Battle Lines
The Telegraph
Battle Lines is The Telegraph’s defence, security and foreign affairs podcast. It offers expert analysis and on-the-ground reporting from around the world, everywhere from China and the United States to the Middle East and Europe.Three times a week, veteran foreign correspondents Roland Oliphant and Venetia Rainey bring you on-the-ground dispatches from the world’s most volatile regions and informed analysis from world-class experts.Every Wednesday on Battle Lines x Global Health Security they’re joined by Arthur Scott-Geddes to look at the intersection between health and security, from bioweapons to warzone diseases to frontline medicine. You can watch these episodes here.Whether it’s the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Gaza conflict, Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific, tensions between India and Pakistan, or the civil war in Sudan, Battle Lines covers the world’s most critical flashpoints with depth and clarity.When will China invade Taiwan? Can Donald Trump bring peace to the Middle East? What should Europe do to help Ukraine beat Russia? Is Iran building a nuclear bomb? What is the point of NATO? Can the United Kingdom still defend itself? Created by David Knowles, Battle Lines answers all these questions and more, bringing together the best of The Telegraph’s international, geopolitical, and conflict reporting in one place.Don’t forget to follow and leave a review to stay updated on the latest in global conflict and foreign affairs.Battle Lines: Global Health Security is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 9, 2026 • 49min
A US general on Trump, Greenland and Nato in crisis
Ben Hodges, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant general and NATO analyst, discusses the complicated dynamics of recent U.S. military operations and their implications for NATO cohesion. He highlights the risk of U.S. moves toward Greenland potentially straining alliances. Meanwhile, Tom Sharpe, a former Royal Navy commander, reveals the complexities surrounding the seizure of the Bella One tanker, connecting it to oil control efforts and legal gray areas at sea. Both guests emphasize the importance of diplomatic relations amidst rising global tensions.
Jan 7, 2026 • 26min
How to deal with Trump, China and debt: the African country getting it right
Ben Farmer, The Telegraph's Africa correspondent, discusses his insights from Zambia, where President Hakainde Hichilema is redefining the nation's economic strategies amid global shifts. They explore Zambia's debt challenges, the impact of austerity measures on healthcare and education, and Hichilema's balancing act between Chinese and Western interests for copper resources. Farmer highlights the realities of US aid cuts, the urgent need for local health budget increases, and the intricate dance of geopolitical influences shaping Africa's future.
Jan 5, 2026 • 37min
Trump's Venezuela gamble: Why China, Russia and Iran just lost their foothold in Latin America
Adrian Blomfield, a Senior foreign correspondent at The Telegraph, and Dr. Carlos Solar, a Latin America security expert at RUSI, delve into the seismic shifts in Venezuela following Trump's capture of Maduro. They discuss the implications for Iran, Russia, and China, who are now facing significant losses in a key ally. The pair explore the revived relevance of the Monroe Doctrine and debate whether the U.S. is creating a client state in Venezuela. They also touch on how these developments impact global order, with a particular eye on future tensions involving Taiwan and Ukraine.
6 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 14min
Trump captures Maduro and takes over Venezuela: 'Welcome to 2026, America is back'
Rob Crilly, The Telegraph's Chief US Correspondent, brings his expertise on US foreign policy to discuss the dramatic military operation in Venezuela. He details the timeline of Trump’s order to capture Nicolás Maduro, analyzing the legality of such actions and comparing it to past interventions like Noriega's. Crilly also explores the underlying motives, including drug trafficking and oil interests, and highlights concerns over power vacuums in Venezuela. Domestic reactions among Trump's supporters reveal divisions that could impact future politics.
Jan 2, 2026 • 47min
Wargaming WW3: how and where the next global conflict could actually unfold
Peter Apps, a Reuters global defense commentator and British Army reservist, explores the somber prospect of World War III. He estimates a 30-35% chance of conflict within the next decade, highlighting flashpoints like Estonia and Ukraine. Peter emphasizes the lessons from the early Cold War and critiques current defense strategies. He discusses the importance of leadership in deterrence, the implications of cybersecurity and space in warfare, and reflects on his background that influences his insights on modern conflicts.
Dec 31, 2025 • 39min
Bird-flu, nukes and asteroids: what 2026 might have in store
Join Paul Nuki, The Telegraph's Global Health Security Editor, as he discusses the looming threats of bird flu and diseases tied to conflict, like cholera and HIV. Dr. Becky Alexis-Martin highlights rising nuclear risks and the dangers of new players accessing fissile materials. Lord Martin Rees shares insights on asteroids and the vulnerabilities of our technology in the face of AI-induced risks. Together, they paint a chilling picture of potential global disasters in 2026, from pandemics to nuclear tensions.
11 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 44min
US vs China vs Europe: the race to build the fighter jet of the future
Tom Withington, a defence and air power expert from the Royal United Services Institute, dives into the intriguing world of sixth-generation fighter jets. He elucidates how these aircraft go beyond speed, becoming flying data centers that can evade advanced defenses and control drone swarms. The conversation explores key programs like the Tempest and NGAD, the evolution of combat aircraft, and the future's technological landscape, including autonomous systems and procurement challenges, all while considering air dominance on a global stage.
14 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 50min
No limits partnership: Why 2025 was China and Russia's year
Allegra Mendelsohn, an Asia correspondent stationed in Taiwan, and Adelie Pojzman-Pontay, co-host of 'Ukraine The Latest,' dive into the significant geopolitical shifts of 2025. They discuss China's growing military ambitions and the implications for Taiwan amidst rising tensions. Adelie sheds light on the complex relationship between U.S. policy and Ukraine's war efforts, while both explore the intriguing ties between China and Russia. The conversation highlights underreported crises, showcasing resilience in Ukraine and the shifting dynamics in Southeast Asia.
Dec 24, 2025 • 30min
Photographing war, disease and nuclear accidents with Simon Townsley
This week, international photojournalist Simon Townsley shares riveting experiences from nearly 40 years of documenting conflict and disease. He discusses impactful assignments in 2025 across countries like Sierra Leone and Guyana, highlighting the stark contrast of local poverty amidst oil booms. Simon reflects on the ethics of photojournalism, revealing the emotional demands of capturing trauma, such as mothers identifying their sons in war. He warns about the rise of AI in imagery and emphasizes the enduring power of authentic still photography.
Dec 22, 2025 • 51min
From Afghanistan to Everest: the double-amputee Gurkha veteran who made history
Hari Budha Magar, a Gurkha veteran and the first double above-knee amputee to summit Mount Everest, shares his incredible journey from a village in Nepal to the battlefield in Afghanistan. He recounts the harrowing moment an IED changed his life forever and how he rebuilt it through resilience and support from charities. Hari emphasizes the importance of mindset and community in overcoming challenges, revealing his struggles with identity and PTSD. His adventurous spirit and advocacy inspire anyone facing adversity to strive for greatness.
