Understanding National Interests and Foreign Policy in Modern Politics

The podcast guest, Dmitry Sayms, discusses the differing concepts of national interests, ethical aspects of defending them, and a crisis in international expert discussions.

### Understanding National Interests: Perspectives from a Political Scientist
* 🌐 National interests are a **complex and dynamic concept**, with different interpretations based on **political ideology and historical context**.
* 🇺🇸 In the US, President Biden and former President Trump have contrasting views on national interests, with Biden emphasizing **global leadership** and Trump focusing on **narrow, sovereignty-based interests**.
* 🛡 The ethical considerations of defending national interests through military intervention are debated, with realists arguing for **pragmatic use of force** and caution about **unintended consequences**.
* 🌍 The discussion touches on the American exceptionalism narrative, which historically justifies US actions as "**exceptional**" compared to other nations.
* 🇷🇺 The conversation also delves into the Russian perspective on national interests, highlighting the **deep historical roots of opposition** and the **current polarization on foreign policy issues**.
* 🏛 The role of Think Tanks in shaping national interest discourse is examined, with concerns raised about **expertise crisis** and **ideological bias** in modern expert analysis.
* 🤝 The lack of dialogue and understanding between the US and Russia is noted, with the **Cold War legacy** and **shifting power dynamics** complicating bilateral relations.
* 🧠 The discussion concludes with reflections on patriotism and national identity in Russia, highlighting a **new generation's pride in the country's ability to resist external pressure**.

### Analysis of US-Russia Relations and the 2024 US Presidential Election
* 🇷🇺 Putin highlights Russia's historical resilience in the face of invasions, contrasting it with **Western perceptions**.
* 👥 Putin compares Kissinger and Brzezinski's geostrategic thinking, noting their **different backgrounds and approaches**.
* 🇦🇫 Putin accuses Brzezinski of deliberately provoking the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan to **divert attention from Poland**.
* 🇺🇦 Putin criticizes the US for its approach to Ukraine, particularly regarding **NATO membership**.
* 🇺🇸 Putin questions Biden's **mental acuity** and **ability to govern effectively**.
* 🗳 Putin discusses the 2024 US presidential election, suggesting **Trump has better chances** and warning against **underestimating him**.
* 🌐 Putin considers the possibility of a new security architecture but is **skeptical of fundamental reconciliation** with the current Western order.
* 🌍 Putin references the Peloponnesian War as a historical example of **prolonged conflict and its potential outcomes**.

Саймс: встречи с Байденом, ужин с Бжезинским, советская тюрьма и выборы в США | Не выходя из комнаты

Mash Room

Understanding National Interests with Dmitry Konstantinovich Sayms

National interests are interpreted differently by political leaders, with President Biden being a globalist and supporter of American hegemony, while Donald Trump has a narrower focus on the national interest.

The use of force to defend national interests is seen as acceptable, but the consequences and potential losses must be carefully considered, as emphasized by the Powell Doctrine.

The concept of American exceptionalism has historically influenced the perception of defending national interests, often leading to double standards in how the actions of the USA and its allies are viewed internationally.

Jeffrey Sachs' Perspective on Russian Emigration

Jeffrey Sachs discusses the unprovoked aggression against the US as declared by high-ranking officials during the special military operation, emphasizing the need for a full-scale description of the aggression.

He shares his disapproval of Russian emigrants who lobby for strikes against their own country, considering it morally unacceptable.

Sachs also reflects on the fierce attitude of the Russian opposition towards their own country, contrasting it with other political emigrations.

The Complex Role of Cadet Leaders in Russian History

Cadet leaders in Russia during the Revolution of 1905 were respected individuals who presented themselves as constitutional monarchists.

The Cadets refused to condemn terrorism and, when the opposition came to power, resorted to brutal forms of state, contributing to a vicious circle of extremism.

The role of intellectual centers and experts in Russia is currently in crisis, with specialists avoiding their expert role in providing recommendations.

The Crisis of Expertise in Understanding Russia

The devaluation of the Soviet Union and Russia has led to a worldwide crisis of expertise, especially in America.

There is a lack of systematic dialogue and exchange of opinions between American and Russian experts, partly due to the ongoing war and the modern Russia not being well understood.

The changing narratives and expectations of Russia as a superpower have led to a collision of perspectives, contributing to the crisis of expertise in understanding the country.

The Common Origin and Different Paths of Kissinger and Brzezinski

Kissinger and Brzezinski both had European immigrant backgrounds and served as national security advisors, but had different mentalities.

Kissinger felt a strong connection to both Germany and America, while Brzezinski was proud of his Polish heritage and focused on the independence of Poland and the involvement of the Soviet Union.

Brzezinski's deliberate actions as a national security advisor to Jimmy Carter in provoking the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan had a significant impact on global politics.

Critique of Joseph Biden's Leadership and the Biden Administration

Joseph Biden's transition from a senator to the imperial presence as a president is criticized for his attention-seeking behavior and lack of clear concepts in his actions.

The key figures in the Biden administration, such as Jake Sullivan, are portrayed as lacking integrity and a clear understanding of international relations, particularly in their approach to Russia, while refusing to acknowledge the potential consequences of their actions.

The Biden administration's dismissal of the significance of nuclear weapons in international conflicts, despite warnings from experts, is also a point of critique.

The Impact of Nuclear Danger on American Politics

The discussion of the minimal nuclear danger is seen as a hindrance to action by one party, while the other emphasizes the importance of informing the public.

The upcoming presidential race is characterized by polarizing views and concerns about the ability to govern, particularly focusing on Biden's performance.

The political climate is further complicated by contrasting portrayals of Trump, ongoing persecution claims, and the division of public opinion.

The Complexities of the US-Russia Relationship

The writer believes Russia should not intervene in the US political polarization but should observe and seek security opportunities if Trump is elected.

They also discuss the historical context of conflicts and the potential for reconciliation with the collective West.

The conversation touches on the impact of the Mueller investigation on the writer.