Today in Focus
The Guardian
Today in Focus brings you closer to the Guardian's journalism. Our award-winning morning edition hosted by Helen Pidd, Nosheen Iqbal and Annie Kelly combines on-the-ground reporting, insightful analysis and personal testimony from the people at the heart of the stories that matter, to give you a deeper understanding of the world we live in. And to make sense of a rapidly-changing news cycle, our new evening edition 'The Latest' hosted by Lucy Hough, brings you up to speed on the big news story of the day in just 10 minutes. Available on YouTube and all podcast platforms.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 27min
Can Europe defend itself alone?
Jon Henley, the Guardian's Europe correspondent, discusses the EU's ambitious new defense initiatives in light of escalating threats from Russia. He delves into transformative shifts in European defense policy and financial commitments among EU nations. The conversation reveals the challenges of balancing national sovereignty with collective security, especially amid changing geopolitical dynamics. Henley also highlights the dilemmas faced by nationalist parties in supporting Ukraine and the future of European defense cooperation in a waning US influence.
Mar 10, 2025 • 30min
Finding a cannabis farm in your house
Sirin Kale, a Guardian feature writer, uncovers the dark realities of illegal cannabis farms and the criminal networks behind them. Kinta Jackson shares her personal story of how her father's home was turned into a cannabis farm by a rogue letting agency. They delve into shocking tales of hidden damage, exploitation, and the lack of local law enforcement response. The discussion highlights the sophistication of rental scams and the broader implications of this hidden crisis, revealing a disturbing intersection of crime and community.
6 snips
Mar 9, 2025 • 35min
Revisited: the spy cops scandal (part 2)
Rob Evans, an investigative journalist from The Guardian, teams up with Frank Bennett, who shares a heartrending story about his brother’s identity being hijacked by an undercover cop. They delve into the harrowing reality of police using the identities of deceased children. Frank discusses the deep emotional scars left on his family and the shocking deception they endured. They also explore the inquiry’s frustrations and ethical dilemmas surrounding undercover operations, shedding light on the urgent need for accountability in policing.
10 snips
Mar 8, 2025 • 46min
Revisited: The spy cops scandal (part 1)
Paul Lewis, Guardian's investigative editor, and Rob Evans, investigative reporter, unravel the shocking spy cops scandal that led to undercover officers infiltrating political groups under false identities. They share chilling accounts, including Jessica's revelation that her partner was secretly an undercover cop. The duo explores the ethical ramifications of these undercover operations, the emotional toll on both officers and their targets, and the lasting impact of such betrayals on trust and relationships within activist communities.
Mar 7, 2025 • 37min
Inside the Islamic State prisons the west is trying to forget
A journalist uncovers the grim realities inside Islamic State prisons in northeastern Syria. Interviews with former fighters reveal a growing fear of prison breaks amid shifting US policies. The precarious situation in Hasakah exposes the ideological threats still brewing. Personal stories highlight the trauma faced by detainees, including a captured surgeon's harrowing journey. Additionally, the struggles of a young man left behind illustrate the desperate need for rehabilitation in a war-torn environment.
7 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 37min
Exposed: listening in on a $35m phone scam
Simon Goodley, a Guardian business reporter, delves into the sinister world of a $35 million phone scam. He shares shocking insights from leaked calls that reveal manipulative tactics used by scammers, particularly around cryptocurrency. Personal stories from victims highlight the emotional turmoil and desperation they faced, showcasing how charming conversations can lead to devastating financial deceit. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and better legal responses to combat the widespread impact of these fraud schemes.
22 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 27min
How far will Trump’s embrace of Russia go?
Andrew Roth, The Guardian's global affairs correspondent, shares insights on the implications of the U.S. halting military aid to Ukraine and its impact on European security. He discusses Trump's controversial stance that blurs the lines between peacemaker and warmonger, highlighting how personal dynamics shape foreign policy. Roth also delves into shifting NATO relations and critiques the transformation of American foreign policy under Trump—moving away from traditional support for democracy and human rights, with Europe's security landscape at stake.
Mar 4, 2025 • 25min
Trump v Zelenskyy: the view from Ukraine
What do Ukrainians make of the two presidents’ fractious meeting – and would they support a Trump-led peace deal? Luke Harding reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
Mar 3, 2025 • 32min
The doctors detained in Gaza: ‘He was dragged from the operating theatre’
Surgeon Khaled Al-Sir, who endured detention and torture in Gaza, shares his harrowing experiences dealing with violent conflict while providing care. Annie Kelly, an editor at the Guardian focusing on rights issues, discusses the grim realities that healthcare workers face, including targeted attacks and a collapsing medical system. Their conversation highlights the emotional toll of war, legal protections for doctors, and the dire consequences for patients in a system on the brink. It’s a powerful examination of resilience amidst chaos.
Feb 28, 2025 • 44min
Joy, hope and murder in free Syria
Syria is experiencing a mix of hope and fear with a new leader at the helm. The Ghassoun family's journey reveals the emotional scars left by years of civil war. Personal accounts of imprisonment highlight the trauma and search for lost loved ones. Navigating cultural and political checkpoints reflects the complexities of daily life under new governance. Amidst ongoing challenges, a vibrant civil society is emerging, showcasing citizens' aspirations for a better future while contending with threats of violence.
