Global News Podcast

Paul Adams, the BBC's diplomatic correspondent, shares insights into the leaked US peace plan for Ukraine and its implications for international negotiations. Kaja Kallas, an Estonian politician, discusses Russia's pressures for a rapid agreement and her stance against its return to international forums. Bulas Johanna criticizes Nigerian authorities amid uproar over massive student abductions. Meanwhile, Mariana Caruja highlights the importance of archaeological context in recovering artifacts from the San Jose galleon, prioritizing science over treasure.

David Willis, BBC's North America correspondent, delves into the striking dismissal of criminal cases against former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. He explains the legal missteps behind the decisions, including unauthorized prosecutor appointments. The discussion touches on potential DOJ appeals and reactions from the accused. Additionally, Willis highlights significant global events, including a notable murder investigation in Mexico and a miraculous story of a woman found alive moments before cremation in Thailand.

Imogen Folks, a Geneva correspondent, shares insights on the Ukraine peace talks, highlighting the cautious optimism among European leaders regarding US proposals. Jake Kwon, Seoul correspondent, delves into a major online sex crime case, discussing the shocking conviction of South Korea's most prolific offender. They also touch on Nigeria's increased police recruitment in response to a devastating mass school kidnapping and the far-reaching implications of US designating Venezuela's Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization.

Valerie Sanderson and Sarah Rainsford delve into U.S. talks in Geneva about a proposed peace plan for Ukraine, shedding light on the complexities at play. Tyson Conte unveils shocking findings from an undercover investigation into the ritual body parts trade in Sierra Leone. Medina Maishanu reports on the aftermath of a major school kidnapping in Nigeria, highlighting parents' frustrations with security. Fergus Walsh shares the inspiring story of a three-year-old, the first to receive groundbreaking gene therapy for Hunter syndrome, showcasing remarkable recovery.

Jordan Dunbar, a BBC climate journalist and presenter of The Climate Question, dives into the life of Don Pearlman, a notorious oil lobbyist. He reveals how Pearlman's tactics at climate negotiations created a blueprint for stalling action. From influencing wording battles in the Kyoto Protocol to delaying U.S. ratification, Dunbar highlights the lobbyist's impact on climate politics. As the COP30 summit approaches, he also compares past and present lobbying tactics, shedding light on the ongoing struggle between fossil fuel interests and climate advocates.

The UN climate summit in Brazil ended with a commitment to triple adaptation funding, but left fossil fuels unmentioned, creating tension between oil-rich nations and those seeking a transition. President Trump's proposal to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict faces pushback from Kyiv. Airlines halt flights to Venezuela after safety warnings amid military tensions. In uplifting news, tiny trackers are revealing new insights into Monarch butterfly migrations, and a watch from a Titanic passenger sells for a record price at auction.

Ali Coyle shares her inspiring journey as a living kidney donor, revealing her motivation and the emotional meeting with 5-year-old Xavier, whose health transformed after the transplant. Xavier's parents, Hira and Uma, express their gratitude and discuss the profound impact on their son's life. Claire Bowes then introduces the Organox machine, explaining how this innovative technology could revolutionize organ preservation, leading to more successful transplants and improved recovery for patients.

In this engaging discussion, Steve Rosenberg, BBC's Russia editor in Moscow, analyzes a proposed US peace plan for Ukraine that heavily leans towards Russian interests, stirring reactions. Meanwhile, Victoria Gill, the BBC science correspondent, shares captivating insights from her research on the Santorini earthquake swarm, revealing that magma movement triggered tens of thousands of tremors. The clash of political and scientific narratives creates a dynamic conversation about global events.

In this insightful discussion, Jonathan Beale, a BBC correspondent in Kyiv, provides a ground-level perspective on Ukraine's tense situation and reaction to the US draft peace plan that includes controversial land concessions. Lucy Williamson shares her findings on the turmoil in Gaza, particularly focusing on armed groups and the impact of ceasefire arrangements. Nomsa Maseko reveals how women in South Africa are turning to firearm training to combat gender-based violence, emphasizing resilience amid societal challenges.

In this discussion, Tom Bateman, a BBC State Department correspondent, dives into the recent US-proposed peace plan for Ukraine, highlighting President Zelensky's intentions to negotiate with Donald Trump. They explore the significant concessions Kyiv might make and the implications of a strategy seemingly favoring Russia. Bateman also examines Ukraine's military options amid European support, as well as the political pressures Zelensky faces. Additionally, the dialogue touches on rising tensions in Nigeria and surprising vintage tech collectibles.