Trump says he wants to buy Greenland. It’s not for sale.
Jan 8, 2025
auto_awesome
Trump's bold remarks about acquiring Greenland stir geopolitical intrigue, revealing local opposition and historical context. The shutdown of Meta's fact-checking program raises questions about social media's role in political discourse. A grim portrayal of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan highlights ongoing famine and the plight of refugees. Additionally, the devastating wildfires in California and the earthquake in Tibet have left communities reeling, alongside a heartfelt tribute to former President Jimmy Carter and a humorous nod to a TV crossover event.
Trump's ambition to acquire Greenland illustrates significant geopolitical tensions and potential military ramifications despite Denmark's firm rejection.
Meta's discontinuation of its fact-checking program in favor of user-based contributions reflects a shift towards prioritizing free expression amidst political biases.
Deep dives
Trump's Aspirations for Greenland and Panama Canal
President-elect Trump has expressed interest in expanding U.S. territory by seizing control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, framing it as a necessity for economic security. Greenland's strategic location between the U.S. and Europe and its wealth of natural resources have fueled this ambition, despite Denmark's refusal to entertain such proposals in the past. The concept of military intervention or economic coercion has raised eyebrows, indicating potential global outrage if attempted. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Greenland's status, particularly as there is a growing independence movement within Greenland itself.
Meta's Shift in Content Moderation Policies
Meta has announced the elimination of its fact-checking program, opting instead for a community-based model where users can contribute notes and fact checks. This shift is attributed to a need to prioritize free expression amid growing criticism of perceived bias against conservative perspectives in prior fact-checking efforts. CEO Mark Zuckerberg indicated that the company aims to simplify its content policies and remove restrictions that have stifled diverse opinions on critical social issues. As a result, users may see an increase in political content in their feeds, signaling a significant change in Meta's approach to content moderation.
U.S. Declaration of Genocide in Sudan
The U.S. government has officially declared that genocide is occurring in Sudan, primarily attributing the violence to a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces. This declaration follows severe allegations of ethnic-based murders and widespread sexual violence against women and children amid ongoing civil unrest. In response, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on the group's leader and affiliated companies from the UAE, highlighting international efforts to combat the humanitarian crisis. The situation has been exacerbated by a severe famine affecting millions, prompting criticism of the U.S. for its delayed reaction to the escalating violence.
On today’s show: Trump says he wants to buy Greenland — or take it by force. Can he? Politico’s Seb Starcevic explains what could happen next.
NBC News’ Ben Goggin explains why Meta shut down its fact-checking program.
The United States says a genocide is taking place in Sudan. NPR has been reporting on the famine and displacement therefor months.
Plus, thousands of residents in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angles were evacuated as a raging fire destroyed homes, Tibet rescuers search for survivors in freezing temperatures after a deadly earthquake; what to know about tomorrow’s National Day of Mourning for President Jimmy Carter; and how the 'Always Sunny' gang ended up at ‘Abbott Elementary.’
Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode