Reuters World News

In this riveting discussion, defense industry reporter Mike Stone explores Trump's bold call for U.S. oil companies to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's energy sector. He delves into ExxonMobil's concerns about the viability of such investments and what legal changes are necessary. The conversation turns to a U.S. raid showcasing air dominance, providing insights into advanced military tactics and technologies. Stone also touches on the escalating protests in Iran and the implications for U.S. foreign policy.

Iran experiences a total internet blackout as protests against the government surge. In Portland, federal agents shoot two individuals during a traffic stop, igniting nationwide outrage over another police-related death. Meanwhile, Russia escalates its conflict with Ukraine by launching intermediate-range ballistic missiles targeting energy and drone sites. The podcast also touches on rising copper prices prompting takeover talks in the mining sector and explores U.S. military actions and foreign policy regarding Venezuela and Greenland.

Protests erupt in Minneapolis following a fatal ICE shooting, with local leaders challenging the federal narrative. The U.S. seizes a Venezuela-linked oil tanker, sparking tensions with Russia. In Yemen, the rift between Saudi Arabia and the UAE widens as a separatist leader flees. Meanwhile, the birth of twin mountain gorillas offers a glimmer of hope for conservation efforts. Each story reflects the complex intertwining of global issues, from unrest to wildlife preservation.

Carmel Crimmins, a Reuters journalist known for her insights on economic issues, dives into the implications of a $2 billion Venezuelan oil deal announced by Trump and the complexities of reviving the Venezuelan economy. She highlights the political significance of Venezuelan oil exports but notes the long-term investment needed. The podcast also touches on Trump's controversial interest in acquiring Greenland and Nvidia's introduction of a revolutionary AI chip that promises unprecedented efficiency.

Jack Queen, a legal reporter for Reuters, shares insights from Nicolás Maduro's arraignment in Manhattan, where he pled not guilty to narcotics charges. Jack discusses legal challenges ahead, including head-of-state immunity and potential trial delays. The conversation shifts to the geopolitical landscape with China condemning U.S. actions, while public opinion on military intervention in Venezuela remains divided. Additionally, Denmark and Greenland rebuff Trump's threats, and Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz announces he won’t seek re-election, setting off political ripples.

In this enlightening discussion, legal reporter Jack Queen outlines the upcoming court proceedings for Nicolás Maduro, including potential plea deals and charges of narcotics offenses. Meanwhile, Reuters reporters analyze President Trump's threats of military action against Colombia and Mexico and the ramifications for the Venezuelan oil market. They also detail the dramatic CIA-led raid to capture Maduro and the wide-ranging reactions from Venezuelans abroad as they face ongoing political repression and economic turmoil.

Julia Sims-Cobb, the Andean bureau chief for Reuters, shares on-the-ground insights about President Nicolás Maduro being detained in New York and the mixed reactions in Caracas. Don Durfee, foreign policy editor, analyzes the geopolitical risks of U.S. intervention and how it could impact Trump’s political standing. The potential for military presence is discussed alongside the complexities of governing Venezuela amidst its vast oil reserves. The podcast delves into the political dynamics within Venezuela and the global implications of these critical developments.

Idris Ali, a national security correspondent, analyzes the U.S. strikes on Venezuela, detailing the significant escalation and uncertainties surrounding Venezuelan defenses. Don Durfee, a U.S. foreign policy editor, discusses America's posture towards Iran and the implications of Trump's military rhetoric. Together, they explore the fallout from Trump's assertions regarding Nicolás Maduro’s capture, regional reactions, and the potential for broader international military and diplomatic engagements. This conversation uncovers critical dynamics in U.S. foreign policy.

Switzerland grapples with the aftermath of a tragic New Year bar fire at a ski resort, where the search for victims poses significant challenges. Tesla faces a dip in Q4 sales, dealing with fierce competition and looking towards a hopeful 2026. In China, a new tax on contraceptives aims to address declining birth rates, sparking discussions about economic pressures. As global tensions rise, the podcast also touches on Russia's diplomatic moves and unrest in Iran due to economic hardships.

Dan Burns, U.S. economics editor, shares insights on the 2026 job outlook, highlighting potential fiscal shifts and the impact of AI on employment. Angus McDowell, a Reuters correspondent, provides firsthand coverage of protests in Iran fueled by high inflation and economic challenges. The discussion also touches on the explosive events at a Swiss ski resort and the recent decision to withdraw the National Guard from key U.S. cities, setting the stage for a compelling examination of global and domestic issues.