The Interview

John Kerry, a seasoned US politician and former Secretary of State, opens up about the current state of American politics and his extensive career in global affairs. He reflects on the lasting impacts of the Iraq War, insisting it was America’s foremost foreign policy blunder. Kerry speaks candidly about the challenges posed by political greed and insensitivity, urging the Democratic Party to reconnect with the electorate on pressing issues like immigration. He emphasizes the urgency of climate action and the need for transformative leadership in a polarized landscape.

Sarah Rainsford speaks to Belarussian opposition activist Sergei Tikhanovsky about his imprisonment after challenging the country’s authoritarian leader, President Lukashenko. He spent five years of solitary confinement in a high security prison in Belarus before being unexpectedly released this year, following a meeting between Lukashenko and an American special envoy.Tikhanovsky had planned to run against the Belarussian leader in the 2020 presidential election, but was detained before the vote.A year later, he was sentenced to serve 18 years in prison, convicted on charges of organising mass protests against President Lukashenko. His trial was condemned as a sham by international observers.Tikhanovsky’s wife, Svetlana, stood in for him in the 2020 election. But the day after Lukashenko claimed a disputed victory, she fled to Lithuania with her children fearing for her safety. In her absence, she was convicted by a Belarussian court on charges including high-treason and conspiracy to seize power. Tikhanovsky is now reunited with his family in Lithuania, where he is living in enforced exile following his release from prison.Thank you to Sarah Rainsford, Davide Ghiglione and Franceso Tosto for their help in making this programme. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Sarah Rainsford Producers: Lucy Sheppard, Ben Cooper and Arsenii Sokolov Editor: Damon RoseGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Sergei Tikhanovsky. Credit: Valda Kalnina/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani, the Bishop of Chelmsford and a leading candidate for Archbishop of Canterbury, shares her unique journey as an Iranian refugee. She discusses her Persian heritage and the emotional complexities of longing for home amidst exile. Guli emphasizes the need for modernizing the role of the Archbishop and championing inclusive dialogue within the Anglican Communion. She also sheds light on navigating diversity in the Church, advocating for marginalized communities and confronting challenges around leadership and social justice.

Friedrich Merz, the newly elected German Chancellor and leader of the Christian Democrat party, dives deep into Europe's defense dynamics and his vision for Germany's military future. He argues against Europe's historic reliance on the US, emphasizing the necessity for a strong German army amid rising threats from Russia. Merz also discusses diplomatic ties with President Trump, the challenges of far-right politics in Germany, and a groundbreaking friendship treaty with the UK that covers various pressing issues, including migration and defense.

In a candid conversation, Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States, discusses his feelings about Putin, expressing disappointment but not closing the door on dialogue. He shares insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for military support. Trump also reflects on a recent assassination attempt and contemplates his political legacy while addressing U.S. immigration policy and the complexities of global leadership. His thoughts on NATO's evolving role add depth to the wide-ranging discussion.

Catherine Corless, an Irish historian noted for her groundbreaking investigation into the Tuam mother and baby home, shares her harrowing journey of unveiling the buried tragedies of over nine thousand children. She details the initial resistance she faced from her community and the emotional turmoil of discovering unmarked mass graves. Corless reflects on her role as an advocate for forgotten children, emphasizing the necessity of acknowledging historical neglect and securing justice for victims long overshadowed by societal stigma.

Keith Siegel, an American-Israeli who endured 484 days as a hostage of Hamas, shares his harrowing journey of captivity. He recounts the extreme violence and dire conditions he faced in Gaza, shedding light on the psychological toll of his experience. Siegel emphasizes the urgent need for the remaining hostages to be freed and advocates for a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. Despite the trauma, he expresses a hopeful vision for peace, drawing from his own painful ordeal and the complexities surrounding the ongoing conflict.

In this engaging conversation, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister elected in 2024, discusses his first year in office and the critical need for strong international relationships. He addresses accusations of neglecting domestic issues while defending his alliances with world leaders. Starmer shares personal reflections on navigating political challenges amidst global conflicts, balancing family life with public service, and the emotional toll of personal tragedy. He also sheds light on his pragmatic approach to policy changes and the ongoing journey of leading the Labour party.

In this insightful discussion, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister and seasoned diplomat, dives into the current state of Iran’s nuclear program amidst recent conflicts with Israel. He argues that attempts at regime change are futile and emphasizes the necessity for genuine diplomatic engagement with the U.S. Takht-Ravanchi also addresses Iran's uranium enrichment activities, framing them within a context of rights and realities under international treaties. With a focus on rebuilding trust, he reflects on the fragile ceasefire and the hope for future negotiations.

Philippe Kehren, CEO of Solvay, leads the charge to decrease Europe's reliance on Chinese rare earth metals critical for technology. He discusses Solvay's role in enhancing local mining and recycling efforts, aiming for sustainable supply chains. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for EU regulations that incentivize local sourcing and production. Kehren also highlights the environmental advantages of recycling these materials. As Europe sets ambitious sustainability goals for 2030, his insights shed light on the path forward in securing a reliable supply.