Need to Know

NOTE: This interview was recorded before the 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, March 28. Please see the statement from our guest, Lucas Myers, which follows the episode description below.In this episode of Need to Know, Lucas Myers, Senior Associate for Southeast Asia for the Wilson Center's Indo-Pacific Program discusses Myanmar’s proposed elections, the junta’s dwindling control, and China's role in the crisis. Along with host John Milewski, they analyze whether or not a vote under military rule would be credible. Statement from Lucas Myers:

Midday local time on Friday, March 28th, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar and Thailand. The epicenter was near Mandalay, the second largest city in the country, and damage extended throughout the country’s central regions. Thailand was also heavily impacted, including Bangkok.

Given the ongoing civil war, human cost could be catastrophic for the people of Myanmar. Casualty numbers are difficult to verify considering the wartime circumstances but could be well into the thousands.

The humanitarian situation in Myanmar was already dire, and the earthquake only adds to a number of crises across the country. These include a widespread risk of famine in parts of the country and a collapsing economy.

Rapid response international aid will be needed, but the Myanmar military junta is likely to attempt to interfere for its own ends. The international community will need to coordinate closely with the resistance actors who now control almost 50% of Myanmar’s territory.

NOTE: This episode of Need to Know was recorded March 12, 2025... 2 days before Mark Carney was sworn in as prime minister.

In this episode of Need to Know, Xavier Delgado, Senior Program Associate for the Wilson Center's Canada Program, joins us to discuss the future of Canadian politics following the Liberal Party’s election of Mark Carney as its new leader. Along with host John Milewski, they explore Carney’s background, the potential for an early election, and how Canadian sentiment toward the US is shifting.

In this episode of Need to Know, Robin Quinville, Director of the Wilson Center’s Global Europe Program, joins host John Milewski to break down Germany’s recent elections, the rise of the far right, economic challenges, and the evolving US-EU relationship.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Benjamin Gedan, Director of the Wilson Center's Latin America Program, about the geopolitical and economic significance of the Panama Canal. They explore the immediate and potential future impact of President Trump's overtures about control of the waterway. Gedan also describes China's role, and Panama's investments in the canal's expansion and modernization.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the recent trade agreements between the US, Canada, and Mexico, with guests Lila Abed, Director of the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute and Christopher Sands, Director of the center's Canada Institute. They discuss the implications of now delayed tariffs and the political dynamics affecting trade and overall relations. Lila and Chris provide insights into how each country is navigating the challenges, impacts of leadership changes, and the interconnectedness of their economies.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Kellee Wicker, Director of the Wilson Center’s Science and Technology Innovation Program, about China’s DeepSeek AI breakthrough. They discuss its implications for US AI strategy, global competition, and the future of innovation. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Merissa Khurma, Director of the Wilson Center's Middle East Program, to explore the evolving geopolitical landscape of the region and what it means for the new administration. From shifting alliances to economic opportunities and humanitarian challenges, this conversation provides key insights for policymakers navigating the Middle East.

In this episode, Need to Know host John Milewski explores America’s evolving role in the Indo-Pacific with Shihoko Goto, Director of the Wilson Center's Indo-Pacific program. Topics include U.S. alliances, China’s growing influence, and strategies for the new administration to strengthen regional partnerships.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Lila Abed,  director of the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute. They discuss key issues like trade, security, fentanyl, and migration. Lila comments on the potential for even stronger collaboration while identifying the challenges both countries face in fostering mutual trust and crafting effective policies.

In this episode, Need to Know host John Milewski discusses the evolving dynamics of US-China relations with Robert Daly, Director of the Wilson Center's Kissinger Institute. From economic realities to ideological divides, Daly offers a nuanced take on managing what he says will be a decades-long competition. He provides valuable insights as a new US Congress and administration take shape.

In this episode, John Milewski discusses the recent political upheaval in Japan with Shihoko Goto, Director, Indo-Pacific Program at the Wilson Center. Their discussion focuses on the implications of the recent elections that resulted in no party gaining a majority. The conversation explores the challenges of forming a coalition government, the potential for political instability, and the impact on U.S.-Japan relations amidst rising tensions with China.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Dr. Rebecca Pincus, Director of the Polar Institute at the Wilson Center. They discuss the trilateral collaboration between the US, Canada, and Finland, known as the Ice Pact. They focus on the urgent need for new icebreakers in the US fleet, the geopolitical implications of icebreaker capacity in the Arctic, and the strengths each country brings to the partnership. The conversation also covers the challenges of implementation and the importance of congressional support for future initiatives.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the complexities of migration through the Darien Gap with Ambassador Mark Green and Eddie Acevedo. They explore the motivations behind the increasing number of migrants, particularly from Venezuela, the dangers they face, and the exploitation by human traffickers. The conversation also highlights the role of the U.S. and international community in addressing the humanitarian crisis and the need for a more regional approach to migration policy.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the rise of populism in Europe with Robin Quinville, Director of the Wilson Center's Global Europe Program. They explore the factors contributing to the popularity of far-right movements, including migration, economic uncertainty, and the polarization of political parties. The conversation also touches on the implications of these trends on EU leadership.

In this episode of Need to Know we explore China's growing influence in Africa through investments, diplomacy, and military cooperation. Our guests are Oge Onubogu, Director of the Wilson Center’s Africa Program, and Robert Daly, Director of the Kissinger Institute on China and the United States. Together with host, John Milewski, they discuss China’s investment diplomacy, perceptions of its role on the continent, and implications for US policy. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski and guest Michael Kugelman, Director of the South Asia Institute at Wilson Center, discuss the ongoing political upheaval in Bangladesh in the aftermath of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. They explore the interim government's challenges, US interests, and the future of Bangladesh’s economy and foreign relations.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski and Ambassador Philip Reeker, Chair of the Global Europe Program at the Wilson Center, discuss key takeaways from NATO's 75th anniversary summit. They explore the legacy of the alliance, as well as its future, as it responds to a growing and evolving array of global challenges.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski, discuses the history and future of US-China agriculture cooperation with Dr. Karen Mancl. She is a professor and water quality specialist at the Ohio State University and a fellow with the Wilson Center's China Environment Program. In addition to exploring the history of cooperation between the two countries, Mancl talks about the impact on trade, the value of scientific exchanges, and hopes for shared climate change solutions. Join us for an insightful discussion of how these two global powers are working together in the field of agriculture despite their ongoing competition in other areas.

In this episode of the Need to Know, we delve into the recent G7 Summit, focusing on the current state of US global competitiveness and assorted economic challenges. Host John Milewski speaks with Mark Kennedy, Director of the Wilson Center's Wahba Institute for Strategic Competition. Kennedy is a former Member of Congress and a former university president. He provides insights into the implications of China's economic strategies, ongoing supply chain vulnerabilities, and the importance of maintaining unity among G7 nations. 

In this episode of the Need to Know, host John Milewski explores what we know and what we think we know about North Korea with expert insights from Sung-Yoon Lee, a Fellow with the Wilson Center’s Indo-Pacific Program. Yoon explains the complexities behind North Korea's strategic maneuvers, military ambitions, and the intricacies of its ruling regime. He also dispels common myths and provides a clear-eyed analysis of the motivations and tactics of one of the world's most secretive and misunderstood nations. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses Mexico's elections with guest Lila Abed, acting director of the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute. Lila was an International Electoral Observer of Claudia Sheinbaum's, historic victory that will make her Mexico's first female president when she's sworn into office. They discuss the larger political landscape, Sheinbaum's potential policies, the implications of AMLO's legacy, and the possible impact on US-Mexico relations. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of Mexico's largest and most consequential elections.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discuses US policy on Taiwan with Wilson Center Indo-Pacific Program Director, Shihoko Goto. They explore the complexities and nuances of maintaining strong ties to a most important US trade partner, while acknowledging the "one China principle."  They also discuss China's efforts to increase its own economic ties to Taiwan and the risk-reward factors related to Chinese investment. Additionally, Goto provides insights into the challenge of helping Taiwan remain secure while avoiding direct confrontation with China. As the title says, it's complicated!

In this episode of the Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the recent direct attack by Iran on Israel and its implications for the region with the Wilson Center’s Middle East Program Director Merissa Khurma. She provides insights into the shifting dynamics and potential consequences of this escalation, highlighting the delicate balancing act for countries like Jordan and the critical role of US leadership in pursuing de-escalation and stability.

In this episode of the Need to Know, host John Milewski explores the evolving landscape of warfare shaped by unmanned aerial vehicles with his guest, Dr. Jack Watling. Dr. Watling is a Wilson Center Global Fellow and senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute. They discuss a new study, co-authored by Jack, that focuses on the impact of UAVs on land forces, drawing insights from contemporary conflicts like the one in Ukraine. From precision strikes to procurement challenges, this discussion navigates the complexities of adapting military strategies to technological advancements. It also provides valuable information for lawmakers who will be making funding decisions on weapons systems that are changing the way wars are conducted.

In this episode of Need to Know, we focus on Pakistan's political and economic situation, as well as its relationship with the United States. Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director of the Wilson Center's IndoPacific program, covers topics such as the health of democracy in the wake of the recent election, the country's ongoing economic crisis, and the value of US support for democracy and human rights. Kugelman highlights the challenges and complexities facing Pakistan and provides insights into the current state of affairs.

In this episode of the Need to Know John Milewski takes a look into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) and the dynamic supply chains essential to their development and manufacturing. Joined by a panel of experts, including Duncan Wood, Jasper Jung, and Sham Kunjur, shed light on the impact of the evolution of EV supply chains, the impact of legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, and the importance of partnerships and investment in critical minerals processing infrastructure. 

In this episode of the Need to Know podcast from the Wilson Center, Ambassador Mark Green, President and CEO of the Wilson Center, shares his recent firsthand observations from Ukraine, marking the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. From the war-torn streets to underground schools in subway stations, Ambassador Green provides a vivid account of the destruction caused by Russian attacks and the courageous response of Ukrainians rebuilding their lives amidst ongoing conflict. He emphasizes the urgent need for international support, both humanitarian and military, to address the staggering displacement crisis and bolster Ukraine's efforts to resist Russian aggression.

In this episode of Need to Know, Eddy Acevedo, Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President and CEO of the Wilson Center, discusses the year ahead for the U.S. Congress. He lists other priorities Congress is juggling in addition to appropriations and supplemental funding. Acevedo shares insights from his experience working on the Hill and emphasizes the importance of bipartisan collaboration. He also touches on the role of Congress in shaping foreign policy and talks about the critical need for reliable information for those making public policy decisions. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski explores the implications of the conflict between Hamas and Israel on the Abraham Accords with Merissa Khurma, director of the Wilson Center's Middle East program. They review the status of the accords before the Hamas attack and how things have changed since the outbreak of war. They also explore the possible long-term consequences of the war on the future of the accords and their promise of greater regional stability. 

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski, dives into the critical issue of the United States' involvement in the global effort to combat malaria with Wilson Center CEO, Ambassador Mark Green. Ambassador Green explores the progress made over the years and the ongoing challenges in the fight against malaria, while highlighting the humanitarian and economic reasons behind the US's vital role in this battle and the importance of international coordination and continued support for malaria eradication efforts.

In this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski discusses the state of affairs in Afghanistan, two years after the U.S. withdrawal, with Wilson Center South Asia Institute Director Michael Kugelman. Kugelman paints a dire picture of the situation under Taliban rule, particularly as it relates to food security and the status of women. They also discuss the possibility of Afghanistan once again becoming a safe haven for terrorists and whether there is any reason for optimism about possible changes within the Taliban regime.

In this episode of Need to Know, John Thon Majok, Director of the Wilson Center’s Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative, discusses the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan refugees in the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan with host John Milewski. They explore the complex issues surrounding Afghan refugees who have found temporary homes and those that remain internally displaced within the country. Majok describes the root causes of displacement and the long-term commitment that will be necessary to address this global crisis effectively.

While the border between the U.S. and Mexico is often in the news as a problem, it could just as easily be viewed as one of the greatest economic assesets for both nations. Mexico Institute Director Andrew Rudman talks with host John Milewski about idea for building a more competitive situation on the border. They discuss post-pandemic recovery, new technologies that can improve information sharing, and how people can better capitalize on the opportunities cross-border trade offers.

On this episode of “Need to Know,” Robert Daly, Director of the Wilson Center’s Kissinger Institute on China and the United States, joins host John Milewski to talk about the impact of Biden’s reference to Xi Jinping as a “dictator.”  They also discuss recent diplomatic efforts by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and whether his trip to China paved the road for future high-level meetings between the two countries. Milewski and Daly also look at potential strategies to rebuild the US-China relationship.

In this episode of Need to Know, Kellee Wicker, Director of the Wilson Center’s Science and Technology Innovation Program (STIP), speaks with host John Milewski about artificial intelligence. 

They discuss concerns about AI, the need for guidelines and regulations, and the recent statement from the White House. Kellee recaps a discussion she moderated for Members of Congress that featured Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI and creator of ChatGPT. She also provides tips on where regulators and others can find the best and most accurate information about the latest developments in AI. 

On this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with Andrew Walmsley, Senior Director of Government Affairs at the American Farm Bureau Federation. They discuss expectations for the 2023 Farm Bill and how it might address changes and challenges the agriculture community has faced during the past several years. Walmsley says that if lawmakers get it right, the legislation can help farmers adapt and provide them with the security that will allow them to maintain a competitive advantage in a continuously evolving environment. 

In this episode of Need to Know, Deputy Director of Congressional Relations, Erin Jarnagin, provides an overview of the 2023 Farm Bill. She explains what's covered by the bill, how much we should expect it to change from last time around, and what impact the Russian invasion of Ukraine may have on the legislation. Erin also provides thought on the process and timeline for passage. 

On this episode of Need to Know, host John Milewski speaks with the Director of the Wilson Center’s Science and Technology Innovation Program, Kellee Wicker, on the value of cryptocurrency for international finance, its downsides, and where the digital asset might be headed in the future.

On this episode, Mexico Institute Director, Andrew Rudman, speaks with host John Milewski about what we Need to Know about security concerns on the US-Mexico border. They discuss which policies are working and which aren’t, what life is like in border communities, and where opportunities might exist to build consensus around new policy options on Capitol Hill.

On this episode of “Need to Know,” the Wilson Center’s VP for Strategy & New Initiatives, Duncan Wood, joins host John Milewski to talk about the importance of affordable, available, and secure energy sources, and the challenges countries face in reaching that goal.

On this episode of "Need to Know," the Wilson Center’s China expert, Robert Daly, joins Host John Milewski to talk about the significance of recent protests in China, how the country is advancing its interests in the Middle East, and how President Xi Jinping is trying to shape the global order.

In this edition of Need to Know, we are joined by Raoni Rajao, a Fellow of the Wilson Center's Latin American Program. He talks about his experience at COP27 and covers the climate change debates taking place at the conference. Rajao, also explains who the key players are, what challenges they face, and how talks have progressed since he attended his first COP seven years ago.

In this episode of Need to Know, we speak with Wilson Center Fellow Marina Ottaway and Haleh Esfandiari, Director Emerita and Distinguished Fellow with the Center’s Middle Program, about the ongoing protests in Iran sparked by the death of 22-year old Mahsa Amini while in police custody. They describe how women are leading the charge, provide context on the role of leadership and organization in similar movements, and discuss whether these protests can succeed where others have failed.

Former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense Sherri Goodman joins Need To Know to discuss a couple of interesting recent developments in the arctic that are of interest.  We've always said the Arctic has emerged, and it continues to be a hot area for policy experts watching multiple portfolios.

A flash briefing for policymakers from Robert Daly discussing the possibility of Speaker Pelosi traveling to Taiwan and what it really means for US-China relations. 

A new initiative has begun at the Wilson Center, the Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative (RAFDI), headed by John Thon Majok, will bring policy makers tools and solutions for these problems, but coming at it from the unique perspective of one who has lived in refugee camps and utilized policy options that were available.  Listen to find out more!

A special episode, taking a look at the predictions our experts made and what became of them. Special thank you to everyone who has helped make this show a success over the last three years!

Fresh back from the West Coast attending the Summit of the Americas, we go over the highs and lows with our Latin America Program Acting Director Benjamin Gedan!

There's a lot of talk about Cold Wars lately, lessons from the first Cold War, maybe a new one with Russia. Perhaps China too? Robert Daly drops by the pod to let us know his thinking on whether we are in a new Cold War with China as an adversary. And how will this Cold War be the same or different from the first Cold War with the USSR? Well you will just have to listen and find out.