After Venezuela’s president andhis immediate successors are killed in a devastating earthquake, Elizabeth works to stop a power grab by the late president’s son, as well as secure the release of the international aid team he arrested.

Elizabeth is shocked when the Philippines’ unconventional new president, Datu Andrada, makes a pass at her during their meeting to discuss his refusal to participate in an Asia-Pacific territory treaty.

Secretary of State McCord struggles with the realization that she may need to advise the Afghan government that a compromise with the Taliban may be better than a war with them. Also, Henry uses Dmitri as bait to convince a Russian spy to help the U.S., and Daisy returns from maternity leave and decides to finally tell Joe’s mother about the baby.

Elizabeth’s negotiations for a security agreement combatting gang violence in South America becomes complicated when she attempts to free an American recently kidnapped there.

Elizabeth visits the Middle East to finalize a deal to bring U.S. troops home, but complications arise when a local woman’s life is threatened by rumors of a romance with one of Elizabeth’s staffers. Also, Henry provides relationship advice to Elizabeth’s brother, Will.

Henry teams up with a Marine veteran to fight for legislation that helps Veterans Affairs provide better mental health care, but he encounters surprising resistance from Vice President Carlos Morejon. Also, Senator Hanson questions Daisy about an arrest in her past.