Alessio Patalano, a King's College London professor specializing in Asian defense, unpacks Taiwan's strategic move to defy Beijing with President Lai Ching-te's Pacific tour. Oleksiy Honchorenko, a Ukrainian MP, sheds light on the challenges of faulty artillery shells affecting Ukraine's war effort. Nina Dos Santos discusses the controversial assisted dying bill in the UK, while Sally Gethin analyzes Etihad's ambitious expansion in aviation. The conversation navigates geopolitical tensions, legislative debates, and the ever-evolving airline industry.

Simone Bouvier, Monocle's Paris bureau chief, dissects the chaotic political scene in France following a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Michel Barnier. Nina Dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent, comments on the politicization of justice in the U.S. Dan Ruff, CEO of Belmond, shares insights on the luxury travel market's shift towards 'slow luxury,' emphasizing culture and authenticity. The discussion highlights the political unrest in Europe and its implications on global economic stability.

Stephen Diao, a sharp Russia analyst, delves into the troubling advances in the Ukraine conflict and discusses Ukraine's diplomatic maneuvers in South Korea for support against rising threats. Nina dos Santos analyzes the political upheavals within the EU, highlighting the impact of right-wing policies. Meanwhile, Berju Öztürk reflects on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, pondering its potential to lead to lasting peace amidst regional tensions. The conversation is packed with insights on security, diplomacy, and the ever-shifting political landscape.

Nina dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent and democracy podcaster, teams up with former British diplomat John Everard to dive into Ukraine's 1,000-day war with Russia. They discuss the heavy human costs and shifting political dynamics in Washington. The conversation touches on the conflict becoming a proxy for broader geopolitical tensions in Asia. Additionally, they explore New Zealand's political protests and Denmark's whimsical flatulence tax, blending serious issues with light-hearted analysis.

Nina Dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent and former CNN Europe editor, and Leila Milana Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, discuss the complexities of the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah. Nina provides insights into ceasefire negotiations amidst escalating military actions. Leila offers on-the-ground reports detailing the humanitarian crisis in Beirut, capturing the human impact of these geopolitical shifts. Their conversation sheds light on the broader implications for international relations during a pivotal moment.

Vincent McAviney, Monocle's correspondent, analyzes the geopolitical consequences of Donald Trump's election victory. Nina Dos Santos shares Europe's concerns about trade and security post-Trump, while Andrew Thompson dives into the dynamics of the Latino vote and U.S.-Latin America relations. Robin Brandt discusses China's potential reactions, and Anita Menderata covers the impact of Boeing's strike resolution on the aviation sector. Isabel Hamilton explores business reactions, including oil prices and social media regulations, while Andrew Merkel highlights Art Week Tokyo's role in addressing contemporary issues.

Simon Bouvier, Monocle's Paris bureau chief, shares insights on the political tension within Macron's Renaissance party and the implications of a snap election. Steve Tsang discusses China's economic woes and possible rescue strategies. Poppy Damon uncovers the impact of Proposition 1 on New York's political landscape. Meanwhile, Michael Booth and Mirja Taulo explore a witchcraft exhibition in Copenhagen, connecting historical trials to modern societal issues. Expect engaging commentary on democracy, culture, and the quirky new Vatican mascot!

Nina dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent, and Nick Gowing, a distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, join Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East reporter, to discuss the significant implications of Yahya Sinwar's death on the conflict in Gaza. They delve into the political shakeup within Hamas and Israel's tactical dilemmas moving forward. The conversation also touches on Ukraine's strategic plans for victory, Italy's controversial surrogacy legislation, and the evolving royal sentiments in Australia as King Charles III prepares for his visit.

Leila Malana-Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, analyzes the escalating conflict in Lebanon, focusing on bombings and the humanitarian crisis affecting 1.2 million people. Nina Dos Santos discusses Europe’s political instability, questioning if it’s becoming ungovernable. Maria Hinojosa shares insights from her impactful journalism career. Aisha Siddiqua examines recent terror attacks in Karachi, while Kate Clark highlights the Taliban's profits from Afghan airspace. Lastly, Mustafa Alwari illuminates the UAE's ambitious ambitions in space and its geopolitical implications.

Emma Nelson, a commentator on major weekend events, teams up with Nina dos Santos and Isabel Hilton to dissect pressing global issues. They delve into chaotic travel anecdotes, especially at Heathrow, and offer humorous takes on the British Royal Family. Tyler Brûlé shares insights from Stockholm, while Hannah Lucinda Smith updates listeners on Turkey’s foreign relations. The group also navigates the complexities of global geopolitics, including Taiwan's UN challenges and Turkey's environmental concerns, shedding light on today's multifaceted world.