Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, and Emmett Livingstone, Africa correspondent, delve into the recent U.S.-Russia negotiations regarding Ukraine, highlighting the sidelining of Ukraine's president. They explore the impact of these discussions on Europe while also interviewing Kornén Nonga, leader of the M23 rebel group in Goma, about the complexities of regional conflict. The conversation also humorously touches on pop culture, specifically the enduring charm and cultural relevance of Bridget Jones.
Trump and Putin's negotiations signal a potential sidelining of Ukraine, raising concerns over the future of European security guarantees.
The rise of the M23 rebel group in Congo highlights regional instability, reflecting the complex power dynamics and threats in Eastern Africa.
Deep dives
Trump and Putin's New Diplomacy
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have agreed to initiate talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, marking a significant shift in diplomatic dynamics. Trump formed a negotiating team that includes key figures such as Marco Rubio and John Ratcliffe, suggesting a strategic but controversial approach to the negotiations. Trump also proposed visits to each other's capitals, which would be a historic move, as no American president has visited Moscow in several years. However, the United States has made critical concessions, indicating a willingness to sideline Ukraine in these discussions, raising concerns about the future security guarantees for the nation.
Impact of the M23 Rebellion in Goma
The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has captured the city of Goma in eastern Congo, intensifying an already volatile conflict in the region. M23 leader Kornay Nongar emphasized their intention for a 'clean war,' despite the chaotic conditions at the time of their takeover, where many were caught off guard. This situation reflects deeper regional tensions, with several African armies involved, indicating a precarious balance of power that could escalate further. Nongar's rhetoric hints at ambitions that extend beyond local issues, implying potential threats to the capital Kinshasa and surrounding areas.
The European Security Landscape's Shift
Recent comments from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth underscored a pivotal shift in the American focus on European security, prioritizing threats from China over those posed by Russia. This change indicates a potential decrease in U.S. involvement and support for European allies, especially in light of ongoing conflicts like the one in Ukraine. The implications of Turkey's decreasing influence and America's withdrawal from direct commitments could lead to a reordering of the European security framework. As the landscape changes, European nations may be compelled to take greater responsibility for their own security, while grappling with the fallout from any negotiated settlements regarding Ukraine.
During a 90-minute telephone conversation, the American and Russian presidents started negotiating a future for Ukraine. What will this mean for Europe? Our correspondent interviews a leader of the Rwandan-backed rebel group M23 in Goma, Congo (9:44). And how Bridget Jones changed cinema (and Chardonnay) (18:08).