Sources & Methods

Greg Myre, a seasoned national security correspondent for NPR with extensive experience in the Middle East, and Quil Lawrence, who covers U.S. military issues, dive deep into the ongoing turmoil in Iran. They discuss the significant implications of President Trump's military options, including potential airstrikes and cyber operations. The conversation shifts to the dangerous ties between Iranian and Venezuelan oil markets, and the uncertain future of U.S. military posture in the region. They also explore the implications of Trump’s Southcom nominee and the challenges of regime change in Iran.

Carrie Kahn, an NPR international correspondent covering South America, and Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, share insights on the stunning detainment of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Brooklyn. Kahn reveals the mixed emotions of Venezuelans—shock, relief, and fear—amid explosions in Caracas. Bowman analyzes U.S. strategies regarding Venezuela, including oil revenue plans and potential implications for national security. They touch on the challenges reporters face accessing Venezuela and the Pentagon's ongoing review of women in combat roles.

In a riveting discussion, Greg Myre, NPR's national security correspondent, shares insights on the operation that led to Nicolás Maduro's arrest. Tom Bowman gives an inside look at military tactics and challenges in the field. Carrie Kahn reports on the emotional reactions from Venezuelans as they navigate uncertainty, while Rep. Adam Smith emphasizes the critical need for congressional oversight and the complexities of U.S. plans in Venezuela. The conversation dives into the legal and political ramifications of U.S. involvement, offering a nuanced perspective on the future of the country.

Join national security correspondent Greg Myre and books reporter Andrew Limbong as they explore the enthralling world of spy fiction. Myre shares insights on the enduring impact of authors like John Le Carré and their literary finesse. Limbong debates modern genre challenges and highlights standout contemporary writers. Bestselling novelist Daniel Silva discusses how his Gabriel Allon series reflects current geopolitics. Together, they recommend thrilling reads, emphasizing the importance of accurate spycraft in storytelling and adding diverse voices to the genre.

Abigail Spanberger, the governor-elect of Virginia and a former CIA case officer, shares her journey from intelligence to politics. She discusses the urgency of state governance and the immediate impact it can have on local issues like schools and housing. Spanberger emphasizes the importance of honest messaging for Democrats while advocating for military families. She reflects on her unique insights from the CIA, highlighting how skills like curiosity and decisiveness translate into her political career. As Virginia's first woman governor, she expresses her hope to inspire future leaders.

National security, unlocked. Each Thursday, host Mary Louise Kelly and a team of NPR correspondents discuss the biggest national security news of the week. With decades of reporting from battlefields and the halls of power, they bring you inside the Pentagon, State Department, and intelligence community to help you understand America's shifting role in the world, and how events in faraway places matter here at home. Additional episodes feature interviews with power players from the NatSec world -- current and former military officials, intelligence experts, diplomatic leaders, and more. Email the show at sourcesandmethods@npr.org. NPR+ supporters hear every episode sponsor-free and can access our complete archive. Learn more and support public media at plus.npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy