Sources & Methods

National security correspondent Greg Myre and Paris correspondent Eleanor Beardsley dive into the shifting U.S. stance towards Europe under Trump. They discuss his recent criticisms of European leaders, reflecting a growing rift in the transatlantic alliance. Eleanor shares on-the-ground insights from Ukraine, highlighting the resilience of its citizens amid devastation. Meanwhile, Myre examines NATO's evolving dynamics and the implications of U.S. foreign policy changes, including the complexities surrounding peace talks and military strategies in Ukraine.

Tom Bowman, NPR's Pentagon correspondent, and Quil Lawrence, national security correspondent, dive into the controversies surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They discuss how Hegseth's use of Signal jeopardized U.S. operations by sharing classified strike plans. The hosts analyze the implications of his actions during recent strikes in Yemen and Venezuela, including legal concerns and command accountability. Insights into the Pentagon's oversight challenges and the potential fallout from these incidents add depth to the conversation.

Tim Weiner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of The Mission: The CIA in the 21st Century, discusses the challenges facing the CIA in a technology-driven world. He highlights how data breaches complicate espionage and contrasts U.S. vulnerabilities with China's surveillance ambitions. Weiner also explains the shift in focus to countering Russian interference post-2017, the risks of political pressure on intelligence operations, and the crucial need for diversity in the CIA workforce to enhance effectiveness.

Aya Batrawy, NPR's Gulf Bureau correspondent, provides in-depth analysis of Saudi Arabia, while Greg Myre covers U.S. national security and foreign policy. They delve into the complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations under Trump, exploring MBS's investments and the strategic reasons for their alliance. The conversation also addresses the impact of recent events in Gaza, challenges in demilitarization, and MBS's controversial reforms at home. Their insights illuminate the delicate balance of power and interests shaping the region's future.

In this engaging discussion, national security correspondent Greg Myre and Moscow bureau chief Charles Maines delve into Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy. Myre highlights the contrast between Trump’s withdrawal promises and recent military actions, while also celebrating his diplomatic successes, like the Abraham Accords. Maines explores Trump's complex relationship with Russia and his fascination with authoritarian leaders. The dialogue even touches on the potential for a new arms race, fueled by nuclear testing rhetoric from both sides.

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