Talking Geopolitics

History echoes as the US increases pressure on Cuba once again. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss Cuba's unique place in American geopolitics, the cause and potential outcome of the current crisis, and how Cuba fits into the US's new Western Hemisphere strategy. Also: Cuban parallels to other island nations. Learn more about GeoEconomic Lens and access the first issue for free at https://geopoliticalfutures.com/lens/introducing-lens/. Learn more about GPF and subscribe to our free newsletter at http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter.

Is global power built on tanks and treaties, or trade and technology?

Introducing your view of the global economy through the lens of geopolitics, GeoEconomic Lens. In this exclusive clip from ClubGPF's Podcast+, Senior Analyst and Chief GeoEconomist Antonia Colibasanu joins host Christian Smith for a primer on geoeconomics and the new offering, the vulnerabilities of global economic interdependence, and the distinction between static and dynamic power.

Learn more about GeoEconomic Lens and get access to our inaugural issue for FREE, available now: https://geopoliticalfutures.com/lens/introducing-lens/

With the US, Russia, China, and Europe all at strategic crossroads, the new global geopolitical order is starting to show itself. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss Russia's internal crises and strategic pivot, the upcoming summit and future of US-China rapprochement, and how Europe is critical not only to Russia's future but to the entire global system. This episode of Talking Geopolitics was recorded on May 11, 2026. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

Is Putin looking to Trump for a lifeline? How does last week's phone call between the leaders actually signal Russian weakness? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the geopolitical implications of the meeting, Russia's economic deterioration and internal instability, and what a post-Putin Russia might look like. Also: US troop withdrawals and shifting global alliances. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

What does the multi-billion-dollar warship deal between Japan and Australia say about the new geopolitical order forming in the Pacific? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the landmark defense cooperation, its impact on regional power dynamics, and how it may alter the posture of major players like China and the US. Also discussed: the future of oil dependency. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

A ceasefire is in place, but negotiations are once again breaking down over the conflict in Iran. Are we any closer to a long-term solution? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the stalled negotiations, the impacts of the US blockade on Iranian ports, and why this new strategy could be more about China than Iran for Donald Trump. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

The return of humans to space with the Artemis II's orbit around the moon has captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world. While exploratory space travel enthralls the public, the geopolitics of space and its implications for war are something much less understood. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss satellites, potential space warfare tactics, the strategic value of the moon, and why we went there in the first place. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

As we enter the second month of war in the Middle East, bombs continue to fly, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens a global crisis. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the military pressures facing Washington and Tehran, the expanding scope of the conflict, and what it can tell us about the future of war. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

With the long-awaited meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping delayed until May, all eyes are on the two giants and the long shadow they cast on the Iran war and the world at large. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss China's strategic restraint in the Middle East, economic fragility and rapprochement with the US, and the importance of Taiwan. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The US-Israeli war with Iran has no end in sight as strikes on both sides continue. With Iran's capitulation failing to materialize and the IRGC's true strength revealed, the conflict is in a state of evolution. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss shifting US war aims, the rising price of oil as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint, and just how long this all might last. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

As war rages in the Middle East, the future of Iran remains an open question. The same can be said for Lebanon, where exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel have been taking place for more than a week. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by Senior Analyst Hilal Khashan for a ground-level perspective on the escalating conflict in Lebanon, and to explore the broader regional impacts of the Iran war. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

The ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which began over the weekend, come after a protracted period of tension, negotiations and military build-up. Tehran has now said it will attack U.S. assets in the region in response to the U.S. and Israeli strikes, which killed several top Iranian officials and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

So why, in a world where the U.S. is trying to withdraw from anything outside the Western Hemisphere, does the U.S. still care about Iran? Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss how we got here, intelligence failures, and the future of the Iranian regime, which could look quite different or remain just a new version of the same. Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

Americans are deeply divided, passions are running high, and many fear the Republic is failing. But is any of this actually new? In our recent ClubGPF live discussion, GPF Chairman George Friedman revisited his book The Storm Before the Calm to explain where we are in America's recurring 80-year institutional cycle. Drawing parallels to the Revolution, the Civil War, and the Great Depression, George shows that the current crisis is the least threatening of the four great institutional upheavals in American history.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/join-clubgpf-bundle/.

Following the 2026 Munich Security Conference, the transatlantic alliance appears to be at a crossroads. With the Russian threat failing to manifest and the U.S. shifting its strategic focus, is the "divorce" between these old allies inevitable, or is it a necessary evolution? In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to examine why the U.S. views European reliance as exploitation rather than obligation, and to explore whether Europe can finally overcome its fragmented history to build a unified defense capability. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

At January's World Economic Forum in Davos, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney argued that the old world order is not coming back. He went on to say that we are now in an era of great power rivalry, and that middle powers, like Canada, should come together to counter the rise of great powers. So what could the new order look like, and just how much influence can middle powers wield compared to the U.S. and China? They may be smaller by GDP standards but they are not without importance geopolitically.

In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss it all, to examine why the U.S. and Canada can't just decouple from one another, and what will happen to Cuba now that it has reached a tipping point in its economy and its defense. Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

This week, leaders from Russia, Ukraine and the United States will meet in Abu Dhabi for another round of peace talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine; a conflict which has continued for four years this month. After so much fighting, what does Russia still hope to get out of negotiations, and is it willing to concede after not reaching its goals? Russia's economy has suffered immensely as a result of the war and by several measures simply can no longer be considered a major power on the world stage.

To discuss the upcoming negotiations, where Europe stands on it all and how parallels can also be drawn between the current conflict and the Vietnam War, Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

Earlier this month, Geopolitical Futures released its annual Forecast, which focuses on the most critical changes to the international order in the year to come. One of the featured predictions in this year's Forecast was on the shifting relationship between the United States and China. It is a relationship that GPF Chairman George Friedman believes will define the next generation of international relations.

This week on Talking Geopolitics, George joined host Christian Smith to give a preview of this forecast, and we'll even dive into the perplexing logic of Donald Trump's will-he, won't-he attempt to take ownership of Greenland from Denmark, a NATO ally. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Widespread anti-government protests in Iran have been growing for weeks now in Iran, and the government crackdown has turned deadly. While protests here are not a new phenomenon, many are saying this time things are much different. With the US poised to intervene and the future of the Iranian regime hanging in the balance, this week on the podcast we're taking a look at how the situation is evolving and how it is perceived by the wider region. Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman as well as Geopolitical Futures contributing analyst Kamran Bokhari to break it all down. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

With the new U.S. National Security Strategy published by the White House only a month ago, we're already seeing what America's vision for prioritizing the Western Hemisphere looks like. Following America's seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, the world is now questioning just how far the US might go to achieve its goal. What are its intentions with Cuba, and how far is it willing to push NATO allies in the issue of Greenland?

GPF Chairman George Friedman joins Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith for our first podcast of the new year, as we dive into what is going on in the Western Hemisphere. You'll also get a sneak peek into our predictions for China, as part of our upcoming 2026 Forecast. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

America's new National Security Strategy reflects a fundamental change in U.S. policy. It prioritizes America maintaining its preeminence in the Western Hemisphere, while avoiding military competition with China as well as European conflicts. At the same time the White House has taken pen to paper on its new policy, military pressure on Venezuela is ramping up as the Trump administration sanctions oil tankers in the region.

This week on Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss these escalations and what it all has to do with Cuba. And for more analysis, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

America's new National Security Strategy reflects a fundamental change in U.S. strategy. The policy, published at the end of last week, prioritizes America maintaining its preeminence in the Western Hemisphere, avoiding military competition with China and asking Europe to stand on its own feet. Many of these policies are not surprising. But the White House's decision to commit them to paper has given the world a more definitive view of American thinking.

This week on Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is again joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to break down the strategy, what it means for the U.S. and the world, and whether it is an ideological shift or just natural geopolitics in the 21st century. And for more analysis, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/ to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

In his book, The Storm Before the Calm, Geopolitical Futures chairman and founder George Friedman explained the challenges that low birth rates and longer life expectancy will bring to America. As an aging population causes a shrinking workforce, this deepening demographic crisis could have long-term impacts across the globe. And the solutions come with their own set of challenges. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, George joins host Christian Smith to break it all down, from the use of immigration to stabilize labor markets, to artificial intelligence and much more.

And for more analysis, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/ to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

[REUPLOAD] If the peace proposal currently under negotiation to end the war in Ukraine feels like déjà vu, you're not alone. Throughout the year, hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough have repeatedly surged and faded. But with the surprising terms of the latest proposal now on the table—and U.S. President Donald Trump hinting that this may be a "now or never" moment—the world is asking whether a real path to peace finally exists.

Is the deal workable? How are Europe's leaders responding? And what fundamentals of the war risk being overlooked amid the political noise? Joining host Christian Smith to break down the proposal, assess the geopolitical dynamics shaping the negotiations, and explore the evolving economic relationship between the US and Russia and China is GPF Chairman George Friedman.

And for more analysis of the region, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/ to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

Russia's war with Ukraine is about to enter yet another winter. Meanwhile in the US, Donald Trump is turning his attention to Russia's southern border in an effort to woo the nations of the South Caucasus with diplomacy. What are the US' goals and what does it hope to gain in pulling these nations closer while Russia is distracted in its fight against NATO to the West? Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to make sense of the latest developments.

And for more analysis of the region, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/ to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

The Australian defense minister said this week that China's military defense build up required a response. China's defense spending has increased 13 fold in the past 30 years, while its Navy is projected to grow by nearly 50% by the end of the decade. That last statistic would be of particular concern to Australia's defense minister, Richard Marles, who said that open sea lanes, including around China, are crucial to Australia's national security.

So how is great power competition playing out in the Asia-Pacific? What is the role of Australia, AUKUS and the Quad, and can America's allies trust the US and its nuclear umbrella to be there as it seeks to disengage from the world. Host Christian Smith is with GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss this and much more.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The United States, China and Russia are the three main powers of the current era that are vying for dominance on the global stage, all with their own sets of imperatives and challenges. In our recent ClubGPF live discussion, GPF Chairman George Friedman examined the three nations and the main issues they currently face: culture wars and political division in the US, a declining economy in China, and a frozen war in Russia.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

"Twelve out of ten." That's how President Trump described this week's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping—a bold rating for one of the most consequential diplomatic encounters in years. But what really came out of it? Was this the start of a new trade understanding or just another pause in a brewing confrontation between two global powers?

In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman, speaking from The Citadel in South Carolina, where he's a keynote speaker at an open-source intelligence conference. They unpack the U.S.–China meeting - from tariffs to rare earths -, the fragile economics behind Beijing's export-driven model, and how these developments connect to Friedman's long-term forecast from his book The Next 100 Years.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

In recent weeks, tensions between the US and Venezuela have been growing. Several US military strikes have targeted boats in the Caribbean allegedly carrying illicit drugs, and US President Donald Trump has said that he has authorized the CIA to use lethal force in Venezuela. And the issue doesn't end there, now there is wider involvement from Europe and elsewhere.

GPF Chairman George Friedman joined host Christian Smith on this episode of Talking Geopolitics to dive into what's really going on, how it ties into the Monroe Doctrine - the policy relating to affairs in the Western Hemisphere - and what Russia's role in all of it is.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

As GPF Chairman George Friedman has written about in recent months, the United States is trying to reduce its exposure in foreign conflicts. With the US now entering its third week of a government shutdown, the nation has its own set of crises to work through, while Trump is also working to broker peace in Gaza and a trade agreement with China.

How does the current situation fit within the framework of institutional and socioeconomic cycles, as described in George's most recent book, The Storm Before the Calm? And where does President Trump fit into it all? Host Christian Smith is back on the podcast with Dr. Friedman to discuss the US and the historic shifts of the 2020s.

Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion. There you'll also find George's new series on the 2020s and Its Historic Shift, including his updated forecast for Poland, Turkey and Japan.

Two years ago this week, Hamas' October 7 attacks stunned Israel and the world. And now for the first time there is palpable excitement that the war in Gaza may be on the path to an end. The first part of Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan seems to have been agreed by Israel and Hamas, though the plan still faces many hurdles.

Geopolitical Futures Chairman and Founder George Friedman has joined host Christian Smith on this week's episode of Talking Geopolitics to discuss how we got here, whether the plan will work and also why the Gulf states are so important to the plan's success. This interview was recorded on Thursday, October 9th 2025.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

In his 2009 book, The Next 100 Years, GPF Chairman George Friedman forecasted that Turkey would become the major power in the Middle East. As Trump draws down on US involvement abroad, Putin gets bogged down in Russia, and Israel is distracted in Gaza, Turkey is spying opportunities. While Turkey's dominance has been on the rise despite its own internal instability, Saudi Arabia on the other side of the region has been giving it a run for its money.

In this week's episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF contributor Kamran Bokhari to discuss all this as well as the latest developments out of Israel following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's public apology to Qatar.

Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion. There you'll also find George's new series on the 2020s and Its Historic Shift, including his updated forecast for Poland, Turkey and Japan.

Already this month, Russia has violated the airspace of three NATO countries: Estonia, Romania and Poland - twice. What is Russian President Vladimir Putin trying to achieve with these bold moves, and what impact might they have on Ukraine negotiations? GPF Chairman George Friedman joined host Christian Smith to discuss the latest geopolitical developments in the region as well as outline his forecast for Poland's evolution from his 2009 book, The Next 100 Years.

Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion. There you'll also find George's new series on the 2020s and Its Historic Shift, including his updated forecast for Poland, Turkey and Japan.

GPF contributor Kamran Bokhari recently wrote that massive geopolitical change has come to the Middle East in the form of the attack on Gaza, a weakening of Iran, paralyzing of Hezbollah, the overthrow of the Assad regime in Syria and much more. Considering all these developments and the way in which Israel's actions are driving events in the region, Dr. Bokhari was back on the Club's Podcast+ with host Christian Smith to discuss Israel's wider strategy and what he predicts for the future. Recorded Thursday, September 11, 2025.

This clip is part of a full-length episode available to our ClubGPF members. To find out more about ClubGPF, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/joinclubgpf.

In what could prove to be a pivotal moment for the Middle East, Israel has bombed Hamas leaders in Qatar. It is the first time Israel has struck in Qatar, a nation that is a close ally with the U.S. In the immediate aftermath, GPF Chairman George Friedman gives his reaction. Why has Benjamin Netanyahu ordered this significant move? What does it say about Israel's wider strategy? And what does it mean for US-Israeli relations, Donald Trump and his Abraham Accords?

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Over the weekend, the leaders of countries like China, Russia, India and Pakistan arrived in Tianjin, China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping was joined by Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un for a victory parade celebrating the end of the Second World War in Tiananmen Square.

As Xi spoke of nothing less than creating a new global security and economic order, while U.S. President Trump claimed that the trio were conspiring against America, what are the real takeaways from such high-profile events? Shifts away from the U.S. are nothing new, but in this rapidly changing world, could this be different? GPF Chairman George Friedman joined Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith to discuss it all, as well as how India factors into the equation.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

*Note: In reference to China GDP data mentioned in this episode, China's growth rate is a little below 4% whereas at its highest point it was 15%.

The United States military has gone through many evolutions, from technological to structural, over the decades. Maintaining dominance in the Atlantic theatre has long remained a top strategic imperative. In a recent live discussion with our ClubGPF members, George Friedman broke down U.S. command of the seas and whether he thinks the fleet will be tested with a major war in the next decade.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

A long-awaited meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin is slated for this Friday in Alaska. The summit, which comes after three and a half years of war in Ukraine, was announced last Friday after President Trump said that he was going to impose 50 percent tariffs on India. Excitement and trepidation in political circles across the US and Europe is making this feel like a big moment. But is it? Do we actually expect anything to come from this when the two sides appear so far apart?

Chairman and Founder of Geopolitical Futures George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the significance of and potential for the forthcoming meeting.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Last week, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned the Venezuelan group the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization. President Trump has long considered the cartels to be terrorists and has made their destruction a key policy of his administration. The cartels export of drugs to the U.S. is having a devastating impact on parts of the country.

In our new episode of Talking Geopolitics, join GPF Chairman George Friedman and host Christian Smith as they ask whether the cartels can they really be "destroyed," and why this all has become a geopolitical issue?

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Before he was elected for his second presidential term, Donald Trump promised to end the Ukraine war in one day. Last week, Trump gave Vladimir Putin a 50-day deadline to come to a peace deal on Ukraine before more sanctions will kick in on Russia and anyone who trades with Russia. In a recent live discussion with our Charter ClubGPF members, GPF Chairman George Friedman broke down what 'winning' actually means in the context of the war, Putin's threat of tactical nuclear weapons, and how Europe is preparing for the worst.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

For this episode of Talking Geopolitics, we turn our attention to China, where President Xi Jinping has been busy intensifying a crackdown on high-ranking officials. But although China's president may seem like a permanent feature on the global stage, a shaky Chinese economy and circling rivals means that his rule is far from secure. Geopolitical Futures analyst and China expert, Victoria Herczegh, has been writing about this issue for GPF subscribers on our website, and now she joins host Christian Smith to discuss what lies behind Xi's purges, what keeps him up at night, and what might happen when Xi leaves office.

On Saturday US time, 7 B2 Spirit Bombers dropped more than a dozen Bunker Buster Bombs on Iran as part of a coordinated strike on three nuclear sites inside the country. It came just over a week after Israel began its own strikes on Iran, which it said was approaching the point of no return in the development of a nuclear weapon. But it has left the world asking: is this a turning point, the start of a new conflict in the Middle East? Or the end of another one?

On the podcast, recorded Sunday, June 22nd, Geopolitical Futures chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss what's behind America's decision to attack, what next for Iran and the region, and whether the US may be dragged into another quagmire in the Middle East.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Rivalry and alliances in the Middle East go back centuries and have shaped the geopolitics of this region in a major way. On this clip of a recent ClubGPF Podcast+ episode, GPF contributing analyst Kamran Bokhari joined Christian Smith to examine the complicated relationship between the various factions, mainly Saudi Arabia and Turkey, and how this all fits together to forecast the future of the Middle East region.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The U.S. decision to recuse itself from European security has created something of a crisis on the continent. America wants European countries to pick up their own defense spending and focus on their own region, following Vladimir Putin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

So what's the feeling in Europe about the risks countries there face from Russia? How are they navigating those threats? And do Americans and Europeans see them in the same way? Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith was joined by Geopolitical Futures Chairman and Founder George Friedman and Antonia Colibasanu, GPF's Senior Analyst from on the ground in Romania to discuss.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

It's hard to find a region facing as much widespread turmoil as the Middle East, both historically and in the modern world. As Geopolitical Futures' contributing analyst Hilal Khashan predicts, the Middle East will continue to oscillate between established and rising regional powers, with more turbulent times ahead. Hilal joined George Friedman for our recent ClubGPF live discussion to focus on the Middle East, and to break down the US imperatives in the region, following Donald Trump's historic visit.

To learn more about ClubGPF and join our next session, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The return of Donald Trump to the White House was always going to mean a new showdown between the world's two largest economies. But, after spiraling tensions and escalating tariffs, last week the US and China announced that they had agreed to roll back recent measures for an initial 90 days. The agreement, which was hammered out over a weekend in Geneva, has relieved the markets. But the future of the relationship is far from settled – not least because the two sides are attempting to negotiate thorny issues concerning both their security and economic relationships side by side.

So what comes next? Host Christian Smith is joined by Geopolitical Futures' director of analysis Allison Fedirka, and China analyst Victoria Herczegh, to find out.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The US-Ukraine minerals deal is done but a Russia-Ukraine peace deal is seemingly out of reach. Now the US is looking to scale back its involvement in mediating an end to the conflict. So what's next for the war in Ukraine? In this episode, GPF Chairman George Friedman considers how the fighting might end, why Vladimir Putin might be running out of room, and why Eastern Europe is now the pivot point for European defense.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Like much of the world, North American geopolitics looks very different to six months ago. Tariffs, border issues and suggestions of US troops in Mexico are creating concerns to America's south. On a recent episode of our ClubGPF's Podcast+, GPF director of analysis Allison Fedirka joined host Christian Smith as we continued our series on Trump's second term in office, looking at the geopolitics of North America.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

The next great power is in the making. Could the United States make room for the likes of China or even Iran as the next superpower? As GPF Chairman George Friedman explained in our recent ClubGPF live discussion, a great power not only has to have a great military, it also has to have a high level of technology and a strong geopolitical position.

To learn more about ClubGPF and join our next session, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

From the U.S., to Europe, China, the Middle East and Russia, relationships are being restructured due to changing geopolitical forces. As GPF Chairman George Friedman explained in our recent ClubGPF live discussion, we are now entering an age where America is taking on a pivotal role, and where economic warfare is the weapon of choice to maintain power.

To learn more about ClubGPF and join our next session, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

It has been a tumultuous couple of weeks since U.S. President Donald Trump announced his sweeping tariffs, pushing the world's two biggest economies, the United States and China, into an ever-escalating trade war. The radical shifts taken by the administration have us at GPF wondering, could this be one of the most consequential months for global economics in the 21st century? And are the tariffs meant to disrupt the global economic system of free trade that's been in place since WWII? In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, Geopolitical Futures Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to examine just how we got here and to predict how long the tit for tat will continue.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

As we edge over the halfway point of Donald Trump's first 100 days in his second term in office, it's possible we're seeing the start of America's terminal decline or its regeneration, depending on which side of the line you're on. While the US has been busily announcing the end of the post-World War II global order abroad, at home, the president seems to be even more rapidly trying to upend the status quo. In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, Geopolitical Futures Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss what to make of Trump's first 50 days in office in the wider context of American history.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

As the world watches the Transatlantic Alliance continue to strain, America's allies to the West are wondering what it all means for them. Analysts Victoria Herczegh and Ronan Wordsworth joined host Christian Smith in our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to discuss what Trump's second term means for Australia, AUKUS, and the Indo-Pacific at large. In this clip, the analysts share their thoughts on China's unusual military presence in the Tasman Sea off the coasts of Australia and New Zealand.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

After Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Oval Office bust up, you might think the war in Ukraine is going rather well for Vladimir Putin. But, according to Geopolitical Futures Chairman George Friedman, the Russian president has already lost the war. Tune in to this new podcast from Geopolitical Futures as Friedman explains Russia's failure, why he thinks Trump is buttering up Putin, and what he thinks of the press conference heard round the world and the decision to pause U.S. military aid for Ukraine.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

One month into Donald Trump's second term, even those who closely followed his first time in office have struggled to keep up. Foreign policy shifts alone include tariffs, attacks on allies, and a proposed takeover in Gaza. Now, an apparent rapprochement with Russia has the potential to revolutionize US strategy. What is the US trying to achieve in its negotiations with Russia? And is this all just the new norm for a world without an anchor?

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Historically, nations did not conduct themselves without aligning with or getting their bearings in relation to a power system that drove the world; an anchor. This was the case, for example, in the world wars of the last century, and the Cold War. But as Chairman George Friedman explained in our recent ClubGPF live discussion, things have changed, and various nations are testing each other.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Over the past few decades, Poland has seen its economy grow and its military expand. With Donald Trump returning to the White House next month and the former president having made his feelings about European security contributions clear, the Eastern European nation is set to become one of the most important players in Europe. Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu joined host Christian Smith in our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to discuss the current state and potential future of the Polish nation.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Israel's decimation of Hezbollah's leadership and war-making capabilities has paved the way for a massive altering of the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. After decades on the offensive, Iran has suffered a major setback in its strategy for the region. GPF contributor Kamran Bokhari joined host Christian Smith on our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to discuss what's next for Iran, its proxies, and the Middle East at large.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

From London to Warsaw, Paris to Kyiv, last week's election of Donald Trump for a second time in the U.S. has sent European leaders scrambling. With the expectation that Trump will reduce defense support for Ukraine and Europe more generally, tune in to this special podcast from Geopolitical Futures as Chairman and Founder George Friedman explains what Trump means for Europe and the post-war order.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

At GPF we have a distinct method for looking at the world, and every day we see this model play out in real time, like in the current conflicts in the Middle East. In this ClubGPF live discussion, Chairman George Friedman discusses the relationship between current conflicts and the dangers of non-state actors like Hezbollah and Hamas.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips or to save your seat for our next live discussion, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

The European far right has had one of their best electoral years since the Second World War. What could it mean for European geopolitics, and how does migration play a part? GPF Analyst Ronan Wordsworth joined host Christian Smith from Prague on our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to understand the moment and plot what comes next.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

In order to survive generation after generation, the nation of Hungary has had to maintain a unique balancing act within Central Europe. In our recent ClubGPF live discussion, Chairman George Friedman discussed American and Hungarian world views and the strategic, geopolitical perspective of Hungary and its relation to the US and Central Europe through decades of European conflict.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Will the Israel-Hamas War spread across the region? After months of Hezbollah and the IDF exchanging fire, attacks have escalated in recent weeks. Middle East Analyst Hilal Khashan joined host Christian Smith on our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to discuss the conflict at the border, and how realistic a full-scale war might be.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

With a unique position both geographically and economically in Europe, France remains an important player on the world stage. Although it has key roles in the EU, NATO, and the UN, France still struggles to find its global identity. Senior Geopolitical Analyst Antonia Colibasanu joined host Christian Smith on our recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members to discuss the current state of play and the future of French geopolitics.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

From the war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and the potential for conflict in the Pacific, the U.S. military is involved to a certain degree in a variety of operations. In this ClubGPF live discussion, Colonel Scott Leonard, Chief of Staff to the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps (ret) joined GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss global security challenges from a U.S. military perspective.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

What are the geopolitical implications of the AUKUS partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States? In our most recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members, analyst Ronan Wordsworth joined host Christian Smith for a discussion on the future of AUKUS and what the potential addition of Japan and New Zealand to the alliance could mean for China and the Indo-Pacific.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Geopolitical and national security threats are constantly changing and evolving, sometimes it's hard to keep up. In this ClubGPF live discussion, Rear Admiral (ret) Douglas Fears, Former U.S. Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Advisor to the President joined GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss a wide range of threats from cyber to denial of service, malign influences in social media and ballistic missile defense.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

What's on the horizon for the world's largest democracy? In our most recent Podcast+ episode for ClubGPF members, GPF contributor Kamran Bokhari joined host Christian Smith for a discussion on the geopolitical implications of India's upcoming election, how it can continue its balancing act between the US, China and the rest of the world, and why it has cause for concern over the recent ISIS attack in Moscow.

To learn more about ClubGPF, including more free audio and video clips, visit http://ow.ly/qHIP50JUPW2.

Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Middle East expert Hilal Khashan wrote in his January 23rd piece titled 'The Middle East as a Powder Keg' that resolving the region's issues will be on hold pending resolution of the conflict in Gaza. In a recent ClubGPF live discussion, Dr. Khashan was joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss current conditions, why Israel is reluctant to make any kind of deal, and what a Palestinian state could look like if one was created.

For the full recording, and to join the next ClubGPF live discussion, visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com/clubgpf.

How do intelligence failures happen? What are the ramifications for such failures? In our recent ClubGPF discussion, GPF Chairman George Friedman examined the different types of intelligence and why they're important, applying the various intelligence strategies to the current geopolitical struggles in the world, including the Israel-Gaza conflict and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

To learn more about ClubGPF and to join the next live discussion, visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com/clubgpf.

Chairman George Friedman and host Christian Smith recently sat down to focus in on the big picture of geopolitics. There is a new order coming, but unlike the reordering that took place after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. In this bonus clip, Dr. Friedman examines the patterns emerging between today's global crises.

For the full episode and much more including our first two episodes on Tensions in Eurasia and The Rise of Geoeconomics, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast and click 'Subscribe'.

The pandemic in many ways caused shifts in the global economic system. Are we still living in pandemic economics? GPF's Antonia Colibasanu broke down the concept of geoeconomics and where we are at now for our podcast series on Geopolitics in the 21st Century. For the full episode and much more including our final installment with GPF Chairman George Friedman, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast and click 'Subscribe'.

As the world reels from the shocking violence in Israel and Palestine, Geopolitical Futures brings you a special edition of Talking Geopolitics. GPF Chairman George Friedman joins Christian Smith to discuss why the attacks took place, why Israel's intelligence failed, and how the conflict will put pressure on Arab nations - and not in the way you may think.

For more analysis from George and the GPF team, go to geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast.

Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith recently sat down with GPF Chairman George Friedman for a deeper look at the current movements, motives and potential outcomes of the Russo-Ukrainian War and the ongoing friction between the US and China. In today's bonus clip, Dr. Friedman explains how US- China relations and US-Russia relations are in many ways interconnected. For the full episode and much more, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast and click 'Subscribe'.

Talking Geopolitics is back with a subscriber-only limited series on some of the key issues in geopolitics today. Today we're sharing a clip of this month's episode where Chairman George Friedman joined host Christian Smith for a deeper look at the current movements, motives and potential outcomes of the Russo-Ukrainian War and the ongoing friction between the US and China. For the full episode and much more, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast and click 'Subscribe'.

What are the geopolitical impacts of natural disasters? On this free preview of our ClubGPF podcast+, Dir. of Analysis Allison Fedirka and COO Antonia Colibasanu join host Christian Smith to discuss the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, last year's flooding in Pakistan, and the ongoing drought in Argentina. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com to join ClubGPF for more exclusive podcast episodes like this one.

This week we are revisiting one of our most popular episodes to date. Chairman George Friedman explores China's relationship with both the United States and Russia, as well as its tendency towards isolation. East Asia Expert Phillip Orchard breaks down the geopolitical imperatives that drive China's behavior. Director of Analysis Allison Fedirka gives us an update on the tension at the Colombia–Venezuela border. Hosted by Christian Smith. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

A year removed from a massive explosion in Beirut, Middle East expert Hilal Khashan discusses the dire situation in Lebanon and its larger impact on the region's geopolitics. Analysts Allison Fedirka and Phillip Orchard share insight into the forecasting process here at Geopolitical Futures and lay out a midterm report card on this year's forecasts for Europe and the Asia-Pacific. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

Chairman George Friedman discusses the recent protests in Cuba and dives into the past, present, and future of its geopolitical importance. Analyst Ekaterina Zolotova takes us on a tour of Central Asia and explores its potential for destabilization. Also, East Asia expert Phillip Orchard explains why the Chinese foreign minister's visit to the Middle East is on his radar. To read George's recent article on Cuba go to: http://ow.ly/37Jl50FAczC.

Chairman George Friedman analyzes the debate surrounding the future of the European Central Bank's emergency coronavirus bonds program and how it strikes at the core of the EU. East Asia expert Phillip Orchard explains the tensions between India and China in the Himalayas. Head of Analysis Allison Fedirka explores how NATO's withdrawal from Afghanistan has teed up a new round of the Great Game in Central Asia. To read George's free weekly articles go to http://ow.ly/wrIk50FqqCz.

How secure is the new Middle East power balance ushered in by the Abraham Accords? How much does the U.S. care? Chairman George Friedman explains how two recent events can help us find answers. Head of Analysis Allison Fedirka explores Africa's increasing importance in today's multipolar geopolitics. To read George's article mentioned in this episode go to http://ow.ly/ttwD50FgHqb.

Chairman George Friedman explains how, following the defeat of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna shaped an entire continent and why its reflection can still be seen in European geopolitics today. Editor Ryan Bridges explores US attitudes towards an integrated EU army. Dir. of Analysis Allison Fedirka discusses the implications of extensive government programs and support packages brought on by the global COVID-19 crisis. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcastfor more.

Chairman George Friedman explains why necessity is the mother of alliances for the US, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines in the Pacific. Eurasia expert Ekaterina Zolotova helps us understand the commandeering of a plane over Belarus. Head of Analysis Allison Fedirka explores the future of Mercosur. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

Chairman George Friedman and Senior Analyst Hilal Khashan explore the geopolitics behind the violence in Gaza and its potential strain on the region. To read George's recent analysis go to http://ow.ly/eZXn50EPLj0.

To mark the anniversary of VE Day, Chairman George Friedman discusses his recent article on Germany and explains why the nation's desire to fly under the radar cannot last forever. Senior Analyst Hilal Khashan tells us why the ongoing US-Iran nuclear talks in Vienna are less about nuclear weapons and more about Iran's proxies in the Middle East. To read the article discussed in this episode go to http://ow.ly/eyFd50EMY3a.

Talking Geopolitics dives deep into Russia's geopolitics. Chairman George Friedman explains modern Russian foreign policy and the historic attitudes still driving it. Russia expert Ekaterina Zolotova lays out the building blocks of Russian geopolitics. Also, analyst Phillip Orchard explores the future of US-Turkish relations in the wake of President Joe Biden's acknowledgment of the Armenian genocide. Hosted by Christian Smith. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

Chairman George Friedman explores China's relationship with both the United States and Russia, as well as its tendency towards isolation. East Asia Expert Phillip Orchard breaks down the geopolitical imperatives that drive China's behavior. Director of Analysis Allison Fedirka gives us an update on the tension at the Colombia–Venezuela border. Hosted by Christian Smith. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

Managing Editor Cole Altom and Director of Analysis Allison Fedirka discuss the Alhambra Decree and its ties to Colonialism. Chairman George Friedman discusses his book 'The Storm Before the Calm' and explains America's socioeconomic and institutional cycles and the coronavirus' negligible impact on them. East Asia expert Phillip Orchard tells us why Myanmar's anti-coup protests have been on his radar. Hosted by Christian Smith. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith discusses Geopolitical Futures' Chief Operating Officer Antonia Colibasanu's new book, Contemporary Geopolitics and Geoeconomics 2.0, and how an update was in order after 2020; Director of Analysis Allison Fedirka and Eastern Europe expert Ekaterina Zolotova tell us what's been on their radar in the world of geopolitics. Chairman George Friedman explores the consistency in U.S. foreign policy across party lines. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more. Download Antonia's new book at www.libris.ro.

On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith discusses the geopolitics of rare earths with East Asia expert Phillip Orchard; Managing Editor Cole Altom, and Director of Analysis Allison Fedirka tell us what's been grabbing their attention in the world of geopolitics. Chairman George Friedman ponders power and the rise and fall of nations. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for more.

Geopolitics is our bread and butter. It's also a term easily thrown around without accurately conveying its meaning. On this first episode of the new Talking Geopolitics podcast, host Christian Smith talks with the founder of Geopolitical Futures, George Friedman, about the fundamentals behind the company's work. He also speaks with Director of Analysis, Allison Fedirka, on how Cuba's poor economic condition has helped propel the island back in to the spotlight. Go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast for details.

Talking Geopolitics is a bi-monthly non-partisan podcast brought to you by Geopolitical Futures, an online publication founded by internationally recognized geopolitical forecaster George Friedman. Launching this week.

For more information, go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com/podcast.

NewsTalk NZ's Leighton Smith talks with Geopolitical Futures Chairman George Friedman on his new book, The Storm Before the Calm: America's Discord, the Coming Crisis of the 2020s, and the Triumph Beyond.

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Since the end of the Cold War, Germany and Russia have tried to balance a robust economic relationship with contradicting political agendas in Europe. However, recent strains in Eastern Europe have put the relationship into question. On this free preview of Geopolitical Futures' ClubGPF podcast+, we explain what lies ahead for the German-Russian relationship. Go to www.geopoliticalfutures.com to join ClubGPF for more exclusive podcast episodes like this one.

GPF founder George Friedman, Hezbollah expert Hilal Khashan and analyst Caroline Rose examine the ramifications of the US escalating tensions with Iran through the killing of former IRGC General Soleimani.

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Jacob Shapiro and Xander Snyder are back at it to talk climate change, water scarcity in India and Iran, and the future of the Arctic.

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Newstalk ZB's Leighton Smith brings GPF Chairman George Friedman back on his podcast to discuss the latest geopolitical events in China as push comes to shove in the US-China trade war, updates on Brexit, and the future of the U.K. Does it even matter anymore whether Britain leaves or remains?