept and symbolism of BRICS is often the one that captures the minds of people, especially those who tend to have anti-Western sentiments and desire for a multipolar order. But why this fascination, arguably infatuation for the BRICS? Is it purely about i
What is Israel's long-term military objective in Gaza?
Since the Oct 7th, the world has been rocked by events that many have always agonised and speculated - escalation and war between Israel and Gaza, specifically Hamas. From there, we have witnessed continued intensification, with a growing fear over the possibility of a regional war.Much of this rests on the near-inevitable ground operation the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will undertake - the seve
Can the UK Salvage Brexit or is 'Bregret' Permanent?
ContextSince June 24th 2016, the UK has had its entire economy, society and political environment largely defined by a singular issue - Brexit. The word itself, before diving into anything at all, is a source of contention. Yet, very little to many, including myself, has changed. Certainly not in terms of improvements. Merely a country that is suffering an identity crisis as much as it is politica
How bad is the Niger Coup & Could it lead to Regional War?
In late-July 2023, the country of Niger - a critical Western ally in Africa, and against the threats of Islamic Jihadism, experienced its 7th coup since WWII. The democratically elected President Bazoum was ousted, and there have been many claiming the role of Wagner/Russia or that this is positive for greater independence, autonomy from former colonial masters, France.But its not that clear cut,
Could we see conflict between Serbia & Kosovo?
Over 2023 there has be an intensified number of clashes and tensions occurring within an area already heightened and swamped in tension: Serbia & Kosovo. Most notably, these led to rare and unsettling clashes between Serbia communities and members of KFOR - the NATO mission stationed to help address and ideally, prevent, these very scenarios. So what happened, and why? What about these clashes
Is France's Macron Undermining or Advancing Europe's Strategic Autonomy?
France has always been more strategically independent relative to other European such as the UK. But Macron's trip to China while important for French and European interests, caused a stir after he commented about the need for Europe to be more autonomous. Some, like Poland, took it as a snub to the US and transatlantic relations, while many other EU nations tacitly agreed. But which is right? Wha
What does Turkey's election mean for the country and globe?
Its hard to overstate the importance of Turkey's election on May 14th. And as Gonul Tol, Founding Director of the Turkey Program at @MiddleEastInstitute , makes clear, its more than just about policies. It is about the very identity of Turkey; and whether it remains on the path towards democracy or authoritarianism. In this Part 1, of a mini-series, Gonul joined @theglobalgambit&n
Is Ukraine creating a new interpretation of international relations: Neo-Idealism?
ContextUkraine continues to fight for not merely for its sovereignty and freedom, but arguably and in the eyes of some, values of many democratic, more specifically Western, values. While not everyone views the war as a case of David vs Goliath, with some believing it to be a typical proxy war, my guest this episode, Benjamin Tallis, certainly isn't one of them.Indeed, Benjamin is a firm advo
Can the BRICS+ Really Challenge the West?
Context The globe is experiencing even more instability, unpredictability and more - even more than ever, as we arguably enter a multipolar world, with alternative forms of currency, balance of power and so on. Could the BRICS countries really create an alternative financial system to challenge or undermine the US-led order? I put this question, and others such as the potential of cryptocurrency t
Could China & the US engage in space conflict?
💥Global Gambit has a YOUTUBE!💥If you find value you in the podcast, check out the new GG channel. You can join an ever-growing community and find YouTube-only content. I'd love to see you there!👉 Do so here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7-TPqKMViddKZeo4K2P2jg.Context Between Jan 28th-Feb 4th 2023, the world and especially the US were captivated by a UAP - unidentified ariel phenomenon. T
What is on the UN Agenda in 2023 and can it do more for Ukraine?
💥Global Gambit has a YOUTUBE!💥So be sure to SUBSCRIBE for free and additional content not shared on the podcast! Subscribing really helps supports my work and seriously helps my content to be discovered by more people.👉 Do so here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7-TPqKMViddKZeo4K2P2jg.Episode OutlineMore than ever, the UN has a lot on its plate in 2023. Top of this remains Ukraine and is what l
How critical is the 2023 North American Summit (NALS) for the global economic outlook?
The Global Gambit has a YouTube! Some of these conversations won't make it as podcasts, so be sure to subscribe (its FREE!) and not miss out on more content. This is quick, similar action that REALLY supports my work and helps to open this content to new audiences who will like it as much as you do!Do so here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7-TPqKMViddKZeo4K2P2jg. Episode OutlineIn Jan 202
How pivotal has Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) been in the Ukraine War?
TGG has a Substack!In Dec, l started a Substack where l share reflections on interviews, produce explainers to emerging events, and write opinion pieces.Subscribe here: https://substack.com/profile/112732172-pyotr-s-kurzin?utm_source=user-menu.Episode OutlineIn the fall of 2022, l held a panel on the unprecedented role Open-Source-Intelligence (OSINT) has had on the Ukraine War. It is has hard to
What did the West get wrong about Russia and Ukraine?
TGG HAS A SUBSTACK!Since the last episode, Pyotr started a Substack where he shares his reflections on interviews and produces backgrounders to current or emerging events.Subscribe here: https://substack.com/profile/112732172-pyotr-s-kurzin?utm_source=user-menu.Episode OutlineOn Nov 28th, 2022, Pyotr met with Alex Vindman for an in-person interview at Johns Hopkins SAIS, where Vindman is a fellow.
Is President Xi's leadership at risk, especially after China's zero-covid protests?
ALERT!Since the last episode, Pyotr started a Substack where he shares his reflections on interviews and provides explainers to current or emerging events. Subscribe here: https://substack.com/profile/112732172-pyotr-s-kurzin?utm_source=user-menu. Episode OutlineThe last weekend of November 2022 saw protests across China, largely associated with the country's zero-covid policies. Despite res
Could drones change Russia's fortunes in the Ukraine War?
Episode OutlineOver the autumn, the Ukraine War took a notable turn. Aside from Putin's renewed nuclear threats or Russian mobilization, the role of drones began to increase - especially on Russia's side. These 'kamikaze' drones are being supplied exclusively by the Iran regime, whose sales they leverage to help oppress the Iranian people - as speakers, John Spencer, Patrick F
Is the Ethiopian Civil War worsening 2 years on?
HOORAY!TGG has reached 20 episodes! Thank you to all who listen and support the show via methods like Patreon - without you this passion of mine would not be possible. If you want to support the show you can become a patron at: https://www.patreon.com/theglobalgambit and gain additional perks too!Episode OutlineFor TGG's 20th episode and after 2 years, the Ethiopian Civil War has shown few s
Will Russia resort to nuclear weapons in Ukraine?
Episode OutlineAs the Ukraine War worsens, the threat of nuclear weapons has remained present throughout. Yet, Putin hasn't followed through and so the question remains around the propensity for him to use them, alongside the narratives that emerge on nuclear use more broadly. Alongside scheduled guests, TGG had surprise expert appearances enriching the conversation in the latter half. Questi
SPECIAL: The Fall of Kabul - 1 year on. With Mariam Wardak, Hasib Noor, and Graeme Smith & Timor Sharan (Crisis Group)
Episode OutlineOn August 15th, 2021, the globe witnessed one of the most redefining geopolitical events in a place that in itself reshaped 21st-century foreign and international policy. The fall of Kabul by the Taliban's rapid advance resulted in the US-supported government collapse and the Taliban's takeover, undoing 20 years of progress and rights/freedoms of Afghans. This special pane
What is it like being part of Ukraine's parliament during the Ukraine-Russia War?
Episode OutlineThe rapid and unexpected counteroffensive by Ukraine’s forces has redefined the shape of the war, with mass graves being found around Izyum, and Putin scrambling to mobilize 100,000s of troops which saw Russians fleeing in response. Not to mention the renewed threat of nuclear war. Lesia Vasylenko joined Pyotr to address these and questions including:As the war has evolved, how have
Is there too much reliance on humanitarian organizations in crisis and warzones?
Episode OutlineWith the war in Ukraine set to continue, the impact on humanitarian conditions will persist, especially as the weather worsens. Within all the chaos, humanitarian organizations, charities, and NGOs have been central in trying to support refugees, asylum seekers and IDPs, in states like Poland. Of these, the ICRC has been a leading group as special guest Sebastian Stachowski, and ret
Is maximum pressure or diplomacy better for inducing change in Iran?
Episode OutlineRamifications from the Ukraine War are being felt globally. Not merely by intensifying the potential for conflict in other regions, but also by undermining peace and mediation efforts. This is the case with the Iran Nuclear Deal, or JCPOA, which has been at risk and remains controversial to many, including Jason Brodsky. Questions covered this time include: Since the Ukraine War beg
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