Sky News Daily

In this gripping discussion, John Sparks, an international correspondent for Sky News who spent 24 hours with Ukrainian forces in the Donbas, delves into the future of warfare. He highlights the dramatic role of drones, explaining how they dominate the battlefield and influence both tactical and psychological operations. Sparks shares harrowing accounts of tank crews under attack and the improvisation necessary in real-time command. He also reflects on the human cost of survival, underscoring morale as Ukraine's pivotal strength against a backdrop of personnel shortages.

Dr. Kristin Surak, an expert in Japanese politics from the London School of Economics, dives into the groundbreaking election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's first female prime minister. They discuss Takaichi's unconventional background as a heavy metal drummer, her ties to nationalist politics, and her ambitious vision for women's health issues. Surak also highlights the complexities of her premiership, including challenges with China and South Korea, while contemplating future UK-Japan relations amid shifting global politics.

Thomas Moore, Sky News science correspondent and expert on scientific topics, dives into the fascinating Cool Cows breeding programme aimed at reducing methane emissions from cattle. He explains how selective breeding can lower greenhouse gas output without altering meat or milk quality. The discussion spans diet changes, potential feed additives, and the broader implications of agricultural practices on climate. Moore also highlights the significance of consumer choices in driving sustainable food systems, making this a truly engaging conversation.

Professor Michael Clarke, a senior military analyst specializing in defense, joins to discuss Britain's complex role in the Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Gaza situation. He highlights the concerning use of UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles in Russia and the implications of potential UK troop involvement in the region. Clarke elaborates on the strategic importance of Tomahawk missiles for Ukraine and the risks posed by deepening military commitments, questioning whether these actions bolster or jeopardize national security.

Ed Conway, Sky News' Economics and Data Editor, dives into the critical role of data centres in fueling the AI boom in the US. He reveals their massive energy consumption and the challenges they pose to the power grid. Conway compares the current situation to the dot-com bubble, highlighting concerns about market overheating and reliance on limited resources. He also explores the job landscape, noting that while data centres create construction jobs, they may not provide long-term employment opportunities. A fascinating look into the future of AI and infrastructure!

The downfall and disgrace of Prince Andrew has taken another dramatic turn after he announced he was giving up some of his royal titles.   Reports have emerged that Andrew asked his personal protection officer to help with a smear campaign against Virginia Giuffre years before she filed a civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault. The prince continues to deny any wrongdoing.    What role did the King and other members of the Royal Family play in Andrew's decision to give up his titles? Why is this happening now and does the move go far enough? And could this lead to calls for a rethink over the future of the monarchy?    Niall is joined by Sky's royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills for the latest on the long-running scandal.  Producer: Tom Gillespie Editor: Mike Bovill To watch Niall's earlier interview with Andrew Lownie, historian and author of Entitled: The Rise and Fall Of The House of York, follow the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I13zzJ-WJM

Jon Craig, Chief Political Correspondent for Sky News, delves into the legacy of Margaret Thatcher, the UK's first female prime minister. He explores her profound impact on both Conservative and opposition politicians, highlighting her divisive policies like the poll tax and union reforms. Craig discusses Thatcher's possible stance on Brexit and how her conservative philosophy would intersect with today's political landscape. He predicts her influence will reverberate through history as a transformative figure, embodying both admiration and controversy.

A ceasefire may be in place, but violence continues to plague Gaza. As Hamas attempts to keep some control, a rival group has told Sky News they plan to fight to the end. With internal fighting and power struggles ongoing, can peace hold within Gaza for the Palestinians hoping to begin rebuilding their lives? Dominic Waghorn, our international affairs editor, and digital investigations journalist Ben van der Merwe join Niall to explain who these groups are and what role they are playing. Producer: Soila Apparicio Editor: Mike Bovill 

Dishonesty, discrimination, and misconduct – just some of the reasons why more than 730 police officers were sacked and barred from service last year. Of those, 21 were struck off for child sexual offences. But can our police forces recover from falling public trust and reputational damage?  Martin Brunt, our crime correspondent, joins Niall to explain what’s gone wrong – and assess whether ‘bad apples’ in the police are an institutional issue.  Plus, Jamie Klingler – co-founder of Reclaim These Streets and campaigner for women’s safety and police reform in the UK – discusses what needs to change.  Producer: Emily HulmeEditor: Mike Bovill

Members of minority religious groups say they feel less safe in the UK than ever before.A summer of protests outside asylum seeker hotels and a renewed debate about immigration have led to concerns British society is becoming increasingly fragmented.And last week, figures released by the Home Office showed that religious hate crime recorded by police in England and Wales had reached a record high.Some members of the Sikh community in the West Midlands have been escorting elderly people to their local gurdwara due to concerns about physical and verbal abuse.What are the causes behind this rise in hate crime? How are minority groups responding, and what can be done to rebuild fragile communities?Niall is joined by Rabbi Josh Levy, the co-lead of Progressive Judaism, and Sky's communities correspondent Lisa Holland.Producer: Tom GillespieEditor: Mike Bovill