

The Red Line
The Red Line
Three experts, one Story. Each fortnight we host a panel of international experts diving into the biggest geopolitical stories shaping the news both here and overseas.
Hosted by Michael Hilliard
Hosted by Michael Hilliard
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h 13min
115 - The Future of Nuclear Warfare
Exploring the future of nuclear warfare with discussions on US modernization efforts, global arms race implications, and the balance between deterrence and aggression. Panel of experts dissect complex issues and challenges in nuclear programs of major powers like US, UK, and China. Delve into the components of nuclear weapons, challenges in US pit production, missile modernization, and the evolving dynamics of nuclear warfare. Explore the exorbitant costs, psychological aspects, and nuclear deterrence significance in today's geopolitical landscape.

10 snips
Feb 9, 2024 • 1h 16min
114 - Poland: Europe's Eastern Shield
This podcast explores Poland's role as Europe's Eastern shield and its tensions with the EU over legal standards and large-scale procurements. Can Poland balance regional security and EU obligations? It discusses Poland's defense purchases, its relationship with the EU, and the potential consequences. The podcast also delves into challenges and politics surrounding Ukraine's potential EU accession and Poland's position on the Western border.

Jan 23, 2024 • 1h 27min
113 - Can India Replace China in the Global Supply Chain?
This podcast explores the potential for India to replace China in the global supply chain. It discusses India's workforce, affordable labor, and investor-friendly leadership as attractive factors. However, it also examines the complexities and challenges in India's economy. Topics covered include India's readiness to become the world's factory, its overvalued exchange rate, the importance of female labor force participation, education and brain drain, obstacles in becoming a manufacturing hub, land use and infrastructure challenges, resistance against farm bills, and the challenges and potential of India's economic rise.

8 snips
Jan 9, 2024 • 1h 20min
112 - Russia's Six Fleets: A Sinking Superpower
This podcast explores the challenges faced by Russia's naval forces, including the conflict in Ukraine, budget cuts, and the troubles of their aircraft carrier program. It also discusses the significance of warm water ports, the role of the Pacific Fleet, and the dynamic between Russia's defense minister and President Putin. The podcast raises questions about the future of Russia's navy and the potential impact of emerging challenges.

Dec 26, 2023 • 1h 15min
111 - The Splintering of Sudan
The podcast discusses the escalating civil war in Sudan, fears of state collapse, and the involvement of outside actors. It explores the success of urban warfare in Sudan and the role of regional actors like UAE and Russia. The possibility of intervention and national security concerns are also examined. The neglected crisis in Sudan and the desires of the Sudanese people for a better life are highlighted.

Dec 11, 2023 • 56min
110 - Wargaming: Argentina Reinvades the Falklands
The podcast explores the ongoing conflict between Argentina and the UK over the Falkland Islands, discussing the motivations behind the war and Argentina's military decline. It also examines the resistance to change within the Argentine military, election results in the Falkland Islands, budget cuts in the UK Ministry of Defense, and the unlikelihood of a second invasion. The podcast analyzes the current state of the Argentinian Navy and introduces a new sister channel.

Nov 26, 2023 • 1h 12min
109 - A Second Arab Spring: Imminent or Impossible?
David Schenker, an expert from the Washington Institute, discusses the potential for a second Arab Spring and the tactics used by governments to suppress political movements. The podcast also explores the role of social media, AI, and bot armies in manipulating public opinion, as well as the challenges of democratization in the Middle East.

Nov 13, 2023 • 1h 14min
108 - Extrajudicial Killings and Targeted Assassinations
The podcast discusses the rise of extrajudicial killings and targeted assassinations, exploring their origins, implications, and the lack of consequences faced by governments. It delves into high-profile assassinations, the use of poison as a method of attack, and the involvement of private forces. The podcast also explores the increasing trend of targeted assassinations, the role of intelligence agencies, and the response of the US and Russia. The chapter concludes with acknowledgements and book recommendations for further reading.

Oct 30, 2023 • 1h 8min
107 - The Hollowing of Hong Kong
Explore the erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy, tensions between pro-democracy aspirations and Beijing, and the complexities of illicit financial flows in play. Discuss the decline of Hong Kong as a financial hub and the role of arbitration. Delve into the differences between Hong Kong and China's democratic systems and the issue of money laundering. Express gratitude to guests and staff.

Oct 16, 2023 • 1h 9min
106 - Wargaming: Moldova vs Transnistria
This podcast delves into the territorial dispute between Moldova and Transnistria, discussing the complexities of the situation, the military capabilities of both sides, the struggle for military equipment, the impact of European military shift, and potential outcomes of the conflict.