The Bunker – News without the nonsense

Jason Burke, an international security correspondent and author of *The Revolutionists*, dives into the explosive world of 1970s extremism. He highlights how figures like Leila Khaled and Carlos the Jackal transformed political violence into global spectacle, leveraging media to amplify their messages. Burke connects the rise of terrorism to the chaos of decolonization and the cultural shifts of the era. He also examines how mass air travel became a battleground, reshaping security responses and influencing modern extremism. A riveting exploration of ideology, glamour, and violence!

Russ Buettner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist from The New York Times, delves into Donald Trump's financial saga, revealing the truth behind the 'small loan' myth that sparked his empire. He discusses how Trump's father, Fred, secretly funneled hundreds of millions through creative bookkeeping. The conversation touches on Trump's strategic bankruptcies, his mafia-like business tactics, and how his tumultuous finances foreshadowed his political behavior. Buettner also highlights the current financial red flags surrounding Trump, including troubling crypto ties.

In this engaging discussion, Dara Massicot, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace specializing in Russian military affairs, reveals how Russia has evolved since its early missteps in Ukraine. She analyzes lessons learned, from operational mistakes to the impressive mobilization that reshaped the war effort. Dara also highlights the dangers of underestimating drone warfare and discusses how recruitment strategies are sustaining Russia’s military despite high casualties. The conversation raises crucial points about the implications for future conflicts.

Migration issues heat up with the recapture of a fugitive sex offender and Labour's struggles over asylum hotel costs. Trump’s Asia tour raises eyebrows, while tensions in Venezuela escalate amid US aggression. A looming stock market crash is discussed alongside AI's growing influence and potential fraud. The dynamics of a government shutdown unfold as a new senator faces obstacles. Additionally, Hurricane Melissa poses a catastrophic threat to the Caribbean, adding to the week's tumultuous events.

Corey Brettschneider, a political theorist and author, dives deep into the historical dynamics of presidential power and democratic resilience. He highlights how the people have historically fought back against presidential overreach, from Adams' Sedition Act to the struggles during Reconstruction. Brettschneider connects past crises to modern threats, emphasizing citizen pushback as a vital source of democratic strength. He also critiques the unitary executive theory and discusses contemporary examples of resistance, illustrating a continuous cycle of advocacy for constitutional rights.

Ryan Cummings, an economist and former White House adviser, discusses the potential bursting of the A.I. bubble. He explores the current distorted valuations and compares them to the dot-com era. Cummings warns of a potential economic crash and highlights how A.I. might be masking broader economic weaknesses. He emphasizes the significant energy demands of A.I. infrastructure and calls for careful balancing between enthusiasm and skepticism. Finally, he advocates for adaptive policy responses to ensure a smooth transition in this rapidly changing landscape.

Aleks Krotoski, an acclaimed academic and author of 'The Immortalists: The Death of Death and the Race for Eternal Life', dives into Silicon Valley's intriguing quest for immortality. She discusses groundbreaking discoveries in longevity research, including gene tweaks and radical life extension strategies. Krotoski expresses skepticism about mind-uploading and highlights the historical elitism in the pursuit of eternal life. She also critiques the tech-driven perception of humans as machines and explores the political implications of these ambitions.

Jane Bradley, an investigative journalist for The New York Times, reveals how America's Christian right is targeting the UK through the Alliance Defending Freedom. She discusses the ideological motivations behind this influence and the surprising ties to Nigel Farage. The conversation delves into the implications of U.S.-style Christian fundamentalism on British politics, examining issues like abortion and free speech. Bradley warns against complacency and highlights the role of social media in elevating these controversial narratives.

As Americans make it clear how much they don’t want a monarchy with No Kings protests, Brits might be feeling the same as the Andrew scandal rumbles on. Alex von Tunzelmann joins Jacob Jarvis to discuss the latest news from across the world and how it might play out this week.  Head to nakedwines.co.uk/thebunker to get 6 top-rated wines from our sponsor Naked Wines for £39.99, delivery included. We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.  www.patreon.com/bunkercast    Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis with Alex von Tunzelmann. Audio production: Tom Taylor. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This summer, Britain’s streets have boiled with right-wing anger. From flag debates to ‘patriotic’ rallies, the far right is trying to turn frustration into a movement. But it’s not the first time the far right has tried to muscle its way into British politics. Today on The Bunker, Gavin Esler is joined by Dr. Aaron Edwards, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Leicester, to explore how Britain’s far right past is shaping its turbulent present, and why this time things could end very differently.  Head to nakedwines.co.uk/thebunker to get 6 top-rated wines from our sponsor Naked Wines for £39.99, delivery included. • We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.   www.patreon.com/bunkercast  Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/bunkerpod.bsky.social  Advertisers! Want to reach smart, engaged, influential people with money to spend? (Yes, they do exist). Some 3.5 MILLION people download and watch our podcasts every month – and they love our shows. Why not get YOUR brand in front of our influential listeners with podcast advertising? Contact ads@podmasters.co.uk to find out more Written and presented by Gavin Esler. Producer: Liam Tait. Audio editor: Robin Leeburn. Managing editor: Jacob Jarvis. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices