The Briefing

As a no-confidence vote threatens to topple Portugal’s Luís Montenegro, Carlota Rebelo joins Christopher Cermak to discuss. Plus: who is North Korea’s Lazarus Group and how did it steal $1.5bn (€1.3bn) worth of cryptocurrency? Then: Andrew Tuck joins us from Mipim and Simon Bouvier tells us why rural France might be celebrating with a round of drinks thanks to a new law bringing back village bars. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We examine the stacked in-tray of Canada’s next prime minister. Plus: Is Poland becoming a prewar nation in prewar times? And: Switzerland’s new Eurovision stamp.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a South Korean court paves the way for impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol’s release, John Nilsson Wright joins Emma Nelson to discuss. Plus: weekend havoc ensues after a Second World War bomb is discovered at Gare du Nord, Denmark’s 400-year-old postal service announces closure and Nic Monisse brings us the highlights from the Matter and Shape show in Paris.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a special council is held in Brussels to address the rapidly shifting Ukraine-Russia war, Oleksii Goncharenko joins Chris Cermak to discuss how European leaders may respond. Plus: Cyclone Alfred shuts down Brisbane, highlights from Acro Madrid, ‘Mickey 17’ in cinemas and ‘The Global Countdown’ with Fernando Augusto Pacheco.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As president Trump sets out his second-term vision before Congress, we hear from Kyiv, Paris and Hong Kong on how the world is responding to the White House’s pivots in defence and economics. Plus: how the UK is marking the bicentennial of modern railways and who won this year’s Pritzker Architecture Prize?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In responding to Trump’s pausing of military aid to Ukraine, EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says Europe is in an “era of rearmament” and ready to step up on defence. But can it do so quick enough? Plus: the tariff wars begin, Thailand deports Uyghurs back to China and rail travel marks its bicentennial. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Monocle's senior correspondent, joins the conversation to celebrate Brazil's landmark achievement, winning its first Oscar for Best International Feature Film with 'I'm Still Here.' He discusses the cultural significance of this victory and its ties to Brazil's military past. The conversation also touches on how this win reflects a growing global recognition of diverse storytelling in cinema and the Oscars' evolving international perspective. Pacheco's insights add a celebratory and reflective tone to the discussion.

Join Paul Charles, the Founder and CEO of PC Agency, and Fiona Wilson, Monocle's Tokyo Bureau Chief, as they dive into current geopolitical shifts in Turkey and the PKK's peace overtures. They discuss how these developments may reshape Turkey's internal dynamics and relationships. Paul shares insights on the evolving landscape of European train competition, highlighting the potential benefits for travelers. Fiona offers a glimpse into the upcoming Osaka World Expo, emphasizing its innovative connections and the impact of digital transformation on global events.

In this engaging discussion, Alexis Self, Monocle's foreign editor, explores the complex dynamics between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump. They delve into France's ambitious plans for a nuclear shield amidst rising European concerns. The talk also highlights Japan's automotive industry's plea for governmental support in light of proposed tariffs. Additionally, Self reflects on the changing landscape of leadership and trade within the fashion world, alongside a spirited celebration of Brazil's lively carnival traditions.

Olga Tokariak, a prominent Ukrainian journalist, sheds light on a minerals deal between Ukraine and the U.S., raising questions about its potential to foster peace. Whiskey Richard, a whiskey distiller and sake sommelier, discusses the enchanting world of Japanese whiskey, its rise, and market challenges. Max Porter, Chair of Judges for the International Booker Prize, unveils the longlist, exploring how contemporary literature reflects societal issues. The conversation flows seamlessly from global politics to rich cultural narratives, captivating listeners with its breadth.