In a world where geopolitics often resembles an intricate chess match, discussions around international relations can be both enlightening and baffling. A recent episode of Jeremy Cordeaux’s show offered a deep dive into the complexities of global diplomacy, featuring Dr. Bruni, the founder of Sage International. The conversation touched on various aspects of international relations, from economic standards to military strategies and everything in between.
One of the focal points of their discussion was the gold standard—a topic that’s been generating interest, particularly within the BRICS plus group. Dr. Bruni shed light on the practical limitations of such a standard and the challenges of linking a currency to finite commodities like gold. They explored the potential impact of a gold standard for a BRICS plus-related currency and its far-reaching implications for the global economy.
The historical context of gold reserves, including the iconic Fort Knox, was also examined in relation to paper currency in circulation. As the conversation flowed, it transitioned seamlessly into a discussion about the intriguing “bromance” between Kim Jong-un and Putin, highlighting the intricate dynamics of their relationship.
The discussion ventured into the realm of military affairs, particularly North Korea’s aging equipment and the complexities it presents for Russia. Dr. Bruni contemplated the message Russia might be sending by engaging with North Korea on outdated weaponry.
As the conversation meandered through various topics, the challenges of providing military support to Ukraine emerged as a central theme. They delved into the nuclear capabilities of both North Korea and Russia, pondering the implications of their diplomatic strategies.
Jeremy Cordeaux raised pertinent questions about the pace of delivery of promised F-16s for Ukraine, prompting Dr. Bruni to emphasize the considerable time and resources required to produce advanced military equipment. The discussion also touched on the reluctance of Western nations to provide substantial military support to Ukraine, driven by the fear of provoking Russia.
In a lighthearted moment, Hunter Biden made a cameo, before the conversation circled back to the complexities of international relations. They contemplated the role and limitations of the United Nations in addressing global conflicts.
The episode offered a multifaceted perspective on the intricacies of global diplomacy, touching on issues ranging from economic challenges to demographic shifts and the agency of Eastern European nations in shaping their own destinies. As our world continues to evolve, these insights remind us that understanding international relations is akin to solving a vast, ever-changing puzzle—one that demands patience, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to peace and stability.
Below are some highlights from the first 20 mins..
Scroll below to listen straight away.
Timestamps:
00:00:52 – 00:01:15: Dr. Bruni shares insights into the practical limitations of a gold standard and mentions the BRICS plus group’s interest in reintroducing it.
00:01:15 – 00:01:38: The conversation shifts to the concept of fiat currency and the challenges of linking a currency to finite commodities like gold.
00:01:38 – 00:02:04: Dr. Bruni elaborates on the potential impact of a gold standard for a BRICS plus-related currency and the implications for the global economy.
00:02:04 – 00:02:37: They explore the historical context of gold reserves, like Fort Knox, and how it relates to the paper currency in circulation.
00:02:37 – 00:03:00: Dr. Bruni discusses his company, Sage International, and transitions into a conversation about the Kim Jong-un and Putin “bromance.”
00:03:00 – 00:03:20: Jeremy Cordeaux raises questions about the potential outcomes of a gold standard transition and its impact on national budgets.
00:03:20 – 00:03:46: Dr. Bruni provides insights into the evolving relationship between Kim Jong-un and Putin, emphasizing the complexity of their interactions.
00:03:46 – 00:04:11: The discussion shifts to the military equipment of North Korea, its age, and the challenges it poses for Russia.
00:05:08 – 00:05:31: Dr. Bruni reflects on the potential message Russia is sending by engaging with North Korea on outdated weaponry.
00:05:31 – 00:06:01: The conversation touches on the challenges of arming Ukraine with modern equipment and the reluctance of the West to get directly involved.
00:06:01 – 00:06:34: Dr. Bruni discusses the nuclear capabilities of both North Korea and Russia and the implications of their diplomatic strategies.
00:07:26 – 00:07:55: The discussion turns to the challenges of providing military support to Ukraine without triggering further escalation.
00:08:26 – 00:08:46: Jeremy Cordeaux mentions promises of F-16s for Ukraine and questions the pace of delivery.
00:09:37 – 00:10:14: Dr. Bruni emphasizes the significant time and resources required to produce advanced military equipment.
00:10:14 – 00:10:37: They touch on the reluctance of Western nations to provide substantial military support to Ukraine due to the fear of provoking Russia.
00:10:37 – 00:11:02: The conversation shifts to the possibility of a war between NATO and Russia, considering Russia’s challenges.
00:11:02 – 00:11:28: Dr. Bruni discusses Russia’s non-military problems, including economic sanctions and demographic challenges.
00:11:28 – 00:11:54: They delve into the depopulation issue in Russia and other regions, impacting economic agility.
00:11:54 – 00:12:15: Jeremy Cordeaux questions the strategic approach of the United States and its hesitance to take a more assertive stance.
00:12:56 – 00:13:19: The discussion takes a lighthearted turn, mentioning Hunter Biden, and returns to the complexity of international relations.
00:13:19 – 00:13:50: They reflect on the role of the United Nations and its limitations in addressing global conflicts.
00:14:19 – 00:14:42: Jeremy Cordeaux highlights the determination of people defending their homes and how it affects conflicts.
00:14:42 – 00:15:10: Dr. Bruni mentions the ongoing war in Ukraine, the potential consequences of attrition, and the need for Western support.
00:15:10 – 00:15:35: They discuss the American political elite’s hesitation to provide substantial military assistance to Ukraine and its implications.
00:15:35 – 00:15:58: Dr. Bruni explores the argument that Russia deserves a sphere of influence and the challenges it poses to Eastern European nations.
00:15:58 – 00:16:19: The conversation touches on the agency of East European nations and their desire to distance themselves from Russia.
Listen below
Watch below
Dr John Bruni is CEO and founder of SAGE International and has expertise in defence acquisition, asymmetric warfare and international relations. John has worked as a Senatorial adviser, a military adviser for the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) Abu Dhabi, UAE and a defence consultant to a number of companies including a blue-chip Australian transport firm and companies dealing in green engineering, small arms and personal protection.
Jeremy Cordeaux LIVE streaming ‘The Court Of Public Opinion‘ every Friday between 9am – Midday (ACST). To listen and to get involved, simply head to www.jeremycordeaux.com
