How The IMF Played a Role in the Ukraine War | Vijay Prashad & Chris Jeffries

Vijay Prashad and Chris Jeffries discuss the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with a focus on China’s peace proposal and its rejection. Vijay explains that the IMF and World Bank have played a significant role in the geopolitical conflict by imposing financial regime change on countries, leading to economic instability and potential regime change. Using examples like Argentina and Ukraine, they argue that these institutions, along with corporations, aim to make profits by deregulating economies and privatizing industries, often leading to conflict when governments resist. They also discuss the role of external forces, including the US, in instigating conflicts and regime change, using the examples of Libya and Ukraine. They criticize the prioritization of military power over development and infrastructure and the use of music and its meanings in political contexts. Overall, the scholars argue that the IMF’s involvement in Ukraine’s political and economic crisis led to widespread protests and political instability, ultimately contributing to the conflict. Key Moments 00:00:00 Intro 00:05:00 the IMF and World Bank 00:10:00 “haircut“ or debt restructuring 00:15:00 the privatization of Russian assets following the collapse of the Soviet Union 00:20:00 Ukraine’s controversial foreign funding law 00:25:00 the Libyan conflict in 2011 00:30:00 the unparalleled military might of the United States and its NATO allies 00:35:00 “Keep On Rocking In The Free World“ 00:40:00 IMF’s austerity measures imposed on Ukraine in 2014 led to widespread protests John Waters | Legendary Film Maker Bill Ayers | Anarchism & Socialism | Weathermen Underground | #98 HR A Conversation with Cory Doctorow | Author, Journalist & Activist #155 HR Youtube: HR NEWS: @chrisjeffrieshomelessromantic Instagram: Twitter: DONATE TO US! MUSIC INTRO by @JustinLepard