The challenges in Eastern Europe extend beyond Ukraine’s borders. Romania's constitutional court has annulled the first round of its presidential election amid allegations of Russian interference. In Georgia, a week of anti-government demonstrations has been met by a brutal police response. And one of Ukraine’s most vocal supporters, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, is leaving office after his political party was defeated in October elections. He joins the show from New York. Also on today's show: An exclusive interview with Syrian rebel leader Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS); Thierry Arnaud, Senior International Correspondent, BFMTV; Daniel Bogado  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Middle East is in meltdown, and perhaps some of the rawest descriptions aren't coming from aid groups or reporters but from writers. Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha was forced to flee his home in Gaza a year ago. Since then, he and his wife say they have lost almost 100 family members in the violence. Watching from afar in the US, Mosab has released an acclaimed collection "Forest of Noise" which captures the horror and grief of this time in his life. Also on today's show: actor Demi Moore; journalist Ronan Farrow  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kathleen Stephens, former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, shares her insights on the political unrest following President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected martial law declaration. She examines the impact on South Korea's democracy and the potential for impeachment. Joining her are Steven Rattner, who discusses the economic ramifications of Trump's policies, and David Frum, analyzing shifts in U.S. foreign policy. Key topics include public mobilization in defense of democracy and the complexities of international relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The shocking decision by South Korea's president today to declare martial law spurred protests erupted at the National Assembly, and, within hours, lawmakers unanimously rejected the declaration. Senior American officials say they are "very concerned" by what's happening there. Kenneth Choi is the International Editor for one of South Korea's major newspapers, he joins the program from Seoul. Also on today's show: former South Korean Foreign Minister Kyung-wah Kang; former German Chancellor Angela Merkel  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan and former Chicago mayor, shares insights on navigating U.S.-Japan relations amid rising trade tensions and a changing political landscape. He discusses the importance of strategic alliances in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's influence. Former Defense Secretary William Cohen joins the conversation, tackling the implications of military appointments on democracy and the complexities surrounding diversity in the armed forces. Together, they reflect on the evolving role of the U.S. in international affairs.

In this thought-provoking discussion, historian Dominic Erdozain sheds light on the origins of the Second Amendment and its profound implications for modern America. He argues for political agreement to tackle gun violence, emphasizing the need for common ground in a deeply divided society. The conversation also touches on the intersections of democracy, public safety, and the powerful influence of the gun lobby. Erdozain's insights challenge traditional interpretations, pushing for a reevaluation of America's gun culture amidst a backdrop of rising violence.

Syrian rebels say they've entered Aleppo for the first time since 2016. We bring you the latest from the region. Then, Pakistan's capital is turned upside down by anti-government protests. We speak to the former Pakistani ambassador to the US. Plus, "Sugar Cane" is a new documentary exploring the horrific abuse at indigenous boarding schools run by the Catholic church. The filmmakers join us to discuss. And five years after a fire destroyed parts of Notre Dame, the iconic cathedral reopens its doors fora presidential preview.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Colorado Governor Jared Polis talks about innovative strategies to bolster state institutions amidst political upheaval. He joins former Ukrainian Defense Minister Andriy Zagorodnyuk, who offers a candid look at the dire military needs facing Ukraine in its struggle against Russia. Award-winning chef Bryant Terry explores the deep cultural ties of African American cuisine, touching on its historical significance and advocacy for food justice. Together, they discuss resilience, challenges, and the powerful role of community in shaping futures.

A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah appears within reach. A spokesman for Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party says they have approved it, and Lebanon's government has agreed to the US-backed proposal, after the speaker of Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berry received Hezbollah's approval to move forward. Elias Bou Saab is the deputy speaker of Parliament, and he joins Christiane from Beirut. Also on today's show: actor Sharon Horgan on "Bad Sisters"; Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been one year since the only hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas led to the release of over 100 captives taken on October 7th. Around 100 hostages are still believed to be held inside Gaza today. Aviva Siegel was released as part of that deal last November, but her husband Keith, an American-Israeli citizen, remains in captivity. Aviva Siegel joins the show from Israel. Also on today's show: Sir Geoffrey Nice, lead prosecutor at the trial of Slobodan Milošević; Joni Levin and Keith Clarke, producer and writer/director, respectively, of the new Ted Turner documentary "Call Me Ted"; author John Vaillant ("Fire Weather"   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices