Fault Lines

Today, Morgan, Martha, and Jess unpack key takeaways from the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where Secretary Hegseth reaffirmed the Indo-Pacific as a U.S. priority—but also told regional allies that they need to take more responsibility as America turns inward. Meanwhile, China continues its campaign of aggression, and Europe is slowly waking up to Beijing's threat—with President Macron calling for alliances against “spheres of coercion.”Can the U.S. credibly claim leadership in the Indo-Pacific without a coherent economic strategy? As allies grow wary of Trump's tariff-first approach and the perception of the U.S. as a destabilizing force grows, will they begin shaping a regional architecture that leaves America behind?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.politico.com/news/2025/05/30/hegseth-warns-asia-allies-that-china-threat-is-imminent-00378700 https://www.axios.com/2025/05/31/rubio-trump-china-students-tariffs-rare-mineralsFollow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach @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!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/28BJTk4tG4E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Jess, Amy, and Matt unpack the latest in the Russia-Ukraine conflict as President Trump issues a two-week ultimatum to Vladimir Putin—raising the question: does he really mean it? With no clear movement as talks have stalled, it seems increasingly clear that Russia is stress-testing the limits of U.S. and European patience.Trump's disillusioned tone marks a shift, but the administration still appears stuck between rhetoric and real leverage. Meanwhile, NATO's northern allies are growing uneasy. Is this diplomacy, delay, or something worse? And what's the cost of letting Putin hold the cards while Europe hesitates to get serious?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyn3vqex47ohttps://www.wsj.com/world/north-korea-sent-missiles-and-other-arms-to-russia-in-violation-of-sanctions-u-s-and-allies-say-2ff4f55e?mod=world_lead_pos1https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/29/world/europe/russia-ukraine-war-offensive.htmlhttps://www.wsj.com/world/europe/the-u-s-reinforces-europes-northern-front-fearing-war-with-russia-b499ef50?mod=world_feat5_europe_pos4https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/germany-to-step-up-ukraine-aid-as-europe-scrambles-to-replace-u-s-d0d4718b?mod=world_feat5_europe_pos2 Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@WMattHayden@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/hJLvAVr4690 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Morgan, and Jeffrey unpack the Trump Administration's pause on student visa interviews and its decision to revoke Harvard's ability to enroll international students—actions that have sparked lawsuits, global reactions, and a debate over the future of U.S. innovation and soft power. As the U.S. steps back, others step in: the EU is investing $500 million to attract top talent, and universities in places like Hong Kong are rolling out red carpets for displaced students.What are the national security threats at play here? Can we enhance safeguards without undermining our most successful innovation engine—higher education? And what does it mean for America's global influence when tomorrow's world leaders are trained in Beijing or Brussels instead of Boston?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://fortune.com/article/trump-universities-international-students/https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/18/us/international-students-universities-funding-trumphttps://www.csis.org/analysis/innovation-lightbulb-not-just-attracting-retaining-international-stem-studentshttps://www.nbcnews.com/world/asia/harvard-international-student-ban-trump-china-europe-rcna209044 Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/-KCF4dFHsxg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Jess examine the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Israel has launched a renewed offensive in Gaza amid mounting international pressure to end hostilities and allow humanitarian aid into the territory. Meanwhile, the murder of two young Israeli embassy employees has shocked the world and further underscored the volatility on multiple fronts.As Hamas remains active and Hezbollah and Houthi forces continue attacks—each backed by Iran—the Trump administration navigates complex terrain. With U.S.-Iran nuclear talks ongoing, and intelligence of a potential Israeli strike on Iranian facilities, questions loom: Will the administration's posture embolden or restrain Israeli action? Can Trump's hardline stance on Iran deliver results—or ignite broader conflict? And as Gaza remains in crisis and the region teeters, is Washington's strategy up to the challenge?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/xDku2j9pwhQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Amy, and Jess examine the latest flurry of diplomatic activity between Russia and Ukraine—amid headlines, handshakes, and very little real progress. Ukrainian and Russian officials met face-to-face in Istanbul for the first time in years, while Putin refused to join. Trump's recent refusal to endorse new sanctions on Russia– as the EU and UK ramp up pressure– is raising alarms among European allies and creating a problematic U.S.-European divide in NATO. With the new Pope offering the Vatican as neutral ground and a bipartisan group of Senators pushing for tougher sanctions, the question remains: is Trump's mixed approach—part engagement, part retreat—undermining the West's leverage? As Russia digs in and Ukraine holds the line, can diplomacy survive in a landscape shaped by war fatigue, nuclear risk, and fractured alliances?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/21/ukraine-war-briefing-pope-opens-vatican-door-to-peace-talks-says-melonihttps://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-peace-talks-trump-83979d718b73cb9bd655dd9aaa915573https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgddel17kvoFollow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/48WGmDLETXM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Morgan, and Andy unpack weekend elections in Romania, Poland, and Portugal—where voters are navigating domestic frustrations, regional security fears, and the specter of Russian influence. In Romania, centrist Nicușor Dan defeated far-right nationalist George Simion with a pro-EU, anti-corruption message. Poland will head into a June presidential election runoff between centrist Rafal Trzaskowski and far-right challenger Karol Nawrocki, while in Portugal, a far-right party surged to 20%, shaking up the political landscape.Are these results driven by domestic political pressures—or do they reflect a broader European response to the war in Ukraine? Is European support for Ukraine holding strong, or is it increasingly tied to who's in power in Washington? And how do concerns about ballot access and disinformation shape the future of European democracy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c74q57kydgethttps://www.npr.org/2025/05/17/nx-s1-5400392/elections-in-poland-and-romania-could-shape-the-future-of-europe-and-ukrainehttps://www.reuters.com/world/europe/romanians-vote-presidential-run-off-that-could-widen-eu-rifts-2025-05-17/ 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 @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/dhrK5Za2OtU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Jeffrey, and Matt break down major developments in Syria as President Trump meets with new Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa—former leader of the extremist group HTS—and announces the suspension of U.S. sanctions. The Trump administration's evolving, more direct approach to foreign policy, on display throughout his Middle East trip, raises new questions about oversight, regional alliances, and long-term strategy.Can the U.S. trust this new Syrian leadership? Could loosening sanctions and engaging Gulf partners offer a rare opportunity to stabilize Syria, disrupt Iran's regional ambitions, and counter the influence of Russia and extremist actors? With U.S. troops staying in place and a shifting diplomatic playbook, is this a strategic pivot that could finally reshape the balance of power in the region?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@WMattHayden@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/mGi6DTq2P88 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan and Andy break down President Trump's high-profile visit to the Middle East—his first foreign trip of the new administration. From lifting sanctions on Syria and announcing a $600 billion investment from Saudi Arabia to ongoing hostage negotiations and talks on Hamas, Iran, and regional security, the trip highlights Trump's economic-first approach to diplomacy.What are the real implications of lifting sanctions on Syria—and can the new Syrian leadership be trusted? Is the U.S. abandoning maximum pressure on Iran, or doubling down? And as China courts Middle Eastern nations, what role should America be playing in the region it keeps returning to?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HLyhAdYOdyo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Morgan, and Jess unpack the volatile state of affairs between India and Pakistan following days of exchanged missiles, drones, and cross-border fire in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir. A ceasefire has been declared and is tentatively holding, though reports of violations have already surfaced. While the Trump administration has claimed credit for brokering the truce, the extent of U.S. involvement remains unclear, as India continues to frame the conflict as a bilateral matter.What role, if any, did Washington truly play? How does the U.S. balance its growing partnership with India amid regional instability? And with Prime Minister Modi expected to address the nation, will India push for peace—or prepare for more pressure?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these stories which helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/india-pakistan-ceasefire-shaken-overnight-clashes-kashmir/https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/fragile-ceasefire-holds-between-india-pakistan-trump-offers-more-help-2025-05-11/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg9d913v20o Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@morganlroach@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/cVGRwYk1vjk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, Matt, and Algene break down the latest developments in U.S. trade policy. A new U.S.-UK agreement lowers tariffs on select British imports to 10%, including automobiles, aluminum, and steel. Meanwhile, the U.S. and China are set to meet this weekend in Geneva to jumpstart trade talks aimed at easing escalating tensions, as President Trump recently declared on social media that an 80% tariff on Chinese goods "seems right.”Is the U.S.-UK trade deal a meaningful step forward, or a symbolic win? Can the upcoming U.S.-China talks ease economic pressure and provide relief for American businesses and consumers? What are the national security stakes in U.S.-China trade negotiations?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these stories which helped shape our experts' opinions. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/china-agrees-to-trade-talks-with-the-u-s-and-rolls-out-more-stimulus-as-tariffs-hit-economyhttps://www.reuters.com/world/us/trumps-says-china-wants-negotiate-meet-right-time-2025-05-06/https://www.cnn.com/business/live-news/trump-us-uk-trade-announcementhttps://www.politico.eu/article/eu-ready-fresh-100-billion-counterstrike-donald-trump-tariffs/Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@WMattHayden@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/430xXMUN30I Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Les, Matt, and Jess unpack the opening of the Papal Conclave, where 133 cardinals will vote to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church following Pope Francis' death. As the Church prepares for a new era, the next pontiff will inherit a vast and diverse flock of 1.4 billion people—and a complex geopolitical role.What legacy does Pope Francis leave behind? How will the next pope shape global diplomacy, from China to Ukraine to Africa and Latin America? Will this be a time of renewed outreach or internal retrenchment—and how will growing Catholic populations across the world influence the direction of the Church for the next 25 years?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines. Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@lestermunson@WMattHayden@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Y2fkorABorQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Andrew, and Matt unpack the latest developments in U.S.-Ukraine relations—from a newly signed mineral deal with financial provisions for reconstruction deal to reports of Ukrainian sea drones downing Russian fighter jets with U.S. tech, and the transfer of Patriot missile systems. With these moves, the U.S. is significantly increasing its support for Ukraine's battlefield capabilities.Is this a turning point in the Trump administration's approach to Ukraine? What do these shifts mean for deterrence, reconstruction, and European defense? And with Zelensky and Trump's Vatican meeting behind them, is the U.S.-Ukraine relationship entering a new phase of partnership?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines. Check out the sources that helped inform our experts today: https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/ukrainian-naval-drones-shoot-down-russian-jets-in-military-first-kyiv-says-bc0eaf08 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/04/world/europe/ukraine-russia-war-patriot-systems.html Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@WMattHayden@AndrewBoreneLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/uYCo7qhquGM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, and Andrew discuss the sudden removal of National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who has now been nominated by President Trump to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. While framed as a promotion, many view the shift as a demotion in both political influence and strategic significance—especially as Waltz's hawkish stance on Russia, China, and Iran put him at odds with a more isolationist wing of the administration.Is this a sign the Trump administration is softening on Iran? What message does this send to allies and adversaries alike? And with Marco Rubio now wearing multiple hats as Secretary of State, acting USAID administrator, and interim National Security Advisor, is this a moment of consolidation—or further chaos?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines. Check out the sources that helped inform our experts today: https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-5-1-2025 https://www.bbc.com/news/live/crkx3ed5dn2t Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@AndrewBoreneLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/FTR22P675n0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Morgan, and Jess take stock of President Trump's first 101 days back in office. From sweeping global tariffs on “Liberation Day” to high-stakes negotiations in Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran, the administration has taken an aggressive approach to foreign policy—with mixed results. Domestically, hardline immigration policies and sharp cuts to foreign aid have pleased the base, while chaos and concern continue around national security decision-making.Is the Trump administration delivering on its promises or generating more confusion than progress? Has its pressure on allies—from Canada to Greenland to Panama—strengthened U.S. leverage or isolated it further? And as Europe scrambles for cohesion, how would you grade the administration so far?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines. Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@lestermunson@morganlroach@NotTVJessJonesLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/_5PkcTRFDTM Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Matt break down the major explosion at Iran's Shahid Rajaee port—a key hub for the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps that plays a crucial role in supplying proxies and moving sanctionable goods. With at least 40 dead, and early reports linking missile propellant sourced from China to the blast, the incident raises urgent questions about Iran's illicit networks, foreign support, and the growing ties between Tehran, Moscow, and Beijing.Will this explosion reshape Iran's ability to supply its proxies? What are the geopolitical implications? As Iran remains weakened, is now the moment for a more aggressive approach to dismantle its nuclear ambitions, or will Trump return to a JCPOA-style deal?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx251yyvwr3o https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/27/russia-sends-help-to-iran-after-deadly-port-explosionhttps://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-851637https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/26/world/middleeast/us-iran-nuclear-talks.htmlFollow 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 @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/mau4aw6M94c Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Morgan, and Algene discuss the latest Ukraine ceasefire talks in London. With Trump envoy Keith Kellogg at the table, the administration is signaling it might walk away if a deal is not reached quickly. The administration's push for Ukraine to give up Crimea, alongside Trump's public frustration over continued Russian attacks, has raised concern among Ukraine's allies.What happens if the U.S. takes a step back from the conflict? Does the Trump Administration's Ukraine strategy embolden China? Does Zelensky have the leverage to resist a deal that hands Crimea to Russia? Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/23/world/europe/ukraine-cease-fire-talks-london.html?campaign_id=190&emc=edit_ufn_20250423&instance_id=153146&nl=from-the-times®i_id=71709507&segment_id=196578&user_id=b36bb8b1fddc039dd3b9788419691dbdhttps://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/24/world/europe/europe-ukraine-russia-trump.htmlhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/04/24/trump-presidency-news/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@morganlroach@marthamillerdc@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/o_DuLxekPYg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, and Jess break down Vice President JD Vance's visit to India—a trip originally billed as personal but packed with high-level meetings and geopolitical implications. Vance's arrival coincided with the deadliest terrorist attack in Kashmir in nearly 20 years, as gunmen killed at least two dozen tourists. As India blames Pakistan, tensions are rising, just as the U.S. seeks to deepen trade and security ties with New Delhi. What does this attack mean for India's potential military response—and for regional stability? Can the U.S. and India align more closely on counterterrorism and China strategy? And with Trump and Vance pursuing a more transactional approach to diplomacy, is this the moment to finally lock in a U.S.-India trade agreement?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/india-kashmir-terror-attack-tourists-killed-wounded-pahalgam/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@NotTVJessJones@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/5F1Mj-0zC4k Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Bishop, and Amy unpack the latest controversy surrounding Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who's now facing allegations of leaking classified information via another Signal chat—just days after three senior aides were abruptly fired. The allegations raise serious questions about process, discipline, and accountability at the heart of the Pentagon.Is the Trump administration holding Hegseth to a different standard? What are the consequences of removing the senior political staff who understand how the Department of Defense operates? And with growing concerns over the handling of classified information and a lack of internal checks, will Congress step in to create accountability in the system?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://www.msnbc.com/weekends-with-alex-witt/watch/-nothing-about-this-is-normal-fmr-pentagon-official-blasts-turmoil-in-hegseth-s-pentagon-staff-237948997897 https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/04/16/pentagon-inquiry-hegseth-suspends-caldwell-selnick/ https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/20/ullyot-pentagon-hegseth-chaos-00300695 https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/04/19/hegseth-leak-probe-officials-ousted/5380c9f0-1d7b-11f0-9160-306c35f9b3a8_story.html Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@amykmitchell@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/cug1_ERc_7Y Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, and Les discuss Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's visit to the White House. As the EU's unofficial emissary, Meloni is hoping to head off an EU-U.S. trade war. Trump says a deal is coming “100%,” but he's in no rush. Meanwhile, the EU is in talks with China over EV tariffs, as Trump reportedly ups pressure on Europe to pick a side: Washington or Beijing. Oh, and NASA has found signs of life on an exoplanet. From trade to space and everything in between—it's a very Fun Friday.Is Trump driving a wedge between the EU and China—or just improvising one day at a time? Can Meloni, a right-wing nationalist, effectively represent Europe's broader interests? Does NASA and the Trump Administration know more than they're saying about alien life?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/world/trump-100-confident-of-trade-deal-with-eu-during-italian-pm-melonis-us-visit/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/04/16/meloni-italy-eu-tariffs-trump/ https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/eu-china-start-talks-lifting-eu-tariffs-chinese-electric-vehicles-handelsblatt-2025-04-10/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2025/04/16/alien-life-exoplanet-webb-telescope/Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/EuMN6WzKIPg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Andy, and Jess unpack the Trump administration's latest mixed signals on Iran. After U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff publicly suggested the U.S. might accept uranium enrichment at levels allowed under the JCPOA, the statement was quickly walked back—raising major questions about whether the administration has a coherent strategy for talks with Tehran.What is the Trump administration's actual position on Iran's nuclear program? Is Witkoff—despite his lack of diplomatic experience—shaping U.S. foreign policy by default? Can the U.S. pursue negotiations without clear parameters, or should it return to a maximum pressure campaign?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/u-s-softens-position-on-iranian-uranium-enrichment-5bf0953a https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/15/trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-demands-iran-eliminate-nuclear-programme https://www.ft.com/content/5fa3707d-7952-464f-a67c-37ddfc061ed5 Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@marthamillerdc@AndyKeiserLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/qqev_TnyGVk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, and Jess unpack the surprise departure of Pete Marocco, Director of the Office of Foreign Assistance, the architect behind the Trump administration's dismantling of U.S. foreign assistance. In less than three months, USAID has been effectively gutted, with over 6,000 programs under review and thousands of jobs in the U.S. and abroad at risk. Marocco's approach—mirroring Elon Musk's soon-ending stint at DOGE—has thrown American aid policy into turmoil just as China deepens its influence in key developing regions and Congress begins to push back on the administration's agenda.Was Marocco's removal part of a broader shift—or just the end of a mission to dismantle American aid? Who's actually calling the shots now, and could this signal a shift to a more measured approach to foreign assistance? And as U.S. credibility erodes abroad, will rivals like China turn this moment of disarray into a permanent strategic advantage?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/04/13/pete-marocco-usaid/https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/trump-appointed-official-who-oversaw-dismantling-of-usaid-leaves-state-department/ar-AA1CRgrp?ocid=BingNewsVerphttps://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/trump-official-who-oversaw-closure-of-usaid-has-left-state-department-5760da3dFollow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@lestermunson@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/C_aBds84CoI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Morgan, Amy, and Algene dive into the shifting dynamics of European security as the Trump administration reportedly considers withdrawing up to 10,000 U.S. troops from the continent, while the head of U.S. European Command and several members of Congress urge against a drawdown. At the same time, European allies are boosting their defense investments, Ukraine is accusing China of direct involvement in the conflict, and the broader transatlantic relationship faces a potential realignment.What would a U.S. troop withdrawal signal to Russia and China? Is Europe prepared to fill the gap if the U.S. steps back? Could a force reduction undermine ceasefire efforts in Ukraine—or is this an opportunity for Europe to redefine its role in regional security?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/pentagon-considering-proposal-cut-thousands-troops-europe-officials-sa-rcna199603https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/08/troops-europe-withdraw-cavoli-republicans-00007176https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-force-coalition-britain-france-nato-4c87525361eb3cf1c860075d4519f6d8https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/beijing-rejects-ukraines-claim-significant-numbers-chinese-troops-120627611https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/04/10/trump-defense-europe-eu-arms-sales-rearm-trade-war/?tpcc=recirc_latest062921Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones@amykmitchell@morganlroach@AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/6NnsxR0jd64 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Bishop, and Amy discuss the Democratic Republic of the Congo's plea for a minerals-for-security deal with the United States, as the country faces mounting violence and instability. With $24 trillion worth of natural resources—including critical cobalt reserves—on the line, Rwandan-backed rebel groups have seized key mining hubs in eastern Congo, killing thousands, displacing millions, and igniting regional tensions.What's in it for Washington, and can the Trump administration craft a consistent, credible Africa strategy? As Rwanda and Uganda continue to exploit the chaos and U.S. tariffs hamper global engagement, will this become another case where talk outpaces action? And with American companies reluctant to invest in conflict zones, is the DRC poised to become another lost front in the race for critical minerals?Check out these sources which helped shape our Fellows' conversation: https://www.wsj.com/world/africa/while-war-rages-congos-neighbors-smuggle-out-its-gold-and-mineral-wealth-8582b882?mod=hp_lead_pos8https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/17/amid-conflict-why-does-the-drc-want-a-minerals-deal-with-trump https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp34140qkw0o Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @amymitchell@bishop@lestermunson@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ixUbjMEunxc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, and Jess unpack the growing global fallout from President Trump's expanding tariff agenda. With a minimum 10% tariff imposed on all imports – and significantly higher rates hitting key partners like Vietnam and the European Union – the administration's “America First” approach is straining alliances and undercutting strategic objectives.Will Congress push back before economic strain turns into political blowback? Can national security priorities withstand the ripple effects of a disrupted global supply chain? And as China retaliates and allies like Japan, South Korea, and Israel respond, is Trump's trade strategy isolating America at a time when unity is essential?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones @lestermunson@marthamillerdcLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Nme-ogi97zM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Les, Amy, and Jess unpack the dramatic firings at the National Security Council, following far-right influencer Laura Loomer's unexpected meeting with President Trump. In just 24 hours, two rounds of senior NSC officials—including the Commander and Deputy of U.S. Cyber Command—were dismissed, with a third round reportedly imminent. What triggered the purge? A mix of internal power struggles, loyalty tests, and fallout from last week's Signal Gate scandal.Is the Trump administration sidelining expertise in favor of ideological alignment? With trust in National Security Advisor Mike Waltz shaken and figures like Pete Hegseth gaining influence, is a broader battle underway between traditional GOP Reaganites and those who are more skeptical of U.S. alliances. And who stands to benefit from this internal unraveling at the heart of U.S. foreign policy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://jinsa.org/jinsa_report/path-to-snapback-april-2025/ https://www.axios.com/2025/04/02/trump-iran-talks-bomb-threats https://www.fdd.org/analysis/2025/03/31/there-will-be-a-bombing-trump-threatens-to-attack-iran-if-no-nuclear-deal-reached/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @NotTVJessJones @morganlroach@amykmitchell@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/n8jDdjPvV64 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Morgan, and Amy break down President Trump's long-awaited “Liberation Day” and the sweeping tariffs that come with it. While the exact details are still emerging, proposals range from a universal 20% tariff on imports to targeted reciprocal tariffs designed to match the duties other nations impose on U.S. goods. The announcement has already triggered domestic backlash and international warnings of retaliation, setting the stage for a potential economic showdown.Will these tariffs revive U.S. manufacturing or simply drive up costs for American consumers? How will Congress respond if businesses and voters push back? And what does President Trump's “Mar-a-Lago Accord” signal about the future of U.S. economic policy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/31/senate-vote-canada-tariffs-susan-collins-00262363 https://www.reuters.com/world/china-japan-south-korea-will-jointly-respond-us-tariffs-chinese-state-media-says-2025-03-31/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/04/01/eu-trump-tariffs-retaliation-big-tech/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/01/us/politics/trump-tariffs-nato-allies.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2025/03/30/business/china-reciprocal-tariffs-us-trade-war-analysis-intl-hnk/index.html Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroach@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/QvyChZ3iEiY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Morgan, Amy, and Jess unpack rising tensions in the Arctic following Vice President JD Vance's visit to Greenland and the fallout in Denmark, among the U.S.'s most reliable allies. This visit was a step too far for many in Denmark: Danish public opinion of the U.S. has plummeted, with over 40% now viewing the U.S. as a threat. Danish officials are now publicly questioning American intentions. As Russia reactivates Arctic bases and China eyes Greenland's resources, why is the U.S. alienating key allies instead of building strategic cooperation? What does the Trump administration actually want from the Danes, and how does this approach help U.S. national security strategy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.foxnews.com/video/6370788279112 https://www.npr.org/2025/03/30/nx-s1-5344942/trump-military-force-not-off-the-table-for-greenland#:~:text=Since%201945%2C%20the%20American%20military,with%20some%20200%20soldiers%20today https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2025/03/28/greenland-us-bases-history-vance/ https://www.americansecurityproject.org/russian-arctic-military-bases/ https://thedefensepost.com/2023/12/06/russia-arctic-military-presence/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroach@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/qtOcQ_eMLa0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Morgan, Martha, and Jess break down the sudden withdrawal of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik's nomination to be U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. A key Trump loyalist and early cabinet pick, Stefanik had already sat through confirmation hearings and staffed up at the UN—but with a razor-thin Republican House majority at risk, the administration pulled the plug.What does this move signal about internal GOP priorities and Trump's personnel strategy? How will the lack of a confirmed U.S. ambassador impact America's ability to lead at the UN—especially as China and Russia assert more influence? And with Stefanik's political future uncertain, what's next for one of Trump's most visible allies?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://apnews.com/article/elise-stefanik-united-nations-ambassador-trump-96ef705d7498f080f9f399416b647f99https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/27/politics/stefanik-ambassador-nomination-white-house?cid=ios_app https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/03/27/elise-stefanik-united-nations-trump/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/-CgV43Ybcpc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jeffrey, and Jess unpack the fallout from the Atlantic's bombshell report on leaked Signal messages between top national security officials. The controversy erupted when Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg was mistakenly added to the "Houthi PC small group" chat by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, exposing sensitive national security discussions taking place over unsecured personal devices—including while one official was in Russia. The revelations raise serious concerns about negligence, security breaches, and the erosion of institutional discipline.What does this leak reveal about decision-making at the highest levels? Will U.S. allies lose trust in Washington's ability to protect intelligence? And with no sign of accountability or investigation, does this signal a larger breakdown in how national security is handled?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/signal-group-chat-attack-plans-hegseth-goldberg/682176/?gift=0MX4QOJ8hj9Td0f7h7prWQ6KNbodYHBJ3UBWR7do19A&utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share https://www.huffpost.com/entry/pete-hegseth-sued-over-signal-text-debacle_n_67e2f9b5e4b074f0c26efadc?nurhttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-signal-text-group-chat-russia-putin/# Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/6xqrFup-Z7Q Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Les, and Morgan unpack the arrest of Istanbul's mayor Ekrem Imamoglu —Turkey's leading opposition figure and the likely challenger to President Erdoğan in 2028. His arrest sparked mass protests across the country and violent clashes, raising alarms over Turkey's seemingly accelerating democratic backslide.With Turkey's geopolitical importance, including its strategic role in NATO —will democratic erosion be overlooked for political convenience? Or as Erdoğan tightens his grip, will the Trump Administration speak out for democracy?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/23/world/middleeast/turkey-ekrem-imamoglu-istanbul.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleSharehttps://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/22/world/middleeast/turkey-erdogan-democracy-istanbul-mayor-detention.htmlhttps://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/21/middleeast/turkey-protests-erdogan-mayor-intl-latam/index.htmlFollow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Gw4pYhWeBp8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Morgan, and Andy dive into Canada's upcoming federal election, expected as early as the end of April. With Liberal leader Mark Carney gaining ground over Conservative Pierre Poilievre, this race could be the first major international political test of the "Trump effect." Trump's recent trade attacks on Canada—and his unexpected openness to a Liberal government—appear to be reshaping the political landscape.How are tariffs and rising Canadian nationalism impacting the race? Will this lead to more defense spending and deeper cooperation with Europe? And as U.S. support for Ukraine wavers, could Canada step up its military and intelligence leadership on the global stage?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjw2g88dlqlo https://apnews.com/article/canada-election-mark-carney-trump-tariffs-us-183999b9ec9ca31c200a0d1a0cbbe01b https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/canada-pm-carney-expected-call-snap-election-april-28-globe-mail-reports-2025-03-20/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @AndyKeiser@morganlroach@lestermunsonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/jlnUOkdPLJg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, Bishop, and Andrew unpack the high-stakes phone call between Presidents Trump and Putin and what it means for the future of the war in Ukraine. The two leaders reached a limited agreement for a 30-day halt on attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure—but just hours later, both sides launched new strikes.Do we really have an agreement? As negotiations move to Jeddah, is the U.S. making progress toward a real peace settlement, or being drawn into Putin's playbook? And with Trump backing Putin's proposal for U.S.-Russia ice hockey matches, is this soft-power diplomacy or a PR win for Moscow?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: Follow our experts on Twitter: @BishopGarrison@marthamillerdc@morganlroach@AndrewBoreneLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/6vKw6AOQ9cI Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess discuss the latest U.S. strikes on the Houthis in Yemen and whether they will effectively stop further attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been disrupting maritime operations in the region for 17 months—but will this action truly restore deterrence?Is this about targeting the Houthis, or is it really a move against Iran? With Trump designating the Houthis as a terrorist organization and signaling maximum pressure to Tehran, how does this fit into his broader strategy for the Middle East? And, more broadly, as the Houthis continue attacking Western ships while sparing Chinese vessels, where exactly does Beijing stand in this conflict?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5196769-vance-musk-doge-federal-workforce-mistakes/https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/in-yemen-strikes-trump-takes-on-a-group-that-has-outlasted-powerful-foes-70ef7b3d?mod=hp_lead_pos8https://abcnews.go.com/International/iranian-general-raises-prospect-response-amid-us-strikes/story?id=119847045Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/o0Cds_L7F1o Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Morgan, Martha, Les, and Jess break down the results of Greenland's parliamentary elections and what they mean for U.S. strategy in the Arctic. With high voter turnout and the center-right Demokraatit (Democracy) party gaining the largest portion of parliamentary seats, Greenland is navigating a complex path between independence, Denmark, and U.S. influence—just as President Trump openly raises the possibility of annexation.How will Greenland's new leadership shape relations with the U.S. and Europe? As China and Russia eye Arctic resources, does the U.S. have a real strategy beyond inflammatory rhetoric? And with Denmark frustrated by Trump's remarks, is the administration undermining NATO just as Arctic security concerns grow?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://apnews.com/article/greenland-election-demokraatit-trump-arctic-13c295cbc716db2c8011be5819e11fefhttps://www.npr.org/2025/03/13/nx-s1-5325949/greenland-elections-trump-independence https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/12/world/europe/greenland-election.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare&sgrp=c&pvid=184EF2B4-0541-43F1-B6F3-E41C7A362BF7 Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HYrOgB5f_Yo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Morgan, and Jess unpack the Ukraine-Russia ceasefire talks brokered in Saudi Arabia, where Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has positioned himself as mediator. Ukraine initially pushed for land and sea ceasefires but ultimately backed down, and a key mineral agreement remains unsigned. With Russia still holding out, the ceasefire hasn't begun — and attacks continue on both sides.Has the Trump administration successfully boxed Ukraine into talks by cutting off intelligence support? What happens if Russia refuses to play along — and will the U.S. actually hold them accountable? Is Zelensky's return to Trump's good graces a sign of renewed alignment or deeper dependency? And what does it mean that Europe was left out of the room?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ukraine-ceasefire-russia-us-talks-saudi-arabia/https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c51ypekv9xwt Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/a8faFJHfBic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, Bishop, and Jeffrey discuss rising Indo-Pacific tensions as Chinese warships come within 200 miles of Sydney and conduct live-fire drills near New Zealand. With China's naval expansion rapidly outpacing the U.S., and American shipbuilding struggling to keep up, concerns are growing over Washington's AUKUS' commitments and its broader strategic alliances both in the region and globally.Does the U.S. pivot to a more interest-based foreign policy risk alienating allies? Are China, Russia, and Iran strengthening their partnerships while the U.S. pulls back? And if the U.S. can't deliver on AUKUS submarine commitments, what does that mean for security in the Pacific?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/06/asia/trump-china-warships-asia-pacific-analysis-hnk-intl/index.htmlhttps://www.newsweek.com/us-news-navy-warship-shiloh-french-polynesia-china-australia-2039709https://www.businessinsider.com/chinas-shipbuilding-power-players-making-warships-at-a-rapid-pace-2024-9 https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202503/1329755.shtml https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/07/surface-tension-could-the-promised-aukus-nuclear-submarines-simply-never-be-handed-over-to-australia Follow 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 @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/8jM5n20dw9M Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess examine Europe's reaction to the Trump administration's latest Ukraine policy shift. As the U.S. scales back intelligence sharing and pushes for a U.S.-Russia-brokered peace deal, European leaders are scrambling to define their own approach.Will this force Europe to step up militarily and act as a unified bloc? Can France's talk of nuclear deterrence become a credible alternative to U.S. support? And how will these developments shape Europe's defense future?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows' discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvssAXQz4Cwhttps://www.politico.eu/article/european-leaders-ukraine-aid-nightmare-summit-government-emmanuel-macron-germany-us-russia/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HxBlRFN-mb0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Morgan, and Jess break down President Trump's March 4th national address, which was largely focused on domestic issues, with foreign policy and national security taking a backseat. When those topics did come up—more than an hour in—Trump doubled down on tariffs, floated taking over Greenland and reclaiming the Panama Canal, and took aim at U.S. foreign assistance.What do Trump's policies mean for U.S. allies and adversaries? Will his supporters tolerate the economic pain of tariffs? And as China pushes back against U.S. pressure, is a trade war—or worse—on the horizon?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/3YHMqqkGZ6o Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jamil, Morgan, and Jess break down the tense Oval Office meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—and why it went so badly. With major disagreements over Russia's role and the terms of a ceasefire, Zelensky quickly turned to European allies, sparking talk of a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine without U.S. leadership.Can Zelensky and Trump find a way to move forward, or has this meeting widened the divide? As Europe signals a greater role in Ukraine's defense, will they deliver more than rhetoric? And is Trump's approach placating Russia—or pressuring Zelensky into a deal he doesn't want?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@jamil_n_jaffer@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/SPXlhkpfne8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Lester, Morgan, and Amy break down the latest developments in Ukraine after a busy week in Washington with a rotating cast of world leaders. With French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in D.C. emphasizing the importance of American support to ward off Russian aggression in Europe, the Trump administration is hosting Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy today to discuss a deal granting U.S. access to Ukraine's critical minerals—one that potentially offers little in the way of security guarantees for Kyiv.Is a potential critical minerals agreement a step toward a ceasefire, or just political theater? Are Russia and the U.S. positioning themselves for a settlement while leaving Ukraine out of the equation? And is Washington aligning with Russia on recent UN votes a sign of shifting U.S. priorities?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones @morganlroach@amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Ln9165W7PSw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Andrew dive into the growing threat to undersea cables—critical infrastructure carrying 95% of global internet traffic. From Taiwan detaining a Chinese-crewed vessel suspected of sabotage to Chinese and Russian-linked ships damaging cables in the Baltic Sea, these incidents highlight a dangerous pattern of grey-zone warfare.Are China and Russia testing Western response thresholds? How prepared is the U.S. to respond to these attacks? And what steps should the Trump administration take to deter future sabotage and protect critical infrastructure?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://apnews.com/article/taiwan-undersea-cable-penghu-islands-china-14bfd6ddad184d77ae45068fee9b37d2 https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/25/asia/taiwan-detains-ship-undersea-cable-intl-hnk/index.html Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@AndrewBorene@morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/PJVPqdtUVDE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess break down the results of Germany's federal elections and the seismic shift in the country's political landscape. While the CDU secured about 29%, the far-right AfD doubled its support, making the Bundestag more fractured than ever—potentially complicating defense spending and transatlantic cooperation.What does the rise of AfD mean for Germany's role in NATO and its relationship with the U.S.? As CDU leader Friedrich Merz signals a move toward greater independence from Washington, is Germany preparing to stand on its own? And with European leaders questioning U.S. commitment, is this election a sign of a larger shift in the U.S.-EU dynamic?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/kf1mrYI05mc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Jess, and Algene discuss the retirement of Senator Mitch McConnell after 42 years in Congress—marking the end of an era for Republican leadership and a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy. As one of the longest-serving and most influential Senate leaders in history, McConnell championed alliances, engagement abroad, and the "peace through strength" doctrine.What does his departure mean for U.S. national security strategy? How will his absence shape the Senate's role in foreign policy? And how did McConnell's tenure impact the Senate as an institution?Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@NotTVJessJones @AlgeneSajeryLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/YQggnAywLc8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Les, Amy, and Andrew discuss the rising concerns over DeepSeek, a Chinese AI chatbot positioning itself as a competitor to OpenAI, Gemini, and other U.S.-developed platforms. The U.S. has banned DeepSeek from federal systems, and South Korea recently announced it will block new downloads, with both countries underscoring data privacy and national security concerns.Is China pulling ahead in AI development? What are the concerns regarding DeepSeek and other Chinese-developed apps like TikTok? What might the Trump Administration responses mean for larger U.S.-China relations?Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/17/business/south-korea-deepseek-china-ai.htmlhttps://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/us-lawmakers-move-ban-deepseek-government-devices-chinese-surveillance-rcna190965https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2025/01/how-deepseek-changed-future-aiand-what-means-national-security/402594/Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@AndrewBorene@NotTVJessJones @amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/Vrj2TbV468E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Amy, Andrew, and Jess break down the latest push for peace in Ukraine as negotiations unfold in Saudi Arabia. With President Trump advocating for talks, uncertainty looms over who is involved—Ukraine's role remains unclear, and European allies are scrambling to protect their interests with an emergency summit in Paris.Are these talks the first step toward ending the war, or is the West handing Putin a victory? Could European troops on the ground shift the balance? And what message does this send to U.S. allies about standing up to aggression?Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/16/us/politics/ukraine-zelensky-trump-russia.html https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/16/world/europe/vance-europe-putin-russia.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/16/us-russia-ukraine-war-talks-saudi-arabia/ https://www.wsj.com/world/russia-ukraine-slowing-advance-reasons-9debf4e1 Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@AndrewBorene@NotTVJessJones @amykmitchellLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/HN6S35rIiQM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Bishop, and Algene unpack Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington and his high-profile meetings with both President Trump and Elon Musk. With defense cooperation, tariffs, energy imports, and tech visas on the table, the visit signals growing ties between the U.S. and India—wrapped in a public display of political friendship.Will this “bromance” lead to deeper defense collaboration and secure supply chains? Can India help the U.S. maintain its edge in AI and counter China's influence? And does Musk's meeting with Modi blur the lines between business and government?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://apnews.com/article/trump-india-modi-visit-washington-tariffs-83d5f6af65f923dc4feb3f38338c888d https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj91d3jkpvlo https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23ndleveymo Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/ndk73b3GO28 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Les, Morgan, and Jess unpack the latest developments in the Middle East and King Abdullah of Jordan's visit to Washington, D.C. With Trump's Saturday deadline for the release of Israeli hostages looming, tensions are rising as the Arab League prepares to meet and as Egypt and Jordan weigh their response to Trump's push for them to take in displaced Palestinians.What impact will Trump's threat to withhold aid from Egypt and Jordan have? Is his strategy giving Arab states flexibility or forcing their hand? And as Middle East dynamics shift, what role can U.S. allies play in addressing the humanitarian crisis?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://www.politico.com/news/2025/02/11/trump-abdullah-gaza-plan-00203602 https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/11/politics/trump-jordan-king-abdullah-gaza-plan/index.html https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/trump-wants-jordans-help-with-gaza-its-king-is-looking-for-a-way-to-say-no-0958ad69?mod=world_lead_story https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/02/11/israel-war-gaza-ceasefire-jordan-egypt-news-hamas/ Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones @morganlroachLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/grrJd5Vvf2E Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Les, Martha, Bishop, and Jeffery discuss the latest developments in Sudan, where over 200,000 people have died in the ongoing conflict between government forces and the RSF. While Sudanese forces have secured Khartoum and are discussing the political future, the fight is far from over, as RSF forces still hold Darfur.With Russia backing Sudan's military and Iran creeping in, the battle for Port Sudan and Red Sea access has become another front in the global power struggle. Can the U.S. rally its partners to counter Russian and Chinese influence? How does Washington's delayed response and foreign policy uncertainty impact its credibility? And with USAID in turmoil, what will happen to the humanitarian crisis on the ground?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/02/1159871https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/sudan-form-new-government-after-regaining-khartoum-say-military-sources-2025-02-09/https://au.int/en/articles/sudan-suspended-african-union Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@marthamillerdc@BishopGarrisonLike what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/c_VoVL9b4S4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Martha, Morgan, and Jess break down Donald Trump's controversial proposal for Gaza—relocating Palestinians while the U.S. oversees reconstruction. With pushback from Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia and mixed reactions in Israel, the plan raises critical questions about feasibility, diplomacy, and regional security.Who, if anyone, is willing to take responsibility for Gaza? Could this plan derail Saudi-Israel normalization? And what does this mean for the broader regional threat from Iran—has the U.S. lost focus on the bigger strategic picture?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://x.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1887543148781461806/photo/1 https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israels-defense-minister-orders-army-prepare-gaza-residents-departure-media-2025-02-06/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/02/06/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-egypt-trump-displacement/cd5ab7c2-e46e-11ef-ab83-bb30e4340014_story.html https://apnews.com/article/israel-trump-gaza-netanyahu-169d497ac07760ccb9724bef5982338a Follow our experts on Twitter: @lestermunson@morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/W3o3kbH5zmw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jess, Martha, Les, and Morgan discuss upheaval at USAID as the agency faces sweeping changes under the Trump Administration. With the freezing of nearly all foreign assistance, most USAID employees reportedly placed on leave, and international staff ordered to return to the U.S., the future of U.S. foreign assistance is in question.What role does USAID play in advancing U.S. interests abroad? How will the freeze on aid programs affect critical initiatives like PEPFAR and global healthcare? What are the long-term consequences of these far reaching changes on U.S. foreign policy, American businesses, and global influence?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!https://apnews.com/article/trump-usaid-layoffs-7e0a159d8a419c4c9388ab02e8259f23 https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/03/us/politics/usaid-trump-musk.htmlhttps://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/usaid-elon-musk-donald-trump-b2692144.htmlFollow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/SlUrvRS4BSc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 409: Tariff Turmoil: Trump's Trade War and Its Global FalloutToday, Morgan, Martha, and Jess discuss President Trump's latest move to impose sweeping tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), citing illegal migration and fentanyl as justification. The plan includes 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada and 10% on China, which has prompted retaliatory measures from U.S. trading partners.What are the unintended consequences for American taxpayers? If the U.S. retreats from the global economic stage, who steps in to fill the void? And with past tariffs failing to bring manufacturing back, will this strategy hurt the very voters who elected Trump?Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70kn4676p4o https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/02/02/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/02/us/politics/trump-tariffs-ieepa.html https://www.reuters.com/business/trump-stretches-trade-law-boundaries-with-canada-mexico-china-tariffs-2025-02-02/ Check out the sources that helped shape our expert's discussion!Follow our experts on Twitter: @morganlroach@marthamillerdc@NotTVJessJones Like what we're doing here? Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. And don't forget to follow @masonnatsec on Twitter!We are also on YouTube, and watch today's episode here: https://youtu.be/iLb6rTb54is Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.