8VC's Joe Lonsdale to discuss US AI leadership at Reuters NEXT

8VC: 8VC is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on transformative technology companies operating at the intersection of defense, artificial intelligence, and industrial innovation. Founded and led by Joe Lonsdale as managing partner, the firm has backed numerous portfolio companies in national security and related sectors. It is central to the news as Lonsdale's primary platform and the entity tied to his appearance discussing AI infrastructure and capital. Joe Brock: Joe Brock is Reuters' Global Defense Editor, based in Los Angeles, where he leads coverage of aerospace, defense, weapons manufacturers, and the space industry. He has previously reported from multiple international bureaus and received awards for investigative journalism. He is the moderator interviewing Joe Lonsdale in the Reuters NEXT Newsmaker segment on AI and national security topics. Joe Lonsdale: Joe Lonsdale is a Silicon Valley venture investor and managing partner of 8VC, with two decades of experience building and backing companies in defense technology, AI, financial services, healthcare, and government software. He is also a co-founder of Palantir Technologies. He is the featured speaker in the news event, where he will address U.S. AI leadership, infrastructure, national security, and the technology's opportunities and risks. Palantir Technologies: Palantir Technologies is a software company specializing in data analytics and artificial intelligence platforms, with significant government and enterprise applications in national security. Joe Lonsdale is a co-founder of the company. It is directly relevant to the Reuters interview as the firm where Lonsdale's expertise in AI and defense originated, informing discussions on U.S. leadership and security intersections. AI Risks Debate: Prominent AI figures including Palantir's leadership have recently weighed in on AI safety, with some calling for accountability measures and others dismissing existential threats while emphasizing responsible development. U.S. AI Competitiveness: U.S. policymakers and industry leaders are focused on maintaining technological edge in artificial intelligence through infrastructure, capital, and innovation policy. Defense Technology Investment: Venture firms like 8VC continue to back companies advancing AI and autonomy in national security applications amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.