Alex and returning guest Jen Kirby talk about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s claim that Moscow has developed a coronavirus vaccine. They discuss how Russia skipped several safety steps and how the announcement highlights the troubling problem of “vaccine nationalism.” Basically, it’s every country for itself when creating a Covid-19 vaccine instead of working together — which could make it harder for the world to stop the pandemic.

References:

Here’s Jen Kirby’s excellent “vaccine nationalism” explainer

Science Magazine explains why Russia’s vaccine announcement isn’t as impressive as it seems

Harvard Business Review details why vaccine nationalism is so dangerous

Yes, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he wanted to take the Russian-made vaccine, but has since walked back his boast

Vox’s Umair Irfan outlined why Covid-19 trials show promise, but are still rife with complications

Hosts:

Zack Beauchamp (@zackbeauchamp), senior correspondent, Vox

Jennifer Williams (@jenn_ruth), senior foreign editor, Vox

Alex Ward (@AlexWardVox), national security reporter, Vox

 

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