Alas Vine & Hitchens

Why Are We Firing Up the UK’s War Machine?

9 snips
Jan 7, 2026
The discussion kicks off with concerns about the UK's military posture and the dangers of romanticizing war. Peter critiques the totalitarian undertones in labeling dissent as unpatriotic, while delving into the motives behind military funding and media hype. The conversation navigates through the implications of seizing Russian assets and Germany's evolving role within the EU. They also explore the intersection of conservatism and cultural values, connecting beloved characters like Winnie-the-Pooh to broader political themes.
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ANECDOTE

Biscuits, Cards And Studio Banter

  • Sarah and Peter open with light banter about biscuits sent by a listener and Christmas cards.
  • The exchange humanises the hosts before the episode turns to heavier geopolitical topics.
INSIGHT

War-Ready Rhetoric Risks Silencing Dissent

  • Peter Hitchens warns a coordinated push by military and intelligence leaders is preparing Britain for deeper war involvement.
  • He argues this creates intolerance of dissent and a dangerous single-opinion culture.
INSIGHT

Beware Romanticising War

  • Peter stresses war is destructive and often glamorised by myths about past conflicts.
  • He warns against 'war-seeking' in media and politics, urging caution despite not being a pacifist.
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