Today in Focus

Jon Henley, a Europe correspondent, offers keen insights into the recent political tug-of-war surrounding Trump's Greenland threats. He discusses how Trump backed down from both military action and tariffs against European nations after talks with NATO. The conversation dives into America’s interest in establishing a military foothold in Greenland, as well as the implications of renegotiating the 1951 US-Denmark agreement. The dynamics of European responses are also explored, highlighting a newfound assertiveness in transatlantic relations.

Julian Borger, Senior International Correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the controversial Board of Peace proposed by Trump, which includes leaders like Putin and Netanyahu. He unpacks the vague mandate of the board and its ambitious aim to oversee Gaza. With Trump controlling membership and massive financial stakes involved, Borger raises critical questions about accountability and Palestinian representation. He critiques the board as a modern colonial project, reflecting aggressive power dynamics while leaving Palestinians in a state of uncertainty.

Aaron Sharp, Senior National News Editor at The Guardian, dives into the significant court case where Prince Harry accuses the Daily Mail of serious privacy violations. He discusses Harry's motivations for facing tabloid journalists in court, detailing allegations of illegal information gathering. The emotional toll on Harry and the historical implications of a royal testifying are highlighted. Sharp also addresses the broader scrutiny of celebrity claimants and the potential fallout for Buckingham Palace amidst this high-profile legal battle.

Elle Hunt, a Feature writer at The Guardian, shares her journey as a superfan of The Traitors. She delves into the show's gripping format, where traitors and faithfuls clash through challenges and betrayals. Elle reveals the mind games involved, including new twists that shake up gameplay. Her visit to the castle provided firsthand insight into the participants' struggles. The discussion also touches on societal themes of mistrust and emotional fallout from betrayal, making the show a compelling reflection of human nature.

Marina Hyde, a sharp-witted Guardian columnist known for her takes on celebrity culture, dives deep into the explosive fallout between Brooklyn Peltz Beckham and his famous family. She unpacks Brooklyn's fiery Instagram statement that claims parental control over narratives and strains in his marriage to Nicola. The discussion touches on wedding tensions, who designed the dress, and Brooklyn's paradoxical life of visibility versus privacy. Marina sheds light on the commodification of the Beckham family and touches on the emotional impacts behind the public drama.

Tom Burgis, an investigations correspondent at The Guardian, delves into Donald Trump's obsession with Greenland, revealing how billionaire Ronald Lauder has played a pivotal role in this fascination. They dissect Trump's claims about security and resources, highlighting the blurring line between political posturing and reality. With insights into Lauder's business interests in Greenland's mineral wealth, Burgis connects this geopolitics nexus with Trump's drive for ownership, painting a compelling picture of influence in today's political landscape.

Peter Walker, a senior political correspondent at The Guardian, joins to analyze the implications of Trump’s tariff threats over Greenland. He discusses Keir Starmer's measured response, emphasizing the UK’s reluctance to escalate tensions with the US. Walker contrasts this with the EU's more aggressive stance and highlights the economic panic such tariffs could incite in the UK. The conversation also touches on NATO's significance amidst these trade disputes and the efforts of international leaders to calm Trump during summits in Davos.

Jane Michelle Ark, a former software engineer and US citizen, shares her harrowing experience seeking asylum in the Netherlands as a transgender refugee. She details the threats and hostility she faced in the US, illustrating the urgent need for safety. Marlou Shrover, a professor of migration studies, provides insights into the legal complexities of asylum claims for US citizens. Together, they explore the harsh realities of asylum processes, the challenges of identity, and the hope for a safer future in a welcoming country.

Chris Michael, the US breaking news editor at The Guardian, shares insights on the recent presentation of a Nobel peace prize medal by Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado to Donald Trump. He discusses the implications of this gesture, Machado's history and advocacy for democracy, and the symbolism behind leaders offering gifts to Trump. Michael delves into the aftermath of U.S. military actions in Venezuela, the rise of Delcy Rodríguez, and the complexities of Trump's foreign policy approach.

Maanvi Singh, an immigration reporter for Guardian US, and Caitlin Dickerson, an award-winning immigration journalist at The Atlantic, discuss the alarming escalation of ICE operations in Minneapolis. They reveal how ICE agents now outnumber local police, creating a climate of fear among communities. Maanvi highlights community responses to these aggressive tactics, while Caitlin explains ICE's strategic shifts, funding surges, and the troubling implications of a militarized approach to immigration enforcement. The conversation sheds light on the urgent need for accountability.