The Briefing

Matthias Matthais, a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, discusses Europe's reluctant appeasement toward the Trump administration and its implications for security and trade. He emphasizes the far right's mixed reactions and Europe's need for greater autonomy. Carlotta Ribello, producer at Monocle Radio, shares insights on seasonal travel, including the new Eurostar service to the Alps and Spain's innovative national transport pass aimed at transforming mobility. Plus, festive design gift recommendations add a touch of holiday cheer.

As Australia reels from the shooting in Bondi beach, how is it being seen globally? Plus: Thailand calls for fresh elections and the new plans for Dracula Land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nada Al-Tahar shares on-the-ground insights about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, discussing roadblocks to the US-imposed ceasefire. Shaina Loh highlights the dire conditions, mentioning flooding and urgent needs for aid. Ewan Potts warns of financial risks in AI infrastructure investments. Dr. Sin Sam provides a Cambodian perspective on the Thailand-Cambodia border clashes, emphasizing historical tensions and calls for international mediation. Meanwhile, Natalie Theodosi shares stylish winter gift ideas, blending fashion with the season's spirit.

Inzamam Rashid, Monocle’s Gulf correspondent, breaks down the growing tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in southern Yemen, highlighting the UAE's strategic interests in ports and oil. Stu Wu, a tech reporter for The Wall Street Journal, discusses the implications of Trump's approval for NVIDIA's chip exports to China and the ongoing U.S.-China AI competition. Lastly, Grace Charlton offers stylish holiday fashion tips that blend runway trends and seasonal flair, ensuring listeners are party-ready with three distinct looks.

As the US president labels European leaders as “weak”, we discuss what lies ahead for the transatlantic alliance. Plus: the winner of the Turner Prize is announced and the best Christmas presents from the world of print. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We get the latest from Bangkok as the border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia turn deadly. Is de-escalation possible? Then: We weigh in on Saiki, Belgrade and Paris’s latest rail revamps. Plus: What can Miami teach the world about design? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ukrainian president is in London for another high-stakes meeting after Donald Trump accused him of being less co-operative than Vladimir Putin. Plus: Slovenia’s Eurovision boycott and one year of Syria without Bashar al-Assad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pensions continue to be an ongoing source of political instability in Germany and France, we unpack why. Then: Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands and Slovenia will boycott Eurovision 2026 over Israel's participation. Plus: we meet Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, at ILTM.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dominican Republic has allowed the US military to operate on its territory as the Trump administration prepares for further strikes on Venezuela. We get the view from the ground in Santo Domingo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Gulf leaders convene for the 46th GCC summit during a tense time for the region, we discuss what role the US could play in a joint defence plan. Plus: Design Miami, how taxes might have birthed civilisation and the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.