World in 10

Larisa Brown, Defence editor at The Times and author of 'The Gardener of Lashkar Ghar', dives deep into a troubling UK military data leak that potentially revealed a 'kill list' to the Taliban. She shares her relentless pursuit of the truth amidst government attempts to cover it up. The conversation highlights the dire consequences for Afghan allies left vulnerable after the Taliban's takeover, failures in relocation efforts, and the urgent need for governmental accountability in providing safety and support for those affected.

Maxim Tucker, a correspondent for The Times in Kyiv, dives into the appointment of Ukraine's new Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, the youngest in the nation's history. She is recognized for her pivotal role in securing a key minerals deal with the US. The discussion touches on the potential challenges she faces amid governmental shake-ups and corruption scandals. Tucker emphasizes her strategic role in enhancing Ukraine's relationship with Washington and navigating the complexities of international diplomacy during wartime.

Richard Spencer, Middle East correspondent for The Times, offers deep insights into Israel's recent airstrikes on Syria. He discusses the motivations behind these actions, including Israel's aim to maintain stability in a volatile region. Spencer explores the challenges faced by Syria's interim leadership in protecting minority rights, particularly for the Druze community. Additionally, he analyzes the geopolitical implications of Israel's military strategy, highlighting the complex interplay of U.S.-Israel relations and the ongoing quest for regional peace.

George Grylls, The Times' Washington correspondent, delves into Melania Trump’s subtle influence on her husband’s foreign policy regarding Ukraine. He discusses her role in shaping public perception and decisions amid Donald Trump's shifting stance toward the conflict. The conversation highlights the divided opinions within the Republican Party concerning support for Ukraine and examines market reactions to these political dynamics. Grylls sheds light on how personal relationships intertwine with national interests, creating ripples in global affairs.

Sean Bell, a seasoned military analyst and former Air Vice-Marshal, provides expert insights on Donald Trump's evolving stance towards Russia and Ukraine. He discusses the president's frustration with the ongoing conflict and the promise of 'massive' military aid to Ukraine. Bell highlights the strategic implications of integrating advanced defense systems, the challenges of timely military support, and the potential impact of economic sanctions on the war's dynamics. Could Trump's aggressive deadlines turn the tide in the conflict?

Emily Ferris, a Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, dives into the staggering statistic of over one million Russian casualties in the Ukraine conflict. She discusses how these losses impact public sentiment in Russia and pose challenges for Putin. The conversation highlights the government's struggle to manage discontent, and the emerging advocacy from soldiers' families pushing for better conditions. Ferris also addresses the long-term implications for Russian society and upcoming parliamentary elections.

In this insightful discussion, David DeBatto, a former U.S. counterintelligence agent and Iraq war veteran, shares his expertise on pressing geopolitical issues. He analyzes the U.S. stance on Ukraine and highlights the risks of hybrid warfare in Europe. DeBatto calls for a unified response from NATO and the EU to combat Russian aggression and discusses the impact of Ukraine's resilience amid adversity. The talk also reveals the complexities of global alliances, particularly concerning Russia's ties with North Korea and China.

John Lough, head of foreign policy at the New Eurasian Strategy Centre, offers sharp insights on the war in Ukraine and Russia's internal strife. He discusses alarming trends of suspicious deaths among officials, reflecting political turmoil and corruption within the Kremlin. Lough also examines the evolving military strategies and the need for increased support for Ukraine, highlighting the challenges facing NATO and international diplomacy as alliances shift in response to the ongoing geopolitical crisis.

Barar Shaban, a Yemen specialist from the Rusi think tank and a critic of Houthi human rights abuses, discusses the alarming rise in Houthi attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea. He explains the Houthis' motivations behind these strikes, even amidst a supposed ceasefire. Shaban delves into the complexities of countering the Houthis’ military advancements and their regional ambitions, likening them to Hezbollah. The conversation offers an intriguing look at the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the implications for global shipping routes.

Eliot Wilson, a defense commentator and writer, dives into the faltering military support for Ukraine by the Coalition of the Willing. He unveils the gap between grand political promises and real military capability, prompting a call for governments to reassess their strategies. The conversation also touches on the recent high-level meetings between European leaders, exploring how changing dynamics and U.S. involvement influence their commitments. Wilson advocates for transparency to prepare the public for the complex realities of the ongoing conflict.