The evolution of the United States and China relationship has global ramifications. From the war in Ukraine and Asia Pacific security to climate change and economic growth, solutions to a host of global challenges could hinge on the ability of the world’s two superpowers to manage their differences constructively. Kevin Rudd, a former Australian prime minister who has studied, lived in, and worked with China for more than forty years, joins Council President Ivo Daalder to demystify both nations’ geopolitical objectives and consider what it will take to avoid a catastrophic conflict.

Caroline de Gruyter, Gideon Rachman, and Prashant Rao join Ivo Daalder to reflect on the life and legacy of Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev before a look at the EU’s move to tighten visa rules for Russian tourists. Plus, if UK favorite Liz Truss succeeds Boris Johnson, how will she measure up with foreign policy? 

Ukraine marks its Independence Day six months since the start of Russia’s invasion. What shape has this brutal war left either side in, and where does the conflict go from here? Plus, extreme heat and record-breaking droughts have left countries around the world scorched and in short food supply as weather extremes become the norm. And finally, how to read the countervailing barrage of criticism, and upswell of support for Finland’s Prime Minister Sanna Marin facing criticism over “partygate” videos. 

One year after the bungled withdrawal from Afghanistan, the World Review team looks at competing narratives about what happened and why—and where it leaves the Afghan people. Also this week: Zaporizhzhia’s nuclear plant has become a new frontline of the war to control Ukraine, and fuel for skyrocketing anxiety for EU leaders fearful of a serious nuclear incident. Plus—an Iran deal is in the offing.  

This week: far from standing down in the Taiwan Strait, China has pledged to regularly patrol the area and remain ready for combat. How might this aggressive stance play out in the wake of Nancy Pelosi’s visit, and what position should the United States take in plotting a path forward? Then, elections in Kenya and what low turnout means for the future of democracy.

Joining us – Emily Feng of NPR, Nirmal Ghosh of The Straits Times, and James Harding of Tortoise Media

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Catherine Ashton, Robert Kagan, Kishore Mahbubani, join Ivo Daalder discuss the new geopolitical order emerging from Russia and China’s efforts to counter US power.

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.

This week: as Russia weaponizes its gas supply in an attempt to subdue Europe with the threat of a very cold winter, we examine the possible responses to, and repercussions of, that strategy. Also, the worsening situation on the ground in Ukraine, and the debate over Nancy Pelosi’s planned trip to Taiwan. Joining us: Jamil Anderlini of POLITICO Europe, Susan Glasser of the New Yorker, and Ryan Heath of POLITICO. 

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.

As the Northern Hemisphere battles record-setting heat waves and wildfires, Europe barrels towards a winter energy shortage that will chill homes and industrial output alike. This week—Nirmal Ghosh, Amna Nawaz, and Elise Labott join Ivo Daalder to examine a perfect storm of energy and environment crises. Also up for discussion: What did Biden and Putin accomplish in their respective trips to the Middle East? And we’ll get the latest on unrest in Sri Lanka.

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Ravi Agrawal, Bianna Golodryga, and Philip Stephens join Ivo Daalder to discuss the outcome of Biden’s trip to Israel and Saudi Arabia. Then, how rising energy prices may be contributing to Ukraine war fatigue. Plus, a look at who will lead Britain and how Sri Lanka can recover from its collapse. 

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Karen DeYoung, Bobby Ghosh, and Nahal Toosi join Ivo Daalder to discuss Boris Johnson’s historic resignation. Then, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Hong Kong marks the 25th anniversary under Beijing's rule. Plus, back from Europe, President Biden will travel to the Middle East next week, making stops in Israel, the West Bank, and Saudi Arabia in hopes of rebuilding relations in the region.

Like this episode? Leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts.