Anne Applebaum: Planning for a Techno-Oligarchic RegimeIn this episode, Anne Applebaum discusses the dangers of billionaire influence on democracy, particularly under Trump's administration. She highlights how alignments with autocratic regimes threaten the rule of law and economic trust in the U.S. The conversation delves into the implications of Carrie Lake potentially leading Voice of America, emphasizing her lack of qualifications and the risks of foreign propaganda. Applebaum also challenges naive beliefs regarding negotiations with Russia, while stressing the importance of recognizing the complex dynamics of international politics, particularly in relation to recent electoral challenges in Romania influenced by foreign disinformation.
- The alignment between billionaires and authoritarian leaders undermines democratic values and creates a dangerous political landscape, threatening the core principles of the rule of law and economic stability.
- Understanding the long-term risks associated with supporting authoritarian figures is critical for the business community, as a lack of legal predictability can deter investment and growth.
# Syria's Assad RegimeThe dynamics of the Assad regime in Syria, its reliance on support, and the rapid collapse that can occur when that support is withdrawn.