CFR On the Record

In this episode, panelists discuss the implications of U.S.-China relations on the international economy, including how tariff negotiations, supply chain restructuring, and technological competition effect global business. Host: Michael Froman, President, Council on Foreign Relations Guests: Albert Bourla, Chairman and Chief Executive Office, Pfizer, Inc; CFR Member Gina M. Raimondo,...

In this episode, Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the president of the United Arab Emirates, discusses the rapidly evolving conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States and its implications for the Middle East, including the diplomatic and security challenges facing Gulf states. Host: Ethan Bronner, Israel Bureau Chief and Senior Editor, Bloomberg; CFR Member Guests: Anwar...

In this episode, panelists discuss the ongoing geoeconomic consequences of the conflict in Iran, including global energy flows and oil prices, economic development and AI buildout in the Gulf region, and sanctions on Russia. They also explore inflation and interest rates as markets respond to the crises. Background Reading:In this article, CFR president Michael Froman discusses the unfolding...

In this episode, panelists discuss Iran’s current political climate, concerns for civilians on the ground, and how the country’s rapidly evolving internal dynamics are shaping U.S. objectives as well as broader regional and international considerations. Background Reading:In this article, International Affairs Fellow Sam Vigersky discusses the global economic disruption caused by the Iran war and...

In this episode, Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby discusses the U.S. National Defense Strategy under the Donald Trump administration. Background Reading:In this article, seven CFR experts consider the implications of the National Security Strategy document released on December 5, 2025, by the Trump administration. Host: Michael Froman, President, Council on Foreign Relations...

In this episode, panelists explore three critical issues for securing Ukraine’s future: achieving a just and durable peace, ensuring long-term security, and helping the country rebuild and recover from the ravages of war. Background Reading:This article offers concrete recommendations by five CFR experts for securing the future of Ukraine and Europe. Host: Jonathan Karl, ABC News chief Washington...

In this episode, John C. Williams, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, discusses monetary policy and the economic outlook for the year ahead. Background Reading:This article highlights the trade policies four CFR experts will be monitoring this year. Host: Abby Joseph Cohen, Professor of Business, Columbia Business School Guests: John C. Williams, President and CEO, Federal...

In this episode, experts discuss the new Council Special Report, America Revived: A Grand Strategy of Resolute Global Leadership, which defines U.S. vital national interests, summarizes the history of U.S. grand strategy, and proposes an alternative that combines military strength with international legitimacy. Background Reading:This report outlines the conceptual pillars of five grand strategy...

Since civil war erupted on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, Sudan has become the site of the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. More than ten million people have been displaced, over half of the population needs humanitarian assistance, and over 750,000 people are facing catastrophic levels of hunger. In this episode, experts discuss...

In this episode, Senators Christopher Coons and Pete Ricketts—members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations—discuss the role of Congress in formulating, resourcing, and creating the institutional basis for China policy. Background Reading:This article outlines CFR President Michael Froman’s take on artificial intelligence competition between the United States and China Host: Rush Doshi,...