The Monocle Daily

Anita Riota reports directly from the Globsec conference in Prague, sharing insights on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its implications for global security. David Phelan dives into Apple's recent developers conference, discussing critiques of AI innovations and the company's strategies. Andrew Muller provides a weekly news roundup, reflecting on political upheaval in Reform UK and key developments in New Zealand and Northern Ireland. The discussions offer a sharp perspective on international tensions and technology's role in our lives.

In this discussion, journalist Ash Badwaj and political reporter Nadine Batchelor-Hunt delve into the recent tragic Air India plane crash, shedding light on the devastating impact and ongoing investigations. They explore potential causes, such as human error, and highlight the implications for aviation safety. The conversation shifts to geopolitical tensions linked to crises, touching on international relations, the AUKUS defense pact, and evolving alliances. They also consider the changing dynamics in tourism and politics, prompting a broader reflection on cultural trends.

Alex von Tunselmann, a historian renowned for his insights on Cold War history, joins Stephen Diel, a Russia analyst and former BBC contributor. They delve into South Korea's recent decision to halt its anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts and the significance this could hold for diplomatic relations. The conversation also highlights Russia's strategic testing of NATO's resolve, emphasizing the broader implications of geopolitical tensions in the region. Their analysis blends serious implications with intriguing anecdotes, making for a captivating discussion.

Quentin Peel, a seasoned Monocle radio contributor, joins Lynn O'Donnell, a writer and Afghanistan bureau chief for AP and AFP, to discuss the EU's tough new sanctions on Russia. They dive into the historical context and complexities of these sanctions, questioning if they can indeed pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine. The conversation also touches on the unintended consequences of sanctions, the role of U.S. support for Ukraine, and the intricate balance of international politics in this ongoing crisis.

Join political journalist Terry Stiasny, author of 'Believable Lies,' and Yossi Meckleberg, Senior Consulting Fellow at Chatham House, as they delve into the recent surge of protests in Los Angeles, Madrid, and beyond. They discuss the evolving role of protests in turbulent political climates and the power dynamics involved. The conversation highlights the thin line activists walk between peaceful protest and violence, and how media shapes public perception. Insights into civil society's role and the effectiveness of protest strategies add depth to this timely discussion.

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.