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Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: Samantha Vinograd , Former Senior Director for Russia and Europe on the U.S. National Security Q1:  How should the U.S. balance support for Ukraine with avoiding escalation into broader conflict with Russia? A:  The U.S. must provide sufficient military and economic support to enable Ukraine to defend itself, while signaling clearly that direct confrontation with Russian forces is off-limits. This requires careful calibrat

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: David Miliband , Former Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom Q1:  How do humanitarian crises intersect with geopolitics today? A:  Humanitarian crises are rarely isolated; they often reflect underlying political conflicts or governance failures. Responses must balance immediate aid with long-term political stability. Effective diplomacy requires integrating both humanitarian and str

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: H. A. Hellyer , British Scholar in Middle East Realignments and Western Legitimacy Q1:  Has the Middle East entered a phase of regional realignment independent of Western influence? A:  Evidence suggests that regional powers are increasingly pursuing independent strategies, negotiating bilateral agreements, and leveraging non-Western partners. While Western actors still influence outcomes, local agency is growing. This shi

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: Jonathan Holslag , Europe, Strategic Autonomy, and China Q1:  Has Europe already become dependent on the U.S., despite claims of strategic autonomy? A:  Europe remains heavily reliant on the U.S. for security guarantees, particularly under NATO. Strategic autonomy is aspirational but constrained by capabilities, political cohesion, and shared risk perceptions. True independence would require significant investments in defe

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: Mira Rapp-Hooper , Indo-Pacific Strategy and U.S.–China Relations Q1:  How credible is Washington’s pledge to defend Taiwan if China attempts a blockade or coercion without firing a shot? A:  The credibility of U.S. commitments hinges on both political will and operational capacity. While Washington has repeatedly affirmed its support for Taiwan, deterrence relies on demonstrating a tangible ability to respond. Subtle coer

Introduction On Saturday, October 18, 2025, millions of Americans across all 50 states participated in the "No Kings" protests—a coordinated day of action opposing what many perceive as authoritarian overreach by President Donald Trump. Organized by a coalition of over 200 groups, including the ACLU, Indivisible, and the Human Rights Campaign, the protests aimed to reclaim democratic values and resist the centralization of power in the executive branch. Wikipedia Nationwide P

Introduction Climate change and geopolitical tensions are increasingly intertwined. From August through October 2025, international crises—including Iran’s nuclear dispute and East Asian security concerns—have influenced energy policy, environmental agreements, and climate action priorities. The Intersection of Conflict and Environment Geopolitical conflicts can divert attention and resources away from environmental initiatives. Sanctions, military operations, and diplomatic

Introduction Between August and October 2025, Europe’s role in international security was tested across multiple crises—from Ukraine to Iran. European leaders convened summits, mediated negotiations, and coordinated defense and economic support, highlighting both strengths and limitations of the continent’s approach to global security. Coordination and Diplomacy European powers have increasingly acted as mediators, balancing U.S. influence with regional interests. Summits in

Introduction In September 2025, youth-led activism surged globally, driven by climate change, social justice, and democratic engagement. From student-led climate strikes in Europe to advocacy campaigns in the U.S., young people are asserting their influence on policy, culture, and international debates. Notable Movements Students and young professionals have leveraged digital platforms, community organizing, and direct lobbying to impact local and national legislation. Climat

Introduction September 2025 brought renewed attention to the role of artificial intelligence in governance. Lawmakers, tech leaders, and academics debated regulations, ethical use, and accountability for AI systems impacting public policy. From social services to security, AI is no longer just a tool—it’s shaping decisions with societal consequences. Policy Debates Regulatory proposals emphasize transparency, explainability, and ethical constraints. Critics argue that AI deci

Introduction The summer of 2025 saw a significant escalation in East Asian security concerns. China intensified military drills near Taiwan, prompting international attention and diplomatic warnings from the United States and allied nations. These developments underscore the fragile balance of power in the region and the stakes for global security. China’s Strategic Posture China has framed its military activities as defensive measures, emphasizing sovereignty and national se

Introduction When international sanctions are imposed, the effects ripple far beyond government coffers and political rhetoric. In Iran, months of heightened tension, nuclear disputes, and the threat of renewed sanctions have directly impacted ordinary citizens. From energy shortages to rising costs, the human cost of geopolitics is often overlooked in headlines dominated by airstrikes and diplomacy. Everyday Challenges for Iranian Citizens Fuel shortages and inflation have w

Introduction On August 18, 2025 , the White House became the stage for an extraordinary diplomatic summit. Eight European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen , Emmanuel Macron , and Keir Starmer , met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy  and U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. The discussions aimed to provide protection similar to NATO’s Article 5, without full membership. Adding drama to the summit, Trump paused the meeting to

Introduction In August 2025, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei  made headlines by declaring that Iran will never yield  to U.S. pressure over its nuclear program, calling the dispute “unsolvable.” His remarks came in the wake of recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which prompted Tehran to halt negotiations, expel IAEA inspectors, and withdraw from key non-proliferation pacts. Khamenei’s statement is more than a declaration of defiance—

On August 18, 2025, the White House hosted one of the most extraordinary diplomatic summits in recent memory. Eight European...

August 2025 may go down as one of the most volatile months in Iran’s recent history. In a fiery speech, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali...

On July 23, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a historic ruling that could reshape the global fight against climate...

On July 7, 2025, President Trump signed what the White House proudly branded the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The legislation cements...

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: David Hodd , Board Member of the MFOL Q: David, the Trump administration has been...

Q: Vanshika Thakur , Blogger of The Real Rectitude A: Deborah Archer , President and Executive Director of the ACLU Q: President Archer,...