The Globalist

Brendan von Essen, an Africa analyst specializing in political and economic risks, joins Tara Kangalu, a global affairs journalist and Georgetown University professor. They delve into South Africa's G20 presidency and its ambitious pledges amid geopolitical tensions. The discussion highlights the pressing need for debt relief for developing nations and the impact of global power dynamics. They also touch on Iran’s internal political struggles and the broader implications of these issues on international relations and economic stability.

Paul Waldey, Europe correspondent at The Globe and Mail, and Jenny Mathers, senior lecturer in international politics, discuss Ukraine's major government reshuffle amid the war, highlighting the historic appointment of its first female prime minister. Aaron David Miller adds insights on U.S. military support and the strategic ties being forged with Ukraine. Kim McRail explores the impact on global trade, while the dynamics of international relations take center stage as leaders navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.

Ruth Michelson, a journalist in Istanbul, delves into Israel's military actions in Syria and their implications on sectarian violence. Garana Gurdjik provides a security analysis, while Tim Abrams discusses the architectural wonders of Neuschwanstein Castle, emphasizing their cultural significance. Alexis Self shares insights on New Zealand striving to attract international students, noting how geopolitical dynamics shape immigration policies. The conversation weaves through innovation, heritage, and the anticipated Emmy nominations, making for a rich and varied discussion.

Alexei Gontarenko, a Ukrainian MP, shares insights on the US's promise of advanced weaponry for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the complexities of negotiation and military aid. James Chambers dives into Cambodia's controversial introduction of compulsory military service and its ramifications for regional tensions with Thailand. Nina Dos Santos offers intriguing stories from various newspapers, while Petri Bertsoff discusses the evolving Norwegian car market and the rising influence of Chinese electric vehicles, reflecting broader economic trends.

In this engaging discussion, Charles Hecker, a Russia analyst, sheds light on Trump’s surprising shift regarding military aid to Ukraine. Latika Burke talks about Australia’s diplomatic juggling act with China, while Hannah Lucinda-Smith reports on Turkey's cultural censorship as Spotify threatens to withdraw. Fiona Wilson celebrates the 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomins, exploring their influence on culture and themes of friendship. The conversation seamlessly weaves between geopolitics and whimsical nostalgia.

Gaia Lutz, Monocle's Lisbon correspondent, shares insights on Europe’s commitment to Ukraine's reconstruction, which is backed by significant EU funding. Alexander Shushko, Executive Director at the International Renaissance Foundation, emphasizes the resilience seen in Ukraine, paired with reflections on Bosnia’s complex history. Contributing editor Andrew Muller and singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin discuss cultural topics, exploring art fairs in Portugal and how social media shapes music success, especially through Cardin's evolving career.

Jared Melson, a Middle East correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, joins forces with Navina Koutour, Monocle's Nairobi correspondent, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tim Weiner, and retail expert Rebecca Tay. They dive into Erdoğan's escalating repression of the Turkish opposition amid calls for early elections. Melson highlights recent arrests of mayors and the wider implications for democracy, while Weiner critiques contemporary CIA operations. Together, they explore the economic chaos enveloping Turkey and the ripple effects on Europe.

Jack Dickens, a journalist and historian, joins Rabbi Dov Lipman, a former Knesset member, to discuss pressing global issues. They explore the potential for an EU trade agreement with the Trump administration, focusing on tariff impacts. The conversation shifts to Israel's military conscription changes concerning ultra-Orthodox Jews. They also delve into the strategic race for icebreakers in the Arctic and the geopolitical tensions this entails, including the competition between the US, Canada, and Russia.

Inzimam Rashid, a Dubai-based journalist for Al Arabiya, joins fashion director Natalie Theodosi and Monocle contributors Doug Conklin and Simon Bouvier to discuss Emmanuel Macron's impactful state visit to the UK, revealing the intricacies of Franco-British relations post-Brexit. They also explore Japan's emperor's historic trip to Mongolia, a fascinating blend of diplomacy and cultural remembrance. The conversation shifts to Haute Couture Week in Paris and the cultural evolution of men's swimwear, highlighting shifts in identity and fashion trends.

Simon Marks, Washington reporter, joins Nina Dos Santos, former CNN Europe editor, and Mateusz Mazzini, Gazeta Wyborcza writer, to discuss the high-stakes meeting between Trump and Netanyahu. They delve into military strategies addressing Iran and Syria and explore the shifting dynamics of U.S.-Israeli relations. The conversation also covers the geopolitical fallout from the Ukraine war and the complexities surrounding immigration tensions between Poland and Germany.