The Global Story

After a tense meeting between Presidents Trump and Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, relations between the US, Ukraine, and European allies seem to have reached a new low. Meanwhile, ties between the White House and the Kremlin appear to be warmer than they have been in decades. President Trump has publicly praised his close relationship with Vladimir Putin, fuelling speculation about whether this move signals a new direction in diplomacy or if there is a strategic calculation behind Washington’s pivot to Moscow.Sumi Somaskanda discusses the Trump-Putin dynamic with the BBC's State Department correspondent Tom Bateman, and Vitaly Shevchenko from BBC Monitoring.(Photo: Composite image of Donald Trump, Credit: Nathan Howard/Reuters, and Vladimir Putin, Credit: Sergey Bobylev/Reuters)Producers: Richard Moran and Tom KavanaghSound engineer: Dafydd EvansAssistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: China Collins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky experiences a whirlwind of diplomatic highs and lows. A combative meeting with Donald Trump contrasts sharply with his warm welcome from European leaders in London. The discussion reveals critical concerns about Ukraine's defense needs and U.S. support. Tensions mount as Zelensky navigates complex relationships amid calls for unified action against Russian aggression. The podcast raises questions about the future of these alliances and the strategic cards Zelensky can still play.

Noor Nanji, a BBC culture reporter, and Matthew Belloni, an entertainment journalist and founder of Puck, dive into the firestorm surrounding the film 'Emilia Perez.' They discuss how resurfaced tweets from lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón are overshadowing the movie's success and complicating its Oscar campaign. The conversation covers the impact of public relations on the film's reputation, the balance between artistic merit and controversy, and the implications for Gascón's future in Hollywood as she navigates redemption amidst backlash.

In this discussion, Jeremy Bowen, BBC's International Editor, shares insights from Ukraine amid its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. He highlights the anticipated visit of President Zelensky to Washington and the implications of a new deal on mineral resources. Tensions linger as Ukrainians seek security guarantees. Bowen also captures the evolving sentiments of frontline troops, the bravery of civilians, and the resilience of the nation amidst war, reflecting on how international perceptions and support shape their fight for sovereignty.

David Cox, a freelance science writer and former neuroscientist, unpacks the alarming rise in cancer cases among those under 50. He explores the increasing impact of modern diets, including ultra-processed foods and microplastics, on health. The conversation delves into personal stories, like a young mother's battle with colorectal cancer, highlighting urgent needs for early detection. Cox also emphasizes the role of delayed childbirth on rising breast cancer rates and the slow response from the scientific community in raising awareness and funding for research.

Laura Bicker, the BBC's China correspondent, offers a deep dive into China's evolving strategies amid Donald Trump's return to power. She discusses the recalibration of China's ties with tech giants, especially the saga of Jack Ma, highlighting his rise and dramatic fall. The conversation also explores how Beijing is maneuvering geopolitically, particularly in relation to the Ukraine war and its quest for global influence. Bicker emphasizes the opportunities and challenges facing China in a shifting international landscape.

In this insightful discussion, Steve Rosenberg, the BBC's Russia editor with extensive experience in covering the region, delves into the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He highlights the stark contrast between the Russian government's narrative and public sentiment, revealing mixed emotions among citizens. The potential diplomatic talks with Donald Trump could reshape international dynamics, but questions linger about the real gains for ordinary Russians. Rosenberg also explores the challenges faced by journalists navigating censorship and fear under Putin.

Ione Wells, BBC South America correspondent, provides keen insights on Jair Bolsonaro's tumultuous political landscape. She discusses Bolsonaro's legal battles, including coup charges and a ban from future elections, drawing parallels to Trump's situation. The podcast dives into Bolsonaro's polarizing leadership and the consequences of his controversial policies on Brazilian democracy. Additionally, Wells explores how Trump's narrative of political persecution may resonate with Bolsonaro's supporters, hinting at the complex dynamics of their political futures.

Jess Parker, BBC's Berlin correspondent, sheds light on Germany's shifting stance on migration since the 2015 crisis, highlighting a Syrian family's struggles with integration amidst rising far-right sentiments. Mark Lowen, a former Southern Europe correspondent, discusses newly established migration routes and the political fallout in Italy. They explore the divided views across Europe on migration policy, the challenges of identity politics, and the lasting impact of the migrant experience in shaping public sentiment.

In this discussion, Anne Soy, the BBC's Deputy Africa Editor, provides deep insights into the tangled history of the Democratic Republic of Congo. She explores Rwanda's alleged backing of the M23 rebel group, unraveling the complex legacy of the Rwandan genocide. The conversation dives into the economic factors behind the conflict, examining how valuable minerals fuel ongoing violence. With shifting international perceptions, Rwanda's controversial policies and their implications for global relations are also interrogated, revealing the intricate balance of power in the region.