The General & The Journalist

Trump’s Art of the Deal – from the man who advised him

The General & The Journalist

Show Notes

H.R. McMaster served as Donald Trump’s National Security Adviser and saw firsthand how he makes decisions about war, peace and American power.

As his former boss is tested by crises from Iran to Ukraine, China, NATO and Venezuela, he explains how the president really thinks. Does Trump have a grand strategy, or is he driven by instincts, deals and the search for a quick win? And will fragile US-Iran peace deal force a lasting peace or end in disaster?

Guest: LTG HR McMaster, former US National Security Advisor (2017-2018) Hosts: General Sir Patrick Sanders and Tom Newton Dunn Producer: Julia Webster Executive producer: Priyanka Deladia Image: Dana Chan and Getty Clips: PBS, WPLG, Reuters, Getty

What are your thoughts on the US/Iran deal? Get in touch: [email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More from The General & The Journalist

Oct 21, 2026

Israel votes next week and Benjamin Netanyahu faces a defining election as former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot challenges his grip on power. After three years of war, Israel faces mounting security threats, international isolation and deep political divisions. But even if Netanyahu loses, a new government may struggle to change course.

Oct 16, 2026

In this month's Q&A, Patrick and Tom examine Donald Trump’s controversial deal to buy Russian diesel, the shifting world order, and the threats facing Western security. Plus, they consider a listener’s idea for bringing veterans closer to the public.

Oct 14, 2026

For a decade, US spies and diplomats have reported mysterious symptoms including strange noises, sudden pressure and debilitating neurological symptoms… but no one has definitively explained why. Now, two investigative journalists say they have uncovered new evidence of a suspected microwave weapon, a Russian connection and a US government failure to confront the truth.

Oct 7, 2026

The Houthis have advanced along Yemen’s Red Sea coast threatening one of the world’s most important shipping routes through Bab al-Mandab. Yemeni government forces are fighting back, but the Iran-backed group’s ability to disrupt global trade and strike across the region continues to grow.

Sep 30, 2026

As Russia steps up sabotage, interference and intimidation across Europe, how far is Vladimir Putin prepared to go?

See all episodes →