PODCAST: Tariffs, peace (maybe) in Ukraine and a shifting global power struggle

Geopolitics & Policy
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By: Robyn Tongol

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, hosts Steve Kuper and Robert Dougherty explore the recent wave of international announcements, such as the Ukraine 30-day ceasefire, USA tariffs and Australia’s future role in the global order.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, hosts Steve Kuper and Robert Dougherty explore the recent wave of international announcements, such as the Ukraine 30-day ceasefire, USA tariffs and Australia’s future role in the global order.

The pair discuss a range of topics, including:

  • The newly announced tariffs of 25 per cent on all imported steel and aluminium into the United States and Australia’s absolute horror at not attaining an exemption.
  • The continuing discussion regarding the US-led peace deal in Ukraine, Ukraine’s acceptance of the US proposal and a look at US President Donald Trump’s endgame for the negotiations and minerals remuneration.
  • The global shifts in international power, the emerging “large over small country” global order and Australia’s role in a new sphere of influence strategy.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team

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Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

Episode 11: PODCAST: Aerospace engineering, UAVs and Australia’s next generation of defence talent, with RMIT University’s Marcus Serong
Episode 10: PODCAST: Counter-drone systems, manufacturing and Australia’s defence industry priorities, with Northrop Grumman Australia’s Robert Denney
Episode 9: SPOTLIGHT: Australia’s loitering munitions, sovereign manufacturing and the future of drone warfare, with Innovaero’s Gregory Tunny
Episode 8: PODCAST: Contested logistics and Australia’s defence industry priorities at Land Forces 2026, with Amentum Australia’s Kim Katheklakis
Episode 7: PODCAST: Containerised solutions and human-in-the-loop systems at Land Forces 2026, with IAI’s Maxim Zemer
Episode 6: SPOTLIGHT: Lockheed Martin Australia’s priorities, leadership and life after service, with Jeremy King
Episode 5: THE PROGRESS REPORT: Leadership, mentorship and life at sea – Commander Melanie Lennard on 17 years in the Royal Australian Navy
Episode 4: PODCAST: Australia’s munitions manufacturing push at Land Forces 2026, with NIOA Group’s Robert Nioa
Episode 3: PODCAST: EOS showcases new interceptor and layered drone defence at Land Forces 2026, with Lee Kormany
Episode 2: CONTESTED GROUND: The information advantage – how AI is reshaping influence, competition and power