Jackie Northam

Jackie Northam, an NPR international affairs correspondent, dives into the complexities of Russian oil sales amidst ongoing sanctions. Despite over 5,000 sanctions against Russia, many countries continue to buy its oil, often skirting their own regulations. Jackie highlights Taiwan’s significant role, particularly how private firms are navigating sanctions. The conversation also touches on the hypocrisy of other nations, like Turkey and India, that openly purchase Russian oil while publicly supporting Ukraine. The geopolitical implications of these actions reveal a tangled web of economic interests.

Jackie Northam, an NPR international affairs correspondent, dives into President Trump's recent rare earth agreements with Asian nations aimed at lessening U.S. dependence on China. She explains the strategic motivations behind these deals and discusses the contributions of countries like Thailand and Japan. Northam highlights the hesitations of Asian nations to fully engage due to their ties with China and assesses the lengthy, complex process of building new supply chains. Ultimately, she suggests that broader international alliances are necessary for a sustainable solution.

Jackie Northam, a seasoned journalist, sheds light on the brutal realities faced by artists and activists in Iran amid ongoing government crackdowns. She discusses the striking case of writer Hossein Shambhazada, who received a 12-year prison sentence for a seemingly innocuous punctuation mark. Northam also highlights the chilling stories of dissidents, including a rapper confronting execution, revealing the growing anger and resilience among Iranians rising against oppressive forces.