The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway
The Biggest Global Risks for 2026 — with Ian Bremmer
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Trump's political ambitions may significantly alter the landscape of U.S. governance, potentially undermining democratic institutions.
- The U.S. intervention in Venezuela exemplifies how American foreign policy is evolving in response to perceived threats in its hemisphere.
- Europe faces significant challenges due to rising populism and governmental instability which could hinder its ability to effectively respond to geopolitical threats.
- The race for supremacy in AI and energy sectors between the U.S. and China will have long-term implications for global leadership in technology.
- Russia's hybrid warfare strategies are designed to exploit divisions within NATO, presenting new challenges for European security.
Summary
Introduction to Global Risks for 2026
In this episode, Jessica Tarlov fills in for Scott Galloway and welcomes Ian Bremmer, the president of Eurasia Group, to discuss the significant global risks anticipated for 2026. Their dialogue spans a variety of themes, including Trump’s political influence, developments in U.S. foreign policy, Europe's precarious position, and advancements in AI.
Trump’s Political Revolution
Bremmer identifies Trump’s political ambitions as a primary risk for the U.S., suggesting that the political landscape is shifting under Trump’s influence. He argues that Trump and his supporters perceive a weaponization of the political system against them. This scenario is underscored by Trump's attempts to control administrative structures to further his agenda, raising concerns over the erosion of checks and balances in the U.S. political system.
U.S. Intervention Abroad and Don Roe Doctrine
The conversation transitions to the recent U.S. intervention in Venezuela and the implications of the Don Roe doctrine, wherein the U.S. positions itself as the arbiter of affairs within its hemisphere. Bremmer highlights the operational successes of the intervention while also cautioning about the ensuing responsibilities and potential backlash against U.S. actions in the region.
Europe Under Siege: Political Instability
Bremmer discusses the vulnerabilities of European nations, presenting the decline of trusted governmental structures in France, Germany, and the UK. This moment of political instability poses risks in dealing with both the fallout of Russia's aggression and the challenges posed by populist movements within Europe.
AI and the Global Energy Race
The conversation shifts to the race between the U.S. and China in emerging technologies and energy sectors. Bremmer emphasizes the need for the U.S. to invest in modern energy infrastructures that will power advancements in AI while cautioning against reliance on traditional energy sources, which are becoming increasingly expensive.
Russia and NATO's Hybrid Warfare
The discussion outlines the escalating tension between Russia and NATO, indicating that Russia is engaging in hybrid warfare aimed at weakening European unity. This strategy represents a broader attempt by Russia to destabilize European nations and exploit their vulnerabilities.
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Show notes
Ian Bremmer, president and founder of Eurasia Group, joins Jessica Tarlov, co-host of The Five and Raging Moderates, to unpack the biggest risks facing the world in 2026 — from Trump’s political revolution and U.S. intervention abroad to Europe’s instability, AI, and the global energy race.
Follow Ian, @ianbremmer. Follow Jessica, @jessicatarlov.
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