Battle Lines

Donald Trump's defence secretary Pete Hegseth shared classified information on an unsecured group chat - not once but twice, according to new details that emerged this week. But the real turbulence shaking the Pentagon isn’t just about loose digital lips. It’s deeper: a toxic mix of internal rivalries, leadership clashes, and a crumbling sense of morale at the very top of America's defence hierarchy.To unpack the chaos, we speak to Kathleen McInnis, senior fellow in the Defense and Security Department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, former Pentagon staffer and author of a novel about life inside the defence department. She explains why encrypted apps like Signal are favored in Hegseth’s circles — and what life is really like behind the walls of the Pentagon.https://linktr.ee/BattleLinesContact us with feedback or ideas:battlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Juliana Suess, a space specialist at Germany's Institute for International and Security Affairs, and Namrata Goswami, an expert in space policy and professor at Arizona State University, delve into the strategic complexities of potential space warfare. They explore how nations like the U.S. and China are racing to establish lunar and Martian bases while examining the implications of satellite surveillance and cyber attacks. The duo highlights the need for better legal frameworks for space resource extraction and discusses the evolving dynamics of power and conflict in this new frontier.

Kim Darroch, the former UK ambassador to the US, shares his intriguing perspective on Trump's evolving trade strategies. He discusses the potential for a US-UK trade deal and the challenges posed by tariffs. Darroch reflects on his firsthand experience with Trump’s previous trade war with China and its implications for Britain. The conversation also navigates the need for a new Iran nuclear deal and the shifting dynamics within NATO as the US recalibrates its focus away from Europe. Plus, insights into Trump's admiration for Churchill add an unexpected twist!

The Troubles was a major period of conflict right here in the UK within living memory that continues to echo today, yet very few people know much about it. There is even less awareness about a clandestine network of spies that the British state was running - right in the heart of terror groups on both sides, including Stakeknife in the IRA.On this bonus episode of Battle Lines, Venetia Rainey sits down with The Telegraph's investigative audio journalist Cara McGoogan to hear all about her new podcast, which digs into the spies, terrorists and collusion that became a hallmark of the conflict. Was it a civil war? What was the UK trying to achieve with its agents? What was the cost of letting them kill to stay undercover? Could the Troubles be reignited if they're not properly addressed? And is the state getting away with murder?You can listen to the full season now on The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/01/31/bed-of-lies-new-series-conflict/Or search for 'Bed of Lies' wherever you get your podcasts.Contact us with feedback or ideas:battlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has launched fresh talks with Iran to negotiate a new nuclear deal, vowing that there will be “all hell to pay” if Tehran does not agree to disarm. As foreign reporter Akhtar Makoii tells Venetia Rainey, it comes amid a major buildup of American military assets in the Middle East. Israel has repeatedly pushed for a strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, would the US go through with it if Iran refuses to compromise?Meanwhile, China recently completed some surprise live-fire drills around Taiwan. Former diplomat, historian and author Kerry Brown explains how worried we should be and gives his assessment of the landing barges that have recently been revealed.Contact us with feedback or ideas:battlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sophia Yan, a senior foreign correspondent for The Telegraph with deep insights into China's political landscape, joins Kelly Ann Shaw, a former senior trade advisor to President Trump. They discuss the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions and the evolution of Trump's trade war. Yan provides on-the-ground perspectives from her time in Beijing, while Shaw explains the strategic decisions made during Trump's presidency. They address whether Xi Jinping is open to negotiations amidst escalating economic stakes and the broader implications for global trade.

Emily Thornberry, the straight-talking Labour MP and chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, dives into a whirlwind of pressing global topics. She debates whether Trump could usher in peace in the Middle East and the UK's stance on recognizing Palestine. Thornberry argues for utilizing frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine and critiques the UK-Israel relationship amid rising tensions. She also tackles the challenges of diplomatic detentions abroad and explores the intricate balance of cooperation and security in UK-China relations.

New footage raises questions about Israel's narrative surrounding a deadly attack on ambulances in Gaza, highlighting the complexities of the conflict. The conversation shifts to Sudan, where the Sudanese Armed Forces have regained control of Khartoum amid escalating violence. This ongoing crisis is labeled the deadliest in the world, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation and international indifference. The impact on humanitarian efforts is profound, showcasing the urgent need for awareness and support for those affected.

Tony Diver, Associate Political Editor at The Telegraph, discusses the controversial Chagos Islands deal and its geopolitical ramifications, including rising tensions with China and implications for UK-US relations. Bruce Peabody, Political Science Professor, tackles the contentious idea of Trump serving a third term, reviewing six constitutional scenarios that could make it possible. They explore the complexities of the 22nd Amendment and the potential for Trump's camp to navigate uncharted legal waters in pursuit of another presidency.

Sarah Newey, an Asia correspondent with firsthand insights from Myanmar, discusses the devastating impact of a recent earthquake amidst a brutal civil war. She explains how this disaster may weaken the junta's grip on power and worsen the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Sam Roggeveen, Director of the Lowy Institute's International Security Program, analyzes Australia's evolving defense strategy against China's assertiveness. He addresses the controversy over defense spending increases and the implications of recent military provocations. Together, they shed light on critical geopolitical challenges.