The Eurofile

The End of Orbán and Europe's Energy Crunch

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:11:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne cover two seismic European election results: Hungary's stunning rejection of Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power, and Bulgaria's eighth election in five years. Then, they turn to Max’s conversation with Ben McWilliams, affiliate fellow at Bruegel, on the energy fallout from the Iran war.

(00:00) Intro

(00:53) Hungary election results

(15:31) Bulgaria election results

(18:22) Ben McWilliams

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe Needs Bold Economic Action in the Face of the Iran Shock

What Is at Stake in Hungary’s Election?

Iran War Fallout and Hungary's Pivotal Election

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:34:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the fallout from the Iran war and this week’s Hungarian election. Then, Max is joined by Federico Steinberg, Prince of Asturias distinguished visiting professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and visiting fellow at CSIS, on the war's economic costs for Europe.

(00:00) Intro

(00:45) Iran war fallout

(14:43) Hungary election

(22:38) Federico Steinberg

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe Needs Bold Economic Action in the Face of the Iran Shock

What Is at Stake in Hungary’s Election?

Previewing Hungary’s Election: Will Orbán Be Defeated?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Zselyke Csaky, senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform, to preview the Hungarian election on April 12.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

What Is at Stake in Hungary’s Election?

Competitiveness, Climate, and Transatlantic Tensions feat. Teresa Ribera

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:50:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Teresa Ribera—Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition—for a conversation on the EU's economic and climate agenda.

Questions about the EU, NATO, or the latest news in Europe through a Washington lens? We want to hear from you!

Email: erep@csis.org
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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Incumbents Emerge Bruised from Elections and Europe’s Place in the World with Nathalie Tocci

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:52:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss recent elections in Slovenia and Denmark, a referendum on judicial reforms in Italy, and Mark Rutte’s recent statements on the war in Iran. Then, they turn to a conversation with Nathalie Tocci, Director of the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), for a conversation on Europe’s place in the world.

(00:00) Intro

(00:50) Slovenia election

(04:40) Denmark election

(10:20) Italy judicial reform referendum

(15:58) Mark Rutte’s Sunday show appearances

(22:03) Nathalie Tocci

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe Needs an ASAP Program for Air Defense

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur on European Defense and the Eastern Flank

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:02:00 -0000

Max is joined by Hanno Pevkur, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Estonia, for a discussion about Estonia’s role in European security.

(00:00) Intro

(01:40) The war in Iran

(04:32) Impact of rising energy prices for Russia

(06:49) Impact of Iran war on air defense interceptor stockpiles

(10:39) Outlook for Ukraine’s military

(14:31) State of the transatlantic alliance

(18:39) European support for Ukraine

(22:10) Ukrainian deep strikes in Russia

(24:22) Concerns over Russia’s military adaptation

(27:15) European contributions to NATO

(31:21) European views on Russian threat

(34:25) European Union’s role in defense procurement

(39:30) U.S. burden-shifting agenda for European defense

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Von der Leyen’s Foreign Policy Power Struggle and the Iran War with Mona Yacoubian

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:10:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the internal power struggle between Ursula von der Leyen and EU member states over who should speak for Europe on foreign policy. They then turn to a conversation with Mona Yacoubian, director and senior adviser of the Middle East Program at CSIS, to discuss the Iran war and Europe’s role in it.

(00:00) Intro

(01:05) Von der Leyen’s foreign policy power struggle

(19:07) Mona Yacoubian

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Would Regime Change Solve the Iran Challenge?

The Regional Reverberations of the U.S. and Israeli Strikes on Iran

Four Years of War in Ukraine, New Dutch Government, and Europe's China Challenge

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:04:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and a new Dutch government. They then turn to a conversation with Jude Blanchette, Distinguished Tang Chair in China Research and Director of the RAND China Research Center, to discuss the state of play in Europe’s China policy.

(00:00) Intro

(00:45) Russia-Ukraine war

(09:11) New Dutch government

(14:39) Jude Blanchette

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Russia-Ukraine War in 10 Charts

MSC Preview and Europe’s Electoral Outlook

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:36:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne preview this week’s Munich Security Forum before turning to Max's conversation with Marcus Roberts, CEO of Mandate, to discuss European polling trends and what they portend for the year ahead.

(00:00) Intro

(01:03) MSC Preview

(14:24) Marcus Roberts

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Davos, Greenland, and the EU-India Deal

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:27:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss last week's World Economic Forum in Davos, which was dominated by President Trump's tariff threats over Greenland. They then turn to a conversation with Rick Rossow, senior adviser and Chair in India and Emerging Asia Economics at CSIS, about the newly announced EU-India free trade agreement.

(00:00) Intro

(00:51) Davos recap

(20:22) Rick Rossow

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Can Europe Keep Ukraine’s Military Afloat without the U.S.?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:12:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss recent comments by EU defense commissioner Andrius Kubilius about the creation of a European standing army. Then, they turn to a conversation with Michael Kofman, senior fellow in the Russia and Eurasia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, about Europe’s role in the war in Ukraine.

(00:00) Intro

(00:49) European standing army

(09:45) Greenland

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe’s Frantic Start to 2026

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:21:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss last month’s European Council meeting, where leaders failed to agree on the MERCOSUR trade deal but secured continued funding to Ukraine; the mounting US-EU tech fight after the EU fined X for breaching digital safety rules; and the Trump administration’s increasing pressure on Greenland.

(00:00) Intro

(01:18) December EUCO Review

(14:11) US-EU Tech Fight

(20:37) Greenland

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe’s Make-or-Break Summit

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss recent comments by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declaring the end of ‘Pax Americana’. Then, they preview a high-stakes European Council meeting, where leaders will discuss the Mercosur trade deal and the European Commission’s proposal to leverage frozen Russian assets to provide a crucial loan to Ukraine. Finally, they turn to a conversation with Dr. Thu Nguyen, Acting Co-Director of the Jacques Delors Centre, to discuss the state of democracy in the EU. 

(00:00) Intro

(02:05) Friedrich Merz ‘Pax Americana’ Speech

(05:19) Frozen Russian Assets Loan

(13:13) Mercosur Trade Deal

(19:00) Interview with Thu Nguyen

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Live Episode: Europe in the Wake of the 2025 NSS

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:23:00 -0000

Max Bergmann sits down with Abraham Newman and Kristine Berzina for a rapid-reaction conversation about the newly released U.S. National Security Strategy (NSS), its implications for the European security landscape, and the key clash at the forefront of transatlantic tech relations. The live video episode was recorded on Monday, December 9, 2025.

Abraham Newman is the director of the BMW Center for German and European Studies and John Powers Chair in International Business Diplomacy at Georgetown University. Kristine Berzina is a senior fellow for U.S. Defense and Transatlantic Security at the German Marshall Fund in Washington DC.

Watch the live event on demand here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFS5L81uzfA

Reach out to our team with any questions affecting Europe, or to share feedback on the show. We want to hear from you!

Email: erep@csis.org

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Bluesky: @erep.csis.org

Is Europe’s Trade Agenda Evolving?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:09:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the latest peace negotiations to secure an end to the war in Ukraine. They also cover ongoing talks about implementation of the US–EU trade deal, after US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met with their EU counterparts in Brussels. Then, they turn to a conversation with Cecilia Malmström, former EU Commissioner for Trade and Home Affairs, to discuss the European Union’s trade agenda.

(00:00) Intro

(00:56) Ukraine Peace Negotiations

(11:50) Lutnick and Greer in Brussels

(18:50) Interview with Cecilia Malmström

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The Latest 28-Point Peace Plan for Ukraine

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:14:00 -0000

Max speaks with Michael Kimmage about his immediate reactions to the new 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, and the rapid-fire diplomacy taking place in response to its release.

This conversation was recorded on November 24, 2025.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Is the EU's Center-Right Ready to Work with the Far-Right?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:26:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss a recent vote in the European Parliament where the center-right European People’s Party voted with the far right to approve cuts to EU green rules. Then, they turn to a conversation with Federico Steinberg and Nicolas Véron about the euro and Europe's economic future.

(00:00) Intro

(00:42) European Parliament vote on EU green rules

(17:10) Interview with Federico Steinberg and Nicolas Véron

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Is a New Era Emerging for the Euro? | The Eurofile

Live Episode: Is a New Era Emerging for the Euro?

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 18:25:00 -0000

Max Bergmann is joined by Federico Steinberg and Nicolas Véron for a conversation about Europe's economic future. The discussion covers the Euro’s evolving international role, the rise of stable coins and the digital Euro, and how Europe can chart a fiscally sustainable future.

Federico Steinberg is a visiting fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, Prince of Asturias distinguished visiting professor at Georgetown University, and senior analyst at the Elcano Royal Institute. Nicolas Véron is senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Dutch Election Surprises and the EU’s Big Money Questions

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:58:00 -0000

On the latest episode of The Eurofile, Max and Donatienne discuss the recent Dutch elections, where centrist-liberal party, D66, narrowly secured victory over the far-right Party for Freedom, while EU "big wig," Frans Timmermans, and his GreenLeft-Labor ticket suffered a disappointing defeat. Then, they turn to a conversation with Zsolt Darvas, Senior Fellow at Bruegel, to discuss whether the EU’s long-term budget, also known as the Multiannual Financial Framework, is fit for purpose.

Is Europe’s Approach to Trump Backfiring?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 17:15:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the ongoing negotiations over the EU’s next long-term budget and a recent call from the German government to establish a common European stock market. Then, they turn to a conversation with Jeremy Shapiro, Research Director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, to discuss how European leaders have approached Trump. Have they avoided the worst-case scenario or is appeasement backfiring already?

(00:00) Intro

(00:52) EU Budget Fight

(11:40) Berlin Calls for European Stock Market

(17:11) Interview with Jeremy Shapiro

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Is Europe Abandoning Its Climate Agenda?

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 22:04:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent Czech parliamentary election in which billionaire businessman and former prime minister Andrej Babis and his ANO party roared to a victory (01:00). They also cover last week’s informal European Council summit in Copenhagen, where leaders met to discuss how to bolster the continent’s security (07:33). Finally, they turn to a conversation with Ben McWilliams, affiliate fellow in the field of energy and climate policy with Bruegel, to discuss the European Union’s energy and climate agenda (15:47).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

How Europe Can Defend Itself with Less America

France in Flux: Lecornu's Tightrope Walk with Sylvie Kauffmann

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:20:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne answer listener questions (0:44) before talking with Sylvie Kauffmann, editorial director and columnist at Le Monde, about France’s political turmoil (22:40).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

It's Complicated: A Status Update on EU Trade, Mercosur, and The State of the Union feat. Sander Tordoir and Federico Steinberg

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:25:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne are back from summer vacation with a preview of European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the Union address to European Parliament this week. Then, Sander Tordoir and Federico Steinberg came back on The Eurofile to break down the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, the latest moves in EU trade, and what progress has been made in the past year to implement the The Draghi Report.

Sander Tordoir is Chief Economist at the Centre for European Reform Senior Associate (non-resident) with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program. Federico Steinberg is a Visiting Fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and Prince of Asturias Distinguished Visiting Professor at Georgetown University.

Note: this episode was recorded on September 5, 2025.

We want to hear from YOU on The Eurofile! Please submit your questions or feedback to ⁠erep@csis.org⁠ with “Eurofile Listener Feedback” in the subject line. Or, find us on social media:

X: @csiserep

Bluesky: erep.csis.org

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⁠Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts⁠

Are allies or autocrats managing Trump better?

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:25:00 -0000

In a special crossover episode with CSIS’s State of Play, Max Bergmann joins Will Todman and Victor Cha to discuss what East Asian and European allies are learning about summits with President Trump and what patterns are emerging about how President Trump engages with autocrats.
Learn more:
⁠State of Play | CSIS Podcasts⁠
Statesmen’s Forum: His Excellency Lee Jae Myung, President of the Republic of Korea | CSIS
⁠⁠Max and Maria on the Alaska and White House Peace Summits⁠⁠ | CSIS Russian Roulette

The Brussels Media Landscape Explained feat. Matthew Kaminski

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:50:00 -0000

Max sat down with Matthew Kaminski—co-founder of Politico Europe, former editor-in-chief and former editor-at-large of Politico—to discuss the ethos of Politico Europe, why it’s been successful, and how it fits into the political journalism landscape in Brussels.

Please submit your questions or feedback to ⁠erep@csis.org⁠ with “Eurofile Listener Feedback” in the subject line.

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⁠Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts⁠

How Migration Came to Define European Politics with David Leonhardt

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne talk to David Leonhardt, Pulitzer-prize winning journalist and editorial director for The New York Times, about the politics of migration in Europe and the United States.

Please submit your questions or feedback to erep@csis.org with “Eurofile Listener Feedback” in the subject line.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

In an Age of Right-Wing Populism, Why Are Denmark’s Liberals Winning?

Europe Bends the Knee on Trade and Previewing Denmark’s EU Presidency with Lykke Friis

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:02:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss last week’s EU-US trade deal announcement, where European allies agreed to a 15 percent tariff rate on most U.S. imports. Max talks with Lykke Friis, director of the Copenhagen-based think tank Europa, about Denmark’s presidency of the European Union.

Please submit your questions or feedback to erep@csis.org with “Eurofile Listener Feedback” in the subject line.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Heart of the matter: How Denmark’s focus on Ukraine and enlargement will define its EU presidency

The Looming US-EU Trade Collision and a Preview of the EU-China Summit with Noah Barkin

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:20:00 -0000

Max and Otto discuss President Trump’s latest tariff threats and the timid European response. Max talks to Noah Barkin, Senior Advisor with Rhodium Group's China practice, to preview next week’s EU-China summit.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Watching China in Europe—July 2025

NATO’s Brain Death in the Hague and the State of the UK Economy with Professor Sarah Hall

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:34:00 -0000

Max and Otto discuss last week’s NATO summit in The Hague, where European allies signed up to a massive new spending pledge. Donatienne talks with Sarah Hall, 1931 Professor of Geography and Fellow of St John’s College, Cambridge University and Deputy Director of UK in a Changing Europe, about the state of the UK economy and Labour’s economic agenda.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

NATO’s “Brain Death” in The Hague

G7 Tensions, EU Sanctions Galore, and the State of Europe’s Rearmament with Dr. Daniel Fiott

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 19:21:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss this week’s G7 Summit in Canada and the latest round of EU sanctions against Russia. Then, they turn to a conversation with Dr. Daniel Fiott, Head of the Defence and Statecraft Programme at the Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy (CSDS) of the Brussels School of Governance (BSoG), to discuss the state of European defense and Europe’s rearmament.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

How the European Union and Germany Can Leverage Their Monetary Power

Brussels Shudders at Polish Election Results and Max Reports from Europe

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:36:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the second round of the Polish presidential election and its implications for Europe. Then they discuss Max’s recent Europe trip and his impressions from meetings with European officials and experts.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The Implications of Poland’s Presidential Election

Elections Extravaganza, an EU-UK Reset, and Merz’s Turbulent Start feat. Jana Puglierin

Thu, 22 May 2025 20:41:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the second round of the Romanian presidential election, Portugal’s parliamentary election, and a new EU-UK deal on post-Brexit relations. Then they turn to a conversation with Jana Puglierin, senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations and head of its Berlin office, to discuss the priorities of the new German government.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Rest In Peace, the Status Quo: Romanian Elections, a “Brexit Reset,” and Clashes in Transatlantic Tech

Fri, 09 May 2025 16:44:00 -0000

On this episode, Max and Donatienne cover the first round of the Romanian presidential election, where George Simion, a hard-right candidate, soared to a first-place finish ahead of the second round on May 18. Since recording this episode on May 5th, major developments, including the resignation and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and rapid capital flight, have sparked a political crisis. This story is still developing.

The hosts then break down British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s attempt to reset relations with the European Union ahead of a May 19 Brexit summit, and welcome Abe Newman, professor in the School of Foreign Service and Government Departments at Georgetown University and Director of the BMW Center for German and European Studies, for a conversation about coming collisions in transatlantic tech.

100 Days of Trump 2.0: Transatlantic Tensions with Indo-Pacific Stakes feat. Janka Oertel

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 20:22:00 -0000

In this week's episode, Max and Donatienne cover Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Washington and the state of transatlantic relations as we approach the 100-day mark of the second Trump presidency.

Then, they are joined by Janka Oertel, director of the Asia programme and a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), to break down how big changes in US trade policy and rising transatlantic tensions affect the EU-China trade and diplomatic relationship.

Europe in a Tariff-Troubled World feat. Federico Steinberg

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 13:18:00 -0000

Following announcements from President Donald Trump of sweeping new tariffs, Max and Donatienne discuss the fallout from last week’s “Liberation Day” with economist and international trade expert, Federico Steinberg: a Visiting Fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and Prince of Asturias Distinguished Visiting Professor at Georgetown University. This episode dives deeply into the impact of these tariffs and what may come next for Europe.

Democratic Backsliding in Turkey, Steps Forward for EU Defense, and Decoding US-Russia-Ukraine Negotiations feat. Tom Wright

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 18:25:00 -0000

This week, Max and Donatienne discuss the state of Turkey’s democracy after the jailing of Istanbul’s mayor days before becoming presidential candidate, the latest European Council meeting and a new EU white paper for European defense. Then, our hosts turn to a conversation with Tom Wright, senior fellow at Brookings and former Senior Director for Strategic Planning at the United States National Security Council (NSC) in the Biden administration, to discuss his recent article in Foreign Affairs outlining a U.S. strategy for Russia-Ukraine negotiations.

Learn more:

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The Right U.S. Strategy for Russia-Ukraine Negotiations | Foreign Affairs

The EU at a Crossroads: Big Updates in Germany and the Cost of Trump Tariffs

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:27:00 -0000

In this week's episode, Max and Donatienne discuss the state of Germany’s post-election politics, including the future of the debt brake and upcoming coalition talks, and highlight the latest European Council meeting, European security, and Ukraine. Then, Max shares his key takeaways from a visit to Brussels before turning to a conversation with Phil Luck, director of the CSIS Economics Program and Scholl Chair in International Business, to discuss a looming transatlantic trade fight.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

European Divorce

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 15:16:42 -0000

In a special crossover episode with CSIS's The Truth of the Matter, Max Bergmann joins Andrew Schwartz to debrief his recent trip to meet with European diplomats in Brussels and Paris and discuss a possible United States divorce from our allies in Europe.

Economic disputes, defense spending disagreements, and differing approaches to Russia and China have further widened the gap between the transatlantic allies. This episode dives into new developments as European leaders question the long-term reliability of U.S. commitments to NATO and regional security, as well as the impact on European allies as Washington shifts its strategic focus toward the Indo-Pacific.

Can Germany Revive its Economy?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:23:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne break down the results of German election and discuss what a new government could mean for the Germany's economic trajectory. They then welcome Sander Tordoir, chief economist at the Centre for European Reform, to discuss Germany’s economic malaise and preview how a new German government may impact the European economy.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Tumultuous Times in Europe

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 23:07:54 -0000

In this crossover episode with the Truth of the Matter, Max Bergmann joins Host Andrew Schwartz to discuss the current state of European security, the potential for a U.S.-Europe tech war, how Ukraine negotiations might evolve, and more.

Trump’s Tariff Threats and a Conversation with Anu Bradford

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 15:42:06 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss how the EU can respond to Trump’s tariffs and whether EU doomerism is overstated. They then turn to a conversation with Anu Bradford, Professor of Law and International Organization at Columbia Law School, to discuss how Washington and Brussels might clash over tech regulation in the second Trump administration.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The Coming Transatlantic Tech Collisions and a Conversation with Federico Rampini

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 19:44:25 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap Donald Trump and Ursula von der Leyen’s speeches at the World Economic Forum in Davos before previewing European tech regulation during Trump’s second term. Then, they turn to a conversation with Federico Rampini, Global Columnist for Corriere della Sera, to discuss Prime Minister Georgia Meloni’s tenure, the state of the Italian economy, and what the second Trump administration means for Italy and the EU.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Greenland Back on Trump’s Menu and a Conversation with Jeremy Cliffe

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:11:44 -0000

Max, Donatienne, and Otto discuss Trump’s recent statements about Greenland and the reactions to Elon Musk’s interjections into European politics. They are then joined by Jeremy Cliffe, editorial director and senior fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, to preview the upcoming German elections and Europe’s approach to Trump’s return to the White House.

Learn more:

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The Merz doctrine: What a CDU-led government would mean for German foreign policy | ECFR

Searching for Deutschland Podcast - Apple Podcasts

2024 Year-End Review and a Conversation on French Politics with Georgina Wright

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 20:24:30 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap the major stories that shaped 2024 and look ahead at the coming year. They are then joined by Georgina Wright, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director for International Studies at Institut Montaigne, for a discussion on the political turmoil currently roiling France.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

US-EU Relations under Trump 2.0 with Dan Kelemen and Federico Steinberg

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 19:33:19 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Dan Kelemen and Federico Steinberg to discuss the implications of Trump’s return to the White House for US-EU relations, including the transatlantic economy and Europe’s efforts to strengthen the rule of law.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

European Security and Defense under Trump 2.0 with Andrea Kendall-Taylor and Jim Townsend

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 17:11:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Andrea Kendall-Taylor and Jim Townsend, hosts of the Brussels Sprouts podcast at the Center for a New American Security, to discuss the implications of Trump’s return to the White House for European security, Ukraine, and US-Europe relations.

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Brussels Sprouts

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

US Election Reaction: Trump Returns

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 21:02:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the implications for Europe from Trump’s imminent return to the White House.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Cecilia Malmström on the Future of EU Trade Policy

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:39:30 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Cecilia Malmström, former European commissioner for trade (from 2014 to 2019) and European commissioner for home affairs (from 2010 to 2014), to discuss the evolution of the EU’s trade policy, EU-China ties on trade, and the state of transatlantic economic and trade relations.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Biden’s European Farewell and a Conversation with Mij Rahman

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:48:19 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the latest European Council meeting and Biden’s ‘farewell’ trip to Germany (00.43). Then, they turn to a conversation with Mij Rahman, the managing director for Europe at Eurasia Group, to discuss priorities and challenges facing the new European Commission, and the current state of French politics (14.35).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The EU’s Muddled Approach to the Middle East and a Conversation with Tom Nuttall

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 15:45:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap Max’s recent Europe trip and discuss the EU’s lackluster approach to the Middle East one year after the October 7 attacks (05:36). Then, they turn to a conversation with Tom Nuttall, The Economist's chief Germany correspondent and head of the Berlin bureau, about the state of German politics (14:18).

Von der Leyen’s Power Grab and a Conversation with Simone Tagliapietra

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:29:01 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss Ursula von der Leyen’s proposed College of Commissioners for her second term as Commission President (00:38). Then, they turn to a conversation with Simone Tagliapietra, senior fellow at Bruegel, about the state of Europe’s energy transition and the EU’s evolving climate policies (16:44).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Power Plays: Europe’s Response to the Energy Crisis (csis.org)

New French Government and a Conversation on the Draghi Report with Federico Steinberg

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 13:24:45 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the formation of a new French government after Emmanuel Macron picked former chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as Prime Minister. Then, they briefly discuss two regional elections in East Germany and the outline of Ursula von der Leyen’s new European Commission. Finally, they turn to a conversation with Federico Steinberg, visiting fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program and senior analyst at Elcano, about the long-awaited Draghi report on the European Union’s competitiveness.

Learn more:

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe’s Fiscal Crossroads (csis.org)

Power Plays: Europe’s Response to the Energy Crisis (csis.org)

Summer Special: Unpacking the Washington, DC Think Tank Scene

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:19:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne are joined by Sophia Besch, Tara Varma, and Liana Fix for a summer special conversation on the Washington, DC think tank scene from a European perspective.

Sophia Besch is a senior fellow in the Europe Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Her area of expertise is European defense policy. Tara Varma is a visiting fellow at the Center of the United States and Europe at Brookings. Her research focus includes current French security proposals in the European framework, as well as ongoing efforts to materialize European sovereignty in traditional and non-traditional security fields. Liana Fix is a fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). She is a historian and political scientist with expertise in German and European foreign and security policy, European security, transatlantic relations, Russia, Eastern Europe, and European China policy.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Implications for Europe from Biden Stepping Down and a Conversation with Chris Johnstone

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:21:35 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss Ursula von der Leyen being confirmed for a second term as Commission President, the turbulent start to Hungary’s presidency of the Council of the European Union, and President Biden’s decision not to run for reelection in November. Then, they turn to a conversation with Chris Johnstone, senior adviser and Japan Chair at CSIS, to discuss his recent report co-authored with Max Bergmann titled “Europe's Security Role in the Indo-Pacific: Making It Meaningful.”

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe's Security Role in the Indo-Pacific: Making It Meaningful

French Election Fallout and a NATO Summit Recap with Camille Grand

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 15:25:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap the recent NATO summit in Washington, DC (00:48) and discuss the fallout from the French legislative elections (04:55). Then, they turn to a conversation with Camille Grand, Distinguished Policy Fellow at ECFR, to discuss the implications of the NATO summit on European security (16:26).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Policy Brief: Defending Europe with less America

The Tussle for Top EU Jobs and a Conversation with YouGov’s Marcus Roberts

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:29:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent nominations for top EU jobs, as Ursula von der Leyen stays in pole position to secure another five-year term as Commission president (00:44). Then, they turn to a conversation with Marcus Roberts, Chief of Public Data at YouGov, to preview the UK elections and discuss broader trends in European politics (13:57).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

New Report: Europe's Security Role in the Indo-Pacific: Making It Meaningful

New Commentary: The United States Should Press the European Union to Act on Eurobonds for Ukraine

Macron's Snap Election Gamble and a Conversation with Lieutenant General Michiel van der Laan

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 15:04:26 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the results from the European Parliament elections where the far-right made significant gains but failed to deliver a decisive blow to the incumbent centrist coalition (01:07). Then, they turn to a bold move by French President Emmanuel Macron to dissolve parliament and call snap elections after his liberal Renaissance party fared poorly in the EP election (07:50). Finally, they turn to a conversation with Lieutenant General Michiel van der Laan, the Director General of the EU Military Staff, for a conversation on the EU’s evolving role in defense policy and military affairs (15:33).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

European Elections Bonanza and a Conversation with Dan Kelemen

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:23:09 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the latest polling figures for the European Parliament election (1:00) and Rishi Sunak’s decision to call an early election in the U.K. on July 4th (7:34). Then, they look ahead to President Biden’s state visit to France, in part to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day (12:16). Finally, they turn to a conversation with Dan Kelemen, who holds the McCourt Chair at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University and is a non-resident senior associate with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program, to preview the European Parliament election (15:33).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Fico Assassination Attempt, New Dutch Government, and a Conversation with Jude Blanchette

Thu, 23 May 2024 21:18:31 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the assassination attempt on Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico (0:53) and the announcement of a new Dutch government (0:53). Then, they turn to a conversation with Jude Blanchette, Freeman Chair in China Studies at CSIS, for a conversation about President Xi’s recent trip to Europe and the state of Sino-Russian ties (18:54).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Pekingology | CSIS Podcasts

Bonus Episode: Protests in Georgia and European Implications with Tinatin Japaridze and Eto Buziashvili

Wed, 15 May 2024 14:23:41 -0000

For today's special bonus episode, Max sat down with Tinatin Japaridze and Eto Buziashvili to discuss the ongoing protests taking place in Georgia. Georgian civil society is mobilizing yet again in opposition to the controversial "foreign agents" law being pushed by the ruling Georgian Dream party.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Macron’s Sorbonne Speech, Previewing the EU Parliament Election, and a Conversation with Rebecca Christie

Thu, 09 May 2024 17:58:39 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss Emmanuel Macron’s latest speech about the future of Europe (0:55). Then, they will begin to unpack the EU parliamentary election (08:53) before briefly discussing Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Europe (14:55). Finally, we will turn to a conversation with Rebecca Christie, Senior Fellow at Bruegel, for a conversation about the Enrico Letta report and the European single market (18:54).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

EU bank-saving raid can boost tired capital market

EU savers need a single-market place to invest

EU's spending snags spoil joint borrowing success

Strengthening EU competitivenss

U.S. National Security Supplemental Passes, Rise of Foreign Interference in European Politics, and a Conversation with Ambassador Ivo Daalder

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:56:00 -0000

Max’s Ukraine trip and the passage by the U.S. Congress of a national security supplemental (0:48), foreign interference (15:43), Ivo Daalder (23:22)

Max and Donatienne discuss Max’s trip to Ukraine and the long-awaited passage of a U.S. national security supplemental (00:48). Then, they briefly discuss the recent flurry of foreign influence attempts by Russia and China in European politics (15:43). Finally, a conversation with Ambassador Ivo Daalder, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO and CEO of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs (23:22).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Back in Stock? The State of Russia's Defense Industry after Two Years of the War

After the Supplemental, Ukraine’s Path Forward

What Ukraine Needs From NATO | Foreign Affairs

NATO Ministerial, TTC in Leuven, and a Conversation with Ignacio Molina

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:14:25 -0000

Donatienne and Otto discuss the recent meeting of NATO foreign ministers, including the Secretary-General Stoltenberg’s idea to set up a five-year, €100 billion fund to continue supporting Ukraine (01:03). Then, they will briefly discuss the latest meeting of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council in Leuven, Belgium (11:15) and the results from the Slovak presidential election (19:16). Finally, a conversation with Ignacio Molina, Senior Analyst at the Elcano Royal Institute to discuss Spain’s foreign and EU policy (23:52).

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

March EUCO Summit, CEE Roundup, and a Conversation with Jeff Rathke

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 13:53:16 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent European Council meeting and the implications for Ukraine and European defense. Then, they turn to recent developments in Central and Eastern Europe, including Slovakia’s presidential election and the latest turmoil in negotiations to form a new Bulgarian government. Finally, Max and Donatienne turn to a conversation with Jeff Rathke, President of the American-German Institute to discuss the latest developments in German politics.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

A More European NATO

Franco-German Engine Sputters on Ukraine and a Conversation with Ambassador Charles Fries

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 13:34:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent Franco-German spat on Ukraine and the direction of European defense before turning to the EU’s new defense industrial strategy. Then, Max talks to Ambassador Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary General for Peace, Security and Defense at the European External Action Service (EEAS), about the EU’s role as a defense actor.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The European Union Charts Its Own Path for European Rearmament

Von Der Leyen Vies for Second Term and a Conversation with Ilaria Mazzocco

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:13:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss Ursula von der Leyen’s bid for a second term as European Commission President and Dutch PM Mark Rutte vying to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as NATO Secretary General. Finally, Max and Donatienne are joined by Ilaria Mazzocco, senior fellow with the Trustee Chair in Chinese Business and Economics at CSIS, for a conversation on growing European dependencies on China for climate technologies and China's EV export boom.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Green Industrial Policy: A Holistic Approach

Balancing Act: Managing European Dependencies on China for Climate Technologies

Electric Shock: Interpreting China’s Electric Vehicle Export Boom

Trump’s NATO Comments and a Conversation with Emily Benson

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:32:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss former President Donald Trump’s latest comments on NATO from the campaign trail in South Carolina and the reactions in Europe. Then, they briefly cover the recent protests by European farmers and the reemergence of a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland. Finally, Max and Donatienne are joined by Emily Benson, director of the CSIS Project on Trade and Technology and Senior Fellow with the CSIS Scholl Chair in International Business, to discuss the EU-US Trade and Technology Council.

Ukraine’s EU Funding Struggle and a Conversation with Catherine Belton

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:49:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss Ukraine’s continued struggle to secure funding from the European Union. Then, we will turn to a conversation with Catherine Belton from the Washington Post on Russian attempts to influence European politics. Catherine reports on Russia and has written extensively on the Russian elite and security services.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe Needs a Paradigm Shift in How It Supports Ukraine

EU Funding for Ukraine and a Conversation with Marcus Roberts

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 17:33:01 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent efforts to continue EU funding for Ukraine. Then, they are joined by Marcus Roberts, Chief of Public Data at Yougov, for a conversation about polling trends ahead of a major election year in Europe.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Europe Needs a Paradigm Shift in How It Supports Ukraine

Reform of Stability and Growth Pact and a Conversation with Jim Townsend

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:24:38 -0000

Max and Otto discuss the recent reforms of the EU’s Stability and Growth Pact and what it portends for the European Union in 2024. Then, Max is joined by Jim Townsend, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for European and NATO Policy and current adjunct senior fellow in the Transatlantic Security Program with the Center for a New American Security, for a conversation about European defense and next year’s NATO summit in Washington, DC.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Why the Washington Summit Should Focus on Europe

EUCO Recap and 2023 Year in Review

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 14:46:28 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap the recent European Council meeting, where EU leaders agreed to open accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova but failed to agree on a $55 billion aid package. Then, they discuss some key events and developments from the past year and what they may portend for the year ahead.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Dutch Elections, German Government in Disarray, and a Conversation with R. Dan Kelemen

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:10:09 -0000

Max and Donatienne recap the recent elections in the Netherlands where the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) secured a surprising victory. Then, they cover the latest turmoil following the German constitutional court’s decision to strike down the government’s attempt to repurpose COVID funds. Finally, Max is joined by R. Dan Kelemen, Senior Associate with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and the McCourt Chair at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University. Max and Dan discuss Hungary’s most recent attempt to block EU support for Ukraine ahead of a crucial December meeting at the European Council.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Germany’s Debt Brake Strikes Again, Spain’s Pedro Sanchez Secures New Term, Portugal’s Costa Resigns, and a Conversation with Rym Momtaz

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:18:54 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss a recent major blow to Germany’s environmental strategy, Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez officially forming a new government, the resignation of Portuguese PM Antonio Costa, and the EU’s artillery promise to Ukraine falling flat. Then, Max is joined for a conversation with Rym Momtaz, consultant research fellow for European foreign policy and security at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), on Emmanuel Macron and French foreign policy.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Von der Leyen Visits Kyiv, Baerbock Calls for Bold EU Reforms, and an Exit Interview with Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 14:29:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne first discuss Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Kyiv and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock’s call for bold EU reforms. Then, they are joined for an ‘exit interview’ with Stavros Lambrinidis, Ambassador of the European Union to the United States, as his time in Washington, DC comes to a close.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Polish Election Results, the EU-US Summit, and a Conversation with David Lammy

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:49:04 -0000

Max and Donatienne first discuss the Polish election results and their broader implications for Europe. Then, they review the recent EU-US summit in Washington, D.C. Lastly, Max is joined for a conversation with David Lammy, the UK Shadow Foreign Secretary and Labour MP for Tottenham.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Poland’s Election Could Transform the European Union

The Future of British Foreign Policy: A Conversation with UK Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP

Polish Elections, EU Reaction to Crisis in Israel, the Future of Ukraine Security Assistance and a Conversation with Tara Varma

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:27:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the upcoming elections in Poland, the EU’s uncoordinated first reaction to the ongoing crisis in Israel, and how turbulence on Capitol Hill affects the future of security assistance to Ukraine. Then, they are joined for a conversation with Tara Varma, a visiting fellow in the Center of the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution, for a conversation on the state of French foreign policy in a European context.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Beyond the Battlefield: Global Implications of Russia’s War in Ukraine

Von der Leyen’s State of the European Union Speech and a Conversation with Timothy Garton Ash

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne first look back at Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the European Union speech and what it portends for her vision of Europe’s future. Then, they are joined for a conversation with Timothy Garton Ash, professor of European Studies at Oxford University, to discuss the history of contemporary Europe and his new book, Homelands: A Personal History of Europe.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Beyond the Battlefield: Global Implications of Russia’s War in Ukraine

The EU’s Digital Services Act and a Conversation with Federico Steinberg

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:23:50 -0000

Max and Donatienne are first joined by Caitlin Chin, fellow with the CSIS Strategic Technologies Program, to discuss the impact of the EU’s Digital Services Act, as very large online platforms will now have to comply with Brussels’ online content rulebook. Then, they are joined for a conversation with Federico Steinberg, visiting fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, to discuss the state of Europe’s economy.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Beyond the Battlefield: Global Implications of Russia’s War in Ukraine

Examining Irish Neutrality and a Conversation with Mujtaba Rahman

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:24:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne first recap their summer vacations in Europe, including an assessment of Irish neutrality in the current European political climate. Then, they are joined by Mujtaba (Mij) Rahman, managing director for Europe at political risk research and consulting firm Eurasia Group, for a conversation about the current state of European politics and Europe’s future geopolitical trajectory.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Germany's New China Strategy: A Conversation with German Ambassador Andreas Michaelis

Beyond the Battlefield: Global Implications of Russia’s War in Ukraine

The State of Europe’s Far Right and a Conversation with Charles Powell

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 13:12:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne first discuss the state of Europe’s far right following Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s recent visit to Washington. Then, Max is joined for a conversation with Charles Powell, director of the Elcano Royal Institute in Madrid, about the Spanish election results and their implications for the future of European politics.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Whither Spain? The July 2023 General Election Results and Beyond | CSIS Commentary

Spanish Elections & the Future of European Politics | CSIS Events

Vilnius Summit Recap, Dutch Government Implodes, New EU Migration Deal, and a Conversation with Agon Maliqi

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 15:20:30 -0000

Max and Donatienne first discuss the recent NATO summit in Vilnius, the resignation of PM Mark Rutte’s government in the Netherlands, and the European Union’s ongoing migration problem, after EU leaders recently agreed to a new pact on asylum policy. Then, they are joined for a conversation with political analyst, activist, and media writer Agon Maliqi about the ongoing tensions in Kosovo. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

What Happened at NATO's Vilnius Summit?

The EU’s New Economic Security Strategy and a Conversation with Ambassador David Quarrey

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 14:23:41 -0000

Max and Donatienne are first joined by Federico Steinberg, visiting fellow at CSIS, to discuss the European Union’s new economic security strategy. Then, Max sits down with the United Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to NATO, Ambassador David Quarrey to preview the upcoming NATO summit in Vilnius. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Germany's Financial Attack on NATO | CSIS

Transforming European Defense: A New Focus on Integration

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:04:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne recently sat down with Marie Jourdain and Sean Monaghan to discuss a new CSIS report dissecting the state of European defense. The report calls for a critical role for the European Union to play in integrating and coordinating efforts to rebuild European militaries from the bottom-up. You can read the full report here and watch the webcast from the live event here.

New CSIS Report on European Defense, Germany’s National Security Strategy, and a Conversation with Mathieu Droin

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:13:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne first discuss a new CSIS report about European defense integration and the EU’s role in rebuilding European militaries. They then cover Germany’s first ever national security strategy and a recent meeting between the leaders of France, Germany, and Poland ahead of the NATO summit in July. Lastly, Max and Donatienne turn to a conversation with Mathieu Droin about European naval capabilities and why they matter to the broader European defense landscape.

Learn more:

Transforming European Defense: A New Focus on Integration (csis.org)

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Macron Extends Olive Branch to Eastern Europe, The European Political Community Summit, and a Conversation with John Christianson

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:03:27 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss French President Emmanuel Macron’s speech at the GLOBSEC Bratislava Global Security Forum where he called for tangible and credible security guarantees for Ukraine. They then cover the recent European Political Community summit in Moldova and discuss the EPC in relation to EU enlargement. Lastly, Max and Donatienne turn to a conversation with John Christianson about European strategic air enabling capabilities – a critical gap in European defense. John is an active-duty Air Force officer and current military fellow with the International Security Program at CSIS.

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Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

The European Union’s Enlargement Conundrum (csis.org)

Meta Fined for Privacy Breaches, Recapping Turkish Elections, and a Conversation with Dan Keleman

Thu, 25 May 2023 14:06:31 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent 1.2B euro fine levied at Meta, the U.S. tech giant controlling Facebook, for breaching the EU’s GDPR rulebook – the largest such fine in the 5-year history of the privacy regulation. They then cover the recent first round of the Turkish elections, where President Erdogan outperformed polling figures and is now heavily favored to retain power after the second round of voting on May 28. Lastly, Max and Donatienne turn to a conversation with Dan Keleman on democratic backsliding in Europe. Dan is professor of political science and law and chair of the Department of Political Science at Rutgers University and recently joined the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program as a non-resident Senior Associate.

The Eurofile | CSIS Podcasts

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Tories Battered in UK Local Elections, A Rant about the Stability and Growth Pact, and a Conversation with Jude Blanchette

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:19:10 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the Tories’ resounding defeat in local UK elections, renewed debates about the Stability and Growth Pact, and European Commissioner Thierry Breton’s push to ramp up Europe’s artillery production. They then turn to a conversation with Jude Blanchette, who holds the Freeman Chair in China Studies at CSIS, to discuss Sino-European relations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Pekingology | CSIS Podcasts

Poland and Hungary Block Ukrainian Grain, Greek Democracy in Decline, and a Turkey Election Preview with Ilke Toygür

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:05:50 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent dispute over European blockages of grain imports from Ukraine and the state of media freedom and democracy in Greece. They then turn to a conversation with Ilke Toygür, non-resident senior associate with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia program, to preview Turkey’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections three weeks out from voting day.

Transatlantic allies in action: Unpacking EU-US cooperation on Turkey ahead of elections , by Ilke Toygür and Max Hoffman

Xi courts Macron in Beijing, Finland joins NATO, and a Conversation with Emily Benson

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:43:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss French president Emmanuel Macron’s recent visit to China and Finland’s long-awaited formal accession to NATO. They then turn to a conversation with Emily Benson to discuss the latest transatlantic tension stemming from the Inflation Reduction Act.

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Analyzing the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (csis.org)

Green Industrial Strategies: Takeaways for Transatlantic Trade (csis.org)

France’s Pension Reforms, E-Fuels Spat, and Elections in Finland and Bulgaria

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:19:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent protests in France following President Macron’s controversial pension reform. They then cover the spat over the European Union’s e-fuels regulation, which roiled a recent European Council summit in Stockholm. Finally, they preview upcoming elections in Finland and Bulgaria, which could have implications for continued support to Ukraine, EU enlargement, and the bloc’s future democratic resilience.

Learn more: Finland | 2023 Elections | CSIS

Von der Leyen Visits Washington and a Conversation with Kakha Gogolashvili on Georgia’s Foreign Agents Law

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 15:05:00 -0000

In this week’s episode of The Eurofile, Max and Donatienne discuss Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Washington, D.C. and the prospect of closer transatlantic cooperation in the context of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Following their conversation, they sit down with Kakha Gogolashvili, Senior Fellow and Director of EU Studies at the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies, to discuss the recently abandoned foreign agents law in Georgia, Russia’s presence in the South Caucasus, and Georgia’s EU membership aspirations.

European Defense Cooperation, A New EU-U.K. Deal, and Takeaways from the Munich Security Conference

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:31:45 -0000

In this week’s episode of The Eurofile, Max and Donatienne discuss the recent post-Brexit EU-U.K. deal and takeaways from the Munich Security Conference. Following their conversation, they sit down with Sean Monaghan, visiting fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program and an expert on European defense, to discuss the current state of European defense cooperation.

Solving Europe’s Defense Dilemma: Overcoming the Challenges to European Defense Cooperation (csis.org)

Does the New EU-NATO Joint Declaration Matter? (csis.org)

NATO and the Invasion, One Year On (csis.org)

Assessing Europe One Year After Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 19:33:04 -0000

In this week’s special episode of The Eurofile marking the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Max and Donatienne discuss Europe’s response to the war. They are joined by Dr. Kathleen McInnis, Senior Fellow with the CSIS International Security Program and Director of the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative, as well as Jim Townsend, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for Europe and NATO Policy, and current Adjunct Senior Fellow with the Transatlantic Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). Their conversation covers the conflict’s impact on European defense, transatlantic relations, the European Union, NATO, and global geopolitics.

https://www.csis.org/analysis/continent-forged-crisis-assessing-europe-one-year-war

https://www.csis.org/events/war-ukraine-one-year

https://www.csis.org/analysis/nato-and-invasion-one-year

Ukraine’s EU Candidacy, Fighter Jets, Migration, and a Conversation with Jan Philipp Albrecht

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:00:55 -0000

In this week’s episode of The Eurofile, Max and Donatienne discuss the recent special meeting of the European Council and the key takeaways for Ukraine’s EU candidacy, weapons deliveries, and Europe’s migration policy. Following their conversation, they sit down with Jan Philipp Albrecht, former MEP and Co-President of the Heinrich Böll Foundation, to discuss the state of the transatlantic relationship from a German perspective, the European response to the Inflation Reduction Act, the German traffic light coalition, and more.

Listen to the lasted episode of The Eurofile's sister podcast, Russian Roulette: Of Sino-Russian Military Cooperation: Alliance or Alignment? – Russian Roulette Episode 114 | Russian Roulette | CSIS Podcasts

Czech Elections, Tanks Released, the State of Europe’s Economy, and a Conversation with Thierry Breton

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 14:00:00 -0000

Max and Donatienne discuss the recent Czech elections and the long-awaited delivery of Western tanks to Ukraine. They are then joined by Federico Steinberg, an economist and visiting fellow with the CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, from the Elcano Institute in Madrid to talk Europe’s economy and the transatlantic food fight over the Inflation Reduction Act’s climate change provisions. Finally, Max sat down for a conversation with Thierry Breton, EU Commissioner for the Single Market, to discuss the state of transatlantic security and technology cooperation.

Welcome to The Eurofile! – Corruption, Tanks, and Zeitenwende

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 14:15:47 -0000

On the inaugural episode of The Eurofile, Max and Donatienne talk Qatargate and tanks, two issues causing heated debate in Europe right now. Later on, they sit down with Sophia Besch, Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, to discuss Zeitenwende and all things German foreign and defense policy.

The Eurofile Trailer

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 22:12:58 -0000

Hosted by Max Bergmann, director of the Stuart Ceneter and the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program, and Donatienne Ruy, director of the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy at CSIS, “The Eurofile” looks at Europe through a Washington lens. We will discuss, debate, and dissect the big issues consuming Europe with some of the leading voices from the transatlantic community. We’ll try to make sense of developments in Brussels, break down European elections, and discuss all the issues roiling transatlantic relations. So join us for the first episode of “The Eurofile” on January 19th, with new episodes releasing every other Thursday, wherever you get your podcasts.