The Foreign Desk

The podcast dives into the complex aftermath of Charlie Kirk's murder, focusing on political reactions. It highlights the Minnesota shootings and the contrasting responses from officials. There’s a discussion on hypocrisy in mourning and the potential exploitation of the tragedy for political gain. The conversation critiques claims about political violence, spotlighting data that reveals right-wing extremism as a predominant threat. The commentary also draws parallels to McCarthy-era tactics, raising concerns about censorship in today's political climate.

Ashley Parker, a senior political analyst at MSNBC, discusses the National Guard's deployment and its implications for urban governance. Quinton Lucas, the Mayor of Kansas City, shares insights on President Trump’s controversial approach to Democrat-run cities. Historian Rick Perlstein provides historical context, examining the fraught relationship between Republican administrations and urban areas. The conversation dives into the rising tensions between federal authority and local governance, the narrative surrounding policing, and the impact of increased militarization on community perceptions.

Nepal is facing turmoil as riots break out against corruption and a controversial social media ban. The government has blocked 26 platforms, raising concerns about freedom of expression. This situation highlights the ongoing battle between state control and digital discourse. The discussion delves into the implications of misinformation and the responsibilities of tech companies. Amidst this crisis, many question the government's true motives behind the ban.

Pia Orrenius, Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, brings economic insights into the immigration debate alongside Anoushka Asthana, US editor for Channel 4 News, who discusses political strategies in both the US and UK. Historian Alex von Tunzelmann provides context on historical immigration fears. They explore the complexities of immigration policy, the economic reliance on immigrant labor, and how far-right politics impacts societal perceptions. Can coherent reform emerge amidst the chaos? The conversation seeks to unravel these pressing issues.

Flags of St George are popping up everywhere in England, but why is Labour embracing this symbol linked to the far-right? The podcast dives into the evolving significance of the Cross of St George, exploring its dual role in sports and nationalism. It tackles the impact of social media and rising anti-immigration sentiments, revealing the political tightrope Labour walks amidst its diverse supporters. The complex interplay of national identity and political strategy takes center stage in this intriguing discussion.

Rafael Osea Cabrises, a prominent editor at Caracas Chronicles, joins Christopher Sabatini, a Senior Fellow at Chatham House, and Oscar Juadiola Rivera, an esteemed professor of International Law, to unpack the complexities of U.S. intervention in Venezuela. They discuss how Trump’s military posturing impacts Maduro’s grip on power, the role of citizen militias in nationalistic rhetoric, and the challenges of U.S. foreign policy amid historical interventions. The trio provides sharp insights into the intersection of U.S. interests and Venezuelan politics.

Australia's unprecedented expulsion of Iran’s ambassador raises eyebrows and questions. The move stems from Iranian-linked terrorist actions against Jewish establishments. This historic diplomatic shift highlights the tension between security and international relations. The discussion also dives into Iran's provocations aimed at Jewish communities, revealing their strategy of psychological warfare against Israel. With rising antisemitism, this act reflects broader implications for social stability in the West.

Gabrielius Landsbergus, former Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, joins Times columnist Edward Lucas and China Dialogue founder Isabel Hilton for a deep dive into the shifting global landscape. They discuss the U.S.'s retreat from its traditional role, prompting Europe to reconsider its defense mechanisms and ambitions. The conversation also touches on China's approach to global influence, emphasizing its different relationship dynamics compared to Western alliances. Together, they explore who might step in to fill the leadership void left by the U.S.

Myanmar's military has planned elections, but are they genuinely democratic? The discussion highlights how dictatorships often masquerade as democracies, referencing cases like North Korea. It delves into Myanmar's descent from hopeful democracy to military control, amid ongoing civil unrest. The motives behind the upcoming elections are scrutinized, revealing them as more of a deceptive ploy rather than a true democratic shift. This episode challenges the narrative of democracy in regions plagued by authoritarianism.

Nimrod Goran, President of MITVIM, Daniela Pellet, Managing Editor at the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, and Yossi Beilin, former Israeli politician, dive deep into Israel's political evolution. They discuss the decline of the Israeli left and its implications for the two-state solution, highlighting pivotal moments like Rabin's assassination. The conversation also reflects on how recent wars and a shift to far-right coalitions are reshaping democracy and public trust. Can a liberal Israel emerge again, and what would that mean for peace?