The Monocle Daily

Mark Gagliotti, a political analyst specializing in Russian military history, breaks down Putin's recent press conference and the implications of Ukraine's drone strike on a Russian tanker. Marisa Masria-Katz, an arts journalist, shares how community sleuthing led to the identification of the Brown University shooter, highlighting the role of social media in uncovering the truth. Fernando Augusto Pacheco, a cultural commentator, discusses the significance of the UK's Christmas number one single race, featuring Kylie Minogue and a charity contender.

Join Elizabeth Braw, a Senior Fellow specializing in defense and security, and Yossi Mekkelberg, a Senior Consulting Fellow at Chatham House, as they dive into the geopolitical tensions surrounding Venezuela's UN appeal over US naval actions. They discuss the complexities of international law and the implications of US military presence. The conversation shifts to Australia's new hate speech laws post-Bondi Beach attack, exploring the challenges of defining hate speech and balancing free speech with regulation. A thought-provoking analysis awaits!

Join Rebecca Tinsley, a journalist and human rights advocate, and Michael Peel, the science editor at the Financial Times, as they dive into the political fallout from a revealing Vanity Fair interview with Donald Trump’s chief of staff. They explore the implications of USAID cuts on nonprofits and discuss the UK’s return to the Erasmus exchange, debating whether this signals renewed cooperation with Europe. With insights on refugee rights and the evolving political landscape, it's a lively conversation filled with pressing global issues.

Patti Cohen, a global economics correspondent at The New York Times, and Alexander Görlach, a political philosophy professor at NYU, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the new International Claims Commission for Ukraine, exploring hurdles in funding reconstruction through frozen Russian assets. The conversation shifts to Trump's lawsuit against the BBC, revealing its implications for media freedom. They also touch on the demographic challenges in East Asia and Europe, and ponder the disruptive impact of AI on recipe blogging and journalism.

Marta Lorimer, a politics lecturer, and John Everard, a former British diplomat, delve into Israel's response to the Bondi beach shooting. They discuss Netanyahu's controversial comments blaming Australia while critiquing his political motives. The conversation shifts to diplomatic developments in Berlin regarding the Ukraine conflict, examining sticking points like territory and NATO aspirations. Finally, they tackle the intriguing question of whether people are genuinely kinder during Christmas, revealing insights into seasonal generosity and societal biases.

The show dives into Donald Trump’s approval rating, highlighting plummeting numbers tied to economic concerns and immigration. Discussion revolves around inflation and how discontent is shaping voter sentiment. The conversation shifts to potential fractures within the Republican Party and how Trump might navigate the affordability crisis. Meanwhile, updates on the rising UAE-Russia trade and the charm of Dubai attract attention. Finally, a co-founder shares the unique design philosophy of a hotel, blending Brazilian and Swedish styles.

Julie Norman, an Associate Professor at UCL and co-author of 'Gaza, The Dream and the Nightmare', teams up with seasoned journalist Jonathan Fenby to tackle pressing global issues. They dissect the US seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, analyzing its geopolitical ramifications and historical context. The conversation also shifts to the implications of proposed social media screenings for US visitors and whether elections can occur during wartime in Ukraine, with both guests questioning the practicality and potential fallout of such actions.

Guests Rainbow Murray, a politics professor specializing in European affairs, and Quentin Peel, a seasoned journalist on international issues, dive into the complex dynamics of far-right parties in Europe as they navigate Trump’s influence. Murray discusses France’s National Rally's skepticism towards Trump, while Peel underscores Germany’s AfD seeking American support. The conversation also shifts to Gulf states targeting Hollywood for strategic soft power investments, raising questions about cultural influence and ownership in the entertainment industry.

Terry Stiasny, a political journalist and author, shares insights on Ukraine's revised peace plan to present to the U.S., exploring potential receptions from Trump and Putin. Simon Brook, a seasoned journalist, discusses the motivations behind the 28-point plan and the complexities facing European countries if the U.S. withdraws. In a riveting interview, Noah Oppenheim, screenwriter of A House of Dynamite, reveals the challenging research on nuclear decision-making, cautioning against complacency in public discussions about nuclear threats.

Latika Burke, a writer at large for The Nightly, and Philippe Malier, a political professor at UCL, dive deep into European security and the situation in Ukraine. They discuss the recent coalition summit and how Europe feels abandoned by the US amid changing defense policies. Burke shares her encounter with Donald Trump regarding the war in Ukraine, while Malier highlights the need for Europe to consider independent defense mechanisms. They also reflect on Syria's post-Assad landscape and the pursuit of justice for past crimes.