The Daily

Valerie Hopkins, a New York Times correspondent in Ukraine, shares her insights on the complicated ties between Russians and Ukrainians. She discusses how misinformation from the Kremlin creates a wall of denial among Russians regarding the war's realities. Personal stories reveal the emotional disconnect within families, highlighting the impact of state-controlled narratives. The conversation also delves into the psychological effects of censorship and the struggle for truth amidst a backdrop of escalating conflict and humanitarian crises.

In this discussion, Rozina Ali, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, profiles Rashida Tlaib, the first Palestinian American in Congress. Tlaib's journey from Detroit to D.C. is marked by her outspoken advocacy for Palestinian rights and her criticism of U.S. Israel policies. Ali sheds light on the controversies Tlaib faces, including accusations of antisemitism and backlash from within her own party. The conversation also highlights the shifting dynamics in American politics regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly among younger voters.

Fiona Hill, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a veteran adviser to three U.S. presidents, shares her insights on Vladimir Putin and the ongoing Ukraine conflict. She discusses how Putin’s perceptions of the West impact his decisions. Hill highlights the tragic humanitarian situation in cities like Mariupol and the influence of rising inflation in the U.S. She also examines President Zelensky's evolving leadership and the complexities of negotiating peace, while stressing the need for a deeper understanding of Ukrainian identity in these turbulent times.

Michael Schwirtz, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, shares gripping insights from Mykolaiv, Ukraine. He describes the relentless siege of Mariupol, where families face dire shortages of essentials. The resilience of local leaders, like the mayor converting his office into a war room, is highlighted. Emotional accounts from residents reveal the struggle to maintain connections amidst chaos. Schwirtz’s firsthand stories paint a vivid picture of despair and hope, capturing the human spirit in the face of devastation.

Clifford Krauss, the National energy business correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the implications of President Biden's ban on Russian oil imports. He discusses how this move is designed to strike at Putin’s war machine while evaluating its potential to drive U.S. gas prices higher amidst existing inflation. Krauss also highlights challenges for European nations in taking similar actions and explores how Russia might pivot to oil markets in China and India, raising concerns about the broader economic fallout for American consumers.

Anton Troianovski, Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, reveals the unprecedented threat President Volodymyr Zelensky poses to Vladimir Putin. They discuss Zelensky’s journey from comedian to formidable leader, shaped by his sitcom background. His engaging speeches and savvy use of social media have effectively rallied both Ukraine and Western allies. Troianovski emphasizes Zelensky's unique ability to communicate across borders, inspiring dissent in Russia while unifying Ukrainians, all while facing potential assassination threats from Putin's regime.

Witness the urgent and dangerous journeys of refugees fleeing Ukraine amid the escalating conflict. Heartbreaking personal stories reveal families leaving everything behind, filled with fear and uncertainty. Amidst the chaos at train stations in Lviv, acts of kindness shine through, offering glimpses of hope. Explore the emotional toll of war on civilians and the shifting perspectives on Russian aggression, highlighting the tragedy of displacement and loss. Experience the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Mark Binelli, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, delves into the Waco biker shootout's dark legacy. He unpacks the violent clash between the Bandidos and Cossacks, resulting in nine deaths but lingering legal ambiguity. Binelli explores the mass arrests of bikers, many of whom weren’t even gang members, highlighting the unsettling realities of justice in such cases. He also examines the cultural significance of outlaw motorcycle clubs and their relentless tensions, painting a chilling picture of the aftermath and the quest for accountability.

Shane Goldmacher, a national political reporter for The New York Times, joins Texas Congressman Dan Crenshaw, a rising star often caught between party factions. They dive into the impact of redistricting on the Republican landscape, revealing how it benefits more extreme factions. Crenshaw discusses his battles within the party post-January 6, while sharing insights from ground-level politics in Texas. The conversation also touches on the tensions between establishment candidates and grassroots movements, painting a vivid picture of the shifting power dynamics ahead of the midterms.

Eric Schmitt, a senior writer at The New York Times, shares insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine. He discusses Russia's initial miscalculations and the resilience of Ukrainian forces, revealing stark contrasts in morale. The conversation explores Russia's grim tactics, including targeting civilians and intensifying attacks on cities. Schmitt also addresses the implications of U.S. military support for Ukraine and raises critical questions about the potential for prolonged conflict and its impact on both societies.