Global News Podcast

Mark Savage, a music correspondent, delves into the controversy surrounding Eurovision, where Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have announced a boycott over Israel's participation. Peter Bowes, North America correspondent, reports on a congressional briefing about US military strikes on drug-smuggling boats, raising questions about legality. Tom Simons discusses a UK inquiry revealing Vladimir Putin's moral responsibility for the Novichok poisoning, highlighting significant implications in the geopolitical landscape.

Mimi Swaby, a BBC global affairs reporter, joins to discuss the Pentagon's controversial new rules for journalists and its implications for freedom of the press, as highlighted by The New York Times' lawsuit. The conversation also includes President Putin's visit to India amid geopolitical tensions and India's balancing act between U.S. pressures and its ties with Russia concerning oil and defense. Additionally, the troubling rise in preventable child deaths is explored, shedding light on the implications of reduced health aid.

General David Petraeus, a retired U.S. Army general and former CIA director, shares insights on Putin's uncompromising stance in the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, BBC correspondent Stephen McDonnell discusses Emmanuel Macron's meeting with Xi Jinping, highlighting China's tentative position on the war. Latin America expert Luis Fajardo sheds light on the legal action taken by the family of a Colombian fisherman killed in a U.S. military strike, raising questions about accountability in such operations.

Join Sarah Rainsford, BBC Europe correspondent, as she analyzes the EU's historic agreement to phase out Russian gas imports by 2027, highlighting its impact on Russia's economy. Lucy Williamson, BBC Middle East correspondent, dives into the heated controversy surrounding Israel's new conscription draft for ultra-Orthodox Jews, exploring the societal implications and public protests. The discussion is enriched with insights into failed US-Russia peace talks and France's diplomatic maneuvering in China.

John Lawrenson, a BBC reporter, shares insights from Lugano's ambitious attempts to adopt Bitcoin as a financial hub. He dives into how local businesses are embracing cryptocurrency and discusses the vibrant debates surrounding this shift. Lawrenson also touches on the curious case of the vanished Satoshi statue, sparking curiosity about the town's crypto culture. With on-the-ground observations, he paints a lively picture of this evolving financial landscape.

Steve Rosenberg, BBC's Russia editor, shares insights on the war fatigue among Russians and the complexities of peace negotiations with President Putin. Jonathan Beale reports directly from the front lines in Donetsk, highlighting the sentiments of exhausted civilians and soldiers. Astudestra Ajinkrastri delivers urgent news on devastating floods in Indonesia, detailing the dire situation faced by cut-off communities. Additionally, Mayeni Jones discusses the environmental disaster in Zambia, focusing on the aftermath of a toxic dam collapse.

Katie Watson, a BBC reporter specializing in social affairs, discusses Australia's groundbreaking social media law banning users under 16. She shares insights on parental reactions and the challenges of enforcing the law. The conversation also touches on the geopolitical shift as Russia claims control over the key city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine. Watson highlights how these global events intersect with contemporary youth issues, creating a compelling narrative about modern responsibilities and freedoms.

Nikki Widadio, a BBC Indonesian correspondent, shares gripping firsthand accounts of devastating floods in Sumatra, revealing rescue efforts amid dire conditions for isolated communities. The conversation shifts to the troubling recruitment of young African men lured by promises of jobs in Russia, highlighting a mother's emotional journey as she searches for her son, caught in a web of military service. The podcast covers a range of pressing global issues, including health risks from 'forever chemicals' and innovative HIV prevention strides in South Africa.

Barbara Platt-Asher, a BBC correspondent in Sudan, shares harrowing accounts from a camp where survivors fled El Fasher. Witnesses recount brutal killings and atrocities committed by RSF fighters, including sexual violence at checkpoints. James Cook dives into the political turmoil surrounding Benjamin Netanyahu's pardon request in Israel. Meanwhile, Sean Dilley discusses US shuttle diplomacy efforts for peace in Ukraine. Elizabeth Surkov offers a gripping first-person narrative of her torture and captivity in Iraq, highlighting the lasting scars of trauma.

William Lee Adams, a BBC journalist and pop-culture correspondent, dives into the whirlwind of controversies surrounding Miss Universe 2025. From stage mishaps and contestant walkouts to judge resignations and vote rigging allegations, the drama is palpable. He discusses the pageant's waning popularity, its cultural significance, and how social media influences public perception. Adams also explores the diverse backgrounds of contestants and makes a case for the relevance of pageantry in today's world, particularly for marginalized voices.