Shailesh Chitnis

David Rennie, Geopolitics editor for the Economist and author of The Telegram, discusses the explosive protests in Georgia sparked by the government's halt to EU-accession talks. He highlights how allegations of election fraud and a controversial law aimed at foreign-funded organizations fueled public outrage. The conversation also places Georgia's turmoil within a larger narrative of fragile democracies facing authoritarianism, especially in light of increasing Russian influence. Rennie underscores the protesters' demands for new elections and a renewed commitment to Europe.

Join John Hooper, The Economist's Vatican correspondent, Shailesh Chitnis, a global business writer, and Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor, as they dive into the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. They discuss his unique position to bridge church divides while addressing pressing issues like financial challenges and the clerical sex abuse crisis. The conversation also touches on the U.S.-China AI chip dynamics and a moving tribute to Martin Graham, the founder of a thriving opera house from humble beginnings.

Shailesh Chitnis, a global business writer for The Economist, joins John Hooper, the church's Italy and Vatican correspondent, and Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, to discuss the historic appointment of Robert Prevost as the first American pope, Leo XIV. They explore how his leadership might steer the Church amidst pressing issues like the clerical sex abuse crisis. The conversation also highlights the escalating AI arms race between the U.S. and China, drawing parallels to the Cold War. Plus, a heartfelt tribute to opera pioneer Martin Graham adds a cultural touch.