The Foreign Desk

The recent resignation of Canada’s finance minister has thrown Prime Minister Trudeau's future into jeopardy. The discussion dives into the implications of this move, scrutinizing its timing and the resulting political tensions. Delving into the challenges of leadership, the hosts examine both public perception and fiscal responsibilities. With declining support and internal party discord, Trudeau faces mounting pressures, especially with looming influences from the U.S. political landscape.

Rime Allaf, a Syrian-born writer and political analyst, joins David Kilcullen, a counterinsurgency expert, along with Burcu Ozcelik and Mark Galeotti, to discuss the swift decline of the Assad regime. They delve into the complex emotions of Syrian refugees contemplating their return amid ongoing chaos. The conversation highlights the roles of foreign powers like Russia and Turkey, the military strategies of rebel groups, and the potential for a new, inclusive government in Syria's uncertain future.

As Syrians celebrate Assad’s fall, Israel is striking targets across the country. Andrew Mueller explains why. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, New Zealand's youngest MP, as she advocates for Indigenous political representation. Alex Mankiewicz discusses his graphic novel that preserves Yindjibarndi creation stories, a vital intersection of art and culture. Kristen Carpenter, a Justice of the Shawnee Tribe Supreme Court, delves into the challenges Indigenous peoples face in the U.S., comparing them to advancements in Canada. Together, they explore the need for authentic voices in politics and the crucial role of storytelling in maintaining cultural identity.

Dive into the tumultuous political landscape of South Korea as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces backlash for declaring martial law. Discover the historical context of the nation's power struggles and the delicate balance of democracy transformed by drastic measures. Uncover the public and political responses to his controversial actions, as discussions of impeachment loom large. This exploration brings to light the tensions between authority and democratic principles in a modern context.

William Yang, a Taipei-based journalist, discusses the growing urgency among Taiwan’s youth regarding their national identity amid rising tensions with China. Arthur Ding, a military expert, analyzes Taiwan's defense strategies and the complexities of a potential invasion. Filmmaker Vanessa Hope shares insights from her documentary 'Invisible Nation,' highlighting Taiwan's struggle for sovereignty. The conversation dives into generational divides, anxieties about U.S. support, and the importance of resilience in the face of military aggression.

Discover the unconventional backgrounds of Romania's presidential candidates, who are shaking up the political landscape. Learn how these surprising figures could change Romania's foreign relations with NATO and the EU. Delve into the issues of voter disillusionment and the low turnout facing the country. Also, explore the implications of candidate Georgescu's pro-Russian stance and what it means for the future of democracy in Romania.

Richard Shirreff, a retired British General and former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, joins political scientist Cathryn Clüver Ashbrook to discuss Europe’s military readiness. They dive into Sweden's recent crisis preparation efforts and the varying responses across Nordic countries amid Russian threats. The duo highlights Europe's defense challenges and critiques the UK’s military cuts. They also emphasize the urgent need for strong leadership in navigating geopolitical tensions, especially following the war in Ukraine.

Explore the fascinating cultural clash in New Zealand as Maori communities rise in protest against a controversial bill affecting the Treaty of Waitangi. Discover the historical significance of the treaty and why its interpretation is so crucial. Insights into the motivations behind the protests reveal deeper tensions in New Zealand’s legal landscape, making this a compelling discussion on cultural identity and legal rights.

Amy Mackinnon, a national security reporter for Foreign Policy, John Herbst, former US ambassador to Ukraine, and Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator, delve into the implications of a potential second Trump term. They discuss how Trump's simplistic foreign policy might shape global tensions, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East. The conversation highlights the impact of controversial cabinet picks on U.S. relations with allies and the unique challenges he would face against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical conflicts.