Sabato de Sarno leaves Gucci and the UK takes a lead on Ukraine
Feb 6, 2025
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Caroline Frost, a seasoned journalist, and Marion Messmer, an expert in international security, dive into critical contemporary issues. They discuss the surprising departure of Gucci’s design chief, Sabato de Sarno, and what it means for the brand’s future. The UK’s strengthened role in Ukraine’s defense comes to light as the US steps back, raising questions about international alliances. Natalie Theodosi shares fashion insights, while Robert Kaplan reflects on the lessons from the Weimar Republic, emphasizing the importance of moral responsibility in today's world.
Sabato De Sarno's departure from Gucci underscores the fashion industry's challenge in balancing financial demands with long-term creative vision.
The UK's emerging leadership in Ukraine's defense strategy highlights a significant shift in European military collaboration amid U.S. disengagement.
Deep dives
The Shifting Landscape of Fashion Leadership
The abrupt departure of Gucci's creative director, Sabato De Sarno, just weeks before Milan Fashion Week raises concerns about the fashion industry's ability to retain talent. His exit after only two years highlights a broader issue within the industry that prioritizes immediate financial results over long-term creative vision. Despite initial criticism, De Sarno's designs influenced current collections, showcasing the potential for innovative directions when given time. This situation suggests a cutthroat environment where even well-regarded designers struggle to thrive under pressure for instant success.
Europe's Role in Supporting Ukraine
With the U.S. stepping back from leading support for Ukraine, the UK is poised to take a more prominent role in rallying European allies. Discussions highlight the potential for Europe to sustain its support for Ukraine's defense, despite concerns about the U.S. administration's commitment. European nations, including those supplying military aid, are adjusting their strategies to fill the leadership gap left by the U.S. The pivot to a more unified European approach, emphasizing collaboration among NATO members, could reshape the landscape of international assistance to Ukraine.
Navigating the Challenge of Tourism in Cities
The city of Lisbon is experimenting with separating local residents and tourists in public transport queues, aiming to alleviate congestion caused by an influx of visitors. While this initiative seeks to address local grievances, it raises questions about how to balance the needs of tourists, who provide economic benefits, with those of residents. Implementing such a system presents complexities and demands careful consideration to avoid alienating tourists. Efforts like incentivizing off-peak travel for tourists may prove more effective and maintain the city's attractiveness as a destination.
Ethical Dilemmas in Animal Emergency Care
A doctor's decision to perform a CAT scan and emergency surgery on his injured cat has sparked a debate about ethics in veterinary care and potential misuse of medical resources. While the act demonstrates compassion, it raises concerns about fairness and the implications of prioritizing pets over human patients. Critics argue that this could set a troubling precedent, while supporters contend that the unique circumstances justify the action. The incident reveals a growing awareness of the emotional bonds between humans and their pets, complicating traditional views on medical ethics.
We get the latest from Monocle’s fashion director, Natalie Theodosi, as Kering parts ways with Gucci’s design chief, Sabato de Sarno, after a short two-year tenure. Then our panellists Marion Messmer and Caroline Frost discuss why the UK is taking a lead on Ukraine’s defence strategy as the US steps back. Then: we discuss why Lisbon’s city council has instructed its transport authority to create separate queues for tourists and residents. Plus: after an Italian doctor sneaks his cat into a hospital for a treatment, we consider how far we’d go for our pets.