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World Review with Ivo Daalder
World Review with Ivo Daalder
Author: Ivo Daalder
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Global events move fast—World Review helps you keep up. Each Friday, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder brings together leading journalists and experts to break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.
A Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs podcast from Harvard Kennedy School. ivodaalder.substack.com
A Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs podcast from Harvard Kennedy School. ivodaalder.substack.com
173 Episodes
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Ivo Daalder discusses the week's major global events with Yasmeen Abutaleb, Gideon Rachman, and Chris Miller on this episode of World Review. The conversation covers the escalating tensions in Iran, the geopolitical implications of Greenland, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The panel examines President Trump's foreign policy strategies, the credibility of security guarantees, and the potential for international intervention. They also explore the challenges of regime change and the role of global powers in shaping outcomes.
Join Ivo Daalder and a panel of leading journalists as they explore the latest geopolitical developments. The episode kicks off with a discussion on Venezuela, where President Trump's military operation to capture Nicolas Maduro has sparked international debate. The conversation then shifts to Greenland, where Trump's interest in acquiring the territory raises questions about modern imperialism. Finally, the panel examines the protests in Iran, highlighting the economic struggles and political tensions fueling the unrest. With insights from Felicia Schwartz, Bobby Ghosh, and Yaroslav Trofimov, this episode provides a nuanced understanding of these complex issues.
Join Ivo Daalder in a special edition of World Review as he engages with NATO's Deputy Secretary General, Radmila Šekerinska, at the Belfer Center, Harvard Kennedy School. This episode explores NATO's strategic responses to contemporary challenges, including hybrid threats and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The discussion highlights NATO's adaptability, the importance of collective security, and the alliance's commitment to supporting Ukraine. Key topics include the Baltic Sentry initiative, NATO's defense spending strategies, and the role of innovation in modern warfare. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of NATO and global security.Key Takeaways:NATO's strategic adaptations to hybrid threats.The significance of collective security in the alliance.Insights into NATO's support for Ukraine and defense spending.
In this episode of World Review, Ivo Daalder is joined by Nahal Toosi, Alex Ward, and Giles Whittell to discuss the latest developments in global politics. The panel examines the U.S. blockade on Venezuelan oil and its implications for the Maduro regime. They also explore the ongoing negotiations with Ukraine and the potential for a ceasefire by Christmas. The conversation touches on President Trump's foreign policy strategies, including his claims of ending multiple conflicts. The episode concludes with a discussion on the shifting focus of U.S. military strategy and its impact on international relations.
In this episode of World Review, host Ivo Daalder is joined by Anna Sauerbrey, Ken Moriyasu, and Anton LaGuardia to dissect the latest U.S. national security strategy. The panel discusses the document's unexpected brevity and its significant implications for international relations. Key topics include the U.S.'s shifting stance towards Europe, the strategic balance with China, and the emphasis on the Western Hemisphere. The conversation highlights the document's controversial nature, with insights into how it is perceived across different regions. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of the strategy's potential impact on global geopolitics.
Join Ivo Daalder in this episode of World Review as he navigates the intricate web of global politics with esteemed journalists Carla Anne Robbins, Steven Erlanger, and Matt Kaminski.Delve into the ongoing Ukraine conflict, where diplomatic efforts seem to stall amidst geopolitical tensions. Explore the controversial U.S. military actions in the Caribbean, raising questions about legality and international relations. The discussion also shifts to Europe, examining the Trump administration's contentious approach and its impact on transatlantic alliances. As European defense spending rises, the panel analyzes the broader implications for global security.With insights from seasoned journalists, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and dynamics shaping today's international landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the complexities of diplomacy and the ever-evolving world stage.
A highly contentious 28-point US peace plan, reportedly drafted by President Trump's Peace Envoy Steve Witkoff and a Russian envoy, was presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aiming to end the war by giving Russia significant concessions while offering Ukraine a security guarantee and the US financial benefits. Immediately following the plan's delivery, Vice President JD Vance reportedly issued an ultimatum, telling Zelensky to accept the proposal as is by Thursday or face a complete cessation of US military aid. The plan was swiftly met with surprise and alarm from European allies, who saw it as an unacceptable capitulation, violating the principle of sovereignty and calling into question Washington's commitment to collective security. Analysts suggested the timing of this aggressive push was likely an effort to secure a foreign policy win for President Trump amidst domestic political challenges, while capitalizing on a significant corruption scandal currently weakening President Zelensky's administration.
Ivo Daalder announces World Review's new home at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs.
Every Friday, Ivo and leading journalists and analysts cut through the noise to explain the global stories shaping our world — clearly, honestly, and without jargon. If you’re looking for sharper insight and deeper context, you’re in the right place. Welcome to the new World Review.
Thank you Brenda Elthon, Jay Lapidus, Richard Burger, Monte McMurchy, Richard McFarlane, and many others for tuning into my live video with Anna Sauerbrey and Bobby Ghosh! Join me for my next World Review on Friday, November 14, in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
Thank you Brenda Elthon, Jay Lapidus, Thomas Wright, arvershbow@atlanticcouncil.org, Paul k, and many others for tuning into my live video with Gideon Rachman and Ken Moriyasu! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
I was thrilled to be joined by Jane Perlez, host of the Face-Off podcast on US-China relations and long-time reporter of the New York Times, and Anton LaGuardia, diplomatic editor of The Economist. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
Thank you Elise Labott, Brenda Elthon, Peter Sukowski, Bob Fleischman, arvershbow@atlanticcouncil.org, and many others for tuning into my live video with Steven Erlanger and Karen DeYoung! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
Israel is under fire this week as international frustration mounts over chaotic aid efforts in Gaza and fears of an expanded ground offensive. US Envoy Steve Witkoff’s new ceasefire proposal, however, has sparked cautious hope, with talks ongoing despite setbacks. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is undergoing a shakeup as Marco Rubio consolidates power in his add-on role as National Security Advisor, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces internal Pentagon strife, doubts about his leadership, and questions about an illegal warrantless wiretap. Finally, President Trump is pushing for a nuclear deal with Iran amid threats of an Israeli strike, complicating an already fragile diplomatic landscape. Carla Anne Robbins, Nahal Toosi, and Karen DeYoung join Ivo Daalder on the Council's stage in Chicago for a special live recording of the farewell episode of the Council's "World Review with Ivo Daalder" podcast. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
President Trump’s decision to step back from peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war after a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin has rattled NATO allies and raised fears of weakening Western unity. Critics warn the move emboldens Moscow, while Trump touts future trade with Russia. Meanwhile, in Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te marked his first year by calling for dialogue with China while pledging to bolster defenses amid growing military threats and political friction at home. And the US and EU are moving forward with easing sanctions on Syria, hoping economic relief will prevent renewed civil war, despite concerns over Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa. Jamil Anderlini, Ken Moriyasu, Liz Sly join Ivo Daalder on World Review to analyze and offer insights on this week’s pressing global developments. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
This week, President Trump’s whirlwind tour of the Middle East sees him striking arms deals and declaring an end to nation-building, even as he engages in tense discussions with former jihadist-turned-Syrian leader Ahmed al-Shara. Meanwhile, in Istanbul, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators prepare for the first peace talks in three years — without Putin, Trump, or Zelenskyy at the table. Russia’s battlefield bluster contrasts with its costly, minimal gains, raising questions about its true leverage, and Zelenskyy argues that Putin's absence signals an unwillingness to seek peace. And finally, a temporary truce in the US-China trade war cools tensions, but economists warn that the economic fallout is far from over. Matt Kaminski, Prashant Rao, and Anna Sauerbrey join guest host Carla Anne Robbins on World Review to discuss this week’s diplomacy, deals, and doubts. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
This week, Chinese leader Xi Jinping visits Moscow for a Victory Day parade and meetings meant to showcase and strengthen a strategic alliance. Both Xi and Russian President Putin have taken aim at US economic and military policies and are presenting themselves as a counterbalance to Western influence. Meanwhile, India launches airstrikes against Pakistani targets after a deadly Kashmir attack, prompting Pakistan to down multiple Indian aircraft and raising fears of wider conflict between the nuclear-armed rivals. And in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveils plans for a sweeping military operation in Gaza, involving a large-scale ground offensive, forced relocations of Palestinian civilians, and indefinite control of contested territories. Anton La Guardia, Elise Labott, and Lee Hockstader join Ivo Daalder this week on World Review to offer insights and analysis on major global developments. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
This week marks the first 100 days of President Trump’s second term. From dismantling key alliances and trade agreements to sidelining democratic values and global institutions, are Trump's actions rapidly unraveling the post-WWII world order and 80 years of American-led international leadership? What does this mean for US influence, global stability, and the trust of allies? Stefanie Bolzen, Bobby Ghosh, and Philip Stephens join Ivo Daalder on World Review this week for a candid conversation about this pivotal moment in history. They’ll also discuss updates on European defense, the Iran nuclear deal, and Canada’s election results. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
This week, after President Trump floated a plan for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, Moscow launched its deadliest strike on Kyiv since last summer. While the attack drew rare criticism from Trump, the administration has offered Kyiv only vague assurances about the country’s future security under the proposed plan that was presented as an ultimatum. Meanwhile, a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists has sharply escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nuclear-armed nations engaging in retaliatory diplomatic and economic measures amid fears of further conflict. And in Washington, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces growing scrutiny as reports of internal dysfunction, security leaks, rapid staff turnover, and impulsive decision-making rock the Pentagon. Ravi Agrawal, Steven Erlanger, and Carla Anne Robbins join Ivo Daalder to discuss the week's top global news stories on World Review. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
This week, the Trump administration quietly eased tariffs on a wide range of Chinese goods, a move critics say exposes weakness in the US trade war stance. Meanwhile, President Trump has refused to secure the return of Kilmar Ábrego García, who was unlawfully deported to a prison in El Salvador, escalating showdown between the president and the judiciary. And in Berlin, Germany’s new coalition government is already on shaky ground, as leaders of the conservative Christian Democratic bloc and center-left Social Democratic Party clash over policy priorities, leaving Europe’s largest economy in political limbo. Leonard Hockstader, Andrew Roth, and Felicia Schwartz join Ivo Daalder on World Review to breakdown this week’s power plays and shifting policies and discuss what they mean for global balance. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
A dramatic escalation in the US-China trade war sent markets reeling this week and raised fears of a prolonged economic standoff between the world’s two largest economies. Both sides seem to be playing a game of chicken, unveiling new rounds of retaliatory tariffs almost daily. And American businesses and consumers, as well as American allies and trading partners, are struggling with tariff whiplash, wondering how to adjust to policy swings with little warning or consistency. Meanwhile, diplomats are scrambling to prepare for renewed talks over Iran’s nuclear program set to begin this weekend. Some are hopeful for a breakthrough while others are skeptical that real progress can be made amid rising regional tensions and growing domestic political pressures. Prashant Rao, Liz Sly, and Giles Whittell join Ivo Daalder on World Review to discuss the impact of this week's unpredictable economic policies and rising geopolitical tensions. Get full access to America Abroad at ivodaalder.substack.com/subscribe
















