World in 10

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.

Tom Ball, a reporter for The Times in Ukraine, shares insights from his interview with Oleksii Reznikov, the former Ukrainian defense minister. They discuss the stark reality that peace in Ukraine hinges on Vladimir Putin's departure. As military support from the U.S. grows amidst changing political dynamics, Trump’s evolving stance on Russia comes into focus. The conversation highlights the deepening pessimism among Ukrainians about the war, emphasizing that until Putin is gone, the hope for lasting peace remains bleak.

Afzal Ashraf, an international relations and security expert and former senior officer in the UK Armed Forces, delves into the chaotic landscape in Gaza. He discusses how armed clans are stepping up against Hamas amid growing lawlessness, emphasizing the risks of civil war. Ashraf explores Israel's pragmatic cooperation with these groups, fueled by mutual interests and resource struggles. He also highlights the urgent need for Palestinian unity to navigate the crisis, raising critical questions about leadership and international support for stability in the region.

Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel Correspondent for The Times, shares insights on a groundbreaking espionage operation that unearthed Israel's extensive spying network in Iran. She delves into how this network played a critical role in Israel and the U.S. targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. The discussion highlights the implications of these strikes, including the arrest of over 700 spies in Iran and the ensuing paranoia within its leadership. Weiniger provides a gripping analysis of how espionage shapes international relations and regional security dynamics.

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, a former U.S. Army Europe commander with extensive service in Iraq and Afghanistan, discusses the precarious state of military aid to Ukraine. He highlights the dangers of lacking a national security advisor during the Trump administration, suggesting it may have led to unauthorized aid cuts. The conversation delves into the global ramifications of U.S. support dynamics, the interplay between allies like North Korea and Russia, and Ukraine's evolving defense strategies, drawing parallels to Israel's military approach.

Orysia Lutsevych, Head of the Ukraine Forum at Chatham House, shares her expert insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine. She discusses the stalled Russian summer offensive and its implications post-NATO summit. The conversation delves into Ukraine's innovative use of drone technology and the impact on military strategies. Lutsevych emphasizes Ukraine's resilience amid Russian bombardments and the crucial role of international support. The dynamic geopolitical landscape is examined, alongside concerns about U.S. strategies and the evolving nature of modern warfare.

Gabrielle Weiniger, The Times' Israel correspondent, dives into the intricate calculations taking place within Hamas regarding a potential US ceasefire proposal. She reveals why Hamas might be more open to negotiation now compared to the past, discussing leadership changes and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The podcast also touches on Benjamin Netanyahu's political strategies during these complex negotiations and explores the broader implications of violence on humanitarian efforts and the quest for peace in the Middle East.