The Daily

Join Matt Apuzzo, a seasoned New York Times reporter in Brussels, as he breaks down the implications of sanctioning Russian oligarchs amid the Ukraine conflict. He discusses how these wealthy elites, despite their power, often find ways to evade penalties. Apuzzo highlights individual cases and questions the true effectiveness of such financial measures. The conversation also reveals how global coordination is shifting to confront Kremlin-affiliated wealth, raising stakes in the geopolitical landscape. Can these moves compel Putin to reconsider?

Apoorva Mandavilli, a science and global health reporter for The New York Times, dives into the alarming rise of the BA.2 variant and its implications. She discusses the surge in COVID cases in China and Europe, set against the U.S. easing restrictions. The conversation highlights the concerning potential for a new wave in America, the uneven impact on vulnerable populations, and the ongoing debate around booster shots and vaccine effectiveness. Mandavilli sheds light on the stark divide between pandemic fatigue in the U.S. and the reality of rising cases abroad.

Dionne Searcey, a New York Times correspondent, dives into the cobalt mining scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicenter of the global clean energy race. She highlights the stark contrasts between Kinshasa’s allure and the harsh realities miners face. Searcey explores the intense rivalry for cobalt between the U.S. and China, revealing the geopolitical implications of this resource struggle. Personal stories from local miners paint a vivid picture of their daily battles, underscoring the human cost behind the metal that powers our future.

David E. Sanger, a White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times, provides keen insights into the escalating war in Ukraine. He discusses President Zelensky's urgent call for a no-fly zone and the complex diplomatic landscape. Sanger outlines four potential scenarios for the conflict's future, including prolonged fighting, the risk of Russian expansion, and China's possible support for Russia. The talk delves into the implications of these paths for global politics and the intricate balance of military and economic responses.

Jeanna Smialek, a reporter for The New York Times specializing in the Federal Reserve, dives deep into the inflation crisis that shaped the 1970s. She highlights how the Fed's decision to raise interest rates aims to control current inflation, recalling lessons from the past. Smialek discusses the cultural responses to rising prices, the impact of Paul Volcker's leadership, and the challenges of managing inflation during tumultuous times. Her insights reveal the delicate balance policymakers must strike between economic growth and inflation control.

Lynsey Addario, a renowned photojournalist stationed in Ukraine, shares her gripping experiences capturing the aftermath of war. She discusses a powerful photograph depicting a family caught in a tragic moment, illustrating the devastating impact of conflict on civilians. Addario reveals the emotional toll of documenting such chaos and the stories behind evacuation efforts. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on the broader implications of these images and the urgent need to address the hardships faced by innocent lives amidst violence.

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.