NATO’s dialogues: America’s (next) threat to go

This episode of The Intelligence from The Economist explores two major themes: the growing fragility of NATO amid escalating tensions between the United States and its European allies, and a deep dive into the global phenomenon of Western emigration. The podcast examines how Donald Trump’s renewed hostility toward NATO—fueled by European reluctance to fully support U.S. military operations in Iran, the absence of base access, and lack of participation in reopening the Strait of Hormuz—has put the alliance under unprecedented strain. Despite Mark Rutte’s diplomatic efforts and a law requiring Senate approval for withdrawal, Trump’s threats are taken more seriously this time due to his intensified rhetoric, his demand for Greenland, and the shift in key figures like Marco Rubio, who now supports reconsidering NATO’s future. Meanwhile, the episode reveals a record wave of emigration from Western countries, with 4 million people leaving in 2024 alone—driven by post-pandemic normalization of remote work, high taxes, political disillusionment, and the desire for 'geographical arbitrage.' Most emigrants move to other Western nations, suggesting a reshuffling rather than a collapse of Western societies. The episode closes with a preview of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting Spain’s strong chances and the cultural significance of football in unifying a fractured nation.