Looking more internationally than our usual domestic political junkies’ views, this episode wraps up 2025 and looks – however dimly – into 2026 with one of the genuine experts on international relations, China and Russia.

Graham Allison, Ph.D., is the Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at Harvard University where for years he was Dean of the Kennedy School of Government, with time off to serve as Assistant Secretary of State. Author of the seminal work on presidential decision making, Essence of a Decision, he has more recently authored – and briefed the Premier of China and the President of the United States – Destined for War, analyzing the threat of an emerging power to an established and dominant power.

In this episode, we talk about China and Russia, as well as everything from the prospects of war in Venezuela to the prospects of peace in Gaza.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Political Uncertainty

03:08 International Developments and Their Impact

05:54 The Situation in Venezuela and Potential Conflict

09:02 The Role of Congress in Foreign Policy

12:10 Reassessing U.S.-China Relations

14:51 Trump's Approach to China and Global Dynamics

18:05 The Complexity of U.S.-China Rivalry

20:59 The Ukraine Conflict and Diplomatic Challenges

24:00 Final Thoughts on Global Security and Future Prospects