Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast Anne Applebaum & Michael Tomasky
9 snips
Feb 28, 2026 
Anne Applebaum, journalist and author on geopolitics and authoritarianism, warns about mixed U.S. messages to Europe, propaganda amplified by algorithms, and election-manipulation risks. Michael Tomasky, editor and political commentator focused on progressive economics and Democratic strategy, discusses Epstein-related accountability, how power protects the powerful, and what Democrats should emphasize going into primaries.
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Europe Seriously Considered Hedging Against The U.S.
- European governments seriously considered defensive measures after Trump floated buying Greenland and confused Iceland for Greenland in public remarks.
- Anne Applebaum heard officials in Copenhagen and Munich discussing hedging against the U.S. and planning for scenarios like shooting down American planes if necessary.
U.S. Military Moves Lacked Public Explanation
- The Trump administration has deployed major military force to the Middle East without public justification or congressional briefing.
- Anne Applebaum contrasted this to 2003 Iraq, noting there was no clear goal, explanation, or allied consultation this time.
Mixed U.S. Messaging Is Pushing Europe Toward Self Reliance
- U.S. messaging is incoherent: officials urge Europe to defend itself while promoting far-right parties that weaken European unity.
- That double message pushes Europeans toward self-reliance and a long, painful rethinking of alliances.