The Explanation

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the negotiations between the United States and Russia over a ceasefire in Ukraine, examines Canada’s attempts to forge European alliances amidst a trade war with Donald Trump and – at a pivotal moment for the International Criminal Court - explores the impact of the arrest of Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines.

Documentary maker Dan Reed returns with Leaving Neverland 2: Surviving Michael Jackson, following Wade Robson and James Safechuck as they continue their legal fight against Jackson’s estate. Reed discusses how he got the film over the line and the ongoing backlash from Jackson’s supporters. Also on the show, the Trump administration has cut funding to US state-backed broadcasters, affecting Voice of America, Radio Free Europe, and Radio Free Asia. Bay Fang, President of Radio Free Asia, responds to the impact of these cuts, while Jennifer Grygiel, Associate Professor at Syracuse University, examines the broader implications for press freedom.Presenters: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

Dr. Joachim Nagel, President of the Deutsche Bundesbank, shares insights on Germany's economic challenges. He discusses the nation's stagnant growth and the looming effects of trade wars with the US. The conversation highlights necessary investments and the potential for adjusting Germany's debt rules to stimulate recovery. Nagel emphasizes the importance of economic resilience within the EU amid global tensions, shedding light on how tariffs could reshape Germany’s export-driven economy. It's a critical look at the future of one of Europe's economic giants.

Sarah Wynn-Williams describes her seven years at Facebook as a “front-row seat” to one of the most powerful and influential companies in the world. She traveled on private jets and met with heads of state in her role as Director of Global Public Policy until 2017. But now in her new memoir, Careless People, she makes a series of allegations about the behaviour of the company at the time. Meta denies wrongdoing. Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer for BBC Audio: Simon Richardson Producer for BBC News: Roxanne Panthakithis programme was edited on 13/03/2025

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether jitters in the world markets suggest an economic downturn is imminent, examines how the American decision to hold talks with Hamas has affected the situation in Gaza and looks at how scientists are trying to counter the jamming of GPS signals.

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines what Ukraine can do to win back American military support in its war with Russia, explores whether a European army could provide a bulwark against Russia and looks at how Donald Trump and Elon Musk have waded into the controversy over South Africa’s land inequality.

Jeff Bezos’ growing influence on the Washington Post has reached a turning point, with changes to its opinion section prompting resignations from senior figures. Cameron Barr, a former managing editor, explains his decision to leave, expressing concerns about the paper’s independence. Max Tani, media editor at Semafor, offers insight into how editorial and opinion functions differ between US and UK media. Greg Williams, deputy global editorial director at WIRED, examines Bezos’ wider significance. Also in the programme, what is it like to win an Oscar? Director Molly O’Brien, whose documentary The Only Girl in the Orchestra won Best Documentary Short, shares her experiences of Hollywood’s biggest night. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Russia’s war in Ukraine is nearing an endgame, examines the implications of the surge in support for the right in the German elections and looks at the huge increase in government surveillance under the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Mehdi Hasan’s career has taken him from the UK to becoming a high-profile journalist in the US. In this extended conversation, he discusses social media’s impact on journalism, his approach to interviewing, and why he decided to launch his own subscription platform. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson

The future for Ukraine is fought not just on the battlefield but in the media. Governments carefully craft messages to influence global opinion, and media access is a crucial tool in shaping narratives. Former Nato spokesperson Oana Lungescu and The Times defence editor Larisa Brown, explore how Ukraine, Russia, and Western nations use diplomatic messaging to project power and control perceptions. David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, reflects on the magazine’s 100-year legacy. From long-form, investigative pieces to cultural criticism, The New Yorker has defined literary journalism. Remnick shares insights on the magazine’s fact-checking process, its role in shaping public discourse, and why deeply reported journalism remains crucial in the digital age. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Simon Richardson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai