Edward P Joseph, an expert and well-versed Balkan scholar from John Hopkins School, speaks on Ditmir Bushati's podcast about the future of the world with Trump in America, but also how his egocentric nature will affect not only America, Europe, but also the Balkans. More than anywhere else in the Balkans, there are expectations and interests of those in power.
Edward P Joseph does not pretend to be a fortune teller for everything, as is usually the case in the Balkans, especially in Albania and Kosovo, where everyone knows everything. The professor talks about what he knows, and perhaps that is why the title of this episode is "Welcome to the Age of Unpredictability."
No one knows if there will be a third world war, if Ukraine or Kosovo will be sold. A lot also depends on Trump's advisors. Hostilities and interests will be more in the mix than ever.
"The US is the backbone, the foundation of stability in the region, because the US expresses the security guarantee through NATO. This creates the foundation of security in the region and sets a barrier against anyone who makes attempts at major escalations. It doesn't happen 100% like that, as we all saw what Belgrade did with Banjska, a very serious case in September 2023, a little over a year ago. So, we saw how even when NATO is present, attempts can be made to make radical changes in political dynamics. So, you are right. The essence is the firm commitment of the US. Will Trump change this on his first day in office?" says Joseph.
Listen to the full podcast here:
