The News Agents

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin's recent call raises questions about a possible peace in Ukraine or more manipulation by Russia. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have shattered ceasefire hopes, with heavy casualties reported. The U.S. stance prompts concerns about giving Israel free rein in its actions. In domestic politics, Labour MPs express worry over proposed welfare reforms affecting vulnerable groups. Tensions simmer between political intrigue and humanitarian crises as the global landscape shifts.

Keir Starmer faces backlash within his party over the welfare system, which many view as a disguise for austerity measures. Debates intensify about the rising number of claims for sickness benefits, especially among youth. Meanwhile, Donald Trump controversially asserts he has overturned Biden's pardons, raising questions about constitutional limits on presidential power. This episode probes into the implications of these political maneuvers and how they reflect broader challenges facing both the UK and US governance.

The discussion delves into the potential outcomes of the Russia-Ukraine war and the media's role in political accountability. They analyze Rupert Lowe's future with the Reform party and the ever-shifting political landscape in the UK. The unpredictable nature of Trump's economic policies raises eyebrows, while reflections on historical leadership offer intriguing insights. Listeners are treated to humor and anecdotes about engaging with controversial figures, revealing the challenges of fostering honest dialogue.

This week on The Sports Agents...From sneaking a disguised Novak Djokovic into a team talk, to lessons from Ben Stokes and the LIV/PGA divide, we chatted to European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald for an exclusive interview (02:15). One day Jim Ratcliffe said Manchester United were on track to be 'bust by Christmas', and the next they announced plans for a £2bn stadium... so we asked Professor of Football Finance at the University of Liverpool, Kieran Maguire, how that makes sense (08:45). Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt, Sarah Storey... lots of famous sportspeople have tried switching sports. We got into what that's like with double Olympic champion Jade Jones, who's swapping taekwondo for boxing. We also chatted to Usain Bolt's football coach, Mike Mulvey (16:30). And comedian Adam Hills chatted to us about his new role as President of the Rugby Football league, which seems to involve a big gold chain, hearing stories from his Ukrainian counterpart and spending his spare time at the Para-Standing Tennis World Championships (21:30). Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Keir Starmer, Leader of the Labour Party and former Director of Public Prosecutions, shares insights on pressing issues in politics today. He discusses the Prime Minister's controversial plans to abolish NHS England, emphasizing the need for efficiency in healthcare. Starmer also analyzes the geopolitical landscape, addressing Russia's rejection of ceasefire proposals and the complexities of Trump's international relationships. His vision of a smaller state and its implications for governance and national security are woven throughout this engaging conversation.

Sarah Wynn-Williams, former senior Facebook executive and author of the memoir ‘Careless People’, shares shocking revelations from her time at the tech giant. She discusses Facebook's questionable ties to China, alarming impacts on elections, and manipulative advertising strategies targeting vulnerable groups. With her insider perspective, she critiques the moral failings of leadership and the company's oppressive culture. Her reflections raise pressing questions about accountability and ethics in the tech industry.

Peace talks are brewing in Saudi Arabia, but Zelensky is in a stalemate without Putin's agreement. A proposed 30-day ceasefire raises questions on how it can work without cooperation from the aggressor. Trump's recent antics take center stage as he turns the White House lawn into a car showroom, promoting Teslas amidst economic tension. The conversation also navigates the complex geopolitical dynamics between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia, and the challenges of achieving lasting peace in a volatile political landscape.

There is growing uncertainty in the American economy as stocks fall, and Donald Trump refuses to rule out a recession. He's even said he will double metal tariffs against Canada and threatened to impose levies on its car industry. As the trade war heats up and Americans watch their market falter, will Donald Trump change his strategy? And how will the rest of the world respond?Editor: Tom HughesExecutive Producer: Louis DegenhardtProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalist: Michael BaggsDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagentsThe News Agents now have merch! Click here to buy yours now: https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agentsThe News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee

Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, boldly challenges Trump and revitalizes the Liberal Party as they aim for election victory. Meanwhile, chaos brews within the UK Reform Party as members clash over leadership, raising questions about their future. The discussion also highlights the urgent need for online safety regulations, reflecting public concerns on youth protection from harmful content. Will Carney emerge as a global centrist figure? The controversies and shifts in both political landscapes present a fascinating narrative.

Listeners dive into an engaging live Q&A tackling whether Trump is working for Putin and the potential for a military coup. They discuss the complexities of international alliances and the impact of Trumpism on U.S. politics. Humor shines through as they ponder if Zelensky should don a suit upon returning to America and why everyone is fascinated by Lewis's quirky jumper. The conversation also touches on masculinity in politics and the looming threat of global conflict, all while reflecting on the success of this interactive format.