From a Siberian penal colony to the gold mines of the Central African Republic, who is Yevgeny Prigozhin and how did he become one of the most famous men in Russia today?Following Wagner's mutiny in Moscow last month, Rory and Alastair speak to chief foreign correspondent for NBC News, Richard Engel, to discover the truth behind the origins of the Wagner Group and its mysterious founder.TRIP Plus:Become a member of The Rest Is Politics Plus to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to both TRIP and Leading, benefit from discount book prices on titles mentioned on the pod, join our Discord chatroom, and receive early access to live show tickets and Question Time episodes. Just head to therestispolitics.com to sign up, or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestispolitics.Instagram:@restispoliticsTwitter:@RestIsPoliticsEmail:restispolitics@gmail.comProducers: Dom Johnson + Nicole MaslenExec Producers: Tony Pastor + Jack Davenport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Richard Engel, NBC News chief foreign correspondent, sheds light on the intricate history of the Middle East and its enduring impact on current politics. He discusses how poorly conceived post-World War I treaties spawned ongoing conflicts, particularly in Israel and Palestine. Engel also examines the evolving U.S. foreign policy and the shifting sands of support for a two-state solution. By tying historical events to contemporary geopolitical tensions, he illustrates the importance of understanding the past to navigate today’s complexities.

Richard Engel, NBC News chief foreign correspondent, shares his insights on the challenging dynamics of U.S.-Ukraine relations. He discusses the tense Oval Office meeting between Presidents Trump and Zelensky, highlighting breakdowns in diplomatic communication and concerns about U.S. support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression. Engel emphasizes the implications for international alliances and the rising anti-Ukraine sentiments, warning of potential threats to American national security. The conversation also touches on federal workforce cuts and their impact on government effectiveness.

Richard Engel, NBC News chief foreign affairs correspondent, provides insightful commentary on President Trump's controversial plans regarding the Gaza Strip as he proposes U.S. control. The discussion dives into historical shifts in U.S. foreign policy and the backlash faced from the Arab world. Engel also analyzes the evolving Republican reactions to a ceasefire and the complexities of military strategy in the region. The podcast touches on the implications of Trump's statements for international relations and domestic governance.

Richard Engel, NBC News Chief Foreign Correspondent, reports from Syria on the intense search for missing journalist Austin Tice, detailing recent sightings and U.S. diplomatic efforts. Congressman Robert Garcia discusses President-elect Trump's controversial immigration plans, emphasizing their impact on local officials and public safety. The conversation extends to the complex political landscape in both Syria and the U.S., highlighting ongoing challenges and the need for bipartisan solutions.