Podcasts about international security affairs

This episode covers the fall of the Assad regime and what it means for Syria, Russia, Iran, and Turkey.  Guest Biographies Michael Connell is a specialist in Russia and the Middle East in CNA's Russia Studies Program. His primary area of expertise is the armed forces of Iran and Russia, and he has published extensively on these topics both inside and outside of CNA. Jeffrey Edmonds is an expert on Russia and Eurasia in CNA's Russia Studies Program. Edmonds previously served as the Senior Advisor to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, covering topics in Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and Africa. Jeff also served as acting Senior Director for Russia on the National Security Council.  Further Reading  CNA's Russia Studies Program

Interview recorded - 7th of November, 2024On this episode of the WTFinance podcast I had the pleasure of welcoming on Former Ambassador Chas Freeman. Chas is a well know diplomat with an array of experience. Examples include being the main interpreter for Richard Nixon during his 1972 China visit and the US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 1989 to 1992, during the Gulf war.During our conversation we spoke about the US driving together China and Russia, Biden escalating tensions, US fighting Russia, sustainment of global hegemony, 0:00 - Introduction2:06 - Driving China and Russia together?5:28 - Biden escalating tensions11:22 - Should NATO have been ended when Soviet Union collapsed?15:32 - US fighting Russia?17:50 - Sustainment of global hegemony20:56 - How has the Middle East evolved?24:20 - Anyway to get back to two state solution?31:39 - Axis of evil36:09 - Further escalation?39:19 - Madman theory40:29 - Normalise relations with adversaries?49:49 - One message to takeaway from our conversation?Ambassador Freeman has recently retired from Brown University's Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs. He was Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94, earning the highest public service awards of the Department of Defense for his roles in designing a NATO-centered post-Cold War European security system and in reestablishing defense and military relations with China. He served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm). He was Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs during the historic U.S. mediation of Namibian independence from South Africa and Cuban troop withdrawal from Angola.Chas Freeman served as Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d'Affaires in the American embassies at both Bangkok (1984-1986) and Beijing (1981-1984). He was Director for Chinese Affairs at the U.S. Department of State from 1979-1981. He was the principal American interpreter during the late President Nixon's path-breaking visit to China in 1972. In addition to his Middle Eastern, African, East Asian and European diplomatic experience, he served in India.Ambassador Freeman earned a certificate in Latin American studies from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, certificates in both the national and Taiwan dialects of Chinese from the former Foreign Service Institute field school in Taiwan, a BA magna cum laude from Yale University and a JD from the Harvard Law School. He is the recipient of numerous high honors and awards. He is the author of three books on U.S. foreign policy and two on statecraft. He was the editor of the Encyclopaedia Britannica entry on “diplomacy.”  He is a sought-after speaker on a wide variety of foreign policy issues.Ambassador Freeman is Chairman of the Board of Projects International, Inc., a Washington-based business development firm that specializes in arranging international joint ventures, acquisitions, and other business operations for its American and foreign clients. After his retirement from government, he served concurrently as co-chair of the United States China Policy Foundation, president of the Middle East Policy Council, and vice chair of the Atlantic Council of the United States.Chas Freeman is married to the Hon. Margaret Van Wagenen Carpenter.  He has three children by a previous marriage, eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.Chas Freeman:Website - https://chasfreeman.net/WTFinance: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wtfinancee/Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/67rpmjG92PNBW0doLyPvfniTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtfinance/id1554934665?uo=4Twitter - https://twitter.com/AnthonyFatseas

The ongoing invasion of Ukraine has been a catastrophic ordeal for the country and its citizens – as well as the financial consequences for all those impacted by the Western sanctions. But, this has also presented a huge opportunity for nations and white-collar professionals willing to grease the wheels and help Russia evade sanctions in return for cash money! Our expert host, Robin Lycka, is joined by Erica Marat, Professor at the College of International Security Affairs, to discuss: which economies are booming due to Western sanctions on Russia? The pair discuss: how sanctions evasion is happening right now, the appeal for nations taking part, and what can be done to tackle this issue. Producer: Matthew Dunne-MilesEditor: Dominic DelargyEngineer: Nicholas Thon____________________________________The Laundry Live returns to London on 30th October at the Ministry of Sound! Keynote, podcast, DJ, and launch of the first AML Megaminds Report.Grab your ticket here!____________________________________The Laundry podcast: Dive deep into the intricacies of financial crime, AML (anti-money laundering), compliance, sanctions, and the ever-evolving landscape of financial regulation.Hosted by Marit Rødevand and Fredrik Riiser – this podcast features renowned experts from banking, fintech, compliance, and investigative journalism.Together, they shed light on the industry's trending topics, analyse mainstream news through a compliance-focused lens, and connect the fight against financial crime to its real-world consequences and ramifications.The Laundry is proudly produced by Strise, the AML Automation Cloud.Get in touch at: laundry@strise.aiSubscribe to our newsletter, Fresh Laundry, here. The views, opinions, and statements expressed by guests of this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of the podcast hosts, The Laundry team, or Strise. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Josh McConkey's new book, Be the Weight Behind the Spear, is about how to fix America. McConkey, a Republican who ran unsuccessfully for Congress in North Carolina, believes that the strength of America has always been its people. So his focus is on motivating all Americans to be, what he calls, “the weight behind the spears” of the country's future leaders. For McConkey, an US Air Force Reserve Colonel and physician as well as aspiring Federal politician, America's future depends on this. The alternative, he warns, is increasingly sharp and perhaps even violent generational and political divisions. Dr. (Colonel) Josh McConkey is the proud father of three little Americans. His biggest mission in life is to help shape these children into the future leaders of America with the help of his wife, Elsa. Together, they reside in Apex, North Carolina. They are part of a very tight knit family with both Cuban and Irish heritage. The wonderful aromas that emanate through their house from cooking time-honored, secret Cuban family recipes brings a warmth, love, and security that only tradition can bring.Dr. McConkey has worked clinically as an Emergency Physician for over 20 years. He served in academics as a professor at Duke University from 2013-2014 and as adjunct faculty until 2018. He is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine with the American Board of Emergency Medicine and Fellowship Boarded in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), a subspecialty encompassing subject matter expertise in Disaster Response Medicine, National Incident Management Systems, National Response Framework, and National Disaster Medical Systems.Dr. McConkey has also had the distinct pleasure of consulting on international health policy and development, once meeting with New Zealand's Prime Minister, Helen Clark. He attended the National Security Course at National Defense University, College of International Security Affairs, Fort Lesley J. McNair, in 2017 where his policy discussions with members of Congress encouraged him to put his unique experiences to use in developing healthcare policy.Dr. McConkey currently serves as the commander of the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron at Andrews AFB and serves on the Air Force Association Council developing legislative and policy recommendations addressing quality of life, equipment modernization, and military construction issues that affect the Air Force Reserve.Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best known broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running How To Fix Democracy show. He is also the author of four prescient books about digital technology: CULT OF THE AMATEUR, DIGITAL VERTIGO, THE INTERNET IS NOT THE ANSWER and HOW TO FIX THE FUTURE. Andrew lives in San Francisco, is married to Cassandra Knight, Google's VP of Litigation & Discovery, and has two grown children. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

Did you know the entire Joint Force engages in Irregular Warfare? Often defined differently depending on the individual or organization you speak to, we have Doug Livermore on to help define and discuss Irregular Warfare, the nature of conflict, and how our named adversaries also apply it across the globe. Listen in to learn how Irregular Warfare is not only a job for Special Operations. About the guest:Doug Livermore formerly served as the Director of Special Operations, Irregular Warfare, Special Programs, and Sensitive Activities for the Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy. He is also a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard serving as the Deputy Commander of Special Operations Detachment – X. Previously, Doug served as a sensitive activities advisor to both the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict and the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Multiple international affairs and security studies journals have distributed Doug's works, including many publications in War on the Rocks, Small Wars Journal, and the Military Times. Doug is the National Director for External Communications for the Special Forces Association and is also the Director of Communications with West Point's Irregular Warfare Initiative. Additionally, he is on the Board of Directors for both No One Left Behind and the Special Operations Association of America where he has been instrumental in the ongoing evacuation and resettlement of Afghan interpreters and their families. Doug earned his undergraduate degree in Military History at West Point, his graduate degree in International Security Affairs from Georgetown University; he excelled in the Army Command and General Staff Officer Course. About the hosts:Maj. Ashley "Ash" Holzmann is an experienced Psychological Operations Officer serving in the re-established PSYWAR School at the United States Army JFK Special Warfare Center and School.Sgt. Maj. Derek Riley is one of the most experienced Civil Affairs Non-commissioned Officers in the Army Special Operations Regiment. He has incredible deployment experience and serves within the Civil Affairs Proponent at the United States Army JFK Special Warfare Center and School. From the episode:To read more about Irregular Warfare, visit the following websites and articles:https://irregularwarfarecenter.org/Did you know Congress authorized the development of the Irregular Warfare Center?https://www.rand.org/pubs/commentary/2022/11/the-congressionally-authorized-irregular-warfare-functional.htmlHere's the Irregular Warfare Annex to the National Defense Strategy:https://media.defense.gov/2020/Oct/02/2002510472/-1/-1/0/Irregular-Warfare-Annex-to-the-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.PDFThe Joint Definition of Irregular Warfare:https://www.jcs.mil/Portals/36/Documents/Doctrine/concepts/joc_iw_v2.pdf?ver=2017-12-28-162021-510The definition has been discussed by many:https://mwi.westpoint.edu/redefining-irregular-warfare-legitimacy-coercion-and-power/Pirates vs. Privateers:https://www.nps.gov/articles/privateers-in-the-american-revolution.htmThe Peninsular War:https://www.britannica.com/event/Peninsular-WarKorean War White Tigers:https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/potomac-books/9781574886054/Doug's article It's Time for Special Operations to Dump ‘Unconventional Warfare':https://warontherocks.com/2017/10/its-time-for-special-operations-to-dump-unconventional-warfare/National Security Presidential Memorandum - 3: Presidential Memorandum Plan to Defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syriahttps://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/presidential-actions/presidential-memorandum-plan-defeat-islamic-state-iraq-syria/The instruments of national power (aka, DIME):https://ndupress.ndu.edu/Media/News/News-Article-View/Article/2106566/putting-the-fil-into-dime-growing-joint-understanding-of-the-instruments-of-pow/China's Three Warfares:https://warontherocks.com/2018/01/chinas-three-warfares-perspective/Russia's Six Phases of New Generation Warfare:https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/Military-Review/English-Edition-Archives/September-October-2020/Derleth-New-Generation-War/Iran's military doctrine:https://www.mei.edu/publications/upgrading-irans-military-doctrine-offensive-forward-defenseSecurity Cooperation:https://www.dsca.mil/foreign-customer-guide/security-cooperation-overviewNational Guard State Partnership Program:https://www.nationalguard.mil/leadership/joint-staff/j-5/international-affairs-division/state-partnership-program/ Recommended reading from the episode:Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare:https://www.amazon.com/Ministry-Ungentlemanly-Warfare-Churchills-Warriors/dp/1681443929Wild Bill Donnovan:https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Bill-Donovan-Spymaster-Espionage-ebook/dp/B003UV8TF4?ref_=ast_author_mpbWhite Tigers:https://www.amazon.com/White-Tigers-Secret-North-Memories-ebook/dp/B01HFUS53G?ref_=ast_author_mpbThe Secret War Against Hanoi:https://www.amazon.com/Secret-War-Against-Hanoi-Saboteurs/dp/0060932538/ref=sr_1_1?Special Forces Berlin:https://www.amazon.com/Special-Forces-Berlin-Clandestine-Operations/dp/1612008437/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Army Special Operations Recruiting:SOF Recruiting Page (soc.mil)https://www.soc.mil/USASOCHQ/recruiting.html GoArmySOF Site:https://www.goarmysof.army.mil/ The Official Podcast of the United States Army Special Warfare Center and School!USAJFKSWCS selects and trains all Army Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations soldiers. Please visit our website at: https://www.swcs.milBe sure to check us out and follow us at:https://www.facebook.com/jfkcenterandschoolhttps://www.instagram.com/u.s.armyswcs/https://www.youtube.com/c/USAJFKSWCS/videosPlease like, subscribe, and leave a review! 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Professor David Ucko, Professor at the College of International Security Affairs, National Defense University, in Washington, DC, discusses the history of counterinsurgency and irregular warfare, and the role of special operation forces in contemporary conflict.

In this week's episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer navigates through a serious discussion about the pressing issues surrounding Israel and the influence of foreign money on domestic policies, particularly in the realm of academia. Joined by national security expert Morgan Viña, they explore the complexities of ongoing geopolitical conflicts and domestic challenges facing the United States. The episode casts a critical eye on leadership in times of crisis, the emboldened actions of Iran, and the consequences of external influence on national security and education. Morgan Lorraine Viña is a national security expert with a decade of experience in the executive branch, Capitol Hill, and the think tank community. As Vice President for Government Affairs at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, she leads the organization's engagement with Congress and the executive branch. In 2019-2021, Morgan served in the Department of Defense as Chief of Staff for International Security Affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Before joining the Department of Defense, Morgan served as Chief of Staff and Senior Policy Advisor to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki R. Haley. As Chief of Staff, Morgan advised Ambassador Haley and senior mission management on executing program and policy goals. As Senior Policy Advisor, she coordinated the development and analysis of critical and sensitive UN and foreign policy priorities, resulting in a $1.3 billion reduction from the UN budget. Morgan brings a wealth of experience in national security and international relations, focusing on Middle Eastern politics. She has served as an advisor to various governmental and non-governmental bodies and is frequently sought after for her insights on security policies and the implications of geopolitical actions. Her expertise provides a deep dive into the intricate dynamics of global conflicts and their far-reaching effects. "The emboldenment of Iran following the lifting of sanctions is profoundly troubling." ~Morgan Viña Today on Political Contessa: The lack of decisive leadership in the White House and Congress contributes to global unrest and domestic vulnerability. Israel's need to reestablish regional deterrence amidst conflict with Gaza highlights the ongoing security challenges in the Middle East. The influence of foreign money in American universities raises transparency issues and potential impacts on education and research. Protests on college campuses, particularly those with anti-Semitic undertones, need more rigorous oversight and accountability. Concerns about the Biden administration's policies and their effectiveness in handling crises at home and abroad. The potential consequences of foreign policy decisions on domestic politics, including the rising tide of anti-Semitism on campuses. Jennifer Nassour's concern for national security and the safety of Americans, including her own family abroad. The call for more informed and critical engagement with political and security issues to protect national interests. Guest Contact: Morgan Veena Email Resources Mentioned: - Study on the Impact of Foreign Funding in Universities - Report on Anti-Semitism in American Universities Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you've ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you're ready to enter the political arena.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does the militarily weaker side lose many battles but often win the war? In the 21st Century the David-vs-Goliath threat of asymmetric warfare – where small non-state militias and terror groups defeat vastly better armed nation states in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere – is back. Now armed groups including Yemen's Houthi, Hamas and Islamic State are growing and re-energised by a vast new funding sources: the global drugs trade, and even crypto. Gavin Esler speaks to Dr David Ucko – professor at the College of International Security Affairs, National Defense University – and counterinsurgency and organised crime expert Vanda Felbab-Brown to find out why asymmetric warfare has returned, who's funding it… and whether we can ever defeat it. • “We have put a lot of stock in fences and walls which may soon prove inadequate. What if you can fly a drone from North Africa with pinpoint accuracy into a civilian airport?” – Dr David Ucko • “A global revolution in synthetic drugs is sweeping the world… and everywhere it's associated with intensified violence.” – Vanda Felbab-Brown • “If we ignore this, then you get the Wagner Group and other players trying to do their thing, as we see in the Sahel and across Africa.” – Dr David Ucko Support This Is Not A Drill on Patreon to get early episodes, merchandise and more. Written and presented by Gavin Esler. Produced by Robin Leeburn. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Executive Producer Martin Bojtos. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production. *The views of Dr David Ucko belong to the contributor and do not represent the views of the Department of Defense or its components or the USF administration or its component. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lex Friedman's Hosted Debate: • Israel-Palestine Debate: Finkelstein,... Elan Journo, a vice president and senior fellow at the Ayn Rand Institute, is an expert on American foreign policy, Ayn Rand's thought, and the intersection of moral ideas and public policy.Elan's is the author of What Justice Demands: America and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (2018). He is co-author with Onkar Ghate of Failing to Confront Islamic Totalitarianism: From George W. Bush to Barack Obama and Beyond (2016). It was hailed as “heartbreakingly rational, masterfully reasoned, entirely clear, prescient” by Phyllis Chesler; a “moral tour de force” by philosopher Jason Hill; and “a brilliant collection of essays” by historian Efraim Karsh. The second expanded edition of this book, retitled Failing to Confront Islamic Totalitarianism: What Went Wrong After 9/11, was published in 2021. He co-edited Illuminating Ayn Rand: Essays from New Ideal, the Journal of the Ayn Rand Institute (2022)Elan's first book, Winning the Unwinnable War: America's Self-Crippled Response to Islamic Totalitarianism (2009), analyzes Bush-era foreign policy. The late Fouad Ajami of Johns Hopkins and Daniel Pipes of the Middle East Forum were among the scholars and public intellectuals who praised the book, which is featured in university courses.Elan has published in Foreign Policy, Skeptic Magazine, Middle East Quarterly, The Journal of International Security Affairs, and the Claremont Review of Books. His commentary has appeared in many popular outlets, including Areo Magazine, Skeptic Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, Australia's Herald Sun, Canada's Globe and Mail, Times of Israel, Los Angeles Times, Spiked, The Jerusalem Post, and The Hill. He is a senior editor of ARI's journal, New Ideal.Elan has appeared on countless radio programs (NPR, syndicated talk radio) and TV interviews (Fox News, PBS). He briefs congressional staff and speaks at universities across North America.Elan holds a BA in philosophy from King's College London and an MA in diplomacy from SOAS, University of London.Connect with Elan on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Show is Sponsored by The Ayn Rand Institute https://www.aynrand.org/starthereandExpress VPN https://www.expressvpn.com/yaronJoin this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/@YaronBrook/joinLike what you hear? Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on new videos and help promote the Yaron Brook Show: https://bit.ly/3ztPxTxSupport the Show and become a sponsor: / yaronbrookshow or https://yaronbrookshow.com/membershipOr make a one-time donation: https://bit.ly/2RZOyJJContinue the discussion by following Yaron on Twitter (https://bit.ly/3iMGl6z) and Facebook (https://bit.ly/3vvWDDC )Want to learn more about Ayn Rand and Objectivism? Visit the Ayn Rand Institute: https://bit.ly/35qoEC3 #Israel #israelhamaswar #israelpalestineconflict #capitalism #philosophy #Morality ​ ​#Objectivism​ #AynRand #politics

Elan Journo, a vice president and senior fellow at the Ayn Rand Institute, is an expert on American foreign policy, Ayn Rand's thought, and the intersection of moral ideas and public policy.Elan's is the author of What Justice Demands: America and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (2018). He is co-author with Onkar Ghate of Failing to Confront Islamic Totalitarianism: From George W. Bush to Barack Obama and Beyond (2016). It was hailed as “heartbreakingly rational, masterfully reasoned, entirely clear, prescient” by Phyllis Chesler; a “moral tour de force” by philosopher Jason Hill; and “a brilliant collection of essays” by historian Efraim Karsh. The second expanded edition of this book, retitled Failing to Confront Islamic Totalitarianism: What Went Wrong After 9/11, was published in 2021. He co-edited Illuminating Ayn Rand: Essays from New Ideal, the Journal of the Ayn Rand Institute (2022)Elan's first book, Winning the Unwinnable War: America's Self-Crippled Response to Islamic Totalitarianism (2009), analyzes Bush-era foreign policy. The late Fouad Ajami of Johns Hopkins and Daniel Pipes of the Middle East Forum were among the scholars and public intellectuals who praised the book, which is featured in university courses.Elan has published in Foreign Policy, Skeptic Magazine, Middle East Quarterly, The Journal of International Security Affairs, and the Claremont Review of Books. His commentary has appeared in many popular outlets, including Areo Magazine, Skeptic Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, Australia's Herald Sun, Canada's Globe and Mail, Times of Israel, Los Angeles Times, Spiked, The Jerusalem Post, and The Hill. He is a senior editor of ARI's journal, New Ideal.Elan has appeared on countless radio programs (NPR, syndicated talk radio) and TV interviews (Fox News, PBS). He briefs congressional staff and speaks at universities across North America.Elan holds a BA in philosophy from King's College London and an MA in diplomacy from SOAS, University of London.Connect with Elan on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Show is Sponsored by The Ayn Rand Institute https://www.aynrand.org/starthereandExpress VPN https://www.expressvpn.com/yaronJoin this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/@YaronBrook/joinLike what you hear? Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on new videos and help promote the Yaron Brook Show: https://bit.ly/3ztPxTxSupport the Show and become a sponsor: / yaronbrookshow or https://yaronbrookshow.com/membershipOr make a one-time donation: https://bit.ly/2RZOyJJContinue the discussion by following Yaron on Twitter (https://bit.ly/3iMGl6z) and Facebook (https://bit.ly/3vvWDDC )Want to learn more about Ayn Rand and Objectivism? Visit the Ayn Rand Institute: https://bit.ly/35qoEC3 #fertility #ivftreatmentforpregnancy #abortion #capitalism #philosophy #Morality ​ ​#Objectivism​ #AynRand #politics

Robert Wilkie, Former Secretary of Veterans Affairs, joins Liberty & Justice with Matt Whitaker, Season 3, Episode 6.  Presented by American Cornerstone Institute.  Learn more about ACI at https://americancornerstone.org/. Watch every episode of Liberty & Justice on www.whitaker.tv. President Trump nominated the Honorable Robert Wilkie as the tenth Secretary of Veterans Affairs. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 23, 2018, and sworn in on July 30, 2018. Mr. Wilkie served as the acting Secretary of VA from March 28 to May 29, 2018.  Before confirmation as VA Secretary, Mr. Wilkie served Secretary James Mattis as his Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness—the principal advisor to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense for Total Force Management as it relates to readiness, National Guard and Reserve component affairs, health affairs, training, and personnel requirements and management, including equal opportunity, morale, welfare, recreation, and the quality of life for military families. The son of an Army artillery commander, Mr. Wilkie spent his youth at Fort Bragg. Today, he is a United States Air Force Reserve colonel assigned to the Office of the Chief of Staff. Before joining the Air Force, he served in the United States Navy Reserve with the Joint Forces Intelligence Command, Naval Special Warfare Group Two, and the Office of Naval Intelligence.Mr. Wilkie has more than 20 years of federal service at the national and international levels. During the George W. Bush Administration, Mr. Wilkie served both Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates as Assistant Secretary of Defense from 2005–2009, and he was the youngest senior leader in the Department. Mr. Wilkie was Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and a National Security Council senior director under Dr. Condoleezza Rice. He also has extensive experience in the United States Congress, including recent service as Senior Advisor to Senator Thom Tillis and service as Counsel and Advisor on International Security Affairs to the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Honorable Trent Lott. Mr. Wilkie shepherded the Senate confirmation process for James Mattis, Robert Gates, and Admiral Mike Mullen (CJCS), and he was responsible for the preparation of General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker for their multiple appearances before Congress in defense of the Iraqi Surge. Mr. Wilkie was Vice President for Strategic Programs for CH2M HILL, one of the world's largest engineering and program management firms, where for five years he held program management and advisory assignments as diverse as the London 2012 Summer Olympics and the reform and reorganization of the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense Supply and Logistics System (DE&S). Mr. Wilkie holds an Honors degree from Wake Forest University, a Juris Doctor from Loyola University College of Law in New Orleans, a Master of Laws in International and Comparative Law from Georgetown University, and a Masters in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. A graduate of the College of Naval Command and Staff, Air Command and Staff College, the United States Army War College, and the Joint Forces Staff College, Mr. Wilkie has published articles in the Naval War College Review, Parameters, Armed Forces Journal International, Air and Space Power Journal, and Proceedings. He holds personal and unit decorations and the Defense Distinguished Public Service Medal, the highest noncareer civilian award of the Department. Matthew G. Whitaker was acting Attorney General of the United States (2018-2019).  Before becoming acting Attorney General, Mr. Whitaker served as Chief of Staff to the Attorney General. He was appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern Dist

One of the benefits of being located so close to Washington, D.C., is that the U.S. Army War College has access to some of the nation's most senior leaders. Most recently, the Honorable Melissa Dalton addressed the Homeland Defense Symposium in Carlisle and took time out of her busy schedule to join podcast editor Ron Granieri for an intriguing conversation. Sworn in as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs on March 4, 2022, Secretary Dalton currently performs the duties of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. She shares how she found her way to the civil service and the challenges her office faces in pursuit of national defense priorities. Her portfolio includes Indo-Pacific Affairs, International Security Affairs, Space Policy, Special Operations Low-Intensity Conflict and Homeland Defense Hemispheric Affairs.

Ukrainians continue to fight hard to defend their homes and defeat the Russian invasion, but the future is uncertain. The Ukrainian counteroffensive has not gone as well as many hoped and congressional delay is hampering the administration's efforts to provide Kyiv the weapons and munitions it needs. What are Putin's goals in Ukraine? Why should Americans care about the outcome in Ukraine? What does the administration believe success looks like in Ukraine? What is happening on the battlefield, and what are Ukraine's most urgent security needs? What are the consequences if Congress continues to delay the provision of additional security assistance funding for Ukraine?To answer these questions and more, FDD's Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP) hosts Dr. Celeste Wallander, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs. FDD Founder and President, Cliff May, will moderate the conversation.

The Republic of Korea is one of the twentieth century's economic miracles. Poor at the time it split from its neighbour to the north, it now has the fastest internet on the planet and is a world-leading exporter of electronics, cars and culture. Much of what is best in the world can be found in Korea but it faces many of its hardest challenges too. Sky-high property prices, the world's fastest-ageing population, a highly pressurised and competitive society, and as they face the difficult prospect of working and raising a family, 65 percent of Korean women are choosing not to have children. Along with all this, is the worry about the country that shares the Korean Peninsula, Kim Jong Un's nuclear-armed North Korea. Jonny Dymond presents a panel of Korean politicians and experts as they debate questions from the public across the country. The panel: Kyung-wha Kang: Former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea and Distinguished Professor at Yonsei University Chung-Min Lee: Former Ambassador for National Security Affairs and Ambassador for International Security Affairs. University Professor at Kaist, and Senior Fellow at The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Hee-kyoung Cho: Professor of Law at Hongik University and a columnist for The Korea Times Hawon Jung: Author of Flowers of Fire about the Korean ‘MeToo' women's movement

Americans, our elected officials in Congress, and individuals aspiring to be the next U.S. president are debating whether the United States should continue to support Ukraine. Some Republican presidential candidates are arguing against aid for Ukraine, while several others warn that abandoning Ukraine would be a costly mistake. In Congress, Republican leaders of key committees continue to support aid for Ukraine, but a vocal minority faction of the Republican party in the House of Representatives that opposes aid for Ukraine seems to be growing.To complicate matters, Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces is going more slowly than many hoped, and the battlefield outcome remains uncertain.In short, Ukraine is in the balance and Americans have questions.To get answers, Brad Bowman (Senior Director of FDD's Center for Military and Political Power, filling in for host Cliff May) is joined by Celeste Wallander. Celeste WallanderCeleste serves as the Biden Administration's Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs in the Pentagon. Previously, she served in the Obama administration's National Security Council from 2013 to 2017 as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Russia and Central Asia. She's a longtime Russia scholar, former professor at Harvard and Georgetown University, and the author of more than 80 publications.

Americans, our elected officials in Congress, and individuals aspiring to be the next U.S. president are debating whether the United States should continue to support Ukraine. Some Republican presidential candidates are arguing against aid for Ukraine, while several others warn that abandoning Ukraine would be a costly mistake. In Congress, Republican leaders of key committees continue to support aid for Ukraine, but a vocal minority faction of the Republican party in the House of Representatives that opposes aid for Ukraine seems to be growing.To complicate matters, Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces is going more slowly than many hoped, and the battlefield outcome remains uncertain.In short, Ukraine is in the balance and Americans have questions.To get answers, Brad Bowman (Senior Director of FDD's Center for Military and Political Power, filling in for host Cliff May) is joined by Celeste Wallander. Celeste WallanderCeleste serves as the Biden Administration's Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs in the Pentagon. Previously, she served in the Obama administration's National Security Council from 2013 to 2017 as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Russia and Central Asia. She's a longtime Russia scholar, former professor at Harvard and Georgetown University, and the author of more than 80 publications.

Every year on July 20th we remember the beginning of Turkey's invasion of Cyprus. July 20th, however, only marks phase one of the Turkish invasion. On August 14th, 1974 - despite the collapse of the dictatorship in Greece, the restoration of a democratic government in Cyprus, and the diplomatic efforts underway to find a way forward - Turkey launched phase two of its invasion, or Attila II. Historian Andrew Novo joins Thanos Davelis to discuss the second phase of Turkey's invasion of Cyprus that led to the illegal occupation of nearly 40% of Cyprus, a score of human rights violations, and the displacement of some 150,000 people from their homes.Andrew Novo holds a doctorate in history from the University of Oxford. He is Professor of Strategic Studies at the National Defense University's College of International Security Affairs, and he is a specialist in the history of the Mediterranean world, both ancient and modern. The views expressed on our show do not reflect the National Defense University, the Department of Defense or the United States government.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Cyprus marks 49 years since Turkey's dramatic military expansionHimare's ethnic Greeks rally for detained mayorThe benefits of a debt upgrade

Robert Wilkie, former VA Secretary, joins Liberty & Justice with host Matt Whitaker Season 2, Episode 24. Secretary Wilkie discusses the troubled history of the Espionage Act and its current use as a weapon against President Trump. Watch every episode of Liberty & Justice at http://www.whitaker.tv.  The Honorable Robert Wilkie was nominated by President Trump to serve as the tenth Secretary of Veterans Affairs. He was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 23, 2018, and sworn in on July 30, 2018. Mr. Wilkie previously served as the acting Secretary of VA from March 28 to May 29, 2018.  Before confirmation as VA Secretary, Mr. Wilkie served Secretary James Mattis as his Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness—the principal advisor to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense for Total Force Management as it relates to readiness, National Guard and Reserve component affairs, health affairs, training, and personnel requirements and management, including equal opportunity, morale, welfare, recreation, and the quality of life for military families.The son of an Army artillery commander, Mr. Wilkie spent his youth at Fort Bragg. Today, he is a colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve assigned to the Office of the Chief of Staff. Before joining the Air Force, he served in the United States Navy Reserve with the Joint Forces Intelligence Command, Naval Special Warfare Group Two, and the Office of Naval Intelligence.Mr. Wilkie has more than 20 years of federal service at the national and international levels. During the George W. Bush Administration, Mr. Wilkie served both Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates as Assistant Secretary of Defense from 2005–2009, and he was the youngest senior leader in the Department. Mr. Wilkie was Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and a senior director of the National Security Council under Dr. Condoleezza Rice. He also has extensive experience in the United States Congress, including recent service as Senior Advisor to Senator Thom Tillis and service as Counsel and Advisor on International Security Affairs to the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Honorable Trent Lott. Mr. Wilkie shepherded the Senate confirmation process for James Mattis, Robert Gates, and Admiral Mike Mullen (CJCS), and he was responsible for the preparation of General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker for their multiple appearances before the Congress in defense of the Iraqi Surge.Mr. Wilkie was Vice President for Strategic Programs for CH2M HILL, one of the world's largest engineering and program management firms, where for five years he held program management and advisory assignments as diverse as the London 2012 Summer Olympics and the reform and reorganization of the United Kingdom Ministry of Defense Supply and Logistics System (DE&S).Mr. Wilkie holds an Honors degree from Wake Forest University, a Juris Doctor from Loyola University College of Law in New Orleans, a Master of Laws in International and Comparative Law from Georgetown University, and a Masters in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. A graduate of the College of Naval Command and Staff, Air Command and Staff College, the United States Army War College, and the Joint Forces Staff College, Mr. Wilkie has published articles in the Naval War College Review, Parameters, Armed Forces Journal International, Air and Space Power Journal, and Proceedings. He holds personal and unit decorations, as well as the Defense Distinguished Public Service Medal, the highest noncareer civilian award of the Department.Matthew G. Whitaker was acting Attorney General of the United States (2018-2019). Prior to becoming acting Attorney General, Mr. Whitaker served as Chief of Staff to the Attorney General. He was appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa by Pres

Historically, U.S. firms dominated the private security company market, in places like Afghanistan and Somalia. But in recent years they have been emerging in other countries. Warlords and militias have restyled themselves as private security companies, and in Russia we have seen the incredible consequences of PMC Wagner rising as a force to challenge the reputation of the regular military. Mercenaries were common in the European Middle Ages and contract warfare the norm. The proliferation of private military forces is having a profound effect on international relations, meaning the twenty-first century may have more in common with the twelfth century than the twentieth. ---------- SPEAKER: Dr Sean McFate is a strategist and expert on international relations. He is a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and a professor at: Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service, Syracuse University's Maxwell School, and the National Defence University's College of International Security Affairs. His career began as a paratrooper and officer in the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division. He served under Stan McChrystal and David Petraeus, and graduated from elite training programs, such as Jungle Warfare School in Panama. Sean has held many roles in a long and distinguished career, including private military contractor, business consultant and author of several successful books, including ‘The New Rules of War' and ‘Goliath: Why the West Doesn't Win Wars. And What We Need to Do About It'. Dr McFate a consultant to the Pentagon, CIA, and Hollywood. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal, and he has been interviewed on CNN, Fox, MSNBC, BBC, NPR, Vice on Home Box Office, and The Discovery Channel. #seanmcfate #mercenaries # wagner #yevgenyprigozhin #prigozhin #privatemilitarycompany #pmc #ukraine #ukrainewar #russia #zelensky #putin #propaganda #war #disinformation #hybridwarfare #foreignpolicy #communism #sovietunion #postsoviet ---------- LINKS: https://www.seanmcfate.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanmcfate/ https://twitter.com/seanmcfate https://www.youtube.com/@seanmcfate826 https://gufaculty360.georgetown.edu/s/contact/00336000014TYDIAA4/sean-mcfate https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/sean-mcfate/ https://cisa.ndu.edu/About/Faculty-and-Staff/Article-View/Article/2168026/dr-sean-mcfate/ ----------   ARTICLES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ux98Xl_lIWk https://www.rferl.org/a/military-strategist-mcfate-what-could-stop-russia/32180030.html https://www.newsweek.com/how-defeat-russias-mercenaries-opinion-1785481 https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/3757281-irregular-warfare-will-win-strategic-competition/ https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/commentary/podcast/defeating-the-wagner-group/ ---------- BOOKS: The Modern Mercenary: Private Armies and What They Mean for World Order (2014) Goliath: What the West got Wrong about Russia and Other Rogue States (2019) ----------

A recent article from the American Political Science Association (APSA) examined how the words used to describe Central Asia sometimes reinforce the region's image as being part of Russia or the Soviet Union. Amid growing awareness of Central Asia's colonial history, some argue it is time to move beyond terms such as “post-Soviet,” “near abroad,” or “Russia's backyard” when referring to Central Asia today. Join host Bruce Pannier for a thought-provoking conversation on decolonizing Central Asian discourse with the co-authors of the APSA article: Botakoz Kassymbekova, a lecturer and assistant professor of modern history at the University of Basel; and Erica Marat, a professor at the National Defense University's College of International Security Affairs.

Host Jeremy Hitchcock sits down with Doug Livermore, the Director of Special Operations, Irregular Warfare, Special Programs, and Sensitive Activities for the Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy. Additionally, he is a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard, currently serving as the Deputy Commander of Special Operations Detachment - NATO. Previously, Doug served as a sensitive activities advisor to both the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict and the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Multiple international affairs and security studies journals have distributed Doug's works, including many publications in War on the Rocks, Small Wars Journal, and the Military Times. Doug is the National Director for External Communications for the Special Forces Association and is also a Non-Resident Fellow with West Point's Irregular Warfare Initiative. Additionally, he is on the Board of Directors for both No One Left Behind and the Special Operations Association of America, where he has been instrumental in the ongoing evacuation and resettlement of Afghan interpreters and their families. Doug earned his undergraduate degree in Military History at West Point and his graduate degree in International Security Affairs from Georgetown University, and excelled in the Army Command and General Staff Officer Course.

Which countries are leading in Counter UAS Technology?   Mary Beth Long is a member of the board of directors of Red Cat Holdings.  Red Cat Holdings is a military technology company that integrates robotic hardware and software to provide critical situational awareness and actionable intelligence to on-the-ground warfighters and battlefield commanders. Its mission is to enhance the effectiveness and safety of military operations domestically and globally – and to “Dominate the Night.” Red Cat's suite of solutions includes Teal Drones, developer of the Golden Eagle, a small unmanned system with the highest resolution imaging for nighttime operations, and Skypersonic, a leading provider of unmanned aircraft for interior spaces and other dangerous environments.  I have published previous podcast interviews with both Red Cat Holdings subsidiaries. Episode 309 features George Matus, CEO of Teal Drones and Episode 386 features Giuseppe Santangelo CEO of Skypersonic. Mary Beth is founder of M B Long & Associates, an international legal and advisory firm. From 2007-2009, Mary Beth served as the first woman confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and as Chair of NATO's High Level Group, responsible for NATO's nuclear policy. In her defense department roles, she also acted as Principal Deputy Secretary of Defense on the Middle East, Africa, the Western Hemisphere, Asia, and Southeast Asia; and was the Deputy Secretary of Defense for Counter Narcoterrorism with a budget of over $1 billion. To those credentials, she adds more than a decade of Central Intelligence Agency operational experience on terrorism and other security issues.  After leaving government, Mary Beth founded Metis Solutions LLC. Under her tenure as CEO, the company was recognized in Inc. Magazine's List of America's Fastest Growing Companies in 2014, 2015, and 2016. She was recently featured in Forbes magazine's Women Business Leaders. Mary Beth advises several Fortune 500 companies on international defense markets. She has served as a Senior Subject Matter Expert for the Supreme Allied Commander of NATO and as a Senior International Advisor to the Minister of Defense of Colombia.  Mary Beth has advised several Presidential candidates and appears regularly on Fox News, BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera English and NPR on Middle East issues and the Intelligence Community. She is a licensed lawyer and, from 1999 until 2004, was an associate specializing in civil litigation matters at Williams & Connolly LLP.  She also travels regularly to the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, and Afghanistan and has offices in Abu Dhabi and Kabul.  In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Mary Beth talks about Red Cat Holdings, the current challenges and opportunities for counter drone solutions and the future of protecting critical assets from drone incursions. 

Dr Sean McFate is a strategist and expert on international relations. He is a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and a professor at: Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service, Syracuse University's Maxwell School, and the National Defence University's College of International Security Affairs. His career began as a paratrooper and officer in the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division. He served under Stan McChrystal and David Petraeus, and graduated from elite training programs, such as Jungle Warfare School in Panama. Sean has held many roles in a long and distinguished career, including private military contractor, business consultant and author of several successful books, including ‘The New Rules of War' and ‘Goliath: Why the West Doesn't Win Wars. And What We Need to Do About It'. Dr McFate a consultant to the Pentagon, CIA, and Hollywood. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal, and he has been interviewed on CNN, Fox, MSNBC, BBC, NPR, Vice on Home Box Office, and The Discovery Channel.

 Download Episode. Scott interviewed Chas Freeman about some of the biggest flashpoints that threaten to plunge the world into war. They discuss the war in Ukraine, the growing tension over Taiwan and even touch on the next conflict brewing in the Middle East. Freeman argues that the prospect for war with Russia or China depends on Washington's willingness to sit down and work out a peaceful resolution. So far, the U.S. government has shown no such interest. Discussed on the show: “Why War Pledges for Ukraine Fell Flat in Munich” (Defense One) Chas W. Freeman was Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94 and served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Follow him at his website, chasfreeman.net. This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom; ExpandDesigns.com/Scott. Get Scott's interviews before anyone else! Subscribe to the Substack. Shop Libertarian Institute merch or donate to the show through Patreon, PayPal or Bitcoin: 1DZBZNJrxUhQhEzgDh7k8JXHXRjY

About the Speaker Mr. Bill Bruner is the co-founder and CEO of New Frontier Aerospace, a technology development company in Seattle, Washington. NFA is developing a range of applied technologies for the aviation, space, and energy markets – to include a renewably fueled, vertical takeoff & landing hypersonic aircraft that will deliver passengers and cargo anywhere on Earth in less than two hours. From 2007 to 2009, Bill was the Assistant Administrator for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs (OLIA) at NASA. Under Bill's leadership, the 30-person OLIA team directed all of NASA's relations with the U.S. Congress, governors, state legislators and local governments. Prior to joining NASA, Bill had a distinguished career as an aviator in the United States Air Force, from which he retired as Colonel. Among his decorations is the Bronze Star, awarded for service in the First Gulf War. He then served in several key positions in Washington — among them as a space and airpower expert on the staff of the Secretary of the Air Force; as a Military Fellow in the Office of the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives; and as an Office Director within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where he won the Assistant Secretary of Defense Paul H. Nitze Award for Excellence in International Security Affairs. Bill is a graduate of the National War College, the Air Force Fighter Weapons School, and the Air Force's School of Advanced Air and Space Power Studies — where his thesis topic was “National Security Implications of Inexpensive Space Access.” He has earned master's degrees, with distinction, in National Security Strategy and Airpower Arts and Sciences. His bachelor's degree in Physical Science (Astronomy) is from San Francisco State University. Learn more about IWP graduate programs: https://www.iwp.edu/academic-programs/ Make a gift to IWP: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E231090&id=18

Scott interviewed Chas Freeman about some of the biggest flashpoints that threaten to plunge the world into war. They discuss the war in Ukraine, the growing tension over Taiwan and even touch on the next conflict brewing in the Middle East. Freeman argues that the prospect for war with Russia or China depends on Washington's willingness to sit down and work out a peaceful resolution. So far, the U.S. government has shown no such interest. Discussed on the show: “Why War Pledges for Ukraine Fell Flat in Munich” (Defense One) Chas W. Freeman was Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94 and served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Follow him at his website, chasfreeman.net. This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom; ExpandDesigns.com/Scott. Get Scott's interviews before anyone else! Subscribe to the Substack. Shop Libertarian Institute merch or donate to the show through Patreon, PayPal or Bitcoin: 1DZBZNJrxUhQhEzgDh7k8JXHXRjY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Talk World Radio we're talking about the United States and China with Ambassador Chas Freeman, who chairs Projects International, Inc., and was a Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94, earning the highest public service awards of the Department of Defense for his roles in designing a NATO-centered post-Cold War European security system and in reestablishing defense and military relations with China. He served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm). He was Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs during the historic U.S. mediation of Namibian independence from South Africa and Cuban troop withdrawal from Angola. Ambassador Freeman worked as Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d'Affaires in the American embassies at both Bangkok (1984-1986) and Beijing (1981-1984). He was Director for Chinese Affairs at the U.S. Department of State from 1979-1981. He was the principal American interpreter during the late President Nixon's path-breaking visit to China in 1972. See: https://chasfreeman.net

On October 3rd, as part of the Smart Women, Smart Power speaker series, Emily Harding, Deputy Director and Senior Fellow of the International Security Program, sat down with the Honorable Celeste Wallander, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, for an update on Russia's operations in Ukraine.

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin travelled to Tehran for meetings with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This week on The New Arab Voice, we're exploring the relations between Russia and Iran. What is the current state of relations between the two countries? How has the Russian invasion of Ukraine affected the relationship? Are Russia and Iran now competitors in the black market for oil? Will Iran provide Russia with its domestically produced military drones. This week, we speak with Sanam Vakil (@SanamVakil), Deputy Head & Senior Research Fellow at the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House (@CH_MENAP), and Hamidreza Azizi (@HamidRezaAz), CATS Fellow at the German Institute for International Security Affairs, focusing on Iranian foreign policy. This podcast is written and produced by Hugo Goodridge (@hugogoodridge). Theme music by Omar al-Fil (@elepheel). Other music by Blue Dot Sessions.To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TheNewArabVoice or email hugo.goodridge@alaraby.co.uk

*) Finland, Sweden get official invite to join NATO after Türkiye's consent NATO has officially invited Finland and Sweden to become members of the alliance. The announcement came as part of the Madrid summit declaration following the meeting of NATO heads of state and government. NATO welcomed the conclusion of the trilateral memorandum between Türkiye, Finland, and Sweden. Israel lawmakers dissolve parliament, set election for November 1 Israel's parliament has voted to dissolve itself and send the country to the polls in November for the fifth time in less than four years. Yair Lapid, Israel's foreign minister and architect of the outgoing coalition government, will become the country's caretaker prime minister just after midnight on Friday. He will be the 14th person to hold that office, taking over from Naftali Bennett, Israel's shortest serving prime minister. New elections will be held on November 1. *) Amnesty accuses Russia of bombing Mariupol theatre A theatre sheltering civilians destroyed in March in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol was likely hit by a Russian air strike in a "war crime," says Amnesty International report. Oksana Pokalchuk, head of Amnesty's Ukraine branch said "We were speaking about an alleged war crime. Now we can clearly say it was one, committed by the Russian armed forces," She dismissed the Russian claims that the theatre was hit in a false-flag attack by the city's Ukrainian defenders. *) US govt 'supports' F-16 fighter jet sales to Türkiye The Biden administration has thrown its support behind the potential sale of US F-16 fighter jets to Türkiye. Celeste Wallander, Assistant Secretary for Defense for International Security Affairs at Pentagon, told media that strong Turkish defence capabilities would reinforce NATO's defences. Wallander said that the US supports Türkiye's modernisation of its fighter fleet because that is a contribution to NATO security and therefore American security. And finally… *) First ever 'Africa Fashion' exhibition opens in UK UK's most extensive exhibition of African fashion is set to open in London, showcasing designers past and present, as well as the continent's diverse heritage and cultures. "Africa Fashion", at the Victoria and Albert Museum, is the country's first exhibition dedicated to the medium. The exhibition includes objects, sketches, photos and film from across the continent, starting from the African liberation years to up-and-coming contemporary designers.

Overview: Editor's Note: This was recorded in January 2022, which provides the context for Tom's comment about 20 degree weather, the timing of litigation around federal vaccine mandates, and space telescope launches. This episode features a conversation with Tom Bonsaint, who is currently the senior director for enterprise campaigns for the Northrup Grumman Corporation. He's held successive roles in the defense industry after graduating from Penn State's College of the Liberal Arts in 2002. Our conversation focuses on taking advantage of opportunities as a Scholar, lifelong learning, teamwork and leadership, and civic engagement as an alum. You can read Tom's full bio and get a more detailed breakdown below. Guest Bio: Tom Bonsaint '02 Lib is currently senior director for Enterprise Campaigns for the Northrup Grumman Corporation where he focuses on above plan growth opportunities across the company's strategic enterprise campaigns. Tom is an executive sponsor for one of the Pride in Diversity Alliance employee resource groups. Before this, Tom was senior programs director for Land and Maritime Sensors business unit of Northrup Grumman Mission Systems. Additional roles he held at Northrup Grumman included senior director, strategy and global operations for the Advanced Defense Services division of Northrup Grumman Technology Services, and senior director, Business Development for the same division. Tom also served as director, Global Capture Management with the Northrup Grumman Corporate Global Business Development Office, reporting to the Chief Global BD Officer. Prior to joining Northrop Grumman, Tom held positions of increasing responsibility for 11 years at the Raytheon Company, primarily focused on global business development and capture in the defense, civil security, and cybersecurity markets. Tom is a 2005 graduate of the Raytheon BD Leadership Development Program. Tom brings experience working in the C4ISR, sensors, cyber, critical infrastructure protection, biometrics, and intelligence domains in the US, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Bonsaint previously worked for the U.S. Department of Defense Office of International Security Affairs, U.S. Department of State Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), all in Washington, D.C. Tom earned is BA in International Politics with Honors from Penn State's College of the Liberal Arts in 2002. He also earned his MBA from the University of Rhode Island. Episode Specifics: · The transition to the Schreyer Honors College from the University Scholars Program · Experiences as a political science student · The impact of September 11th, 2001 on University Park · Interning at the Pentagon and getting the first job after college · Leveraging employer benefits to pay for graduate school · Utilizing the benefits of being a Schreyer Scholar · The importance of lifelong learning and thinking beyond a specific degree · Strategic thinking in a hectic world · The differences between large corporations and smaller firms · Leadership and teamwork lessons · Taking on additional work to support diverse communities in a corporate setting · Civic involvement outside of work · Skills that Scholars should focus on regardless of major to succeed in the “real world” · Stories from finding work life balance through the performing arts · Insights from a unique career · The importance of coaching and mentorship · And a hot take on opinions on alumni swirl ice cream ----- Schreyer Honors College Links: • Website • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • LinkedIn • Upcoming Events • Scholars – Need Assistance? Book an Appointment! • Alumni – Learn Why and How to Volunteer • Make a Gift to Benefit Schreyer Scholars • Join the Penn State Alumni Association ----- Credits & Notes: This content is available in text form here. This show is hosted, produced, and edited by Sean Goheen ‘11 Lib (Schreyer). The artwork was created by Tom Harrington, the College's Web Developer. The sound effect is “Chinese Gong,” accessed via SoundBible used under Creative Commons License. The theme music is “Conquest” by Geovane Bruno, accessed via Pixabay and used under Creative Commons License.

Captain Joseph Polanin grew up in Carteret, New Jersey, was the valedictorian of Carteret High School's class of 1986, the first student the school's history appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, and was commissioned an Ensign in May 1990. He was the honor graduate of Basic Diving Officer class 94-30 at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City Beach, FL and qualified as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician at Indian Head, MD in February 1996. Captain Polanin Commanded EOD Mobile Unit TWELVE, in Virginia Beach, VA; Task Group 56.1 in Manama, Bahrain; and Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal – over 3,400 students, instructors, and staff at Eglin Air Force Base, FL – the sole EOD individual high-risk training command within the Department of Defense. He was the Deputy Commander of Combined Joint Task Force PALADIN in Afghanistan, which integrated U.S., Afghan, and NATO forces from 46 countries to counter the threats posed by improvise explosive devices (IED) and terrorist networks. Captain Polanin Commanded Task Force 68 in Rota, Spain and led more than 2,600 Sailors and Marines in who enabled U.S. and NATO forces across 69 countries in Europe and Africa. He established Task Force SPARTA, which synchronized all U.S. and allied capabilities in Africa to counter IEDs and terrorism. He advised the President, Secretary of Defense, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on global operations and, while serving at the Pentagon was hand-picked to represent the military at the National Security Council. Captain Polanin's final military assignment was Deputy Commander and Director of Operations for U.S. Special Operations Command Central; forward deployed primarily in Qatar until his retirement in 2020 after 30 years of active-duty service. Units and warriors under his command earned numerous commendations for valor and meritorious service in combat, counter insurgency, and other special operations with U.S. and multinational forces across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Captain Polanin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in History with a Russian language minor from the Naval Academy; a Master of Business Administration with honors in 2007 from Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ; and a Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies as the Distinguished Graduate of the 2014 Combating Terrorism Fellowship at the College of International Security Affairs, National Defense University, Washington, DC. He wrote, “Defeating Violent Radical Islamism,” published in U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings, October 2016. He is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, AL and the Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, VA. Captain Polanin's personal honors include the Defense Superior Service Medal (three awards), Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, various unit & campaign awards, the Delta Mu Delta Honor Society for business leaders, and a Department of State commendation for transformational diplomacy. He resides in Tampa, FL with his wife of 28 years, Deanne and their daughters Kiana and Sydney. https://thealakaigroup.com

* Biden Upends 'Strategic Ambiguity' Over US Response to a Future Chinese Attack on Taiwan; Chas Freeman, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94; Producer: Scott Harris. * Texas School Massacre Provokes Renewed Demand for Widely Supported Gun Regulation; Po Murray, Chair of Newtown Action Alliance and Newtown Action Alliance Foundation; Producer: Scott Harris. * Walk for Appalachia's Future Highlights Mountain Valley Pipeline's Threat to Endangered Species; Autumn Crowe, program director of the West Virginia Rivers Coalition; Producer: Melinda Tuhus.

Scott is joined by Chas Freeman to discuss the history of U.S. policy concerning Taiwan. And they talk about President Biden's recent press conference where he misstated the official U.S. policy on Taiwan for the fourth time as president.  Discussed on the show: “Not So Deft On Taiwan” (Washington Post) Chas W. Freeman was Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94 and served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Follow him at his website, chasfreeman.net. This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: The War State and Why The Vietnam War?, by Mike Swanson; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom; ExpandDesigns.com/Scott; EasyShip; Free Range Feeder; Thc Hemp Spot; Green Mill Supercritical; Bug-A-Salt and Listen and Think Audio. Shop Libertarian Institute merch or donate to the show through Patreon, PayPal or Bitcoin: 1DZBZNJrxUhQhEzgDh7k8JXHXRjYu5tZiG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Download Episode. Scott is joined by Chas Freeman to discuss the history of U.S. policy concerning Taiwan. And they talk about President Biden's recent press conference where he misstated the official U.S. policy on Taiwan for the fourth time as president.  Discussed on the show: “Not So Deft On Taiwan” (Washington Post) Chas W. Freeman was Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1993-94 and served as U. S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Follow him at his website, chasfreeman.net. This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: The War State and Why The Vietnam War?, by Mike Swanson; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom; ExpandDesigns.com/Scott; EasyShip; Free Range Feeder; Thc Hemp Spot; Green Mill Supercritical; Bug-A-Salt and Listen and Think Audio. Shop Libertarian Institute merch or donate to the show through Patreon, PayPal or Bitcoin: 1DZBZNJrxUhQhEzgDh7k8JXHXRjYu5tZiG.

In early 2022, a small peaceful https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ymKHqE5Zo (protest) over rising fuel prices began in the large Central Asian country of https://ocindex.net/country/kazakhstan (Kazakhstan). In under a week the protest had spread across the country and turned violent. President Tokayev ordered the national forces to "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgIJhcYMXr4 (shoot to kill, without warning)” - at the end of the day at least 180 people were killed and thousands were injured. How did the peaceful protest over fuel price rises escalate so quickly? And what does it have to do with organized crime? That is the question we are asking in this episode. Speaker: https://twitter.com/EricaMarat?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor (Dr Erica Marat), who is an associate professor at the College of International Security Affairs at the https://cisa.ndu.edu/About/Faculty-and-Staff/Article-View/Article/2168331/dr-erica-marat/ (National Defence University) in Washington, DC. Where she specialises in security and military institutions in Eurasia, social mobilisation, and organised crime. She is also a member of the https://globalinitiative.net/profile/erica-marat/ (GI Network of Experts). Presenter: https://twitter.com/thinink?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor (Thin Lei Win) Additional Links: https://ocindex.net/country/kazakhstan (Kazakhstan country profile) (https://ocindex.net/ (website)) The Global Organized Crime Index (https://globalinitiative.net/analysis/ocindex-2021/ (paper)) The Global Organized Crime Index https://globalinitiative.net/ (Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime) This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

If you're a frequent listener of this podcast you've probably heard the name Jay Parker. Jay is currently the distinguished professor and Major General Fox Conner Chair of International Security Studies in the College of International Security Affairs at the National Defense University. We met back in the 90's when I was at West Point and he has been a trusted confidant ever since.  When Jay Parker says to do something – you do it. From an impromptu trip around the world to working for Rosanne Haggerty to help end homelessness – I've heeded his advice and been better off for it. In this episode you'll hear us reminisce decades old memories of the adventure that formed our lifelong friendship (including a thespian performance which shines a light on Jay's loveable affability) and the written memometos from him that have influenced the course of my life.  I can speak from experience when I say Jay Parker wraps his mentees in unconditional support and provides us with connections and protections, sometimes even at his own personal risk, in order to help people and organizations reach their highest potential.  I hope this episode sparks some of your own kindling. Show Notes: How Becky and Jay ended up on a three week trip around the world together within weeks of meeting one another  Becky's appreciation of Jay How Jay got to be so invested in mentoring others  What's Plutarch got to do with this?  Why leadership is not like Christmas morning or the Easter Bunny leaving extra chocolate Coping with burnout and seeking the ever elusive work-life balance  Pre-order Becky's Book Impact With Integrity: Repair the World Without Breaking Yourself

Support Pushback: https://www.patreon.com/aaronmate Chas Freeman, a retired senior US diplomat, analyzes Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the US role, and the geopolitical fallout. "Everything we are doing, rather than accelerate an end to the fighting and some compromise, seems to be aimed at prolonging the fighting," Freeman says. Guest: Chas Freeman. Veteran U.S. diplomat and public servant who has served in many senior positions, including as Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Director for Chinese Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, and as the principal US interpreter during President Nixon's historic visit to China in 1972.

Photo:  Kiev Glagolitic list X 2/2: #Ukraine: Four Phases of the Siege of Kyiv; & What is to be done? Michael Pregent @MPPregent, Hudson Institute.  Colonel Jon Sweet, USA (retired) former Military Intelligence https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/battle-kyiv-brutal-michael-pregent-jon-sweet Mike Pregent  @MPPregent, senior Fellow at Hudson Institute; senior Middle East analyst, former adjunct lecturer for the College of International Security Affairs; visiting Fellow at the Institute for National Strategic Studies at the National Defense University.   

Photo:  Andriyvskiy descent [sic] in 1900's  1/2: #Ukraine: Four Phases of the Siege of Kyiv; & What is to be done? Michael Pregent @MPPregent, Hudson Institute.  Colonel Jon Sweet, USA (retired) former Military Intelligence https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/battle-kyiv-brutal-michael-pregent-jon-sweet Mike Pregent  @MPPregent, senior Fellow at Hudson Institute; senior Middle East analyst, former adjunct lecturer for the College of International Security Affairs; visiting Fellow at the Institute for National Strategic Studies at the National Defense University.   

Joseph S. Nye is the University Distinguished Service Professor, Emeritus and former Dean of the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.He is the author of numerous highly influential books, including: Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics (2004)The Powers to Lead  (2008)The Future of Power (2011)Is the American Century Over? (2015)Do Morals Matter? Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump  (2020)Joe Nye has also served in various capacities in the US government, as Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, Chair of the National Intelligence Council, and Deputy Under Secretary of State for Security Assistance, Science and Technology. Host:Professor Dan Banik, University of Oslo, Twitter: @danbanik  @GlobalDevPodhttps://in-pursuit-of-development.simplecast.com/

Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin joins host Ken Harbaugh to talk about the Defense Critical Supply Chain Task Force and why supply chains are so critical to our national defense. Rep. Slotkin is the congresswoman from Michigan's 8th district and, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, she chaired the bi-partisan Defense Critical Supply Chain Task Force. She is also a former CIA analyst and was the acting assistant secretary of defense for International Security Affairs from 2015 to 2017. Learn more about Rep. Slotkin's legislative priorities at slotkin.house.gov and find her on Twitter at @RepSlotkin.

On this episode of the SOSH Podcast, COL (Ret.) Jay Parker and Dr. Scott Silverstone sit down to talk about Dr. Parker's latest book, “Restoring Thucydides: Testing Familiar Lessons and Deriving New Ones.” The two discussed topics such as why Thucydides is so frequently misunderstood, whether the Melian Dialogue really was a validation of Realism as is commonly believed, and what the real lessons are that we should be drawing from classical scholars like Thucydides, Machiavelli, and Sun Tzu.   COL (Ret.) Jay Parker is an alumni of the USMA Social Sciences Department, having served as a Professor and the Director of International Relations and National Security Studies programs. He is currently the Major General Fox Conner Chair of International Security Studies in the College of International Security Affairs at the National Defense University.    Dr. Scott Silverstone is a Professor of International Affairs at the United States Military Academy, and has been on the faculty at West Point since 2001.   If you have any comments, suggestions, or critiques, you can email us at SOSHresearchlab@westpoint.edu.   The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers, and should not be seen as reflective of the official positions of the US Military Academy, the United States Army, the Department of Defense, or any other government entity.

  Michael Steele, former Lt. Governor of Maryland, RNC Chairman, political analyst for MSNBC and the host of the Michael Steele Podcast joins host Michael Zeldin to discuss issues of race, impeachment, and the future of the Republican Party. Guest Michael Steele When he was elected Lt. Governor of Maryland in 2003, Michael Steele made history as the first African American elected to statewide office; and again with his subsequent chairmanship of the Republican National Committee in 2009. As chairman of the RNC, Michael Steele was charged with revitalizing the Republican Party. A self-described “Lincoln Republican,” under Steele's leadership the RNC broke fundraising records (over $198 million raised during the 2010 Congressional cycle) and Republicans won 63 House seats, the biggest pickup since 1938. His commitment to grassroots organization and party building at the state and local levels produced 12 governorships and the greatest share of state legislative seats since 1928 (over 760 seats). As Lt. Governor of Maryland, Mr. Steele's priorities included reforming the state's Minority Business Enterprise program, improving the quality of Maryland's public education system (he championed the State's historic Charter School law), expanding economic development in the state and fostering cooperation between government and faith-based organizations to help those in need. Mr. Steele's ability as a communicator and commentator has been showcased through his current role as a political analyst for MSNBC. He has appeared on Meet the Press, Face the Nation, HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher, and Comedy Central's The Daily Show. In addition to his work in television, Mr. Steele co-hosted the daily radio program, Steele & Ungar on the POTUS Channel on SiriusXM and is the host of the podcast The Michael Steele Podcast. Mr. Steele's writings on law, business and politics have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Hill.com, The Grio.com, Politico.com, The Root.com, BET.com, Townhall.com, The Journal of International Security Affairs and Catholic University Law Review, among others. He is the author of Right Now: A 12-Step Program for Defeating the Obama Agenda, which is a call to arms for grassroots America and co-author of The Recovering Politician's Twelve Step Program to Survive Crisis. Follow Michael on Twitter: @MichaelSteele Host Michael Zeldin Michael Zeldin is a well-known and highly-regarded TV and radio analyst/commentator. He has covered many high-profile matters, including the Clinton impeachment proceedings, the Gore v. Bush court challenges, Special Counsel Robert Muller's investigation of interference in the 2016 presidential election, and the Trump impeachment proceedings.  In 2019, Michael was a Resident Fellow at the Institute of Politics at the Harvard Kennedy School, where he taught a study group on Independent Investigations of Presidents. Previously, Michael was a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice. He also served as Deputy Independent/ Independent Counsel, investigating allegations of tampering with presidential candidate Bill Clinton's passport files, and as Deputy Chief Counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives, Foreign Affairs Committee, October Surprise Task Force, investigating the handling of the American hostage situation in Iran. Michael is a prolific writer and has published Op-ed pieces for CNN.com, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Hill, The Washington Times, and The Washington Post. Follow Michael on Twitter: @MichaelZeldin

  Michael Steele, former Lt. Governor of Maryland, RNC Chairman, political analyst for MSNBC and the host of the Michael Steele Podcast joins host Michael Zeldin to discuss issues of race, impeachment, and the future of the Republican Party. Guest Michael Steele When he was elected Lt. Governor of Maryland in 2003, Michael Steele made history as the first African American elected to statewide office; and again with his subsequent chairmanship of the Republican National Committee in 2009. As chairman of the RNC, Michael Steele was charged with revitalizing the Republican Party. A self-described “Lincoln Republican,” under Steele's leadership the RNC broke fundraising records (over $198 million raised during the 2010 Congressional cycle) and Republicans won 63 House seats, the biggest pickup since 1938. His commitment to grassroots organization and party building at the state and local levels produced 12 governorships and the greatest share of state legislative seats since 1928 (over 760 seats). As Lt. Governor of Maryland, Mr. Steele's priorities included reforming the state's Minority Business Enterprise program, improving the quality of Maryland's public education system (he championed the State's historic Charter School law), expanding economic development in the state and fostering cooperation between government and faith-based organizations to help those in need. Mr. Steele's ability as a communicator and commentator has been showcased through his current role as a political analyst for MSNBC. He has appeared on Meet the Press, Face the Nation, HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher, and Comedy Central's The Daily Show. In addition to his work in television, Mr. Steele co-hosted the daily radio program, Steele & Ungar on the POTUS Channel on SiriusXM and is the host of the podcast The Michael Steele Podcast. Mr. Steele's writings on law, business and politics have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Hill.com, The Grio.com, Politico.com, The Root.com, BET.com, Townhall.com, The Journal of International Security Affairs and Catholic University Law Review, among others. He is the author of Right Now: A 12-Step Program for Defeating the Obama Agenda, which is a call to arms for grassroots America and co-author of The Recovering Politician's Twelve Step Program to Survive Crisis. Follow Michael on Twitter: @MichaelSteele Host Michael Zeldin Michael Zeldin is a well-known and highly-regarded TV and radio analyst/commentator. He has covered many high-profile matters, including the Clinton impeachment proceedings, the Gore v. Bush court challenges, Special Counsel Robert Muller's investigation of interference in the 2016 presidential election, and the Trump impeachment proceedings.  In 2019, Michael was a Resident Fellow at the Institute of Politics at the Harvard Kennedy School, where he taught a study group on Independent Investigations of Presidents. Previously, Michael was a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice. He also served as Deputy Independent/ Independent Counsel, investigating allegations of tampering with presidential candidate Bill Clinton's passport files, and as Deputy Chief Counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives, Foreign Affairs Committee, October Surprise Task Force, investigating the handling of the American hostage situation in Iran. Michael is a prolific writer and has published Op-ed pieces for CNN.com, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Hill, The Washington Times, and The Washington Post. Follow Michael on Twitter: @MichaelZeldin

Featured Interview: Morals in decision-making for global leaders Guest: Joseph Nye, Former Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, Author, "Do Morals Matter?: Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump"

About the Lecture: This lecture will focus on the Trump Administration's withdrawal from the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) and the Administration's strategy towards Iran. Michael Pregent will discuss the reasons for the Administration's withdrawal from the JCPOA, the rationale behind the Administration's “maximum pressure” campaign, the Administration's naming of the IRGC as a terrorist organization and the impact that action may have on Iran's ability to exercise influence in Iraq, Syria, and elsewhere. This will be considered in the context of the Trump Administration's broader plans for the Middle East that seek to simultaneously turn the tables on our enemies there while attempting to cut back on the U.S. military footprint on the ground. About the Speaker: Michael Pregent is a senior fellow at Hudson Institute. He is a senior Middle East analyst, a former adjunct lecturer for the College of International Security Affairs, and a visiting fellow at the Institute for National Strategic Studies at the National Defense University. Pregent is a former intelligence officer with over 28 years of experience working in security, terrorism, counter-insurgency, and policy issues in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. He is an expert in Middle Eastern and North African political and security issues, counter-terrorism analysis, stakeholder communications, and strategic planning. He spent considerable time working malign Iranian influence in Iraq as an advisor to Iraq's Security and Intelligence apparatus. Pregent served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and he served as a liaison officer in Egypt during the 2000 Intifada, as a counter-insurgency intelligence officer at CENTCOM in 2001, and as a company commander in Afghanistan in 2002. Additionally, Pregent served as an embedded advisor with the Peshmerga in Mosul from 2005-2006. Also, as a civilian SME working for DIA, Pregent served as a political and military advisor to USF-I focusing on reconciliation, the insurgency, and Iranian influence in Iraq from 2007-2011. He was a violent extremism and foreign fighter analyst at CENTCOM from 2011-2013.

Title: Heaven on Earth: The Rise, Fall, and Afterlife of Socialism About the Book: Socialism was man's most ambitious attempt to supplant religion with a doctrine claiming to ground itself in “science.” Each failure to create societies of abundance or give birth to “the New Man” inspired more searching for the path to the promised land: revolution, communes, social democracy, communism, fascism, Arab socialism, African socialism. None worked, and some exacted a staggering human toll. Then, after two centuries of wishful thinking and bitter disappointment, socialism imploded in a fin de siècle drama of falling walls and collapsing regimes. It was an astonishing denouement but what followed was no less astonishing. After the hiatus of a couple of decades, new voices were raised, as if innocent of all that had come before, proposing to try it all over again. About the Author: Dr. Joshua Muravchik is a Distinguished Fellow at the World Affairs Institute. His most recent book is Heaven on Earth: The Rise, Fall, and Afterlife of Socialism (2019). He is the author of ten previous books and more than 400 articles on politics and international affairs, contributing to, among others, the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs,Foreign Policy, the New York Times Magazine, and Commentary. Muravchik, who received his Ph.D. in International Relations from Georgetown University, is an Adjunct Professor at the Institute for World Politics. He serves on the editorial boards of World Affairs, Journal of Democracy, and the Journal of International Security Affairs. He formerly served as a member of the State Department's Advisory Committee on Democracy Promotion; the Commission on Broadcasting to the People's Republic of China; and the Maryland Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

About the Lecture: This discussion will examine the influential role played by Iran within Iraq and the challenge of building a functioning Iraqi state in the context of Iranian penetration of Iraqi politics, economics, security, and religion. In security, the rise of the Islamic State provided an opportunity for Iran to assist Iraq by standing up Shi'a militias, which are now being used to further Iran's security presence in key areas of Iraq and are helping Iran to realize its strategic vision of building a "Shi'a arc" from Tehran to the Mediterranean. This has complicated Baghdad's ability to grasp the security situation within Iraq. Iran, also, has benefited from a one-sided economic and trade relationship with Iraq. At the same time that its influence has been rising within its neighbor, Iran has been becoming increasingly unpopular among the Iraqi people for its interference in Iraq, and Iraqi nationalists such as Muqtada al-Sadr are pushing back against that influence. This talk will examine all of these aspects of Iranian interference with a particular focus on how to build healthy Iraqi governance functions in the midst of these major challenges. About the Speaker: Mike Pregent is a senior fellow at Hudson Institute. He is a senior Middle East analyst, a former adjunct lecturer for the College of International Security Affairs, and a visiting fellow at the Institute for National Strategic Studies at the National Defense University. Pregent is a former intelligence officer with over 28 years of experience working in security, terrorism, counter-insurgency, and policy issues in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. He is an expert in Middle Eastern and North African political and security issues, counter-terrorism analysis, stakeholder communications, and strategic planning. He spent considerable time working malign Iranian influence in Iraq as an advisor to Iraq's Security and Intelligence apparatus. Pregent served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and he served as a liaison officer in Egypt during the 2000 Intifada, as a counter-insurgency intelligence officer at CENTCOM in 2001, and as a company commander in Afghanistan in 2002. Additionally, Pregent served as an embedded advisor with the Peshmerga in Mosul from 2005-2006. Also, as a civilian SME working for DIA, Pregent served as a political and military advisor to USF-I focusing on reconciliation, the insurgency, and Iranian influence in Iraq from 2007-2011. He was a violent extremism and foreign fighter analyst at CENTCOM from 2011-2013.

Listen NowA year ago last week the President Trump signed an executive order reinstituting the so called global gag rule (more formally termed the Mexico City policy).  The policy was first implemented by President Reagan and has gone in and out of effect depending on whether a Republican or Democrat holds the White House.  The initial policy only applied to abortions, i.e., in order to obtain US family planning funding aid, not for profits or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) had to certify they would not use non-US funding, including private funding, to perform or promote (i.e., they are gagged) abortions overseas.  Beginning in 2001, the policy was expanded to cover other forms of contraception.  Under President Trump the policy was substantially expanded.  Under this administration's global gag rule, NGOs can neither use US family planning funding aid (at $575 million annually) nor any US global health funding aid (that totals $8.8 billion) even if it is used to prevent or treat other public health issues, for example, HIV or malaria, unless, again, the NGO certifies it is not using other funds in performing or promoting abortion as a method of family planning.         During this 21 minute conversation, Jonathan Rucks briefly explains PAI's mission, the Trump administration's significant expansion of the global gag rule, what effects the global gag rule has had in the past and what expected results an expanded policy will have going forward, what work PAI is doing to address the current global gag rule and past and present efforts by the Congress to prohibit the implementation of the rule via executive order. Jonathan Rucks is the Senior Director of Advocacy at PAI (formerly the Population Action International) where he is responsible for the development and management of advocacy strategies to inform and influence public policy in the US and overseas in moreover developing countries to increases support for sexual and reproductive health and rights.  Prior to PAI, Mr. Rucks worked for Pathfinder International, prior still he spent eight years working for Congressional Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Representative Jim Oberstar  (D-MN).  Mr. Rucks holds a master's degree in Strategic Security Studies from the College of International Security Affairs at the National Defense University in Washington, DC.   For information regarding PAI go to: pai.org. President Trump's January 23, 2017 global gag rule memorandum is at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/presidential-memorandum-regarding-mexico-city-policy/. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thehealthcarepolicypodcast.com