In this episode of Freakonomics Radio, host John Sullivan, a former U.S. ambassador to Russia, shares his firsthand experiences during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine and sheds light on the current dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations. He recounts a meeting between Presidents Biden and Putin, noting Putin's dismissive response to concerns about Ukraine. Sullivan critiques U.S. foreign policy, particularly the withdrawal from Afghanistan, pointing out significant miscalculations. He raises alarms about the future, warning of possible escalating conflicts and advocating for a stronger, more proactive foreign policy approach.
