Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, discusses the repercussions of the U.S. halting military aid to Ukraine and its impact on ongoing negotiations and military resilience. Carla Supirana takes listeners through Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, revealing how stablecoins are used for trading amidst the vibrant market. Alexandra Sewitch-Bass highlights the Louvre's inaugural fashion exhibition, merging historical art with contemporary style to draw in new audiences. These discussions uncover critical intersections of geopolitics, finance, and culture.
The pause in U.S. military aid to Ukraine risks altering battlefield dynamics, affecting both immediate military operations and long-term strategies.
In Turkey, stablecoins are increasingly utilized for transactions, showcasing a shift towards digital currencies as a response to economic instability.
Deep dives
The Shift to Stablecoins in Turkey
Stablecoins are gaining popularity in Turkey as individuals seek to manage their savings amidst economic instability. People in Turkey are increasingly using stablecoins, like Tether, as a means to store value and facilitate transactions, bypassing the inefficiencies of traditional banking. For instance, local shopkeepers in the Grand Bazaar utilize stablecoins to pay suppliers efficiently, demonstrating their practical applications in everyday commerce. This trend reflects a broader movement in developing countries where soaring inflation drives citizens toward more stable financial instruments.
Impact of U.S. Military Aid Suspension on Ukraine
The recent suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine poses significant risks for the battlefield dynamics, impacting both immediate and long-term military operations. While Ukraine currently maintains a balance in artillery fire, the halt jeopardizes essential supplies, including spare parts and precision-guided munitions, which could ultimately shift the power dynamics in favor of Russian forces. Furthermore, the interruption of U.S. intelligence support might degrade Ukraine's situational awareness, hindering their operational effectiveness against Russian aggressors. Despite these concerns, Ukrainian officials express cautious optimism, believing they can adapt and continue to stabilize their defenses in the short term.
The Louvre's Fashion Gala and Museum Strategy
The Louvre's inaugural fashion exhibition marks a strategic effort to attract new audiences and enhance funding through innovative partnerships with the fashion industry. The showcase includes approximately 100 outfits displayed alongside historical artifacts, aiming to merge contemporary culture with classical art and generate engagement through captivating visual storytelling. By hosting a fashion gala, modeled after the Met Gala, the museum seeks to draw fashion enthusiasts and potential donors into its halls, promoting a new appreciation for its diverse offerings. This approach reflects a growing trend where museums collaborate with the fashion world, recognizing that fashion can enhance cultural relevance and accessibility.
In an effort to bring Ukraine to the negotiating table, America has paused military help to the war-torn country. What will this mean on the ground? Our correspondent explores a new cryptocurrency craze, visiting Turkey’s bazaars to meet people trading goods using stablecoins (9:43). And why the Louvre is staging its first fashion gala (16:00).