The Globalist

In this engaging discussion, Marisa Lorenzo, a political and economic risk analyst with a focus on Angola, reveals the significance of the $753 million US investment in the Lobito Corridor, examining its regional implications and competition for critical minerals. Theo Usherwood, a news editor, shares insights on UK press coverage, addressing national identity debates and the impact of migration policies. Together, they navigate the evolving landscape of Western priorities, bridging Europe and US interests with Asia.

European leaders vote on whether to use Russia’s frozen assets to help Ukraine, France’s social security bill and the end of Air Albania. Plus: newspapers, musician Tiago Caetano and bartenders wanted in Saudi Arabia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest on Ukraine’s peace plan, Christmas celebrations return to Bethlehem, new cultural platform ‘Der Pavilion’ in St Moritz, Brazilian telenovelas head to the US and aviation news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As authorities stand accused of lax security at Bondi Beach, we assess what could have been done differently. Plus: Ukraine talks in Berlin and why France is delaying an EU trade deal with Latin American nations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Latika Bourke, a seasoned journalist and writer-at-large for The Nightly, discusses the community's grief and the rising tensions following the Bondi Beach shooting. She highlights the government's expected inquiries into security lapses and Australia's strict gun laws. Andrew Muller, a contributing editor at Monocle, shares his insights on the broader social implications of the attack, pondering the risk of copycat incidents and the challenges of separating criticism of Israel from anti-Semitism. Together, they reflect on how this incident may reshape Australian society.

Ed Stocker, a seasoned journalist covering the Americas, discusses the US seizure of a sanctioned oil tanker and the ensuing tensions with Venezuela. He dives deep into the country's economic collapse and the potential political figures rising amidst public discontent. Ash Bardwaj examines the slump in US inbound tourism, attributing it to visa challenges and shifting sentiments, while highlighting regions most affected. Andrew Muller adds a humorous twist with his satirical news commentary, and Fabrizio Casiraghi shares insights on his design approach to the new Sant'Ambrose in Paris.

Mark Adelman, a seasoned campaign consultant for the U.S. Democrats, dives into the implications of local election results on national sentiment regarding affordability and Trump. Nina Dos Santos, an international correspondent, discusses the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan tanker and its oil politics ramifications. They also explore the recent radar incident between China and Japan, highlighting U.S. support for Japan amid growing tensions, and take a lighter turn comparing Christmas dinner costs in the UK and France.

Lithuania is on high alert after Belarusian weather balloons prompted a nationwide emergency. As Andrew Mueller explains hybrid harassment, the discussion turns to Europe's tolerance of provocations from the Moscow ally. Exiled journalist Hanna Liubakova reveals the Belarusian regime’s involvement and evolving tactics. The duo explores Lithuania's limited response options, local impacts like travel disruptions, and the psychological effects on citizens. Meanwhile, international political shifts in Czechia and rising concerns over social media bans are also on the table.

Julia Jen, a Monocle researcher, shares insights on Ukraine’s diplomatic landscape, including the push to access frozen Russian assets and domestic political challenges facing Zelensky. William Yang, an expert on Taiwan, discusses the implications of potential talks between Beijing and Taiwan’s KMT party, highlighting risks of cooperation. Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels, unveils the company's expansion strategy and wellness trends shaping luxury hospitality, focusing on how destinations prepare to welcome high-end travelers.

Vincent McAvinney, a political reporter and Monocle contributor, shares insights on Syria's significant ‘Liberation Day’ celebrations and the current political atmosphere in Damascus. He discusses the challenges of fractured governance amid various autonomous regions. The conversation also touches on the tightly controlled Hong Kong elections and the implications of Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros, addressing the potential impact on jobs and cinema culture. McAvinney's analysis connects these global events to the pressing narratives of our time.