Independent Thinking

Join experts David Lubin, Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House, Marion Messmer, Director of the International Security Programme, and Yu Jie, a specialist on China, as they dissect the geopolitical landscape post-Trump's first year. They explore surprising shifts in US foreign policy, the rebirth of the Monroe Doctrine, and the complexities of US-China relations. The panel debates the likelihood of conflict, examines China's strategic priorities, and assesses the implications for smaller nations caught between superpowers. Expect insights into global trade tensions and future geopolitical tests!

Leslie Vinjamuri, CEO of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, offers insights on the implications of Trump's National Security Strategy for Europe, indicating a sharp break with the post-Cold War order. Yu Jie discusses China's position as an economic competitor and speculates on tensions easing. Renad Mansour highlights the U.S. pivot from Middle Eastern involvement, addressing the fragile Gaza ceasefire and Iran's adapting strategy. Overall, the discussion reveals a climate of anxiety and uncertainty about shifting global dynamics.

Grégoire Roos, a Chatham House director, provides keen insights into Europe’s defense strategies and the repercussions of shifting US negotiations with Russia. Natalie Sabanadze, a former Georgian ambassador, emphasizes the risks of Putin’s bluffing tactics and the need for cohesive transatlantic relations. Jaroslava Barbieri shares on-the-ground realities in Ukraine, discussing political dynamics and the financial needs of €136 billion to sustain resilience. Together, they explore the narratives necessary for bolstering European support while underscoring the urgency of solidifying unity in the face of evolving threats.

This discussion features Olivia O'Sullivan, a director and policy expert on UK politics, James Kynge, a senior researcher on China and Asia-Pacific economic strategies, and Sébastien Maillard, an associate fellow on European politics and economics. They dive into the implications of the UK's latest budget amid political leaks and constrained choices due to Labour's manifesto. Comparisons are drawn between UK and Asian growth strategies, highlighting the challenges of a slow EU reset and the urgent need for reform to boost productivity in Europe.

In a compelling discussion, Ahmed Soliman, a Senior Research Fellow, explores the dynamics of the Sudan conflict, revealing how control of resources fuels violence. Hubert Kinkoh highlights the devastating humanitarian impact, especially in El Fasher, where civilians face mass killings and dire conditions. Kholood Khair provides insight into the collapse of essential services and regional actors' roles, while Bashair Ahmed emphasizes the importance of protecting civilians and supporting local responses. The conversation delves into the complexities of geopolitical interests in a strife-torn Sudan.

Andriy Zagorodnyuk, former Ukraine Defence Minister, provides insight into military strategy and the urgent need for Western support. Daryna Marchak, Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Economy, reveals the surprising GDP recovery and challenges of energy attacks. Simon Smith, Chair of Chatham House's Ukraine Forum, critiques the cautious Western aid approach and emphasizes the necessity of a multi-year support plan. Together, they discuss the harsh impacts of Russian strikes on civilians and the imperative for timely weapons and energy supplies to survive the winter.

Join Laurel Rapp, director at Chatham House, Bruce Stokes, an expert on voter behavior, and Stephen Farrell, a veteran journalist on NYC elections, as they dissect Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking win. They explore the energizing effect of young progressives on the electorate and debate the feasibility of Mamdani's bold policy promises. Tensions with Trump arise as he threatens federal funding, while discussions on voter suppression and strategies for upcoming midterms reveal key insights for Democrats navigating a complex political landscape.

Sébastien Maillard, a Chatham House Associate Fellow, provides keen insights on European political trends following the recent Dutch elections, while Karien van Gennip, former Deputy Prime Minister, discusses the implications for domestic and business perspectives. They analyze the significance of Geert Wilders' setbacks and the rise of Rob Jetten, emphasizing the complexities of coalition-making in a fragmented political landscape. They also touch on the evolving dynamics of populism, socioeconomic grievances driving voter behavior, and the far-right's impact on centrist narratives across Europe.

China's ruling Communist Party leadership met in Beijing to frame the next five-year-plan. Amid a trade war with the United States, they set priorities for economic policy and technology, including how to build artificial intelligence into key sectors of society. New faces appeared and old ones vanished, with a purge of senior military officials and others as President Xi Jinping sacked some officials he had earlier promoted. As Xi prepares to meet with US President Donald Trump in South Korea, Chatham House senior research fellows Yu Jie and James Kynge join host Bronwen Maddox. Read our latest: The UK must prioritize cybersecurity or be left dangerously exposed Sanae Takaichi sees herself as the successor to Shinzo Abe. But changes in Japan's politics present big challenges Tanzania election: Erosion of democracy will also come at the cost of economic potential Presented by Bronwen Maddox. Produced by Stephen Farrell. Read the Autumn issue of The World Today Listen to The Climate Briefing podcast 🎧 Listen to Africa Aware podcast 🎧 Subscribe to Independent Thinking wherever you find your podcasts - please listen, review, and subscribe.

Beset by early ceasefire disputes between Israel and Hamas, international backers of President Trump's Mideast project must move quickly to elevate it from vague wish list to viable framework. Rapid delivery of aid, reconstruction - and security for Palestinians and Israelis – are essential. But without a political end game, it will founder. Sanam Vakil, Marc Weller and Stephen Farrell join host Bronwen Maddox in this week's podcast from Chatham House. Read our latest: Comment | The US needs a new Iran strategy if Trump's Gaza plan is to endure Comment | India is seeking to reset relations with the Taliban. But can this rapprochement last? Comment | Netanyahu's concepts collapsed, one by one, as Trump piled on pressure: What next for his government? Presented by Bronwen Maddox. Produced by Stephen Farrell and John Pollock. Read the Autumn issue of The World Today Listen to The Climate Briefing podcast 🎧 Listen to Africa Aware podcast 🎧 Subscribe to Independent Thinking wherever you find your podcasts - please listen, review, and subscribe.