Podcasts about prc

The legendary 270 Winchester celebrates its 100th birthday this year in 2025. So, in honor of that impressive milestone, I conduct a deep dive comparing the venerable 270 Winchester to a much newer round with a more modern design that, as you'll learn here shortly, has shockingly similar performance: the 6.5 PRC. Sponsor: Go to BigGameHuntingPodcast.com/ebook and sign up for my free e-book on the best hunting calibers at to receive the entertaining and informative emails I send out about hunting, firearms, and ballistics every weekday. Join the Big Game Hunting Podcast tribe for the potential opportunity to suggest future episode topics (I chose this specific episode in response to Patreon suggestions) and also obtain access to all my bonus material at www.patreon.com/biggamehunter  North Fork's 130gr, 140gr, 150gr Semi-Spitzer bullets are outstanding choices for the 6.5 PRC and 270 Winchester respectively that facilitate the best possible terminal performance for both cartridges. Both projectiles are absolutely outstanding on all manner of game at ranges inside 300 yards. You can purchase both bullets directly from the North Fork web site, from MidwayUSA, or from our network of other distributors all over the world. In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams discusses the 6.5 PRC vs 270 Winchester. John conducts a deep dive on both cartridges, shows how modern bullets have dramatically improved the performance of the 270 Winchester at extended range, and compares how both rounds perform in several ballistic gel tests. John's takeaway? Both cartridges are capable of almost shockingly similar performance, but the 270 Winchester and 6.5 PRC are each ideally suited for specific niches and interests. As you'll learn, most hunters will be served well by either one though. Please hit that "SUBSCRIBE" or "FOLLOW" button in your podcast app to receive future episodes automatically! Resources Ep 116: 6.5 PRC vs 6.5 Creedmoor - Episode comparing the 6.5 PRC to 6.5 Creedmoor Ep 328: 25 Caliber Cartridges-The Complete Guide - Episode referenced about all the other 25 caliber SAAMI standardized rounds. Ep 366: Modern Cartridge Design With John Snow - Episode referenced where John Snow and I discuss Modern Cartridge Design principles 375 H&H Ballistic Gel Test - Episode referenced in episode

This episode explores how the PRC is developing autonomous drone swarm technology for deployment during a potential military invasion of Taiwan. Guest Biographies Timothy Ditter is a senior research scientist in CNA's China Studies Program. His work covers PLA amphibious warfare, China's military modernization and expansion, China's growing nuclear weapons program, and China's nascent global military presence. Eleanor Harvey is a senior research secialist in CNA's China Studies Program. Further Reading CNA Report: PRC Concepts for UAV Swarms in Future Warfare CNA InDepth: China Readies Drone Swarms for Future War

Everyone knew it was coming, but when U.S. President Carter announced on Dec. 15, 1978 that Washington D.C. was switching diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in two weeks, both the Taiwanese people and the foreign community (then mostly Americans) were shocked. On that historic day of Jan. 1, 1979, Robert Parker began his term as the President of the American Chamber of Commerce. He soon found himself forced to act as a kind of de facto U.S. ambassador. Part of the bombshell announcement was the deadline for decoupling: everything and everyone officially connected to the United States would vanish by April 1979. For Parker, this resulted in near-surreal experiences that included helping cobble together a civilian radio station in 90 days (ICRT FM100.7), walking a political tightrope to determine the legality of the Taipei American School, and testifying before the U.S. Congress as American officials reacted to Carter's recognition of the PRC by passing the Taiwan Relations Act… a large part of which was based on his testimony. These tumultuous times are described in his 2025 book (written with Don Shapiro), “Derecognition: How Americans in Taiwan surmounted multiple crises and helped shape the Taiwan Relations Act when the U.S. broke diplomatic relations with a loyal ally” – and this week, we're happy to have Mr. Parker on Formosa Files for a fascinating chat.Please share, like, comment, review - we need your help so that others can discover this podcast.

Gregory Copley reports that Chinese leader Xi Jinping's power has diminished, noting he is expected to step down as General Secretary at the upcoming fourth plenum, retaining only the powerless PRC presidency. Copley suggests the new leadership may reduce global aggression because the country lacks money, resources, and solidarity for a global campaign, and faces massive domestic food and water crises. He also addresses Tony Blair's "surreal politic" role in the Gaza plan and the fragility of the clerical leadership in Iran. 1917 PRINCETON IN PEKING

Gregory Copley reports that Chinese leader Xi Jinping's power has diminished, noting he is expected to step down as General Secretary at the upcoming fourth plenum, retaining only the powerless PRC presidency. Copley suggests the new leadership may reduce global aggression because the country lacks money, resources, and solidarity for a global campaign, and faces massive domestic food and water crises. He also addresses Tony Blair's "surreal politic" role in the Gaza plan and the fragility of the clerical leadership in Iran. 1922 SUN YAT SEN

Gregory Copley reports that Chinese leader Xi Jinping's power has diminished, noting he is expected to step down as General Secretary at the upcoming fourth plenum, retaining only the powerless PRC presidency. Copley suggests the new leadership may reduce global aggression because the country lacks money, resources, and solidarity for a global campaign, and faces massive domestic food and water crises. He also addresses Tony Blair's "surreal politic" role in the Gaza plan and the fragility of the clerical leadership in Iran. 1944 GOLD BEACH, NORMANDY

Gregory Copley reports that Chinese leader Xi Jinping's power has diminished, noting he is expected to step down as General Secretary at the upcoming fourth plenum, retaining only the powerless PRC presidency. Copley suggests the new leadership may reduce global aggression because the country lacks money, resources, and solidarity for a global campaign, and faces massive domestic food and water crises. He also addresses Tony Blair's "surreal politic" role in the Gaza plan and the fragility of the clerical leadership in Iran. 1870 BUCKINGHAM

On today's Andrew and Bill begin with President Trump's executive order authorizing a proposal for a TikTok divestiture from ByteDance. Topics include: Why the proposed deal would be a win for ByteDance, China and the Trump administration, security concerns that haven't necessarily been addressed, and signals that opposition to the deal across D.C. is likely to be muted. Then: A report that the PRC will seek a shift on U.S. Taiwan policy in the course of trade talks, Secretary Bessent floats potential counter-measures for the U.S., and soybean farmers continue to twist in the wind. At the end: Thoughts on the PRC's new K Visa program to attract foreign tech talent, dates for the fourth plenum, a very interesting rumor about Xi and a revival of the Central Advisory Commission, reactions to a Jensen Huang podcast appearance last week, and BIS closes a big export control loophole.

October 1st is "National Day" in the PRC, a holiday celebrating the founding of the nation. For the average Joe, this has a very important implication: vacation! In this lesson, learn how official holidays are announced, as well as some of their unfortunate drawbacks. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1509

In mid-September, while many China watchers were focused on the Xiangshan Forum, the Chinese military's annual high-level security and defense convening in Beijing, another major annual meeting was being held by the Ministry of Public Security in the Chinese city of Lianyungang (2-2-3). The Lianyungang Forum dates to 2015 but was upgraded and renamed the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum in 2022 following Xi Jinping's launch of the Global Security Initiative. This year it was attended by 2,000 participants from 120 countries, regions and international organizations. The theme was “Shaping Global Public Security Together: United Action to Tackle Diverse Threats.”  As Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong made clear in his opening speech, China is advancing an alternative to the western-led security order. Dr. Sheena Chestnut Greitens is a leading expert on Beijing's push to reshape the global security order and promote China as a model and global security provider to developing countries. Sheena is an associate professor at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin where she directs UT's Asia Policy Program and serves as editor-in-chief of the Texas National Security Review. She is also a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment of International Peace, and a visiting associate professor of research in Indo-Pacific security at the China Landpower Studies Center of the U.S. Army War College's Strategic Studies Institute. Relevant to this episode's discussion, Sheena recently published a co-authored report for the Carnegie Endowment of International Peace Carnegie titled “A New World Cop.” Timestamps:  [00:00] Start [02:30] The Global Security Initiative and Xi Jinping's Grand Strategy [05:22] Outcomes of the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum  [08:50] What Do Participant Countries Gain?  [12:23] How Do Recipient Countries Use Chinese Technologies?  [16:12] Countries Rejecting China's Surveillance Technologies  [21:49] China's Rewriting of Global Norms [28:18] Potential Policy Responses to the GSI 

For decades, while the rest of the world's powers have distracted and tangled themselves with wars of choice and blunder, the People's Republic of China has been watching, learning, and building. To what end?Returning to Midrats to discuss this and more will be Dean Cheng.Dean is a Senior Advisor, United States Institute of Peace; Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies; Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute.He recently retired after 13 years with the Heritage Foundation, where he was a senior research fellow on Chinese political and security affairs, and wrote on various aspects of Chinese foreign and defense policy.Prior to joining the Heritage Foundation, he was a senior analyst with the China Studies Division (previously, Project Asia) at CNA from 2001-2009.Before joining CNA, he was a senior analyst with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) from 1996-2001. From 1993-1995, he was an analyst with the US Congress' Office of Technology Assessment in the International Security and Space Division, where he studied the Chinese defense industrial complex.He is the author of the book Cyber Dragon: Inside China's Information Warfare and Cyber Operations (NY: Praeger Publishing, 2016), as well as a number of papers and book chapters examining various aspects of Chinese security affairs.Show LinksXi Jinping hails ‘unstoppable' China at landmark military parade, Financial TimesMore than pageantry, China's military parade shows off new missiles, drones and other equipment, The IndependentYJ-15 missile, YJ-19, YJ-17, YJ-20 hypersonic missiles, Global TimesNASA Names Astronauts to Next Moon Mission, First Crew Under ArtemisSummaryIn this conversation, Dean Cheng and the hosts discuss the implications of China's recent military parade, the evolution of its nuclear capabilities, and the modernization of its conventional military forces. They focus on China's ambition to establish a new world order and the strategic importance of its space and cyber capabilities. The discussion also touches on the role of coercion and deterrence in China's military strategy, as well as the challenges posed by its growing influence on the global stage.TakeawaysChina's military parade reflects its growing power and ambition.The presence of foreign leaders at the parade indicates shifting alliances.China is expanding its nuclear capabilities significantly.The PLA is focusing on both conventional and nuclear modernization.China's approach to military strategy includes both coercion and deterrence.The Chinese space program aims for long-term presence on the moon.China's cyber capabilities are evolving rapidly and pose a threat.The PLA's indigenous production capabilities are improving.China's military strategy is influenced by its historical context.The geopolitical landscape is changing with China's rise.Chapters00:00: Introduction to the Discussion on China and Military Parades03:07: Analysis of the Recent Military Parade and Its Implications06:05: The Evolution of China's Nuclear Capabilities12:07: China's Conventional Military Strategy and Modernization16:04: China's Global Influence and New World Order20:06: The Role of Coercion and Deterrence in Chinese Strategy26:12: China's Space Program and Technological Advancements34:59: China's Cyber and Information Warfare Capabilities43:46: The Future of China's Military and Strategic Developments

PRC joins

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with last Friday's call between Trump and Xi. Topics include: Plans for a meeting in South Korea and a Trump visit to Beijing early next year, whether summits on the horizon will lead to a period of stabilization, and why both sides may see the status quo as advantageous. From there: Parsing the latest reports concerning the TikTok sale, including unresolved questions surrounding the algorithm, sourced reporting that seems to change by the day, reactions in Washington that will shed light on next steps, and the CAC taking aim at short form video in the PRC. At the end: A note on the PRC and the Poland-Belarus border closure (which was re-opened after recording), and a look at the controversy swirling around Arcteryx after an ill-advised fireworks display spawns outrage, investigations and boycotts.

Adam and Ian hear from Geoff Parling ahead of Tigers' PRC game against Quins on Friday.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with the news of a “framework,” a consensus, and a possible deal to divest TikTok US from its parent company, ByteDance. Topics include: The many details yet to be resolved publicly, the unknown fate of the algorithm and its legal implications, messaging from both the US and PRC delegations in Madrid, the ways in which a deal would benefit ByteDance, and the deflating path from April 2024 to this week. From there: The SAMR shares its findings in the Nvidia antitrust investigation, the PRC announces two additional responses to US chip pressure, and the US adds 23 PRC firms to the entity list. Then: Meta has its own China dependence, an AP report on US firms enabling the PRC surveillance state, and a look at the evolving methods of the CPC and its propaganda network. At the end: LeBron James' camp offers a clarification on last week's People's Daily article, and PRC pigeon racing hits the Washington Post.

Since 1951, when Tibet was formally annexed into the People's Republic of China, Tibet has been a battleground between China's efforts to assert control and the Tibetan people's struggle to preserve their cultural and religious identity. This past August, Xi Jinping made a surprise visit to Tibet, his second since becoming China's top leader in 2012. Less than two months earlier, the Dalai Lama, now 90 years old, announced that his office, not China, would choose his successor when he passes. A few months before that, the Dalai Lama revealed in a memoir that he would reincarnate outside of China. The PRC insists that the next incarnation – the 15th Dalai Lama – will be born inside PRC territory and approved by the Chinese government. What are Beijing's interests in Tibet and how has Xi Jinping pursued them since coming to power? What is likely to occur after the Dalai Lama's passing? I'm delighted to have as my guest today Tendor Dorjee. Tendor is an adjunct assistant professor of political science at Columbia University, a senior researcher at the Tibet Action Institute, and the inaugural Stephanie G Neuman Fellow at the Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies. He recently co-authored an article in Foreign Affairs titled Beijing's Dangerous Game in Tibet”.Timestamps[00:00] Start [02:08] Beijing's Key Interests in Tibet [04:06] Xi Jinping's Approach to Tibet [07:00] Internal and External Drivers of Tibet Policy [08:08] Xi's Recent Visit to Tibet [11:34] Infrastructure Developments and Expansionism  [15:27] Beijing's Succession Plans and Tibetan Reactions to a Future Dalai Lama [20:27] Risk of Unrest and Crackdowns [25:43] Implications for Neighboring States 

We're plowing ahead five years from last month's pod subject but staying in the low – rent, “B” picture roots of film noir, with just a bit more polish, a little more class (because of a slightly larger budget). While last month's Detour sticks with you, it's because of its rough edges and the kick-in-the-gut noirness of the fated fall of the protagonist (as well as the hyper – meanness of the femme fatale --- Ann Savage indeed!). This month, we look at a film that has an incredible behind-the-camera crew, a great cast with many nice surprises, but also some tendrils that tie it to Detour --- it's 1950's Gun Crazy. The film also ushers in (or joins, depending on your view) the sub – genre of “youngstas on the run” noir, as also exemplified by Nicholas Ray's 1948 work They Live By Night, 1949's Knock On Any Door, Tomorrow Is Another Day in 1951, and continuing the sub-genre into neonoir with Badlands and the remake of They Live By Night, Robert Altman's Thieves Like Us. We're privileged to see sharp writing, wonderful direction, a fabulous ten – minute bit of direct cinema, fine acting, but an inevitable, aching drive down the tracks to a waiting and remorseless fate.Detour came out of Poverty Row Hollywood --- Gun Crazy was hard on its run – down heels. PRC barely fronted the money for Detour, and the King Brothers, Frank and Maurice, were only slightly more generous in working up Gun Crazy's budget (courtesy of the aptly named King Brothers Productions --- which we'll shorten to KBP). This was another Hollywood “B” picture with no delusions of grandeur --- it was going to play on the bottom of the bill or in the sticks. But for the money, KBP floated a film that was packed with talent --- talent admittedly somewhat over a monetary barrel, but talent, nonetheless. What did KBP get for their $400K and thirty days of shooting? Website and blog: www.thosewonderfulpeople.comIG: @thosewonderfulpeopleTwitter: @FilmsInTheDark

Adam and Ian hear from new fly-half Orlando Bailey as Tigers face Saracens in the PRC.

PREVIEW: This file features a conversation between John Batchelor and Jim Fanell, a retired US Navy intelligence captain, regarding China's aggression in the South China Sea. They discuss China's 2012 seizure of Scarborough Shoal and its continued efforts to provoke the Philippines and assert "irregular" claims. Jim Fanell explains that China's declaration of Scarborough Shoal as its own, controlling access, is based on PRC law and constitutes aggression, aiming to dominate the Philippines militarily or diplomatically. Recently, a Chinese Navy destroyer and coast guard cutter chased a Philippine Coast Guard vessel, demonstrating China's intent to take full possession of Scarborough Shoal and deny Filipino access, showing a willingness to use increasing military force. This echoes the 2012 event when China took Scarborough Shoal from the Philippines without firing a shot under the Obama administration, with the awareness of Secretary Clinton and Kurt Campbell. More recently, the Chinese state government declared Scarborough Shoal a nature reserve, a "political warfare move" to force Filipinos to seek permission for access and threatening the use of force under Chinese law if they enter without authorization.

In Season 6, Episode 4 of Global Taiwan Insights, Ben Sando interviews Sze-Fung Lee, an independent researcher specializing in hybrid warfare. In December 2024, the Taiwanese YouTuber "Ba Jiong" (八炯) made the explosive claim that some 200,000 Taiwanese citizens possess People's Republic of China (PRC) ID cards – an activity that is illegal under Taiwanese law. The report sparked an uproar in Taiwan, and led to an investigation by Taiwan's National Immigration Agency. Lee explains the PRC hybrid warfare tactics behind issuing ID cards to Taiwanese citizens, why cracking down on this activity has proven so controversial, and how this issue connects to broader efforts by Taiwan's government to push back against PRC subversion.

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin by looking back at last week's Victory Day parade. Topics include: The domestic messaging from the PRC, cold war imagery from a regime that denounces cold war thinking, questions about the EU perspective, the implications of the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, North Korea's relationship to the PRC, a hot mic moment between Xi and Putin, and President Trump's Truth Social post responding to the parade. From there: A flurry of US-China stories, including Nvidia in the New York Times, a Politico report on Pentagon priorities, and PRC hackers allegedly impersonating Rep. John Moolenaar. At the end: The State Council continues a push for increased sports consumption and investment, thoughts on LeBron James in the People's Daily and the NBA's return to China, and South Park tackles the Labubu craze.

In the milestone 100th episode of "Why Should We Care About the Indo-Pacific?", co-hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso celebrate their podcast's century mark with a fast-paced, insightful, and at times humorous look back at some of their most memorable moments, guests, and listener interactions. Without a guest this week, Ray and Jim turn the spotlight on themselves, their audience, their incredible slate of past guests, and a region that keeps changing the strategic map.The hosts set the tone for a reflective and dynamic show, diving into listener emails and social media comments that illustrate the podcast's loyal following from locations across the globe. Ray and Jim revisit some of the most interesting, provocative, quirky and timely lines from prior guests--including former US National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster, U.S. Pacific Air Forces Commander General Kevin Schneider, former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, President Surangel Whipps of Palau, former U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Commander Admiral Phil Davidson, and sitting Philippine Secretary of Defense Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro--challenging each other to recall who said what and why those remarks matter in today's Indo-Pacific landscape.A central theme is the evolving nature of U.S. strategy, from discussions of "spheres of influence" and the shift in national security focus to debates over U.S. credibility and engagement in regions beyond the Indo-Pacific. The hosts analyze how once-standard priorities such as the rules-based order and extended U.S. presence are now questioned domestically and abroad. Listener comments prompt discussion of perceptions of America across the region, concerns over interference, and the shifting balance of great power influence. The episode highlights President Whipps' steadfast support for Taiwan in the face of Chinese economic inducements--a striking example of Indo-Pacific agency and risk-taking in the current geopolitical climate.Memorable moments include insights from Secretary Teodoro on the critical role of the rules-based order for smaller states, self-deprecating tales of military karaoke anxiety from General Schneider, and a glancing critique of U.S. foreign policy “whiplash,” recalling both Afghanistan and Vietnam withdrawals. The podcast's ability to draw high-profile guests and engage in candid, sometimes irreverent dialogue is evident as the hosts reminisce. Woven through the humor and storytelling is a serious undercurrent about U.S. credibility, PRC aggression, alliance management, and the centrality of the Indo-Pacific in global affairs.The hosts close with tributes to listeners, their inimitable producer, Ian Ellis-Jones, and their gratitude for reaching 100 episodes amidst rapidly growing listenership--now surpassing 40,000 subscribers across all platforms. As always, we encourage feedback and celebrate our incredible audience, and promise to continue featuring the perspectives and stories that matter most to Indo-Pacific watchers.

PREVIEW: PRC COAL: Colleague Cliff May comments on the irony that the PRC is praised for selling EVs and other green tech that is all produced by burning dirty coal emitting greenhouse gases. More tonight.1940 MAO.

PREVIEW: AI RACE WITH PRC: Colleague Chris Riegel comments on the success and obvious advantage of the new component in the AI build out, the HBM (HIGH BANDWIDTH MEMORY) from SK Hynix of ROK, not available to the PRC to acquire without gaming. More later. 1954 

This is Frank Gaffney with the Secure Freedom Minute. Chinese dictator Xi Jinping just hosted leaders of the world's most dangerous regimes against the backdrop of a parade through Tiananmen Square testifying to the PRC's unprecedented military build-up.  President Trump declared on social media that Xi, Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un are “conspiring  against the United States.” There are ominous indicators of what such a conspiracy might entail. For one thing, past pilgrimages to Beijing by Putin, Israel's enemies and Venezuela's Nicholas Maduro have resulted in actual, or promised, acts of “strategic arson.”  And all of these co-conspirators appear to be preparing for more such aggression by mobilizing and/or upgunning forces, and in the case of Russia, North Korea and some Iranian proxies engaging in actual attacks. An important webinar tomorrow afternoon will examine what the Beijing Bloc may do next. Join us at PresentDangerChina.org. This is Frank Gaffney.

PREVIEW: SERBIA: Colleague Ivana Stradner of FDD comments on the close working bond between Belgrade's Vucic and PRC's Xi. More. 1930 BELGRAD

The 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit wasn't just a meeting; it was the unveiling of a strategy. Hosted by Xi Jinping, the summit served as a calculated demonstration of Sino-Russian convening power. More importantly, it marked a concrete effort to operationalize an alternative, multipolar system designed explicitly to bypass Western economic and technological architectures.We just witnessed a significant inflection point in the global strategic competition. The rhetoric in Tianjin was overtly adversarial, with Xi Jinping denouncing "bullying behavior" and a "Cold War mentality." But beyond the rhetoric, the summit launched China's Global Governance Initiative (GGI), formalized commitments to building parallel financial infrastructure, and featured a strategically significant—and complex—détente between China and India.To break down the implications of this pivotal gathering, SCSP's President and CEO Ylli Bajraktari sat down with colleagues David Lin (China/East Asia/Tech), Joe Wang (Russia/Europe), and Sameer Lalwani (U.S.-India Defense) for an immediate assessment.The Propaganda Coup and Autocratic Convening PowerThe immediate takeaway from the summit was the sheer spectacle. Xi positioned himself at the center of the largest gathering in the organization's history, flanked by Vladimir Putin and, significantly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The timing was deliberate. As David Lin noted, it was a "big week for Xi." The SCO meeting was strategically sandwiched between the first-ever public meeting of Putin, Kim Jong Un, and Xi, and a massive World War II anniversary parade in Beijing featuring thousands of troops and military hardware."It's a huge propaganda win for Beijing," Lin observed. "It gives Xi an opportunity to promote itself as being this global convener," while simultaneously pushing a tech-focused agenda.For Vladimir Putin, the summit was essential for mitigating diplomatic isolation and promoting the SCO as an alternative to NATO."Look at the past couple of weeks of Putin... he's going to be riding high right now," said Joe Wang. While few concrete deals may have materialized immediately that changed the dynamics in Ukraine, the optics were invaluable. "Being seen with President Xi, being seen with Modi... it's like Russia's back. For him, it's a great PR coup."The Architecture of a New Techno-Economic OrderThe summit demonstrated that the SCO is evolving from a regional security forum into the primary vehicle for the PRC to consolidate a bloc resistant to U.S. influence. We are witnessing the acceleration of a bifurcated world, characterized not just by differing political ideologies, but by competing technological ecosystems and financial systems.1. The Export of Digital AuthoritarianismXi formally introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI). While promoting "sovereign equality," the GGI is, in practice, a strategic blueprint to legitimize digital sovereignty—the right of states to control domestic information ecosystems, data flows, and technological infrastructure without adherence to democratic norms.The SCO's endorsement provides an institutional foundation for the PRC to export its model of techno-authoritarian control. This isn't just theoretical."At the SCO in particular, China was trying to push a lot of its techno-political agenda," David Lin emphasized. This included announcements that Beijing wants to set up S&T cooperation centers, an “AI application cooperation center,” launch joint solar and wind projects, and push Beidou, its alternative to GPS, across the SCO member states. Taken together, this could directly challenge the open, interoperable architecture championed by the U.S. and its allies, moving toward a fractured, PRC-controlled digital ecosystem across Eurasia.2. Accelerating Financial De-CouplingThe most concrete outcome was the political decision to fast-track the establishment of an SCO Development Bank, seeded with significant Chinese capital. This mechanism, coupled with agreements to expand the use of local currencies for intra-SCO trade, is explicitly designed to circumvent the SWIFT system and erode the efficacy of U.S. financial sanctions.This coordinated effort directly challenges the foundation of U.S. economic statecraft by building a resilient, alternative financial architecture among major energy producers (Russia, Iran) and the world's largest manufacturer (China).The India Factor: A Strategic RecalibrationThe most significant geopolitical development, and the one that caused the most consternation in Washington, was the visible rapprochement between Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi—Modi's first visit to China in seven years."For a lot of US-India relationship watchers, Prime Minister Modi's visit to Beijing and attending this meeting came as a big surprise. It was a shock," Ylli Bajraktari noted.How should the U.S. interpret this move by a critical Quad partner?"Honestly, I think this was inevitable in some ways. India has been rebalancing," explained Sameer Lalwani. India has always professed itself to be a multi-aligned country, but recent U.S. actions also played a significant role. "The elephant in the room is, the United States has been pushing India around a little bit more... in terms of tariffs, additional tariffs because of Russian oil."Lalwani argued that India was "demonstrating they had some options." However, this does not signal a fundamental shift. "It shouldn't be lost on us that before India went to this, they stopped in Japan first." Furthermore, Modi notably absented himself from the military parade, signaling nuance in his engagement—he would participate in the SCO, but not the military spectacle.The underlying strategic realities also remain unchanged."India has a border with China that's still disputed, and China continues to coerce India... [and] China armed, trained and wired the weapons that Pakistan used to fight India" in a recent conflict. — Sameer Lalwani"I don't think that's forgotten for India," Lalwani added. The U.S.-India defense relationship remains a strong ballast, pointing to ongoing joint exercises (like Yudh Abhyas currently underway in Alaska) and India's reliance on U.S. platforms for maritime reconnaissance.The Limits of the Axis (And Why We Can't Ignore It)While the summit projected unity, the SCSP analysts urged a nuanced view of the underlying relationships."It is important to remember that a lot of this is perhaps only skin deep," David Lin cautioned, pointing to the recent history of violent border clashes between China and India, and the tight spot Beijing was put in by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.Yet, dismissing the SCO would be a strategic error. The organization has evolved significantly."I remember I was in grad school when [the SCO] first came up... we all kind of jokingly just laughed it off," Joe Wang recalled. "Fast forward 15, 20 years and see where it is now... Things don't just happen overnight."While the "bromance between Putin and Xi" is undeniable, the integration is not comparable to U.S. alliances like NATO or the U.S.-Japan relationship. "There's still a level of distrust that I think we need to be mindful about," Wang noted.The trap is assuming this alignment is already solidified, while simultaneously failing to plan for the contingency that it might be. "If you're in the US government, you don't have the luxury of not taking a lot of these statements at face value," Wang said. "We need to plan ahead."The U.S. Response: Competing in the Gray ZoneThe 2025 SCO Summit confirms that the organization is the leading edge of China's campaign to fracture the global order. How should the United States respond?1. Offer a Compelling Alternative Tech Stack. "One of the lowest hanging fruit things the U.S. should do is show that there is an alternative to this," David Lin argued. As the SCO bloc develops internal capacities and indigenous technology standards, the U.S. must demonstrate there is a viable, democratic alternative to the "China tech stack" that Beijing is actively exporting.2. Master the Game of Global Diplomacy. The U.S. must regain its strategic agility and relearn how to operate in a complex world. "After the Cold War, one of the things that America stopped doing well was play the game of global diplomacy," Joe Wang argued. The U.S. has often viewed the world in black-and-white terms, assuming its preeminence was undisputed."We've lost that strategic foresight and ability to be nimble and operate in this sort of gray zone... We need to see the world for being the gray zone that it is." — Joe WangThis means avoiding the trap of reacting to events like Modi's visit by assuming allegiances have permanently shifted—"Oh my God, Modi is in China. Therefore it must mean that he's now on their side"—while still applying pressure and offering incentives to keep partners aligned.3. Double Down on Real Alliances. The U.S. must emphasize the depth of its own partnerships, which Lin noted "runs so much deeper" than the transactional relationships within the SCO.For India specifically, Sameer Lalwani urged action over reaction. "I don't think there's any need to overreact to cheap talk." Instead, the U.S. bureaucracy needs to move faster on concrete deliverables, and Congress should confirm key diplomatic nominees. "When India says it wants to buy Javelin missiles and it's ready to do so, I don't want that to get stalled in a process when we need the political wins now."The competition is no longer just between the U.S. and China; it is between the U.S.-led democratic order and a sophisticated, resource-rich, PRC-led coalition. The Tianjin Summit is a clear signal that this coalition is moving from rhetoric to action. The U.S. must do the same. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit scsp222.substack.com

On today's show Andrew and Bill begin with takeaways from the SCO Summit, including Xi's announcement of the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), outreach to the global south, and the PRC's warming relationship with India as Modi's first trip to China in seven years spawns anxiety in the US, and a variety of structural tensions remain. From there: Context for Beijing's recent efforts to correct the views of World War II, including efforts to recognize China's role in defeating Japan, contested accounts of the Communist Party's contributions, and contested understandings of the Potsdam Declaration. At the end: Mexico moots tariffs of their own, the US rescinds a waiver for SK Hynix and Samsung factories in China, and a few takeaways from Nvidia's earnings call last week.

PREVIEW: CCP PARADE: Colleague Mary Kissel comments on the incessant military boasting by the PRC. More later. 1958 WELCOMING KIM OF DPRK.

This is Frank Gaffney with the Secure Freedom Minute.    The White House announced yesterday that President Trump is not proposing to issue six hundred thousand student visas to Chinese nationals. That's the good news.  The bad news is that the Trump administration will instead simply maintain the current number of such PRC “students” at large in this country. That amounts to roughly a quarter million of them – all of whom the Chinese Communists can weaponize, compelling them to steal our intellectual property and other secrets, and/or potentially engage in devastating physical attacks, particularly collectively. Consequently, President Trump needs to restore the policy that Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled just three months ago, declaring: “The U.S. State Department will work with the Department of Homeland Security to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.” Just do it This is Frank Gaffney.

PRC: 600,000 students in the US. Charles Burton, @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Charles Burton, senior fellow at Sinopsis, on this: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-ignites-conservative-backlash-opening-door-600000-chinese-students-madness

This is Frank Gaffney with the Secure Freedom Minute.  Communist China is in trouble. The cumulative effect of various economic, environmental and demographic problems precipitated by decades of Chinese Communist Party misrule is translating into acute political turmoil. There is growing speculation that dictator Xi Jinping's grip on absolute power is imperiled. That crisis presents President Trump with a momentous choice: Come to the CCP's rescue, as did his predecessors Richard Nixon, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Or, like Ronald Reagan, help liberate people enslaved and murdered by a regime that mortally threatens us. Mr. Trump's announcement that he'll admit six hundred thousand PRC students – reportedly a priority of, and favor to, Xi – suggests he's willing to prop up the CCP. Having what could translate into a million fighting-age Chinese nationals in the United States, however, is an obvious threat to our country, and the wrong choice regarding China.  This is Frank Gaffney.

Preview: PRC History. Colleague Gordon Chang remarks on why the PRC claims to have defeated the Japanese Empire by itself. More later. 1937 JAPAN IN SHANGHAI HARBOR

Preview: PRC. Colleague Fraser Howie comments on why there is little hope for a PRC economy to recover from the property crater. More later. 1925 HK

Ted Sellers and Biodude in studio with PRC trying out as Producer. Justin can't get the YouTube to work so the show is audio only. Kirk rips into Biodude (0:02:25). The lead singer of Staind goes after Bruce Springsteen for duping America (0:25:00). PRC makes his pitch (0:54:00). PRC brought a murder mystery game (0:59:00). PRC reveals his wife is a transgender woman (1:17:30). It was the 22nd anniversary of The Rolling Stone's top 100 guitarists of all time (1:45:00).You can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/kminshow

PRC not welcome in Kyiv. Victoria Coates, Heritage, @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill https://www.newsweek.com/china-russia-ukraine-war-security-guarantee-2117587 1916 ODESSA

There's something about music that cuts deeper than words alone. A single lyric, a familiar melody, or even the rhythm of a beat can stir memories we thought were long forgotten and awaken parts of ourselves we may have buried. It reminds us of who we were before the chaos, before the pain, before substances clouded our vision.  Pursuing our favorite hobbies before substance use can be a lifeline back to our core, a way of reclaiming the truest version of ourselves. Listen in as our guest this week shares how he turned his lifelong passion into purpose and found a way back home to himself. Skyler Ray was born on November 28, 1990, in San Jose, California. He grew up in foster homes and spent multiple years homeless—going from being locked up to sleeping on the sidewalks of downtown Portland. His music is deeply rooted in his life experiences, including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. He is a firm believer in spreading hope and giving back to the community he once helped destroy. Since being released from prison on November 30, 2018, Skyler has refocused on his music and is determined to share his message with the world. He continues to live in Portland, Oregon, and remains clean and sober. In this conversation, Jamie Demeris and Skyler Ray discuss what it really takes to rebuild a life after addiction. Together, they explore the mindset shifts that turn relapse into resilience, why consistency and small steps matter more than giant leaps, and how reconnecting with your passions can anchor you in sobriety.  Skyler shares how music became both his therapy and his message, and why vulnerability and self-respect are the foundation of lasting recovery. Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just searching for hope, this conversation will remind you that transformation is always possible. Topics Discussed: The importance of continuously working on yourself  Why relapse isn't a step back and how you can stand up stronger  Pursuing your passions and who you are at your core in sobriety Why small, consistent steps make the most impact Reconnecting with your why & remembering who you were before substances Learning to love and respect yourself — CHAPTERS:  ​​0:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD 01:10 Meet Skylar Ray: From Addiction to Recovery 02:16 Skylar's Battle with Addiction 03:56 Turning Point: Embracing Music and Sobriety 12:50 The Road to Recovery Tour 19:35 Overcoming Disbelief and Embracing Change 22:54 Climbing the Corporate Ladder 23:43 A Humbling Demotion 24:17 Prison Reflections and Personal Growth 26:22 Musical Journey and Personal Transformation 29:14 The Power of Sound and Recovery 33:23 Chasing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges 40:33 Tour Dates and Final Thoughts — Connect with Skyler Ray:  Road to Recovery Tour: https://www.officialskylerray.com/road-to-recovery-tour  Website: www.officialskylerray.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealSkylerRay  — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg   Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox!

Preview: Russia. Colleague Conrad Black comments on the risk of damaging Moscow enough to fall into a client state of the PRC. More later.

Nvidia: And the smuggling PRC. #ScalaReport: Chris Riegel CEO, Scala.com @Stratacache

CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor Show Schedule 8-21-25 The show begins in Anchorage Alaska, watching the two principals seek a resolution for Ukraine, NATO, Trump administration and Russia. 1910 USS MASSACHUCETTS  First Hour 9:00-9:15 Russia: Long road to resolution. Anatol Lieven, Quincy 9:15-9:30 Russia: Long road to resolution. Anatol Lieven, Quincy continued 9:30-9:45 Nvidia: And the smuggling PRC. #ScalaReport: Chris Riegel CEO, Scala.com @Stratacache 9:45-10:00 Hotel Mars: PRC Long March 9 booster for the Earth-Moon System. Rick Fisher, David Livingston Second Hour 10:00-10:15 #NewWorldReport: Bolivia votes surprise. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @RevAnEllis #NewWorldReportEllis 10:15-10:30 #NewWorldReport: Brazil lawfare and defiance. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @RevAnEllis #NewWorldReportEllis 10:30-10:45 #NewWorldReport: USN flotilla off Venezuela. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @RevAnEllis #NewWorldReportEllis 10:45-11:00 #NewWorldReport: Good news Paraguay. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @RevAnEllis #NewWorldReportEllis Third Hour 11:00-11:15 Vietnam War 1/8: Military History. Geoffrey Wawro 11:15-11:30 Vietnam War 2/8: Military History. Geoffrey Wawro 11:30-11:45 Vietnam War 3/8: Military History. Geoffrey Wawro 11:45-12:00 Vietnam War 4/8: Military History. Geoffrey Wawro Fourth Hour 12:00-12:15 Russia: Not trustworthy. Cliff May, FDD 12:15-12:30 Russia: Not trustworthy. Cliff May, FDD continued 12:30-12:45 Russia & Kazakhstan: Alleged laundering at Trump SoHo. Craig Unger, author 12:45-1:00 AM Venezuela and Mexico: Military response on the table. Mary Anastasia O'Grady

Blind Mike and Mut in studio as tickets go on sale for Saco. Mut makes his big announcement (0:06:00). Chickenfry responded to Kirk by saying he is why Barstool is looked at as a misogynistic company (0:22:10). Coleman needs to be on the shore house again this weekend (0:30:00). Taylor Swift on New Heights dropped last night (0:38:00). Recording Mut's "I'm A Coleman" (0:58:00). Mut really appreciates PRC's Substack (1:48:00). Get your Saco tickets here: KMSTickets.comYou can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/kminshow

SHOW SCHEDULE  8-13-25 1917 ODESSA CIRCUS THE SHOW BEGINS IN UKRAINE ENROUTE TO ALASKA... CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor First Hour 9:00-9:15 #Ukraine: Putin wants; Kyiv wants. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @McCauslJ @CBSNews @DickinsonCol 9:15-9:30 #Ukraine: Trump wants. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @McCauslJ @CBSNews @DickinsonCol 9:30-9:45 PRC: Repeating failure. Anne Stevenson-Yang @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 9:45-10:00 South China Sea: PLA provocation. Jim Holmes, @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Second Hour 10:00-10:15 Nixon: Continues with Trump vs Administrative State. Steve Hayward, Civitas Institute 10:15-10:30 Nixon: Continues with Trump vs Administrative State. Steve Hayward, Civitas Institute 10:30-10:45 Sudan: Anarchy with guns. Husain Abdul-Husain, FDD 10:45-11:00 Robert Kaplan and the analog Weimar Republic 2025. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover Third Hour 11:00-11:15 Alaska: Low expectations. John Bolton 11:15-11:30 Alaska: Power secondary sanctions. Michael Bernstam, Hoover 11:30-11:45 Oceania: CNMI influenced by PRC. Cleo Paskal, FDD 11:45-12:00 US Navy: Sea going drones and the fleet. Jim Holmes @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Fourth Hour 12:00-12:15 France: Heat wave. Simon Constable 12:15-12:30 UK: Vance in the Cotswolds 12:30-12:45 Kuiper launching. Bob Zimmerman BehindTheBlack.com 12:45-1:00 AM Interstellar comets unknowns. Bob Zimmerman BehindTheBlack.com

Preview: PRC Banks. Colleague Anne Stevenson-Yang comments that PRC banking is as unstable as the property market it lends. More later. 1969

Oceania: CNMI influenced by PRC. Cleo Paskal, FDD 1944 SAIPAN

PRC and Iran. Behnam Ben Taleblu, FDD.  Gordon Chang@GORDONGCHANG, GATESTONE, NEWSWEEK, THE HILL 1850

PRC and Lunar Landing KNOCK-OFF WITH TOUCH SCREEEENS. Brandon Weichert, Gordon Chang 1969

Preview: Lunar landers. Colleague Brandon Weichert of National Interest comments on the PRC test of a full scale exact copy of the NASA LEM Eagle that landed forever on the Moon Tranquility Base 56 years ago. More 1969

SHOW SCHEDULE 8-6-25 The show begins in the Cold War: the "Dead Hand" scenario... 1900 MOSCOW CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9-915 #UKRAINE: Medvedev threatens dead hand. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @MCCAUSLJ @CBSNEWS @DICKINSONCOL 915-930 #UKRAINE: PRC bolsters struggling Putin. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @MCCAUSLJ @CBSNEWS @DICKINSONCOL 930-945 Russian oil and Delhi. Michael Bernstam, Hoover 945-1000 Big Pharma America. Jonathan Miltimore, Civitas SECOND HOUR 10-1015 EU and PRC. Theresa Fallon, Gordon Chang 1015-1030 ROK and DPRK. Gordon Chang 1030-1045 PRC and Russia. Blaine Holt 1045-1100 Globalization failed. Alan Tonelson THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 India tariffs 50%. Sadanand Dhume 1115-1130 India and AI. Sadanand Dhume 1130-1145 SpaceX TOSS. Bob Zimmerman, behindtheblack.com 1145-1200 Curiosity 2012. Bob Zimmerman, behindtheblack.com FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 Plums ripe, copper crashed. Simon Constable 1215-1230 Migrant hotels and Labour. Joseph Sternberg 1230-1245 Russia and Trump, 2007. Craig Unger 1245-100 AM Russia and Trump, 2007. Craig Unger continued

PRC and Russia. Blaine Holt

EU and PRC. Theresa Fallon, Gordon Chang 1849 BRUSSELS