The Briefing

Julia Jen, a Monocle writer and Ukraine expert, discusses the shocking use of Russia's secret NM-729 missile and its devastating impact on Ukraine’s rail links. Ed Stocker, Monocle's Europe editor, analyzes Giorgia Meloni's controversial judicial reform, drawing parallels to Berlusconi’s agenda. Meanwhile, Simon Fell, Director at Alexandra Palace, shares insights on organizing London's massive Bonfire Night fireworks display, including Halloween themes and the unique addition of a drone show, enriching the community spirit.

Donald Trump returns from trade talks in Asia as a US carrier strike group moves into position in the Caribbean. What is the administration planning? Plus: the view from Europe on the US-China trade deal and ‘The Global Countdown’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As reports emerge of French forces preparing for deployment to Ukraine by 2026, our Paris bureau chief joins to discuss. Plus: Portugal’s nationality laws and a gripping new feature film about Palestine in 1936. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest from Tokyo as Trump meets Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. Then: Andrew Mueller speaks to former US ambassador to the UN, John Bolton. Plus: Fernando Augusto Pacheco on New York’s magazine scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monocle’s Asia editor, James Chambers, explores the Thailand-Cambodia peace deal. Then: senior news editor Chris Cermak gives us the latest on the US government shutdown and we learn how the ‘Demon Slayer’ franchise has taken over the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Pryor of the Norwegian Refugee Council provides a harrowing account of life for Palestinians, detailing settler violence and severe displacement in the West Bank. Anita Riello analyzes Zoran Mamdani's impressive rise in the NYC mayoral race and his unique appeal to voters. Viola Yao shares insights on Art Taipei's theme celebrating cultural diversity, while Josh Fenert and Alexa Self discuss the highlights from Monocle's November issue, touching on longevity, creativity, and European politics.

In this discussion, Simon Bouvier, Monocle's Paris bureau chief and cultural policy expert, shares insights on how government instability affects the vibrant backdrop of Art Basel in Paris. Journalist Florence Biedemann dives into the implications of Macron’s postponed pension reform, revealing its potential impact on France’s political landscape. Together, they explore the intersection of art and politics, reflecting on how current tensions overshadow the art scene and the challenges of coalition-building in French governance.

Sophie Monaghan-Coombs, the Associate Editor for Culture at Monocle, shares her expert insights from Art Basel Paris. She discusses the event's unique atmosphere at the Grand Palais and highlights standout works from renowned artists like Laura Owens and Peter Saul. Sophie also details exciting satellite exhibitions and museum shows, including Bridget Riley at Musée d'Orsay. Additionally, she explores the significance of Grace Wales Bonner's recent appointment at Hermès and the cultural impact of this collaboration.

Fernando Augusto Pacheco, a senior correspondent with deep insights on Latin America, and Tyler Brûlé, Monocle's editorial director, dive into the challenges facing Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. They explore her historic election, the fragile coalition she leads, and the urgent need to address economic issues like inflation and wages. Shifting to Latin America, Pacheco sheds light on Bolivia’s political shift and Argentina's electoral landscape, while Brûlé shares updates on Paris's vibrant art scene amidst political turmoil.

China’s communist elites map out a political strategy to boost the nation’s ailing economy. Then: the latest following a daylight robbery of precious jewels from the Louvre. Plus: a round-up of this year's Frieze London.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.