Zelensky Seeks European Aid & BlackRock Goes Woke-less | 3.3.25

Summary

Morning Wire Podcast Summary: "Zelensky Seeks European Aid & BlackRock Goes Woke-less" | March 3, 2025

Hosted by John Bickley and Georgia Howe, Morning Wire delivers incisive analysis on the latest developments in politics, culture, education, sports, and more. In the March 3, 2025 episode titled "Zelensky Seeks European Aid & BlackRock Goes Woke-less," hosts delve into the tumultuous aftermath of President Trump's Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, BlackRock's strategic pivot away from "wokeness," and the escalating political tensions in Maine surrounding transgender athletes. This detailed summary captures the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

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1. Ukrainian President Zelensky's Quest for European Support

A Tumultuous Oval Office Meeting

The episode opens with a heated discussion about the recent, contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office. John Bickley highlights the discord, quoting Trump’s dismissive remarks towards Zelensky:

John Bickley [00:03]: "Your country is in big trouble. Can I help you? Wait a minute. No, no. You've done a lot of talking. Your country is in big trouble. I know you're not winning. You're not winning this."

EU Leaders React to the Potential Collapse of US Support

Georgia Howe probes into the European Union's response to the shaky US deal, prompting Bickley to emphasize the critical juncture facing international diplomacy:

John Bickley [00:19]: "We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk. It's time to act."

Insight from White House Correspondent Mary Margaret Olihan

Mary Margaret Olihan provides an in-depth analysis of the meeting's fallout, revealing that the confrontation was unplanned and fueled by Zelensky’s perceived poor behavior:

Mary Margaret Olihan [02:04]: "He showed up at the White House wearing a casual black outfit, rolled his eyes and crossed his arms throughout the meeting. And he repeatedly argued with both the president and the vice president... they were unsurprisingly insulted."

Sticking Points Between the US and Ukraine

Olihan outlines the core disagreements, notably Trump's reluctance to provide a security guarantee in favor of a minerals deal, contrasted with Zelensky's unclear stance on peace:

Mary Margaret Olihan [04:20]: "Trump appears to have ruled out a security guarantee backed by the US... POTUS and VP were disrespected and right to defend our nation from Zelensky's stupid attitude."

European Leaders Step In

As the US deal falters, Zelensky turns to European leaders for support. Hope Howe summarizes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's tough yet supportive stance:

Mary Margaret Olihan [04:26]: "Starmer led the meeting and talked tough about playing hardball with Russia, but he also stressed that the US Is an important and reliable ally."

Economic and Diplomatic Moves

Starmer announces a substantial $2.7 billion loan to Ukraine, utilizing frozen Russian assets, signaling Europe's increased commitment:

Mary Margaret Olihan [05:18]: "Starmer also said that Europe must up its support of Ukraine, and he announced a $2.7 billion loan to Ukraine with the use of Russian frozen assets."

Conclusion: A New Era in US-Ukraine Relations

John Bickley reflects on the broader implications, signaling a departure from Biden-era policies and emphasizing Trump's determination to secure a durable peace:

John Bickley [05:49]: "A remarkable sequence of events and once again, Trump looking to hammer out a deal in his trademark way."

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2. BlackRock’s Strategic Shift Away from "Wokeness"

Background: BlackRock's Commitment to ESG

Georgia Howe introduces the segment by noting BlackRock's previous leadership in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Megan Basham explains ESG as an investment strategy prioritizing social goals over financial returns.

Evidence of BlackRock Abandoning ESG Commitments

Basham details BlackRock's 2025 annual report, which conspicuously omits DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) commitments, instead adopting meritocratic language:

Megan Basham [07:32]: "BlackRock is dropping its internal de hiring requirements as well. An internal memo said managers no longer have to make sure to interview a certain number of minority candidates for jobs either."

Drivers Behind the Change

Several factors prompted BlackRock's pivot, including public image concerns and tangible losses stemming from associations with "wokeness":

Megan Basham [09:45]: "Several red states sued the company for placing its political views above its fiduciary duties in managing pension funds."

Industry-Wide Implications

Georgia Howe highlights the ripple effect, with major financial institutions like Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan following suit:

Megan Basham [10:30]: "Blackrock is the largest asset manager in the world. It sets the terms in this business. If they think that Wokeness is now bad for business, other investment managers... are going to follow their lead."

Paul Wolfowitz's Reflection

John Bickley underscores BlackRock CEO Larry Fink's pragmatic approach amidst political pressures:

John Bickley [07:50]: "Fink was already starting to get a little bit defensive then with the perception that the company was woke."

Conclusion: The End of the ESG Era

The shift marks a significant realignment in corporate strategies, potentially heralding a broader de-emphasis on social agendas within the financial sector:

Megan Basham [10:30]: "A huge turnaround from the conversations we were having back in 2021. 2022."

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3. Political Turmoil in Maine Over Transgender Athletes

Censure of State Lawmaker Libby

The episode transitions to the heated political scene in Maine, where state lawmaker Libby faces censure for a controversial Facebook post advocating for the exclusion of transgender males from girls' sports:

Megan Basham [11:01]: "Libby was censured last week for a Facebook post calling attention to the state policies that allow males to participate in girls sports."

Public Backlash and Grassroots Protest

Georgia Howe reports on the massive public response, including a rally dubbed the "March Against Mills," which drew approximately 500 participants advocating for traditional female sports:

Megan Basham [12:57]: "It's estimated that about 500 people showed up to that rally... residents expressed a lot of support for Libby."

Political Repercussions

John Bickley discusses the broader political fallout, noting the surge in support for Trump due to his stance on such cultural issues:

John Bickley [14:32]: "As we documented, this was a big contributing factor in Trump's 2024 winning."

National Sentiment and Polling Data

Basham references a New York Times poll indicating substantial national opposition to allowing transgender males in female sports:

Megan Basham [14:32]: "A New York Times poll from January found that only 18% of Americans believe that trans identifying male athletes should be allowed in female sports."

Conclusion: Ongoing Saga with National Implications

The hosts conclude by recognizing that the Maine controversy is part of a larger national debate, suggesting that similar tensions will persist across the United States:

John Bickley [14:38]: "Well, we'll continue to track this saga. It's not going away anytime soon."

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Closing Thoughts

Throughout the episode, John Bickley and Georgia Howe provide a nuanced examination of complex geopolitical and socio-political issues, anchored by expert insights and firsthand reporting. Their coverage of President Zelensky's diplomatic struggles, BlackRock's corporate maneuvering, and Maine's cultural battles offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape shaping America's future.

Notable Quotes:

• John Bickley [00:03]: "Your country is in big trouble. Can I help you? Wait a minute. No, no. You've done a lot of talking. Your country is in big trouble. I know you're not winning. You're not winning this."

• Mary Margaret Olihan [02:04]: "He showed up at the White House wearing a casual black outfit, rolled his eyes and crossed his arms throughout the meeting."

• Georgia Howe [07:50]: "Fink was already starting to get a little bit defensive then with the perception that the company was woke."

• John Bickley [14:32]: "This was a big contributing factor in Trump's 2024 winning."

This episode reinforces Morning Wire’s commitment to delivering pertinent and timely news, encouraging listeners to stay informed and engaged with the pressing issues of the day.

Transcript

[John Bickley]

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is seeking help from European leaders after his Oval Office meeting went off the rails. Your country is in big trouble. Can I help you? Wait a minute. No, no. You've done a lot of talking. Your country is in big trouble. I know you're not winning. You're not winning this.

[Georgia Howe]

How are EU leaders reacting to the US Deal potentially falling through?

[John Bickley]

We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk. It's time to act. I'm Daily Wire Editor in Chief John Bickley with Georgia Howe. It's Monday, March 3rd, and this is Morning Wire. One of Wall Street's wokest is now scrubbing its DEI language and refocusing on meritocracy. What does the change mean for the financial industry?

[Georgia Howe]

And hundreds gather outside Maine's statehouse, calling on Governor Janet Mills to protect women's.

[John Bickley]

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[Georgia Howe]

After a catastrophic meeting in the Oval Office, Ukrainian President Zelensky traveled to the UK in an effort to get more support from European leaders.

[John Bickley]

Joining us to discuss what's happened since the unprecedented Oval Office skirmish between Trump and Zelensky is Daily Wire White House correspondent Mary Margaret Olihan. So, Mary Margaret, first, what have you learned from sources about what took place Friday?

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Good morning. First of all, my sources are saying this was not planned, that Trump and Vance were just reacting to Zelensky's, quote, antics and bad behavior. He showed up at the White House wearing a casual black outfit, rolled his eyes and crossed his arms throughout the meeting. And he repeatedly argued with both the president and the vice president in the Oval Office while asking for help for his country. And when Zelensky suggested before the White House media so the whole world that Trump and Vance didn't understand the realities of both the Russia, Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin himself, they were unsurprisingly insulted. Here's a bit of that drama unfolding for those who missed it.

[John Bickley]

We tried the pathway of Joe Biden, of thumping our chest and pretending that the President of the United States words mattered more than the President of the United States actions. What makes America a good country is America engaging in diplomacy. That's what President Trump is doing. I gave you the javelins to take out all those tanks. Obama gave you sheets. You got to be more thankful because let me tell you, you don't have the cards. With us, you have the cards, but without us, you don't have any cards.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

I'm told that after that blow up, Trump sent a message to Zelensky through National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio telling them the meetings for the day were done and it was time for the Ukrainians to go home. Now, senior White House officials said it was, and I'm quoting, absolutely not an ambush or pre planned. And he said that they'd expected the economic deal getting signed and a, quote, demonstration to the world that we are part with Ukraine and leading a movement to peace.

[John Bickley]

All right, so at this point, what exactly are the sticking points between the two sides?

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Well, Trump appears to have ruled out a security guarantee backed by the US Arguing in favor of the minerals deal. Heading into the meeting with Zelensky on Friday, Trump officials had said that the deal was as good as done and they just needed the leaders signatures. One of the officials that I spoke with said that Trump wants to end a brutal war, but it's really not clear what Zelenskyy wants. That official also said, and I'm quoting again, POTUS and VP were disrespected and right to defend our nation from Zelensky's stupid attitude that is built on years of Biden simply throwing more and more American money at Ukraine with no end game, no path for victory and no path for peace.

[John Bickley]

Okay, so as of today, where do things stand and how does this meeting in the UK Play into it?

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Well, Zelensky is now seeking the help of European leaders. As Georgia mentioned, he met with a handful of European Union leaders yesterday, and that includes British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, France's Emmanuel Macron and Italy's Giorgia Meloni, among several others. Starmer led the meeting and talked tough about playing hardball with Russia, but he also stressed that the US Is an important and reliable ally. He says the UK Is prepared to back a peace deal, but they still.

[John Bickley]

Need the US with boots on the ground and planes in the air. Together with others Europe must do the heavy listing, but to support peace in our continent and to succeed, this effort must have strong US Backing. And let me be clear, we agree with the president on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver together.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Starmer also said that Europe must up its support of Ukraine, and he announced a $2.7 billion loan to Ukraine with the use of Russian frozen assets. And meanwhile, I'm told that President Trump really does want to deal with Ukraine, as he has repeatedly said. But that will only come when the Ukrainian leader prioritizes peace, and that means agreeing to a deal with the U.S. trump said Friday that Zelenskyy is, quote, not ready for peace if America is involved because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.

[John Bickley]

A remarkable sequence of events and once again, Trump looking to hammer out a deal in his trademark way.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Definitely not the Biden presidency anymore, is it?

[John Bickley]

No, it's not. Mary Margaret, thanks so much for reporting.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Thanks for having me.

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[John Bickley]

A viral new report in the Wall Street Journal claims the era of woke is over at behemoth asset manager BlackRock. That shift could have significant ripple effects throughout the financial industry.

[Georgia Howe]

Daily Wire Culture reporter Megan Basham is here now to explain. So, Megan, just a few years ago, blackrock was a heavy hitter in the ESG movement. Even then it was pretty common, controversial, but they seemed very committed. What's the evidence that they're now giving it up? Yeah, I mean, if you remember as far back as 2023, BlackRock and those other big asset managers like Vanguard and State street were at least beginning to downplay their commitment to esg, which, you know, quick reminder, it's an investing strategy that involves prioritizing left wing social goals over financial returns. But at that time, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink told Fox News that his main reason for abandoning the term ESG for PR perceptions.

[John Bickley]

It's been weaponized by the far left and weaponized by the far right and we lose a conversation. Look at our job is to do what our clients are asking them to do, and we do a very good job. And despite all the narrative, last year we were awarded over $400 billion in net new assets.

[Georgia Howe]

And you can hear there that Fink was already starting to get a little bit defensive then with the perception that the company was woke. But he was still using a phrase with a similar meaning to ESG conscientious capital. But now it looks like BlackRock is dropping wokeness for real. So its 2025 annual report filed last Tuesday is missing the DEI commitments that were boilerplate for BlackRock investor letters in recent years. Instead, it now has strong meritocracy language. It talks about attracting the best people from across the world and supporting top talent and fostering diverse perspectives to avoid groupthink. And according to the Journal, BlackRock is dropping its internal de hiring requirements as well. An internal memo said managers no longer have to make sure to interview a certain number of minority candidates for jobs either. And then a couple more concrete data points. The firm has backed out of the group Net Zero Asset Managers, which is a UN sponsored climate coalition. And while it launched 30 ESG funds between 2019 and 2023, BlackRock has not launched any since the first quarter of 2024. So that was prior to the election. What prompted the change? Well, you know, part of it was certainly public image. When your average suburban mom starts to know the name of BlackRock and associate it with Wokeness, that's an issue. But also some concrete losses started to accrue for blackrock from that association. Several red states sued the company for placing its political views above its fiduciary duties in managing pension funds. Others passed laws against ESG investing of public funds and promised to stop doing business with BlackRock altogether. And then you had the Republican led House subpoenaing blackrock for hearings. I think Fink is a true believer in these progressive policies and he seemed to believe for a while that he could carefully navigate the issue by using different rhetoric. But I think when Donald Trump not only won the election, but the popular vote, it was clear at that point that a new era was dawning and it wasn't going to be possible to simply wait it out. Now, how much influence do you think this will have in the rest of the industry? Oh, I think it's going to be huge. I mean, blackrock is the largest asset manager in the world. It sets the terms in this business. If they think that Wokeness is now bad for business, other investment managers, large and small are going to follow their lead. And you're already seeing A lot of them like Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan and Citigroup doing just that. Well, a huge turnaround from the conversations we were having back in 2021. 2022.

[Megan Basham]

Yeah.

[Georgia Howe]

Meghan, thanks for reporting. Anytime. Following Trump's public showdown with Maine's governor, a state lawmaker has been silenced by her Democrat colleagues. Meanwhile, resident backlash culminates with a grassroots protest outside the State House.

[John Bickley]

Here to discuss is Daily Wire reporter Amanda Presta Giacomo. So, Amanda, we previously covered that intense exchange between Governor Janet Mills and President Trump. Things have really escalated since then. Let's start with Libby's censure. What's the latest with her?

[Megan Basham]

Right, so Libby was censured last week for a Facebook post calling attention to the state policies that allow males to participate in girls sports. Her post included images of a transgender identifying high school boy celebrating a first place win in girls pole vaulting at Maine's Class B State championship, a win that helped the high school take first place overall. It was Libby's post that sparked this whole debate about Maine reaching all the way to the White House. On Tuesday, Democrats demanded Libby remove the post and apologize, arguing that it was inappropriate for her to include images of a minor. Libby tried to argue on the House floor that it's unfair and unsafe to permit males and girls sports, and she also said that she was merely reposting public images that were already shared online. However, Libby was repeatedly interrupted and ultimately censured.

[John Bickley]

The chair understands that the member does.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Not intend to submit an apology to the body.

[John Bickley]

That is correct.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

The member will not be able to.

[John Bickley]

Cast a vote or speak on the.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

Floor until the member has come back into compliance with House Rule 401, Part 11.

[Megan Basham]

After her censure, Libby used social media to give the speech that she wasn't allowed to give on the floor. Here's some audio of that.

[Georgia Howe]

This championship was not just another competition. It was a stark reminder of how Augusta Democrats have utterly failed to protect Maine girls. Young female athletes who have trained for years to compete on a level playing field are now being forced to step aside while biological males claim titles and scholarships meant for them. If we do not speak up, who will?

[Megan Basham]

Libby received a lot of support online. She's outpaced the governor and social media followers and Maine's House speaker who led the censure effort. He's since completely deleted his ex account, presumably due to backlash.

[John Bickley]

And then we have this protest that took place outside the State House over the weekend on Saturday. Tell us about that.

[Megan Basham]

Yes, it's estimated that about 500 people showed up to that rally, which was dubbed the March Against Mills, residents expressed a lot of support for Libby. They held up signs about protecting female sports, and they listened to speeches from numerous female athletes, Republican state lawmaker Katrina Smith and others. One of those speakers was high school student Julia Dietrich. She made headlines last week when she spoke out at a school board meeting about this issue.

[Mary Margaret Olihan]

The time has come for female athletes across the state of Maine to take a firm stand against the Maine Principals association and the governor's policies that are failing us. Show up for your games, your meets, your tournaments, but refuse to compete. Let the silence of the scoreboards and stillness of the field send a message louder than words ever could.

[Megan Basham]

What's particularly notable about the rally was how organically it happened. It appears the rally popped up after three residents who were angry with Mills refusal to back down on these transgender policies. They created a Facebook event for a protest that gained traction with thousands. And then those residents harnessed a Change.org petition initiating a recall of Governor Mills. That petition has garnered more than 24,000 signatures, and they included a link to the March Against Mills event. By contrast, reports say only dozens showed up at a protest in support for Mills following her spat with Trump. Now, nationally, polling clearly shows that Americans are on Trump's side and very strongly opposed to Mills and Maine Democrats position here. A New York Times poll from January found that only 18% of Americans believe that trans identifying male athletes should be allowed in female sports.

[John Bickley]

And as we documented, this was a big contributing factor in Trump's 2024 winning.

[Megan Basham]

Yeah, that's right.

[John Bickley]

Well, we'll continue to track this saga. It's not going away anytime soon. Amanda, thanks so much for reporting.

[Megan Basham]

You're welcome.

[John Bickley]

Thanks for waking up with us. And if you enjoyed what you heard this morning, share this episode with a friend.