Fault Lines

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess discuss the latest from President Trump's Asia tour — with stops in Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea ahead of this week's high-profile U.S.–China meeting at APEC. With a new framework reportedly in place between Trump and Xi, including quarterly check-ins, Chinese purchases of U.S. agricultural goods, cooperation on critical minerals, and a fentanyl agreement, the conversation turns to what real progress looks like.Will this meeting mark a genuine thaw in U.S.–China relations or just a temporary easing of tensions? Can these trade and minerals agreements meaningfully rebalance competition, or do they simply restore the uneasy status quo? With the U.S. economy in question, could this meeting deliver practical gains to American workers and industries – or will the promises fade once the cameras turn off?More information on today's topic: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1lqj5lz4geo @marthamillerdc@nottvjessjones@lestermunson@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HF0LJzrnLFc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Les, and Matt break down the newest wave of U.S. sanctions targeting Russian oil exports — measures designed to cut off Russia's funding for war in Ukraine. The package includes new secondary sanctions aimed at major buyers like India and China. India is signaling a possible rethink of its Russian oil purchases, Europe is weighing the use of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine, and — for the first time in months — the U.S. and its allies seem aligned on a tougher, coordinated economic strategy.Will this escalation of targeting Russia's oil exports finally dent its war machine? Or has Russia already perfected the art of sanctions evasion? If these economic measures are paired with renewed military support for Ukraine, could that combination finally shift momentum on the battlefield?More information on today's topic: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6758pn6ylo https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/10/23/russia-nuclear-subs-western-technology-surevillance/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/10/23/eu-frozen-russian-money-ukraine/ @nottvjessjones@lestermunson@marthamillerdc@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/RmkPm4F-3Rs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Andy, and Jess discuss Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's White House visit and a pair of major announcements: a reinvigorated AUKUS partnership and a new U.S.–Australia critical minerals deal. While both moves signal deepening strategic and economic ties, the real test will be delivery, building nuclear-powered submarines, securing rare earth supply chains, and reducing reliance on China's market dominance.Can Washington and Canberra turn these announcements into action, or will timelines and industrial bottlenecks slow progress into the 2030s? Is this partnership a true step toward allied self-reliance, or mostly a political win for both leaders? And with China already waging what some would call supply chain warfare, how quickly can the U.S. and its allies really catch up?More information on today's topic: https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-anthony-albanese-submarine-australia-trade-7db18e2b942176623dcad283bfad3a6c https://www.foxnews.com/politics/us-expedite-nuclear-powered-subs-australia-sit-near-chinas-doorstep https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/china-responds-us-australia-rare-earths-dealvhttps://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/10/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-closes-billion-dollar-deals-with-australia/ @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@nottvjessjones@andykeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/3Ey3hLUZHq0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Jamil, Martha, and Jess unpack the growing tension between Washington and Bogotá after President Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of running a drug manufacturing regime and threatened to slash aid and impose tariffs. The escalation follows Colombia's inclusion last month on the U.S. list of countries failing to cooperate with anti-narcotics efforts—and a U.S. strike on a Colombian vessel in the Caribbean that Washington claims was tied to narco-trafficking.Is this just political posturing or a real rupture with one of America's closest partners in Latin America? Can Trump's hard line curb Colombia's rising coca production, or will it drive Bogotá closer to China and other regional players? And with talk of covert operations in Venezuela, is the administration risking another fight in the neighborhood just as it needs allies the most?@marthamillerdc@nottvjessjones@morganlroach@jamil_n_jafferLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/fLCzJZfmi-E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Jess, and Algene discuss President Trump's renewed focus on Ukraine following the Gaza ceasefire. President Zelensky is in Washington this week to discuss the possibility of Washington providing Tomahawk missiles—a move seen as both a gesture of support for Kyiv and a signal to Moscow. But after Trump's recent call with Vladimir Putin, it's hard to say exactly where things stand or how far the administration is willing to go.Is this strategic balance between deterrence and diplomacy sustainable? Can Trump apply lessons from the Israel–Hamas peace deal to the Russia–Ukraine conflict, or are the stakes, and the adversaries, fundamentally different? And with Congress stalled on tougher sanctions, will symbolic gestures like limited missile transfers have real impact, or is this summit diplomacy without substance?@marthamillerdc@nottvjessjones@lestermunson@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/GycTO7AQ31U Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Jamil, Martha, and Les discuss the wave of Gen Z–led protests shaking governments across continents—from Madagascar and Nepal, where leaders have fled, to Indonesia and beyond. Driven by unemployment, corruption, and economic strain, these youth movements are leveraging social media and grassroots organizing to challenge entrenched power structures and, in some cases, topple leaders.Are we seeing a new wave of youth-driven revolutions—a social-media-era sequel to the Arab Spring? What does growing instability in strategic regions like the Mozambique Channel mean for the U.S.? And how should Washington rethink its aid, training, and partnerships as political landscapes shift under generational pressure?Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' discussion: https://apnews.com/article/madagascar-protests-rajoelina-ab1e1eb1aca45fe7e80e81314ebdb0c6 https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cqxr3y3788pt https://www.npr.org/2025/10/13/nx-s1-5573511/madagascar-president-flees-country-military-rebellion https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2025/oct/14/this-generation-is-defiant-gen-z-protests-set-to-resume-in-morocco-despite-deaths-and-arrests https://www.dw.com/en/gen-z-protests-why-are-asias-youth-so-angry/a-74349495 https://www.nbcnews.com/world/asia/protests-asia-gen-z-nepal-indonesia-rcna231096 @nottvjessjones@lestermunson@jamil_n_jaffer@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/t6dAKr7O_fU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jamil, Amy, and Matt unpack the breakthrough in the Israel–Hamas peace process and what it means for U.S. foreign policy under President Trump. With the release of all remaining Israeli hostages, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, and the implementation of Trump's 20-point plan, the first phase of the agreement is underway—marking a major diplomatic win for the administration.But what comes next? The team explores the broader implications: from renewed U.S. influence in the Middle East to the potential for progress on other global fronts. Could this model be applied to challenges like the war in Ukraine or U.S.–China trade tensions? Is the Trump approach to diplomacy—high stakes, high visibility—emerging as a new blueprint for American power projection?@lestermunson@jamil_n_jaffer@amykmitchell@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/wxbO8chMjSM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, Jamil, and Andrew unpack the implementation of the Israel-Hamas peace agreement. The first phase includes the return of Israeli hostages, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners and limited Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Jared Kushner has also returned to the diplomatic stage—a possible sign for the Trump administration's plans for the region. But major questions remain about Hamas's disarmament, Gaza's long-term governance, and the durability of a ceasefire.Can this plan truly hold, or is it just another fragile truce in a long line of short-lived deals? Will the United States sustain pressure on both Israel and Hamas to implement each phase? And with Kushner's return and growing regional buy-in, could this moment mark not only a breakthrough in Gaza but a broader turning point for Israel-Arab normalization?@morganlroach@marthamillerdc@jamil_n_jaffer@AndrewBoreneLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/BMADWVQ1YQw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha and Andy break down the results of the Czech parliamentary elections, where voter turnout hit a record 69%. Andrej Babiš's populist party dominated the polls but fell short of a majority, setting up months of coalition negotiations that could reshape Czechia's political landscape. With inflation, energy costs, and living standards driving the debate, Babiš campaigned on tax cuts, re-nationalizing energy, and pushing back on Brussels, raising questions about future support for Ukraine and the EU's climate agenda and migrant policies.Will Babiš's win shift Czechia's posture toward NATO and the EU? Can Prague maintain its leadership in supporting Ukraine and countering Russian disinformation, or will a more skeptical government open space for Moscow's influence? And as U.S. observers draw parallels between Babiš and Trump, what could this election mean for transatlantic politics and the broader populist wave sweeping Europe?Check out these sources that helped shape our expert's discussion: https://www.rferl.org/a/babis-czech-election-victory-brussels-kyiv-eu/33550348.html https://www.politico.eu/article/five-key-takeaways-from-the-czech-election/ https://www.politico.eu/article/czech-elections-president-petr-pavel-nato-eu-cabinet-talks-andrej-babis/ https://x.com/AmbDanFried/status/1974536514785947896 @marthamillerdc@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/zGHVh4zlBJM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Jamil, Les, and Marc discuss the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Egypt—talks that come just before the second anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attacks. Hamas has reportedly agreed in principle to release the remaining hostages and relinquish control of Gaza, while Israel would scale back to earlier positions. But with both sides signaling changes on the margins, questions remain about whether a real deal is on the table or just diplomatic theater.Is this the closest we've come to ending the war in Gaza, or another false start? How much pressure is Trump's administration exerting behind the scenes and is his approach of public pressure and private deal-making actually working? If a ceasefire does take hold, what comes next for Israel's security, Hamas's political future, and the regional actors now lining up behind Trump's plan?@morganlroach@lestermunson@jamil_n_jaffer@WashingtonFlackLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/wp-QR68OzDQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Les, and Algene break down a week of developments at the Pentagon. Amidst a rebrand, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth gathered nearly 800 top generals and admirals from across the world for a headline-grabbing meeting in Virginia. At the same time, the current federal shutdown has left military pay uncertain, stalled defense contracting, and cut back intelligence and cyber staff. And with new requirements for NDAs and random polygraphs, questions are growing about whether these measures enhance security or risk undermining trust and transparency.Was Hegseth's Quantico meeting a culture reset or a show of control? How does the government shutdown impact defense readiness and U.S. credibility abroad? Are Pentagon press limits about protecting government secrets or shutting down the rumor mill?@lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@algenesajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: Today, Jess, Martha, Les, and Algene break down a week of developments at the Pentagon. Amidst a rebrand, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth gathered nearly 800 top generals and admirals from across the world for a headline-grabbing meeting in Virginia. At the same time, the current federal shutdown has left military pay uncertain, stalled defense contracting, and cut back intelligence and cyber staff. And with new requirements for NDAs and random polygraphs, questions are growing about whether these measures enhance security or risk undermining trust and transparency.Was Hegseth's Quantico meeting a culture reset or a show of control? How does the government shutdown impact defense readiness and U.S. credibility abroad? Are Pentagon press limits about protecting government secrets or shutting down the rumor mill?@lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@algenesajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/OYpLPfRROwE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Jamil, and Jess break down the new Gaza peace plan unveiled by President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House. The proposal, reportedly a 20-point framework, calls for an Arab peacekeeping force led by Jordan and Egypt, a governing council that includes the Palestinian Authority but excludes Hamas, and the release of all hostages. Trump has put himself at the center of the effort, touting a role as Chairman of the Board of Peace, while Arab states like Qatar and Turkey have signaled openness to the plan.Is this really a breakthrough or just a reshuffling of familiar proposals? Does Trump's personal stake give the plan greater chances of success—or just raise the political risks if it fails? And with Arab leaders weighing their options after recent Israeli strikes, is this a moment for serious movement, or simply another round of the same stalemate?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://apnews.com/article/trump-netanyahu-israel-hamas-war-gaza-708a08671b8842d7a7a5e250ec51351c @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@jamil_n_jafferLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Jh31GtHZhqE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess discuss the snapback of sanctions on Iran, nearly a decade after the JCPOA was signed. Despite Russian and Iranian attempts to block the move, pre-deal sanctions have been restored with support from Germany, France, and the UK. Tehran denounced the action as illegal and recalled its ambassadors, even as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian sought to downplay the impact. Washington and the EU piled on with additional sanctions, raising the question: will renewed pressure shift Tehran's behavior, or are we back where we were in 2015?If U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear program were truly successful, why are sanctions still needed? And while sanctions have, at times, seemed to slow Iran's nuclear ambitions, they haven't stopped Tehran outright. What's the broader strategy here? Can sanctions be more than a stopgap measure or will Iran's nuclear program and alignment with Russia continue to advance despite international pressure?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crme84w3n23o @marthamillerdc@morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/30jQ2Ew5yW8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Jeffrey, Andy, and Jess break down President Trump's meeting with Turkish President Erdoğan following a busy week on the international stage. At the center of the talks: Turkey's push to rejoin the F-35 fighter jet program after being expelled during Trump's first term for buying Russia's S-400 air defense system. While the tone was more conciliatory than in past years, no concrete commitments emerged — leaving open questions about Turkey's role as a NATO ally and U.S. partner.What does Turkey actually want from Washington, and what should the U.S. demand in return? Can Erdoğan rebuild trust without giving up the S-400? Should Trump leverage Turkey's bid for NATO influence to extract concessions on Hamas, Israel, and Eastern Mediterranean disputes? And does letting Ankara back into the F-35 program reward bad behavior, or offer an opportunity to lock in long-term strategic gains?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8jm3lr7vkyo @morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@andykeiserJeffrey WellsLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/62rUpUuOl48 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, Morgan, and Jeffrey unpack President Trump's speech at the 80th UN General Assembly — a wide-ranging address that touched on everything from real estate and polling numbers to sharp criticism of the UN itself. Beyond the headlines, the real intrigue came afterward: Trump's meeting with President Zelensky included a surprising suggestion that NATO countries should shoot down Russian jets, while his conversations with Argentina's president and the President of the European Commission underscored his preference for one-on-one diplomacy.So what actually matters from this week in New York? Was Trump's UNGA appearance more show than substance, or did his remarks and private bilaterals point to a real shift in U.S. foreign policy? What should we take away from Trump's approach to the UN and the broader international order?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg423plexy1o https://apnews.com/article/united-nations-unga-trump-global-feb243ecb979d53317dfb1cad9968038 https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/23/politics/takeaways-trump-un-speech @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@morganlroachJeffrey WellsLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/C-vFgYEx7bU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jamil, Andy, and Jess unpack a dangerous new escalation on NATO's flank: three Russian MiG-31s flew through Estonian airspace for several minutes on Friday, a violation Tallinn says it can prove even as Moscow denies the incident and accuses Estonia of provocation. NATO jets — including Italian F-35s and fighters from Sweden and Finland — scrambled in response. The incursion follows recent Russian drone overflights of Poland and Romania and comes amid an uptick in attacks inside Ukraine, raising alarms across Europe about Moscow's willingness to push boundaries.How should the U.S. and NATO respond to airspace violations that creep toward Article 5 thresholds? Is the right answer a sharper military posture — more weapons and patrols for Ukraine and Baltic defenses — or tighter economic and diplomatic pressure? And with allies in Europe calling for stronger action, will Washington elevate its response or risk encouraging further Russian probing?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://apnews.com/article/british-intelligence-mi6-russia-war-443df0c37ff2254fcc33d5425e3beaa6 @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones@jamil_n_jaffer@andykeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/fFOZtOwjq90 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Bishop, and Marc break down President Trump's second state visit to the United Kingdom. The visit featured the largest military honor guard ever assembled for such an occasion, alongside announcements of major U.S. private-sector investments in UK industry from Microsoft, Nvidia, Palantir, and others. Was this visit a substantive step forward in the U.S.-UK “special relationship,” or more pageantry than progress? How significant are the tech partnerships and investment pledges for the UK's economy—and what do they signal about AI and tech regulation going forward? With many of the agreements still “aspirational,” how much weight should we give to this moment of symbolism and transatlantic continuity?Check out these sources which informed our experts' opinions: https://apnews.com/article/trump-uk-state-visit-starmer-chequers-bc9088873ab7fc481c7163d60fe4da98https://www.foxnews.com/world/trump-invokes-churchill-special-relationship-questions-over-uk-free-speech-grow https://www.npr.org/2025/09/18/nx-s1-5544343/trump-starmer-press-conference@morganlroach@bishopgarrison@WashingtonFlackLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/W1_gepPYqSg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Jamil, and Les discuss U.S. military strikes that have sunk Venezuelan gang boats in Caribbean waters, with Washington alleging that they were carrying drugs bound for the U.S. The strikes mark a sharp escalation in the war on drugs, with the Trump Administration designating several gangs as terrorist organizations and authorizing preemptive military action to protect American security.Is this approach more effective than past law enforcement–led efforts, or simply a show of unilateral force? What does it signal about America's security priorities as China and Russia press their own challenges abroad? And how might it shift U.S.–Venezuela relations, regional stability, and the line between military and police power in fighting the drug trade?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.npr.org/2025/09/16/g-s1-88985/u-s-military-again-targeted-boat-carrying-drugs-venezuela https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna231505 https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/09/15/trump-venezuela-drug-strike/@NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@jamil_n_jafferLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/cKbbpAUCiDI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jamil, Martha, and Jess unpack reports of Russian drones violating Romanian and Polish airspace—sparking NATO forces to intercept and raising the stakes of direct conflict between NATO and Russia for the first time. With Russian attacks in Ukraine intensifying and Trump fresh from meetings with Putin and European leaders, the question of how the U.S. and NATO should respond is more urgent than ever.Is Putin deliberately testing NATO's resolve, betting he can cross red lines without consequence? Are sanctions and weapons deliveries enough, or is it time to escalate—whether through stronger economic pressure, expanded air defense, or even shutting down airspace over Ukraine?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/14/world/europe/romania-drone-russia-ukraine.html?unlocked_article_code=1.l08.bTAn.Cgo3MiA_TcVN&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare https://www.newsweek.com/romania-russia-drone-poland-nato-ukraine-2129521 https://www.cbsnews.com/news/romania-scrambles-fighter-jets-after-reporting-drone-incursion-russia-ukraine/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c80g7g5rmlno @lestermunson@jamil_n_jaffer@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!#podcast #NationalSecurity #NatSec We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Lvq4VSDLCug Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To mark Fault Lines' 500th episode, Martha, Jamil, Les, Morgan, and Jess reflect on how September 11, 2001 reshaped U.S. national security—and what comes next. From the trauma of that day to more recent shocks like political violence at home, the team examines how terrorism has evolved but remains a persistent threat, both domestically and abroad. They share personal experiences from 9/11 and the years that followed, the unity it inspired, and the lessons Americans cannot afford to forget.But if terrorism once defined an era, what will define the next? Will it be great power competition, a resurgent Russia, technology-driven threats, or growing disunity at home? How can the U.S. strike the balance between strength and restraint, maintain deterrence without complacency, and rebuild trust in American leadership at home and abroad?@morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@jamil_n_jaffer@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!#podcast #NationalSecurity #NatSec We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/aLl4ZMwrebc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, and Bishop break down Israel's dramatic strike on Hamas officials in Doha, part of Operation Summit of Fire. The attack killed five Hamas leaders—including the son of senior figure Khalil al-Hayya, though al-Hayya himself survived—and has sparked outrage in Qatar, a key U.S. partner and major host of CENTCOM operations. The Trump administration reportedly received little advance notice, raising questions about coordination and accountability.What does this escalation mean for Israel's war in Gaza and the broader Middle East? Does striking so openly in a U.S. ally's capital mark a dangerous new precedent—or simply reinforce the longstanding message that those who threaten Israel will be hunted down? How will this affect hostage negotiations, U.S.–Qatar relations, and the fragile path toward a potential ceasefire?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://apnews.com/article/qatar-explosion-doha-e319dd51b170161372442831a8023db5 @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@bishopgarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!#podcast #NationalSecurity #NatSec We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/R6NJ848xDC4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Morgan, and Jess discuss Russia's most massive aerial strike since the start of the full-scale invasion—an onslaught of over 800 Shahed drones, plus ballistic and cruise missiles. For the first time, Moscow hit Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers building, alongside devastating strikes on civilian areas. President Trump, signaling frustration, pledged to speak with Vladimir Putin soon as his team weighs a “phase two” sanctions package targeting Russian oil revenues and potentially punishing foreign buyers. Despite summits and talk of diplomacy, there is still no ceasefire framework or serious negotiations in sight.What does Russia's choice of targets reveal about its strategy at this stage of the war? How effective could a new round of U.S. and European sanctions be in pressuring Moscow? And with no diplomatic momentum, what options remain for Washington and Kyiv to shift the trajectory of the conflict?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/09/02/congress-pulls-the-rug-on-u-s-plan-to-beat-huawei-00527620https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/04/world/asia/china-hack-salt-typhoon.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleSharehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/05/23/cisa-cyberattacks-china-doge-cuts/ @marthamillerdc@morganlroach@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!#podcast #NationalSecurity #NatSec We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/RDSCYp3jJl4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Morgan, and Algene break down Salt Typhoon — a years-long Chinese cyber campaign that impacted 80 countries, targeted U.S. telecommunications firms, and compromised millions of people, including political leaders and even National Guard systems. A new multinational report links the operation to three Chinese firms tied to Beijing's military services, underscoring the scale of China's push to dominate the global cyber domain even as the U.S. cuts cyber budgets.How much damage did Salt Typhoon really do, and why should Americans care? Will Congress step up to strengthen U.S. cyber defenses? And why is Washington pulling back at the very moment that Beijing is doubling down on cyber operations?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/09/02/congress-pulls-the-rug-on-u-s-plan-to-beat-huawei-00527620https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/04/world/asia/china-hack-salt-typhoon.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleSharehttps://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/05/23/cisa-cyberattacks-china-doge-cuts/ @marthamillerdc@morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/73tIjXQtUA0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Morgan, and Jess break down Israel's strike on senior Houthi leaders in Yemen—a dramatic escalation in the conflict that has seen the Houthis effectively declare war on the Red Sea. Despite a U.S.-backed ceasefire in May, the group has continued to fire on international shipping, crippling global trade routes through the Suez Canal and acting as a key proxy for Iran. Israel's strike, which killed the Houthis' prime minister, foreign minister, and senior advisers, signals a shift in tempo and a warning shot at Tehran's allies.Does this change the long-term balance in the Red Sea, or will the Houthis adapt and keep attacking? How much leverage do Israel and the U.S. really have, given the Houthis' resilience against years of outside strikes? And with Israel adopting what officials call the “FAFO doctrine”—short for “f— around and find out”—are we entering a new phase of deterrence?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c620ykrxedwo https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/thousands-attend-funeral-houthi-leaders-killed-by-israeli-strike-vow-revenge-2025-09-01/ https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-hit-yemen-targets-just-hours-after-intelligence-officers-flagged-an-imminent-houthi-meeting-2eb3dd81 @LesterMunson@marthamillerdc@morganlroach@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/eYTr8jalrNU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, and Matt unpack the rare joint appearance of Kim Jong Un, Xi Jinping, and Vladimir Putin at Beijing's massive September 3rd military parade—marking 80 years since Japan's WWII surrender. The spectacle highlights a deepening alignment among China, Russia, and North Korea, even as Trump's recent summit with Putin and potential meeting with Xi raise questions about how U.S. outreach could alter their dynamic.What are Kim, Xi, and Putin hoping to signal by appearing together? How do their competing interests—North Korea's nuclear ambitions, Russia's war in Ukraine, and China's broader global strategy—complicate the façade of unity? And as Washington considers its next moves, can the U.S. exploit fractures amongst these countries or does the Beijing display represent a more durable front against Western power?Check out these sources that helped shape our experts' opinions: https://www.wsj.com/world/asia/kim-and-putin-to-join-xi-in-show-of-unity-at-beijing-military-parade-98948203 https://www.npr.org/2025/08/28/g-s1-85964/north-koreas-kim-will-meet-with-xi-and-putin-at-chinese-military-parade https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx29z9g2kl2o @LesterMunson@marthamillerdc@WMattHayden Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/6Sd1bYhqcMI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, and Bishop unpack South Korean President Lee's first visit to Washington and his meeting with President Trump. The two leaders struck a warm rapport, with Trump raising ideas about engagement with North Korea and Lee casting Trump as potential peacemaker on the peninsula. But as Seoul works to balance relations with both Washington and Beijing, Trump's out-of-the-box, business-style approach may add unpredictability to one of the world's most sensitive regions.Will Trump's style strengthen—or strain—the U.S.–South Korea alliance? Can engagement with Kim Jong Un move forward without a real strategy? Does Trump's deal-making style translate into real policy, or just make for good headlines?Check out these stories that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://apnews.com/video/trump-repeatedly-touts-great-relationship-with-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-da5084139a49459cb61f6dbe5567b13a https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/08/25/trump-south-korea-president-visit/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5pdlgl64zo @NotTVJessJones@LesterMunson@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/jLyczvHunH0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Bishop, and Jess unpack the surprise firing of Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse, head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, alongside other senior military leaders last Friday. Reports have linked Kruse's ouster to the disputed assessment of U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear program—where the DIA judged damage as temporary while President Trump declared Iran's capabilities “obliterated.” The shakeups follow other recent removals at NSA, the Joint Chiefs, and even senior analysts, raising questions about politicization and the long-term health of America's intelligence apparatus.Are these firings about accountability—or loyalty? With quiet clearance revocations and reports of reduced intel-sharing with allies, are we weakening our ability to respond to adversaries like Iran, Russia, and China? And should we give the administration the benefit of the doubt, or are these purges creating more risk than resolve?Check out these stories that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2dj217z2w6o https://www.reuters.com/world/us/latest-purge-hegseth-removes-head-pentagon-intelligence-agency-other-senior-2025-08-22/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/08/22/defense-intelligence-agency-kruse-fired-hegseth/ @NotTVJessJones@LesterMunson@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/VQy33n69rqE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, and Amy break down the U.S. deployment of three Navy destroyers off the coast of Venezuela—a move the Trump administration says is aimed at countering drug cartels and fentanyl trafficking. President Trump has also labeled Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro a “narco-terrorist,” doubled the reward for his arrest, and authorized the Pentagon to use military force against cartels, some of which his administration now classifies as terrorist organizations.Is this naval deployment about cartel crackdowns, Maduro, or something else? Does this show of naval power risk escalating tensions, or does it provide the deterrence Washington needs against drug trafficking operations? Does this move help counter China, Russia, and Iran's growing influence in the hemisphere?Check out these stories that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-warships-venezuela-trump-nicolas-maduro-tension-drug-cartel-accusations/ https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-destroyers-maduro-drug-cartels-e33794ebc24d9031e536d132ce205b4c https://www.foxnews.com/us/u-s-warships-patrol-international-waters-venezuela-trump-vows-stop-cartels@NotTVJessJones@LesterMunson@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/m_OIkqBvppg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Bishop, Marc, and Jess break down Monday's White House meeting between President Trump, President Zelensky, and a lineup of European leaders—including Starmer, Macron, Stubb, Meloni, Mertz, von der Leyen, and Rutte. Coming just days after Trump's Alaska summit with Putin, the gathering underscored both the importance of allied unity and the uncertainty of Trump's approach. Unlike past tense encounters, Trump and Zelensky struck a more cordial tone, though the meeting produced few concrete outcomes.Was this “boring” but expected sit-down a sign of stability—or simply a pause before the next shock? Can Europe truly step up and lead in its own backyard, or will Ukraine once again be left holding the line alone? And as talk of U.S. air support, tougher sanctions, and security guarantees surfaces, is Trump's instinct-driven diplomacy putting more pressure on Putin than it seems—or setting up another disappointment?@NotTVJessJones@LesterMunson@BishopGarrison@WashingtonFlackLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/AqSeI7E0ou0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Bishop, and Amy unpack the fallout from President Trump's Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, which ended without a ceasefire or a clear path forward in Ukraine. The tone between the two leaders was noticeably less chummy by the end of their meeting, but the summit also risked legitimizing Russia's illegal invasion by entertaining talk of territorial concessions. Meanwhile, after another night of heavy Russian strikes, President Zelensky and Europe's leaders are preparing to sit down with Trump — a meeting that could prove even more consequential.Did the Alaska summit achieve anything beyond giving Putin a platform? Will Europe step up with a unified plan to support Ukraine if U.S. proposals fall flat? Will Ukraine see Washington's talk of “security guarantees” as real protection against Russian aggression?@NotTVJessJones@amykmitchell @BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/PPctIh4yxDc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, and Les examine the Trump Administration's surprise pivot to allow Nvidia and AMD to resume sales of select AI chips to China—a reversal from export controls implemented under both Trump's first term and the Biden Administration. The move, described by the administration as a “pragmatic trade-off,” aims to keep American firms in the Chinese market, but has drawn bipartisan criticism as a dangerous precedent—trading national security for short-term business gains. Is this a smart economic play that maintains leverage over China, or does it erode long-term U.S. security? Does this decision undercut efforts to build an export control regime that's predictable for industry and credible to allies? And if China can already acquire these chips, does restricting—or permitting—sales really make a difference?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-13/trump-s-deal-with-nvidia-offers-path-forward-in-global-trade-war https://fortune.com/asia/2025/08/14/us-china-trump-revenue-share-export-controls-nvidia-amd/ https://thehill.com/policy/technology/5446890-nvidia-amd-china-chip-deal/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@marthamillerdc@lestermunson Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/7s4KhQY1xVw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Amy, and Matt unpack the Trump administration's decision to grant another 90-day pause on proposed tariffs against China—a new round of extensions that leave businesses in a wait-and-see mode until November. The pause reflects a broader shift in U.S. policy, where economic deal-making often takes precedence over national security imperatives, flipping the old model which put the onus on business leaders to do the right thing for our national security.Does this strategy strengthen America's national security posture or simply prolong uncertainty? What leverage does the U.S. have over China, and are Americans prepared to bear higher costs in the name of economic security? Can the administration bring the public on board with the idea that economic tools are now central to national security—and will this approach yield real results before patience runs out?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/11/trump-china-tariffs-deadline-extended.html https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/12/trumps-china-trade-truce-extension-spurs-market-rally https://www.npr.org/2025/08/12/nx-s1-5500039/us-china-tariffs-trade-truce Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@amykmitchell@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/5u39qOfru80 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha and Joshua discuss the upcoming August 15 meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin in Alaska, following Trump's threat to “end the war or face sanctions.” With Ukraine unable to retake Russian-held territory and U.S. attention focused on the Indo-Pacific, speculation grows over whether Kyiv will be pressured to concede land. European partners signal readiness to support a deal, but details remain unclear. Will this be a breakthrough for diplomacy or another case of Putin playing a U.S. president? How will Congress and European allies react to any agreement that is made? Could enforcing existing sanctions against Russia be more effective than imposing new ones? And what message does holding this meeting in Alaska send to both Russians and Americans?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/08/10/putin-trump-russia-ukraine-summit/ https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/09/politics/white-house-zelensky-trump-putin-meeting https://thehill.com/policy/international/5445054-european-leaders-putin-russia-ukraine-trump-talks/ https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-deadline-putin-423e6a28df5186a48b7383eae41c11c2 Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@joshuachuminskiLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/QHfiD0gN-5w Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 486: Moonshot or Moon Mirage? Today, Jess, Amy, Bishop, and Algene examine NASA's ambitious plan to accelerate deployment of a nuclear reactor on the Moon as part of the Artemis program—aiming to power U.S. long-term lunar infrastructure and return astronauts by 2027. But NASA's announcement comes amid budget and workforce cuts, and with NASA's head leader lacking deep space experience.Can the U.S. pull this off on such a tight timeline, or is this a Cold War–style moonshot without the resources to match? How critical will public–private partnerships be for U.S. space success in the future? And with China racing ahead on its own space ambitions, are we already in new space race?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/05/politics/moon-nuclear-reactor-us-nasa https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/sean-duffy-nuclear-moon-nasa-space-reactors-rcna223194 https://warontherocks.com/2025/07/eastern-stars-rising-the-rise-of-chinas-commercial-space-industry/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchell@BishopGarrison@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Dl06lLssXxA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, and Bishop dive into Taiwan's recent recall vote targeting more than two dozen KMT legislators accused of obstructing legislation and aligning too closely with Beijing. While the vote ultimately failed and all KMT lawmakers kept their seat, it has deepened Taiwan's political gridlock and highlighted growing polarization in Taipei. With President Lai still lacking a legislative majority, questions are mounting over the KMT's ability to block critical defense spending and what that could mean for Taiwan's security.What does the failed recall tell us about the current state of Taiwanese politics? How is the Trump Administration's tough-love strategy shaping Taiwan's domestic dynamics? And if Trump cuts a trade deal with Beijing, could Taiwan's security be caught in the crossfire?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/26/asia/taiwan-votes-china-lawmaker-election-latam-intlhttps://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/23/asia/taiwan-recall-vote-explained-hnk-intlhttps://www.cfr.org/blog/what-failed-recall-taiwan-means-us-taiwan-and-cross-strait-relationsFollow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/CPlDN7TTyQo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jess, Matt, and Bishop break down the Senate stalemate on key nominations across the Trump Administration. With important ambassadorships unconfirmed, including the UN, EU, and across Latin America, and critical leadership roles like CISA Director stuck in limbo, the national security implications are stacking up.Is this just another round of partisan gridlock or a sign of deeper institutional breakdown? As Democratic senators block cloture votes and recess appointments remain off the table, what message are we sending to the world when our key posts go unfilled?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://apnews.com/article/senate-confirmations-nominations-trump-schumer-thune-905a63d0046319eeb7c266d5e24e70b6 https://www.npr.org/2025/08/03/nx-s1-5491414/senate-confirmations-trump-schumer Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones@BishopGarrison@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/eV_apnbbInk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, and Bishop unpack the latest U.S.-EU trade deal, which imposes a 15% tariff on European goods—lower than the previously threatened 30%, but still a significant shift. The agreement includes EU commitments to increase energy purchases and investment in the U.S., while eliminating tariffs on select American exports. Yet key sectors like steel remain unresolved, and core regulatory and policy differences persist.Will this deal offer short-term stability at the expense of long-term strategy? As Congress eyes the economic impact on American consumers and industries, questions remain about enforcement, sustainability, and whether tariff diplomacy can truly deliver lasting results.Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://apnews.com/article/europe-trump-security-tariffs-ukraine-russia-cb323423c4317c89410c0dee3d389753 https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14g8gk8vdlo https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/07/28/trump-eu-trade-tariffs-concessions/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgp5q4x4nzo Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/DtCwSRefHz4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, and Matt discuss the most dangerous escalation in Southeast Asia in over a decade. A deadly border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia—long simmering over disputed territory and sacred temples—has erupted into full-scale fighting. Over just five days, artillery, rockets, and airstrikes left 36 dead and hundreds injured, with civilians fleeing on both sides. President Trump issued an unprecedented economic threat: a 36% tariff on all Thai and Cambodian exports if the conflict doesn't cease by August 1. The move jolted both economies and raised questions about how American trade power might be used to prevent regional wars.What does this border conflict say about the limits of diplomacy and economic pressure? Will Trump's tariff ultimatum succeed where international mediation has failed? And how should the U.S. balance its strategic interests in Southeast Asia as great power rivalries heat up?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/28/world/asia/thailand-cambodia-ceasefire-talks.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare https://www.wsj.com/world/asia/thailand-and-cambodia-consider-cease-fire-after-calls-with-trump-on-border-clashes-5c22f92e Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL46I6ct71LWNXufqKnmsbiwAhqo8d5jPL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, and Morgan discuss the intensifying controversy over food aid delivery in Gaza. With hunger surging and global criticism mounting, attention has turned to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—a special-purpose entity backed by Israel and the U.S. to deliver aid without empowering Hamas. While Israel has announced daily 10-hour ceasefires to allow more deliveries, many international observers, including the UN and several allied governments, argue the system is failing. Accusations that aid isn't reaching Palestinian civilians are fueling tension between Israel and its closest partners.Is the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation a workable solution—or a flawed model for crisis response? Will mounting criticism from allies like the UK shift U.S. policy on aid delivery? And with hostage talks stalled and the humanitarian situation worsening, what role can—or should—the U.S. play now?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/MCGcw6YiPU8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Matt break down Trump's AI Action Plan, unveiled Wednesday with significant fanfare and the backing of top tech leaders. The plan includes three executive orders and outlines 90 federal actions across three pillars: accelerating innovation, building AI infrastructure, and asserting global leadership in diplomacy and security.Why does AI matter so much now—and why does Trump want his name on it? As Secretary of State Rubio put it, “winning the AI race is non-negotiable.” With economic, military, and geopolitical stakes this high, Trump's market-driven, industry-friendly strategy marks a clear departure from the Biden administration's safety-first regulatory approach. Is this the edge the U.S. needs to stay ahead of China—or a gamble with long-term consequences?Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.ai.gov/action-plan Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@lestermunson@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/5MfyevBpL0M Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Matt discuss the Trump administration's announcement that the U.S. will withdraw from UNESCO by the end of 2026. This marks the third such exit in recent history—first under President Reagan in 1984, again under Trump's first administration, and now once more over concerns of anti-Israel bias and support for “divisive" causes. The decision raises broader questions: Are global institutions like UNESCO advancing U.S. interests—or have they become vehicles for adversarial influence? Is complete withdrawal the best strategy, or is there a more effective way to protect American values while staying at the table?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@morganlroach@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/PijAGX8-dmY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Morgan, Bishop, Amy, and Marc break down the latest high-stakes prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Venezuela. Ten Americans held by the Maduro regime were released in exchange for more than 200 Venezuelans via the CECOT Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador.Is this a foreign policy win for the Trump administration—or a dangerous precedent that raises the price on the heads of Americans abroad? Could this deal mark the beginning of a U.S.-Venezuela thaw, or will Maduro use it for political gain? And what are the human rights and national security implications of using large-scale deportations as diplomatic leverage?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@morganlroach@amykmitchell@BishopGarrison@WashingtonFlackLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/EQZxmtnupLI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Jess, and Andy unpack a turn in U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Earlier this month, President Trump paused military and intelligence aid, only to reverse course days later after internal review. Now, he's unveiled a new approach: U.S.-made weapons, including Patriot missiles, will be purchased by European allies and sent to Ukraine—bypassing direct U.S. taxpayer funding, replenishing NATO stockpiles and boosting U.S. defense firms. In a sharp policy shift, the administration is now considering sending offensive weapons and has issued a 50-day ultimatum to Moscow: accept a ceasefire or face full tariffs and sweeping secondary sanctions.Is this a smart reset that shares the burden while keeping pressure on Putin? Does the shift toward offensive weapons contradict Trump's “no more wars” stance? And how will Moscow—and Trump's own MAGA base—respond as the rhetoric hardens and the weapons shipments grow?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ZJYQ9CqOVRc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Morgan, and Matt turn their attention to Sudan, where a civil war that began in 2023 has killed more than 150,000 people and displaced 14 million, driving the country to widespread collapse. With foreign powers backing both sides of the conflict—from Iran and Egypt to the UAE and remnants of Russia's Wagner Group—the war has become a flashpoint for global power competition and humanitarian catastrophe.What national security interests does the U.S. have in Sudan—and what are the consequences when Washington steps back? What changes do we see to America's broader approach to Africa? And could President Trump's ties in the Gulf position him as a broker for peace?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/07/15/sudan-civil-war-catastrophe-washington/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/15/sudan-paramilitary-forces-kill-almost-300-in-village-raids-say-lawyers https://www.foxnews.com/world/peacemaker-trump-can-end-africas-biggest-war-says-former-white-house-advisor Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@WMattHaydenLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Bkbhwh2Nrt0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha and Les bring you a very special episode of Fault Lines, recorded live at Max's Steakhouse in Prague with an international group of fans, listeners, and a cameo from NSI Founder and Executive Director, Jamil Jaffer. From Czech locals to Americans abroad, the team fielded sharp questions about the future of NATO-style alliances in Asia, the direction of U.S. sanctions policy, and Russia's financing of war through African gold. The live audience also raised timely questions about press freedom, the future of global conflict, and what comes next for U.S. policy in the Middle East, Russia, and beyond.Will the Quad or AUKUS ever evolve into a true multilateral security framework? Can U.S. pressure on Russia—through both sanctions and global alliances—actually shift the tide in Ukraine? And does the growing web of cyberattacks and shadow alliances already mean we're in a new kind of global conflict?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this very special episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/3qqUHHK6zk0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 475: Ceasefire Shattered – The Houthis Strike AgainToday, Morgan, Bishop, Jessica, and Algene discuss the return of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, just weeks after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The Iran-backed group has ramped up strikes on commercial ships, most recently hitting a Liberian-flagged cargo vessel with a rocket-propelled grenade and kidnapping several crew members. It's the second ship sunk in a week – part of a broader campaign targeting nearly 70 merchant vessels since late 2023.Is the ceasefire dead, and can the U.S. restore deterrence at sea? Are the Houthis expanding Iran's influence under the cover of the Gaza conflict? And what does this mean for global trade and regional stability?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3071vp2d8yo?utm_source=semafor Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@BishopGarrison@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/1QH1Y5NyeMo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Bishop, and Amy break down the latest twist in U.S.-Ukraine policy after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth paused a critical weapons shipment — reportedly without the White House's knowledge. The abrupt delay blindsided Ukraine, Congress, the State Department, and European allies. Days later, President Trump reversed the decision following a tense call with Putin and an escalation of Russian drone attacks on Kyiv.What does this erratic decision-making mean for Ukraine's defense as Russia's summer offensive approaches? Does President Trump's growing frustration with Putin reflect a real shift in his stance? And how are allies interpreting the gap between Trump's rhetoric and his actions?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/military/hegseth-halted-weapons-ukraine-military-analysis-aid-wouldnt-jeopardiz-rcna216790?oref=d_brief_nl&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The%20D%20Brief:%20July%2007%2C%202025&utm_term=newsletter_d1_dbrief https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/trump-told-zelensky-he-wasnt-responsible-for-weapons-holdup-f684444b?st=zMtutV https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/08/politics/hegseth-did-not-inform-white-house-ukraine-weapons-pause https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/07/07/trump-ukraine-weapons-shipments/ https://www.axios.com/2025/07/08/trump-putin-bullshit-sanctions-ukraine Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchell@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/n8NAy3poGZ4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Les and Jess unpack the fast-moving developments around the Trump administration's global tariff negotiations, as the 90-day pause comes to a close this Wednesday. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that tariff letters will be sent to about 100 countries this week, with either deals or formal notifications expected by July 9. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick added that Trump is personally leading many of the negotiations, applying what the administration calls “maximum pressure.” So far, only the United Kingdom, China and Vietnam have locked in deals—leaving the rest of the world guessing.Is August 1 the final deadline, or another chapter in a shifting timeline of economic brinkmanship? What are the broader implications of these tariffs for U.S. alliances and supply chains? And with Trump directly in the driver's seat, is this smart negotiating—or strategic overreach?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/06/bessent-trump-tariffs-deadline-august-00440522https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/06/business/bessent-tariff-deadline-trump Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@lestermunson @NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/8mLhmrxZaKM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Jess, Les, and Amy discuss a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy as the White House lifts most economic sanctions on Syria. For over a decade, those sanctions defined Syria's economy and global isolation, aimed squarely at weakening the Assad regime during the country's brutal civil war. But with Assad's fall late last year and a new interim government under Ahmed al-Shara now in power, the U.S. is signaling support for stabilization and reconstruction, while maintaining targeted restrictions on individuals linked to past atrocities and terrorism.Is this a genuine turning point for Syria—or a risky bet on fragile leadership? What message does this send to allies and adversaries about the durability of U.S. sanctions? And as reconstruction begins, who gains from Syria's reintegration—and who's left behind?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/30/trump-scraps-syria-sanctions-regime-00433633 https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-interested-in-expanding-normalization-treaties-to-syria-lebanon-d583d184 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/30/world/middleeast/gulf-states-invest-syria-iran.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/03/14/syria-sanctions-caeser-act-sharaa/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/EX_q4NoqQeQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, and Jeffrey unpack the swirl of rumors that emerged from Beijing after Chinese President Xi Jinping disappeared from public view for several weeks in May. With whispers of internal dissent, missed Politburo meetings, and PLA shakeups, questions are mounting about the stability of Xi's leadership—and whether the Chinese Communist Party is entering a new phase of uncertainty.As China grapples with deepening economic troubles, demographic decline, and foreign policy stumbles, speculation over leadership succession and elite discontent is running high. Is this a genuine power shift in the making—or a loyalty test typical of CCP politics? Either way, the turbulence may mark a weaker and more unpredictable chapter for Beijing.Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://nypost.com/2025/06/28/opinion/is-chinese-pres-xi-jinping-on-his-way-out/?utm_campaign=iphone_nyp&utm_source=pasteboard_app https://www.wsj.com/opinion/where-was-xi-jinping-in-irans-hour-of-need-china-strikes-israel-us-5b04fdb3 Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson @marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/oGng_UKfGB8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, and Amy unpack the implications of the U.S. shutting down Voice of America and scaling back support for Radio Free Europe—two longtime tools of American public diplomacy. As funding dries up and staff are furloughed, adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are moving to fill the vacuum in the global information space.Is the U.S. be ceding ground in the global competition for soft power? How should the U.S. modernize its messaging tools to meet today's information challenges? What are the risks if rivals like China and Russia shape the narrative where the U.S. voice goes silent?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussions: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/24/business/media/us-china-russia-global-communications.html?searchResultPosition=12https://www.npr.org/2025/05/21/g-s1-68363/trump-tried-to-shutter-radio-free-europe-the-eu-threw-it-a-lifeline Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson @amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @faultlines_pod and @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ZSn_Je9V8Uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.