The News Agents

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/

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.

This week on The Sports Agents...Imagine flying on EasyJet and seeing the men's team on private jets. That's one of the many gaps the England women's team experienced before Baroness Sue Campbell stepped in and five years later, the women won the Euros. One of the greatest trailblazers in UK sport joins us for International Women's Day (02:15).After Emma Raducanu spoke out about crying when she saw her stalker at a match, we found out what it's like to have a stalker with former GB middle distance runner Sabrina Sinha (08:45). Did you know North Korea show the Premier League? They do it in a very strange way, as Martyn Williams from 38 North, a US-based think-tank analysing North Korea, explained. (15:30)And we've just turned one! We celebrate our first anniversary by picking our favourite moments from the last year. (20:15) Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Christiane Amanpour, CNN's Chief International Correspondent, dives into the stormy waters of U.S.-Ukrainian relations. She discusses Trump's alleged efforts to undermine Zelenskyy by connecting with opposition figures. Amanpour reveals the complex dynamics of EU support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. She also critiques the American media's focus on domestic issues over international crises, suggesting a need for a more coherent strategy to support Ukraine amidst rising tensions.

A carefully worded letter from Ukraine's President Zelenskyy has made its way to Donald Trump - The News Agents have details on the role that the British government may have played in getting that message delivered to the American President. What's less clear is how Trump will respond - what happens now? He described Zelenskyy's letter as "important" - so why has he suspended intelligence sharing with Kyiv? And will there be any punishment for Russia in this “deal”? Plus, we’re with the CEO of the Munich Security Conference, who led JD Vance on stage for that speech.Tickets to The News Agents Live On Stage with HSBC UK are now on sale! You can get your tickets for Edinburgh here: https://articles.globalplayer.com/7giHoMavXLgdrd6gaC3GxWG7T8Editor: 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/

The podcast delves into Trump's suspension of military aid to Ukraine and its potential impact on the country’s defense against Russia. Experts discuss the ramifications of reduced U.S. support and the urgency for European funding. The motivations behind Trump's decisions are scrutinized, raising questions about international alliances and stability. Additionally, the effects of impending tariffs on the U.S. economy are explored, highlighting how these policies could affect American consumers in the near future.