The Story

Maxim Tucker, Ukraine correspondent for The Times and The Sunday Times, shares his insights on the implications of recent U.S. sanctions against Russia’s oil giants. He discusses how these financial pressures could potentially weaken Putin's war efforts and reshape global banking practices. Tucker also examines the European Union's strategies involving frozen Russian assets and the mixed reactions within Ukraine. With complexities in negotiations and the role of China, Tucker warns of the long path ahead for peace.

Stephen Gibbs, a contributor for The Times covering Latin America, dives into Trump’s surprising $20 billion offer to Argentina, tied to the midterm elections. He explores the U.S. motivation to back incumbent Javier Milei amid Argentina's economic crisis and hyperinflation. Gibbs sheds light on Milei's charismatic appeal and radical libertarian policies that won him votes. The discussion also touches on wider trends across South America as right-leaning politics gain traction, revealing how U.S. interests are guiding its intervention in the region.

Oliver Moody, Berlin correspondent for The Times, discusses the alarming rise in drone incursions from Russia into NATO airspace. He shares insights on the September 9 incident in Poland, where NATO scrambled aircraft in response. Moody explores the evolving European defense strategies, emphasizing the need for coordinated responses and new rules for shooting down drones. He also highlights the challenges of airport vulnerabilities and Russia's use of drones as a grey zone tactic to amplify fear across Europe.

George Greenwood, an investigations reporter at The Times, and Katie Gatens, commissioning editor at The Sunday Times, dive deep into Prince Andrew's scandals. They discuss the fallout from his infamous Newsnight interview and new revelations about his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. With the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir, they explore her harrowing allegations and the complexities of legal settlements. Greenwood also addresses Andrew's relinquishment of his duke title and ongoing concerns about his financial dealings and judgment.

Clive Armstrong, a local resident of Enniskillen, shares his heartbreaking journey of losing his father, RUC officer Ted Armstrong, in the 1987 Poppy Day bombing. He recounts the poignant memories of family life before the tragedy struck. The discussion delves into the chaos and devastation wrought by the bomb, the long-lasting impact on the community, and the struggle for accountability as unanswered questions linger in the air. Through personal stories, grief, and anger, Clive illuminates the profound scars left on his community.

Sean O'Neill, a senior writer at The Times, dives into the harrowing history of the Tuam mother-and-baby home, where over 800 children died under tragic circumstances. He reveals how a local woman, Catherine Corless, uncovered records indicating these children's remains were abandoned. The discussion explores the social and institutional failures in Ireland, the emotional responses of survivors, and the ongoing excavation aimed at uncovering buried truths. O'Neill sheds light on varying community reactions and the potential for other similar sites.

Marine ecologist Ben Fitzpatrick, a champion for the Ningaloo Coast, joins Adam Vaughan to discuss the critical need for conservation. Ben shares his childhood connections to this stunning region and its unique ecosystem, highlighting the endangered dugong and the biodiversity of coral reefs. He explains the concept of Hope Spots and underscores the risks of climate change and development. With support from Rolex's Perpetual Planet Initiative, Ben emphasizes the necessity of ecological advocacy and the hope for marine recovery, aiming to protect this precious area for future generations.

Mehreen Khan, Economics Editor at The Times, dives deep into the powerful world of bond markets, revealing how they shape government actions amid political turmoil. She explores who invests in government bonds today, from banks to hedge funds, and discusses the volatility that emerged post-2021 due to inflation and central bank rate hikes. Mehreen also analyzes the implications for UK fiscal policy, the precarious state of Japan's bond market, and the intriguing dynamics between populism and bond traders, suggesting a potential collision course.

Caroline Wheeler, Political Editor of the Sunday Times and the journalist who broke the China spy case story, dives into the complexities of the case's sudden collapse. She discusses the blame game between the Government and the Crown Prosecution Service, questioning whether economic priorities influenced decisions. Wheeler shares insights on the roles of key players like Jonathan Powell and Matthew Collins, and examines how the case raises broader concerns about national security and media dynamics. A riveting exploration of politics, espionage, and accountability!

Emma Yeomans, a seasoned news reporter for The Times, sheds light on the harrowing realities of Channel crossings. She shares chilling accounts from distress calls, revealing the fears migrants face on a daily basis. Emma notes how overcrowding has surged, with boats often carrying over 100 people. She discusses the evolution of smuggler tactics and the heartbreaking stories that linger in her mind, like that of an Afghan family. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of rescue efforts and the urgent need for a viable solution to this ongoing crisis.