Paris bureau chief for The Economist, Sophie Pedder, discusses Macron's decision to opt for snap legislative elections, the rise of far-right parties in France and Europe, potential power sharing with the far right, implications for EU relations, and concerns about election interference and power shifts. The parallels between French and US politics, effective communication strategies, and analyzing the impact of snap elections on the US political landscape are also explored.

Sophie Pedder, Paris Bureau Chief of The Economist, Shahin Vallée, a former advisor to Emmanuel Macron, and Armida van Rij, head of the Europe Programme at Chatham House, dissect France's looming budget crisis. They explore the intricate dynamics of France's fiscal instability, potential political turmoil, and the implications of rising deficits. The discussions illuminate the challenges of coalition governance, the Franco-German trade tensions, and the delicate balance of supporting Ukraine amid financial constraints. It's a candid look at the crossroads of economics and politics in France.

BBC’s Europe digital editor and Paris Bureau Chief for The Economist discuss the surprising left-wing win in the French election, causing political uncertainty. They explore the strategies used against the far-right party and the potential scenarios for France's political future.

Political analysts Sophie Pedder, Marilisa Palumbo, and commentator Ben Stanley discuss the rise of far-right parties in European politics post-EU elections, analyzing governance challenges, coalition scenarios, strategies of far-right parties, and the impact on traditional centrist parties. They delve into culture war topics, governance strategies, and defeating populism in Poland's election.

Political analyst Sophie Pedder, foreign policy expert Bruno Tertrais, and military strategist General Sir Richard Shirreff delve into Emmanuel Macron's display of strength in foreign policy, his evolving foreign-policy doctrine, interactions with world leaders, considerations regarding national security interests, and his leadership role in Europe. The podcast explores Macron's contrasting impulsiveness and strategy in political action, France's leadership role in international affairs, and the implications of countries acting unilaterally with Ukraine within the NATO context.