The Foreign Desk

Quentin Peel, former foreign editor of the Financial Times, discusses the enduring strategies of Vladimir Putin in Ukraine. Yossi Meckleberg, a senior fellow at Chatham House, highlights Israel's ambiguous military aims in Gaza and strategic challenges in the region. Julie Norman, an expert on international relations, emphasizes the resilience of Ukraine amidst shifting diplomatic landscapes and the humanitarian crises in Sudan. The panel also delves into Europe's evolving defense strategies while unpacking the unpredictable landscape of global politics under a potential second Trump term.

Balloons in military history get a closer look, from the 1794 Battle of Fleurus to their modern roles in hybrid warfare. Lithuania faces balloon incursions from Belarus, leading to flight disruptions and a state of emergency. The intriguing tactics used, such as cigarette cargoes as distractions, reveal the deniable nature of such actions. Andrew Mueller discusses the complexities of responding to these aerial nuisances and the implications of recent arrests. The rising trend of using balloons in surveillance echoes a global pattern of hybrid warfare.

Journalist Yuka Royer, Director Steve Chang, and expert Ava Peshova dive into the escalating tensions between Japan and China after Prime Minister Takaichi's comments on Taiwan's security. Royer highlights China's swift backlash and the economic repercussions for Japan. Chang discusses Japan's strategic importance for U.S. military operations and China's historical sensitivity towards Japanese involvement in Taiwan. Peshova analyzes China's long-term goals with Taiwan and its aggressive tactics to test regional responses. A critical discussion on geopolitics unfolds!

West Africa faces a startling frequency of coups, with Benin's recent attempt showcasing the region's tumultuous history. Andrew Mueller breaks down how President Patrice Talon swiftly thwarted the coup, aided by regional military support. He delves into the mutineers' actions, their grievances over taxes and healthcare, and the broader implications of instability spreading from neighboring countries. The role of ECOWAS in maintaining order and the evolving political dynamics in the region are also highlighted, painting a vivid picture of resilience amid chaos.

This discussion features Martin Smith, a seasoned correspondent known for his insightful documentaries, Reem Alaaf, a Syrian-born writer focusing on the revolution's social impact, and Bertu Urshalek, a Middle East security expert. They delve into the swift toppling of Assad, public perceptions of new leadership, and the harrowing daily struggles faced by Syrians. The guests explore the evolving ideologies of leaders, the role of the diaspora in reconstruction, and the complex geopolitical interests of neighboring states, including Turkey and Iran's strategic calculations.

The discussion centers around Pete Hegseth and his controversial role in the sinking of boats off Venezuela, resulting in numerous casualties. Criticism mounts as Hegseth's support for these actions becomes more public. The legal ramifications are explored, referencing the Geneva Convention and issues surrounding attacking incapacitated combatants. Additionally, the possible command responsibility and accountability for these military actions raise questions about consequences and investigations in the aftermath.

Christian Oller, Head of Global Product Group at Hitachi Energy, shares insights on the importance of switchgear in achieving grid reliability and fault isolation. Vera Silva, Chief Strategy and Technology Officer at GE Vernova, discusses the balance between R&D and commercial strategies in global electrification. Frederick Bielitz of Aurora Energy Research highlights the significance of attracting private capital for energy transition analytics. The trio emphasizes collaboration among grid players to replace SF6 and modernize infrastructure, ensuring affordable and reliable energy for the future.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a prominent Russian opposition politician recently freed after a 25-year sentence, shares his insights on preparing for a post-Putin Russia. He emphasizes the need for accountability and transitional justice. Jana Bakunina, author of 'The Good Russian,' offers a glimpse into Yekaterinburg, revealing how propaganda shapes public opinion despite personal hardships. Together, they explore the complex dynamics of support for Putin, the experience of émigrés, and the critical importance of international advocacy.

What could a US-brokered peace deal for Ukraine look like? A straightforward withdrawal plan could pave the way for peace, but it must satisfy Putin's demands. Diplomatic maneuvering has led to a complex 28-point plan, raising questions about Russian influence in its drafting. Territorial concessions remain contentious, as President Zelenskyy cautiously navigates international engagement. The podcast probes whether Russia truly desires peace amidst the ongoing conflict and explores long-term settlement models.

Join historian and screenwriter Alex von Tunzelman, former British ambassador John Everard, and Emmy-winning writer David Quantick as they explore how film and TV shape our understanding of politics. Alex critiques the realism of films like Zero Dark Thirty and discusses the influence of government on storytelling. John explains how comedic portrayals often reveal truths about diplomatic blunders. David shares insights on creating satire amidst real-life absurdity, highlighting the delicate balance of comedy and plausibility.