In this week's episode Tom and Helen explore what has happened to the British economy over the past 20 years, and why is it becoming increasingly difficult for it to adjust to the new economic and geopolitical world.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The podcast delves into Germany's economic struggles, energy shocks from Ukraine, and disruptions like strikes. It explores Germany's ties with China and Russia, challenges in maintaining autonomy, and the impact of global shifts. The episode also touches on retirement savings for Black Americans, Meta's dark side, and Germany's response to Russia's invasion. It highlights Germany's vulnerability to high energy prices, shifts in global relations, and internal divisions on approaches towards China.

Exploring Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the challenges faced by the US and EU in protecting Ukraine's independence. Delving into geopolitical dynamics, gas pipelines, Trump impeachment, Biden's presidency, and Ukraine's role in global politics.

The podcast explores the history of Ukrainian independence and its implications for Ukraine's future, Europe, and NATO. It discusses the geopolitical context leading to the Russo-Ukrainian war and the economic struggles and political challenges faced by Russia and Ukraine. The podcast also covers the Orange Revolution, Ukraine's dilemma in its relationship with Russia and the West, and the consequences of an independent Ukrainian nation state.

Podcast discusses recent US/UK led bombings in Iraq and Syria, the fragility of the US position in the Middle East, historical context of US involvement in the region, the decision to invade Iraq in 2003, challenges of imposing order in the Middle East, geopolitical significance of Bahrain, and the blurred line between reasserting deterrence and escalation in the region.

In this podcast, the hosts discuss the border crisis in Texas and its potential impact on the upcoming elections. They explore Trump's political resurgence, Biden's changing political stance, and the Republican Party's divisions on Ukraine and border control. They also touch upon the complex relationship between Mexico, the United States, and China, and the impact of the fentanyl crisis on American voters.

Ali Ansari, Director of Iranian Studies at St Andrews University, discusses the multifaceted nature of Iranian power, including recent attacks, the Iran-US relationship, and factions within Iran. The podcast also explores the ideology and ambitions of Iran as a political player, the evolving relationship between Iran, Russia, and China, and Iran's recent event in Pakistan.

Exploring key hotspots and political dynamics in the Western Pacific; significance of Taiwan in the global competition between China and the United States; China's reliance on the Strait of Malacca for oil and gas imports; historical dominance of the United States in the Western Pacific; impact of the Korean War on American commitment to Taiwan; recent Taiwan election and its implications for Taiwan-China relationship; ambiguity surrounding Taiwanese election results and US-Taiwan relations

Explore the history of the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, including conflicts and power dynamics. Learn about changing dynamics in the region, China's rise, and America's energy independence. Discover the shifting relationships in the Middle East and the dilemma for American presidents. Uncover the United States' pivot to Asia and its impact on the Middle East. Discuss the potential consequences of military action and the European powers' role.

Tom McTague and HelenH Helen Thompson look back at the major events that took place in 2023, from Ukraine's stalled counter-offensive and the Israel Hamas War, and ask what they mean for the year ahead... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.