Best of the Spectator The Edition: Trump's Arctic madness, political treachery & banning social media
Jan 23, 2026
Freddy Gray, Deputy Editor of The Spectator, shares insights on the strategic importance of Greenland amid Trump's polarizing rhetoric. Lara Brown explains the risks of Chinese investment in British schools, raising concerns about national values. Miriam Cates critiques Britain's dependence on the US, warning it may be time for a reality check. The discussion also tackles the potential for banning social media for under-16s and the radicalization of young women, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in addressing these pressing issues.
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Greenland Is Strategic, Not Just Mineral
- Greenland's value is more about satellite data and strategic Arctic positioning than just minerals or territory.
- Paul Wood argues Greenland itself may be a red herring in a wider great-power contest over the Arctic.
Europe Needs Realism On Defence Reliance
- Europe cannot independently defend the Arctic or Ukraine without substantial American military investment.
- Freddie warns Europeans must be realistic about relying on US defence capacity in future great-power conflicts.
Chaos, Ego And Diplomatic Damage
- Miriam Cates doubts a clear strategic method behind Trump's Greenland push and suspects ego-driven disruption.
- She highlights the damaging effect of publishing private diplomatic messages on transatlantic trust.