Nina dos Santos, a seasoned broadcaster specializing in global affairs, and Andrew Tuck from the Monocle editorial team discuss festive themes from London's Christmas market. They explore Finland's branding of Santa as a diplomatic icon while dissecting Syria's complex geopolitical landscape. Camouflage in fashion takes center stage, revealing its cultural resurgence amid recession. Allegations of foreign interference spotlight Prince Andrew’s connections, while quirky Japanese cafes lead to insights on tourism and cultural exchanges.

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.

Julie Norman, an Associate Professor of Politics at UCL, and Nina Dos Santos, an international correspondent, discuss the significant progress in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Doha. They explore the intricate pressures on Israeli leadership and the geopolitical implications of North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, they touch on Mark Zuckerberg's alliance with Donald Trump against European regulations, while also making a case for Americans to embrace more festive celebrations.

Ruth Michelson, a Middle East correspondent based in Damascus, discusses Syria's political transition and the challenges ahead. Stephen Erlanger, New York Times chief diplomatic correspondent, delves into Elon Musk's controversial conversation with Alice Weidel. Nina Dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent, highlights the devastating impact of California wildfires on communities and the economy. Katie Brown, a Senior Lecturer on Latin America, analyzes Nicolás Maduro's third inauguration in a context of alleged election fraud.

Nina dos Santos, an international broadcast correspondent, highlights Europe's mixed reactions to Trump's election. Fiona Wilson, Tokyo Bureau Chief, discusses the challenges facing Japan's new Prime Minister Ishiba, including scandals and economic dissatisfaction. Andrew Thompson analyzes the political volatility in Latin America, focusing on Argentina's reforms and Venezuela's struggle for democracy. Yossi Mekelberg sheds light on the ongoing strife in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, and the urgent need for peace discussions.

This discussion features Daniela Pellard, managing editor at the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, Stephen Diel, a Russia analyst, Nina Dos Santos, a former CNN Europe editor, and Louis Dreyfus, CEO of Le Monde Group. They delve into the EU's renewed diplomatic efforts in Syria and the complexities surrounding humanitarian needs amidst persistent conflict. The conversation also touches on Russia's threats to Ukraine, the strategic military upgrades in Taiwan, and Le Monde's future as it celebrates its 80th anniversary.

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.