Pod Save the World: "Trump Torches Every Ally" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: August 6, 2025

In this episode of Pod Save the World, hosts Tommy Vietor and Ben Rhodes delve into a myriad of pressing global issues, centering primarily around the actions and policies of former President Donald Trump and their ramifications on international relations and humanitarian crises. The discussion is enriched with insights from their interview with Ellie Schlein, the leader of Italy's Democratic Party, highlighting the broader implications of rising far-right movements globally.

1. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The episode opens with a deep dive into the escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza. Tommy and Ben discuss Israel's blockade, which has severely restricted aid from entering the region, leading to widespread starvation and loss of life. They highlight the shift of aid distribution from the United Nations to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), resulting in tragic consequences, including the deaths of at least 859 Palestinians near GHF distribution sites.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes [08:29]: “The president, my president, President Donald Trump, who I can promise you, cares as much about your children, the people who are alive and the people who are not alive.”
• Ben Rhodes [11:01]: Criticizes Netanyahu’s approach, stating, “the perpetuation of this war is what you hear from some other people.”

They further explore the conflicting strategies between Netanyahu and Trump regarding the resolution of the conflict, emphasizing Netanyahu's reluctance to broker a comprehensive peace deal that ensures the end of hostilities.

2. Violent Settler Activities and U.S. Support

Tommy and Ben shed light on the persistent violence by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and the troubling support these actions receive from certain sectors in the United States, particularly among Republicans and evangelical Christians. They recount recent incidents, including the killing of Auda Hathelin and the lack of accountability faced by perpetrators, exacerbated by the removal of sanctions under Trump’s administration.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes: “GHF is doing what it was intended to do, which is to starve the Palestinians.”

The hosts critique U.S. political figures like Mike Huckabee and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson for their overt support of these violent settler movements, painting a picture of complicity that undermines efforts for peace and accountability.

3. Trump’s Trade War: Impact on India, Lesotho, and Switzerland

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to examining Trump’s erratic trade policies, particularly his imposition of tariffs on India, Lesotho, and Switzerland. The hosts analyze the illogical nature of these tariffs, their disproportionate impact on smaller economies, and the broader geopolitical consequences.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes [36:15]: “India has not been a good trading partner... you can’t negotiate your way through those barriers overnight.”
• Ben Rhodes [49:07]: Criticizes the 39% tariff on Switzerland, stating, “They couldn’t pay up.”

They discuss how these tariffs not only harm the targeted countries’ economies but also strain diplomatic relations, highlighting the futility and unpredictability of Trump's trade war tactics.

4. Internet Freedom in Russia

Tommy and Ben pivot to the tightening grip of the Russian government on internet freedom. They explore the recent measures taken by Putin’s administration to throttle access to popular platforms like YouTube and Telegram, forcing citizens to adopt state-approved alternatives like the "Max" app.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes [60:11]: “The right wing pay attention to this playbook that Putin runs.”

The discussion underscores the increasing sophistication of governmental surveillance and censorship, drawing parallels to other authoritarian regimes and warning of the potential erosion of online freedoms.

5. Political Developments in Colombia and El Salvador

The conversation shifts to South America, focusing on Colombia's former President Alvaro Uribe's conviction for bribery and procedural fraud. Uribe's fall from grace is portrayed as a significant moment for Colombia's fight against corruption and paramilitary influence.

Additionally, the hosts discuss El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele's authoritarian maneuvers, including the abolition of presidential term limits and the extension of his tenure, solidifying his role as a dictatorial figure.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes: “It's like we want to show that we have complete double standards...”

These developments are positioned within the broader context of rising authoritarianism in the region, exacerbated by external influences and internal power consolidations.

6. Interview with Ellie Schlein: Battling the Far Right in Italy

A highlight of the episode is the interview with Ellie Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party. She discusses the challenges her party faces against the far-right government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Schlein emphasizes the importance of focusing on social justice issues such as minimum wage, healthcare, and education, rather than being distracted by the far-right's identity-focused rhetoric.

Notable Quotes:

• Ellie Schlein [83:13]: “What is the situation of the Italians today... the answer would be definitely worse.”
• Ellie Schlein [88:18]: “We need to be radical in our beliefs and credible in our ideas.”

Schlein outlines strategies for progressive movements to rebuild credibility, form effective coalitions, and shift the electoral focus back to substantive social issues, drawing inspiration from successful mobilizations like climate and feminist movements.

7. Conclusion: Global Far-Right Movements and Progressive Responses

In wrapping up, Tommy and Ben reflect on the interconnectedness of global far-right movements and the necessity for progressive forces to foster solidarity and coordinated strategies. They advocate for international cooperation among progressive parties to counteract the influence and policies of authoritarian and nationalist leaders.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Rhodes: “We have some really interesting left-wing leaders globally... we need to build deeper connections to them.”
• Ellie Schlein [102:15]: “We have to be radical in our beliefs and credible in our ideas.”

The hosts convey a sense of urgency and optimism, stressing that while the challenges are formidable, unified and principled progressive actions can create meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

• Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza: Israel's blockade and alternative aid distribution methods have led to severe humanitarian consequences, with limited international intervention.

• Violent Settler Support: U.S. political factions, particularly among Republicans and evangelicals, are undermining peace efforts in the West Bank through support of violent settlers.

• Erratic Trade Policies: Trump's imposition of tariffs on nations like India, Lesotho, and Switzerland is damaging smaller economies and straining diplomatic ties without clear strategic benefits.

• Erosion of Internet Freedom: Russia's intensified crackdown on internet platforms signals a move towards greater authoritarian control and censorship.

• Rise of Authoritarian Leaders: Political developments in Colombia and El Salvador illustrate the consolidation of power by former leaders amid corruption and human rights abuses.

• Progressive Mobilization: Ellie Schlein's leadership in Italy demonstrates the potential for progressive movements to counteract far-right dominance by focusing on social justice and forming strong coalitions.

This episode of Pod Save the World provides a comprehensive analysis of the current global political landscape, emphasizing the far-reaching impacts of Trump's policies and the rise of authoritarianism, while highlighting the strategies and hopes of progressive leaders like Ellie Schlein in combating these challenges.