Tucker Carlson interviews a far-right ultranationalist close with Putin, discussing ceasefire in Israel, Saudi-Israeli relations, ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu. They also cover leaked intelligence on Navalny's death, Blinken's China trip, Iranian rapper's death sentence, leadership changes in Scotland, and Africa's upcoming election and Rwandan genocide anniversary.
China supports Russia's war effort in Ukraine, endangering European security.
US warns China against election interference, emphasizing monitoring and consequences.
Indian intelligence allegedly targets Sikh activists abroad for assassination, revealing hidden operations.
ANC faces slipping support in South Africa ahead of elections, prompting coalition government predictions.
Deep dives
US Condemns China's Support for Russia in Ukraine War
The US criticizes China for supporting Russia's war effort in Ukraine by providing crucial components for weapons production. These include machine tools, microelectronics, and other necessary items. The US warns China to cut off this support, emphasizing that it endangers not only Ukrainian but European security as well.
Tony Blinken's Tough Stance on Interference in US Elections
Secretary of State Tony Blinken addresses reports of China's attempts to influence the upcoming US elections. He reiterates President Biden's message to President Xi that any interference in American elections is unacceptable. Blinken emphasized the need to closely monitor and cut off any attempts at interference in the election process.
Challenges in US-China Relations and Potential Consequences
The US-China relationship faces challenges due to growing suspicions of China's espionage and election meddling efforts. These issues raise concerns about the potential consequences on the bilateral relationship and international security. Calls for specific actions and consequences for any proven interference are on the rise.
Indian Intelligence Accused of Targeted Killings of Sikh Activists
Reports reveal Indian intelligence services' alleged involvement in targeting Sikh activists living abroad for assassination. The Washington Post exposes an assassination plot aimed at a Sikh man in New York with final instructions relayed by Indian intelligence operatives. This revelation sheds light on targeted killings beyond India's borders.
South Africa's ANC Support Slipping Ahead of National Elections
The Africa National Congress (ANC) faces slipping support ahead of national elections on May 29th, with polls predicting around 45% of the votes, necessitating a coalition government. The decline reflects economic challenges like stagnant GDP per capita and soaring unemployment rates, marking the largest drop since President Ramaphosa's tenure. Despite enduring racial and economic disparities, voter sentiment is swayed by a history of progress followed by political and economic stagnation.
US-South Africa Relations and Shifting Power Dynamics
US-South Africa relations point to a recent course correction towards mutual recognition of strategic importance. South Africa's significance as Africa's largest economy and diplomatic player propels renewed US attention. Meanwhile, the Sahel region witnesses a rise in Russian influence amidst Western withdrawals post-cues. Shifts in power dynamics highlight security concerns and sovereignty aspirations in the region.
Rwanda's Recovery, Geopolitical Significance, and Asylum Deal Controversy
Rwanda's recovery from the 1994 genocide combines reconciliation efforts with political control, as President Kagame maintains power through leveraging the tragedy's legacy. Tensions rise as Rwanda strikes an asylum deal with the UK, taking in migrants despite critiques of repressive practices. Geopolitically, Rwanda balances moral leadership claims with strategic partnerships, navigating a fine line between international scrutiny and hosting asylum seekers.
Ben and Tommy discuss reports that a temporary ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas may be imminent, that Saudi Arabia has decided to normalize relations with Israel, and that the ICC may issue an arrest warrant for Israeli PM Bibi Netanyahu. They also hear from campus protestors in New York, discuss leaked intelligence reports about whether Putin ordered opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s death, Tucker Carlson’s interview with a far-right ultranationalist close with Putin, Secretary of State Tony Blinken’s trip to China, why an Iranian rapper got a death sentence, major leadership changes in Scotland, and a dramatic reading care of Scotland. Then Tommy speaks to John McDermott, Chief Africa Correspondent for the Economist about South Africa’s upcoming election, waning western influence in the western Sahel, and the 30th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
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