The Future Is Being Negotiated: Dalai Lama’s Successor, India’s Defense Moves & Global Political Shifts

Khudania Ajay
16 hours ago
3 min read

In a world shaped increasingly by power struggles and political theater, a few key developments are quietly defining the next decade. In the latest episode of World Politics Update on KAJ Masterclass LIVE, national security and geopolitical expert Irina Tsukerman offers a sweeping analysis that connects the dots between spiritual succession, military strategy, ideological movements, and global diplomacy.

From the mountains of Tibet to the streets of New York—and from Tehran to Brussels—this conversation is not about speculation. It’s about what’s already happening beneath the headlines.

Here’s a closer look at what’s covered in the episode—and why it matters more than ever.

1. The Dalai Lama’s Successor: A Spiritual Crisis with Geopolitical Consequences

The Dalai Lama has affirmed that the institution will continue beyond his lifetime—but Beijing has other plans.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), despite being officially atheist, is asserting the authority to choose the next Dalai Lama.
Irina calls this “absurd on its face,” pointing out it’s less about religion and more about control over Tibetan identity.
Hosting the current Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile, India is now in the crosshairs—as China could leverage this issue in broader border negotiations.

“They’re not just controlling land or weapons. They’re trying to control identity, belief, and the future.” – Irina Tsukerman

2. India’s Strategic Shift: Buying Russian Missiles for Speed, Not Politics

India’s decision to expand its purchase of Russian S-400 systems raised eyebrows globally—but Irina argues it’s purely pragmatic.

The S-400 may be imperfect, but Russia can deliver quickly and reliably—something the U.S. and allies have struggled with.
The decision is also rooted in interoperability with India’s existing defense systems and past experience with U.S. contractual unpredictability.

India is hedging its bets, not picking sides.

3. Zoran Mamdani and the Rise of Radical Local Politics

In New York, Democratic Socialist Zoran Mamdani’s candidacy is triggering waves far beyond the city.

His rhetoric around “globalizing the intifada” has raised serious concerns, even as he walks back some of it for public appearances.
Irina highlights his ties to ideological activism and potential cronyism wrapped in progressive branding.
His support base largely consists of white, affluent progressives—while minorities and working-class communities remain skeptical of his economic policies.

4. Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions: Is the Real Program Hidden?

While Operation Rising Lion damaged Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, Irina cautions that:

Iran may have moved parts of its program offshore, possibly to allies like North Korea or Pakistan.
The damage estimates (6 months to 2 years delay) may be misleading if Iran planned ahead.
Iran’s restrained reaction raises questions about what it protected and what the West actually achieved.

5. The West’s Confused Alliances: NATO, Trade Deals, and Missed Opportunities

From failed trade negotiations with Japan and India to an underwhelming NATO summit, Irina paints a picture of:

Strategic incoherence—alliances under strain, leadership transitions uncertain, and rising doubts among allies.
A shift toward transactional, short-term diplomacy that leaves space for China and Russia to maneuver more confidently.

Even longstanding alliances are now in question.

A World on the Brink of Redefinition

This episode is not just commentary—it’s a blueprint for understanding how the world is changing behind the scenes.

From succession politics to security strategy and ideological power grabs, Irina Tsukerman lays bare the complex web that connects these stories. If you want to stay informed—and ahead—this is a must-watch discussion.

📺 Watch the full episode here: