Summary
Highlights
Mikhail Iossel describes his 25-year long connection to Kenya, starting with bringing students from Upstate New York for half-year internships. This coincided with Kenya's democratic process and led to Iossel meeting exiled writers. He started a literary program there, akin to one in St. Petersburg, Russia. Currently, he brings writers to Maasai Mara twice a year for workshops, creative retreats, and interaction with local wildlife outside the national park.
Kenya's climate is noted as excellent, despite being on the equator, with savanna conditions leading to warm days and cool nights. The country boasts diverse geographic zones including ocean, mountains, savanna, and tropical forests. Iossel emphasizes the talent of Kenyan writers, some of whom have been published in the West or gained admission to literary graduate programs due to his help. Kenyans, despite poverty, are described as happy and multilingual, speaking Swahili (national), English (official), and at least one tribal language. Kenyan literature is mainly in English, but also in Swahili and tribal languages like Kikuyu.
The conversation shifts to US politics, particularly the aftermath of Thomas Massie's failed primary bid in Kentucky. Iossel highlights the cult-like following of Trump among Republicans, rendering any opposition within the party almost impossible. He also points out the contradiction of Kentucky having a Democratic governor, Andy Beshear, who is considering a presidential run. Iossel suggests that the internet's influence on public support isn't always reflected in real-world election outcomes.
Iossel foresees a potential constitutional crisis in November if Trump loses the elections and refuses to acknowledge the results, possibly even deploying troops. He questions whether Republican senators and representatives would uphold the constitution over loyalty to Trump. Though he doesn't believe a third party will emerge, he notes an increasing number of 'politically homeless' independents leaving both major parties. The discussion also touches upon the possibility of an impeachment if Democrats control both chambers and Trump's actions escalate.
Focusing on international relations, Iossel describes Trump as an anti-democratic, pro-dictator figure who admires tyrants like Putin. He mentions Trump's visit to China, suggesting a proposal for a world division among the US (Trump), Europe (Putin), and Asia (Xi). However, Iossel believes Russia is in decline and ill-equipped to expand its influence. He also highlights China's increasing influence over Russia, evident in their leaders' recent interactions, which he likens to a python gradually swallowing a rabbit.
Iossel expresses serious concern about the threat of nuclear war, recalling the fear during the Cold War in 1983. He believes Trump, whom he describes as delusional and unstable, might consider using nuclear weapons, citing Trump's past statements about Iran. He worries that Trump's unpredictability and disrespect for democratic institutions have severely damaged America's standing globally. He concludes by hoping that world leaders will ultimately choose self-preservation over destruction.