Sophia Gaston

Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, discusses the implications of President Trump's tariffs on China, exploring Beijing's vow to 'fight to the end.' Ian Williams, author and former foreign correspondent, analyses the evolving trade relationship, including China's strategic pivot to Southeast Asia to mitigate tariff impacts. Sophia Gaston sheds light on the broader geopolitical consequences, including unexpected Chinese military involvement in Ukraine and emerging U.S.-Iran nuclear talks. The conversation is a deep dive into global economic tensions and diplomatic intricacies.

Sophia Gaston, UK foreign policy lead at ASPI, shares her insights on the implications of Peter Mandelson's potential US ambassadorship. The discussion highlights the precarious state of US-UK relations, especially amid trade negotiations and Brexit's fallout. Gaston also dives into the political challenges surrounding NATO spending and the complexities of UK-China relations. With Mandelson's controversial history, she raises critical questions about public perception and diplomatic strategy during this uncertain geopolitical climate.

Katy Balls, a prominent political commentator, and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange, dive into Keir Starmer's recent diplomatic efforts in Europe. They discuss the Labour Party's strategy to rebuild ties with the EU post-Brexit while navigating public sentiment and political realities. The conversation highlights the complexities of balancing domestic and foreign policy, the shifting defense landscape in Europe, and the potential for enhanced UK-Germany cooperation in security matters.

Vitaly Shevchenko, from Ukrainecast, Shashank Joshi, defense editor at The Economist, and Sophia Gaston, Head of Foreign Policy at Policy Exchange join Lyse Doucet, BBC chief international correspondent, to dissect Ukraine’s recent military actions across the Russian border. They discuss how Putin might respond and analyze the growing geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East after the assassination of key leaders. With insights into military strategies and international implications, the conversation illuminates the complexities of these escalating conflicts.

Keir Starmer's diplomatic trip to Washington for the Nato summit discussed by Oscar Edmondson, James Heale, and Sophia Gaston. Topics include defense spending, meeting with Zelensky, and Biden, Labour's foreign policy focus, challenges in geopolitics, and managing relationships with the Trump administration.