The Monocle Daily

Discover insights from a recent trip to Odesa, exploring Ukraine’s innovative drone strategies and the resilience of its people amidst conflict. The discussion turns to Portugal's political challenges and cultural attitudes, like beach regulations impacting public enjoyment. Delve into society's perceptions of smoking, the state of pop music influenced by algorithms, and thought-provoking critiques on American reliance on foreign talent. Finally, engage with the controversial renaming of a US Navy tanker and its broader implications.

Isabel Hilton, founder of China Dialogue, and Nick Gowing, distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, join the discussion to unravel the complexities of transatlantic relations as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visits Washington. They dive into the evolving defense dynamics of Germany and its implications for global politics. The conversation also touches upon the legacy of Tiananmen Square and its impact on U.S.-China relations, revealing challenges in historical memory and contemporary geopolitics.

Join former British diplomat John Everard and Kate Clark, co-director of the Afghanistan Analysts Network, as they unpack pivotal global issues. They analyze the U.S. downsizing its military operations in Syria and explore its potential consequences for the region and Kurdish forces. The duo also discusses the recent meeting between French President Macron and Italian PM Meloni, highlighting the tension and synergy in European diplomatic dynamics. Additionally, they touch on tourism trends in the U.S. amid a fluctuating political landscape.

Vincent McAvinney, a seasoned journalist with a knack for political insight, joins Marion Messmer, a Senior Research Fellow in International Security, to examine urgent global issues. They dive into the tense U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, critiquing past strategies and the stakes involved. The conversation shifts to the UK's defense strategy amid rising threats, reflecting on the need for modernization. They also touch on political instability in Europe, particularly the Dutch coalition crisis, and engage in a light-hearted discussion about cultural attitudes towards child-friendly spaces.

Join Tom Rivers, a former ABC Radio London correspondent, and Rainbow Murray, a politics professor at Queen Mary University, as they dive into the latest in Ukraine-Russia peace talks. They discuss a recent prisoner swap amid stalled negotiations and the broader implications for Ukraine's sovereignty. The conversation also highlights the rise of populist sentiments in Europe, particularly in Poland's elections, where nationalist politics are reshaping the landscape. Together, they unpack the complexities of military strategies and the interplay of global influences.

Join James Chambers, Monocle's Asia editor, and Michael Hewitt, a retired US Navy Rear Admiral, as they dive into the turbulent waters of US-China trade relations. They dissect the impact of Trump's tariffs and political moves, shedding light on how these factors create uncertainty in global markets. The discussion also covers the critical implications of the Shangri-La Dialogue, including shifting defense partnerships and the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, with a keen focus on Taiwan’s future.

William Patey, a seasoned diplomat and political consultant, joins Rachel Cunliffe, Senior Associate Editor of The New Statesman, to dissect Portugal's political landscape. They discuss the rise of the far-right Chega party and its ramifications for traditional politics in Europe. The conversation also dives into the humanitarian crisis in Sudan amidst ongoing civil unrest and highlights the backlash against Harvard's treatment of pro-Palestinian protests, reflecting on its impact on global education.

Justin Quirk, a sharp writer and editor, joins political journalist Marie Lecomte and former diplomat Nicola Kelly, who sheds light on the UK's complex asylum system. They discuss the pressing situation as 50,000 Russian troops gather near Ukraine and President Zelensky’s quest for peace amidst rising military tensions. The conversation also touches on the global implications of these dynamics, while Kelly shares insights into the experiences of asylum seekers and the urgent need for reform in the UK’s handling of refugee crises.

Philippe Marlier, a professor of politics, joins international correspondent Nina dos Santos and tourism leader Gloria Guevara to discuss Macron's diplomatic push in Southeast Asia. The trio explores France's strategic maneuvers to counter US tariffs while boosting alliances with Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore. They delve into the implications of Macron's efforts for international stability amid rising geopolitical tensions and highlight the importance of effective leadership in the evolving landscape of global tourism.

Yasmin Abdel-Majid, a Sudanese Australian broadcaster and author, and Ben Kelly, Senior audience editor at Newsweek, dive into pressing global issues and cultural dynamics. They discuss the shifting political landscape around Israel, examining the implications of international scrutiny and potential sanctions. The duo also tackles the intersection of AI in education and journalism, comparing Estonia's forward-thinking approach to challenges in the UK. Lastly, they explore the cultural significance of Sudanese tea and the art of aperitivo, highlighting the joy of social drinking.