What Really Matters with Walter Russell Mead - Ep. 53: The Foreign Policy of Kamala Harris

US-Saudi Treaty

The potential treaty between the US and Saudi Arabia is a focal point of the Biden administration's Middle East policy. Walter Mead explains that this treaty aims to anchor Saudi money in a network of friendly countries, promoting economic development and reducing regional conflicts 1. However, ratifying such a treaty in the US Senate is challenging due to Saudi Arabia's controversial status, especially among Democrats 1. Mead questions whether a President Harris would have the same commitment and ability to push this treaty through the Senate, highlighting the political complexities involved 2.

You need a president who is willing to twist arms, kiss babies, promise dams and all kinds of projects.

--- Walter Mead

   

Diplomatic Uncertainty

Kamala Harris's recent diplomatic actions have raised questions about her foreign policy style. Walter Mead notes that her decision to skip an important speech was seen as a diplomatic blunder, especially given her potential future role as President 3. This incident has led to uncertainty about her stance on key issues like support for Ukraine, relations with Israel and Saudi Arabia, and the pivot to Asia 4. Mead emphasizes that this uncertainty makes other countries nervous, as they are unsure of what to expect from a Harris administration.

Any sign that there's a difference between the Harris foreign policy and the Biden foreign policy is going to have unlooked for consequences around the world.

--- Walter Mead

   

Global Tensions

Recent global tensions involving China and Russia are adding to the complexities of US foreign policy. Jeremy Stern reports that Russian and Chinese warplanes were intercepted off the coast of Alaska, marking a significant escalation in military cooperation between the two countries 5. Walter Mead describes this as a grim development, indicating that both nations are looking for ways to increase tensions without provoking a major US response 5. This situation underscores the growing challenges that the US faces on the global stage.

The Russians and the Chinese continue to get closer together, and they also continue to look at ways that they can ratchet up the level of tension around the world.

--- Walter Mead