The Globalist

Iran war: Could Turkey be drawn into the conflict?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:15:46 +0000

Missiles entering Turkish airspace and new military deployments in Cyprus are raising questions about Ankara’s role in the escalating conflict. Turkey has so far urged restraint but as the fighting edges closer to its borders, the risk of it being drawn in is growing.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ten days of war: Iran appoints new supreme leader as Israeli and US strikes continue

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:46:59 +0000

Mojtaba Khamenei is appointed the successor to his father as Iran’s supreme leader. We get the view from the Gulf and discuss the implications for other wars. Then: an exclusive interview with Canada’s PM Mark Carney.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lebanon plunged into crisis by Israel’s attacks as the war on Iran expands

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:29:38 +0000

Kim Ghattas joins from Beirut as the US-Israeli war with Iran spills into Lebanon.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The war in Iran: the view from Cyprus and trade disruptions in Oman

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:21:20 +0000

Monocle security correspondent Gorana Grgić brings us the latest developments on the war in Iran. We head to Nicosia as the conflict reaches Cyprus. Then: we’re live from Oman as disruptions in the strait of Hormuz threaten global trade. Plus: the Madrid Design Festival.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turkey’s balancing act on Iran and China’s new five-year plan

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:22:54 +0000

We discuss how Ankara will position itself as regional attacks continue and hear from Iranians fleeing to Turkey. Then: China’s annual Two Sessions gathering begins in Beijing and Nepal prepares for its first election since youth-led protests toppled the government.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Middle East conflict: The view from Beirut and the UAE

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:21:16 +0000

We cover the latest from Beirut and Dubai and speak to Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the president of the UAE. Then: Canada and India reset relations. Plus: inside the intense world of Oscar-nominated film ‘Sirāt’.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conflict spreads to the wider region after the US-Israel strikes on Iran

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:33:23 +0000

The US and Israel’s campaign against Iran, which resulted in the death of the country’s Supreme Leader Khamenei, has now expanded into a regional conflict. Monocle’s Gulf correspondent Inzamam Rashid brings us the latest, as strikes have now been seen in Lebanon, Kuwait and other neighbouring states.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US-Iran talks, Japan’s defence on alert and the growing rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:25:21 +0000

Geneva flexes its diplomatic muscles with talks between Iran and the US. Japan will deploy missiles near Taiwan and what’s going on between the UAE and Saudi Arabia? Plus: fashion news and Finnair’s new bespoke soundscape.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carney in India and the next round of US-Iran talks

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:17:26 +0000

The latest as Canada prime minister Mark Carney visits the Indo-Pacific in a bid to reduce reliance on the US. Then: Iran accuses the US of ‘big lies’ ahead of the next stage of talks in Geneva. Plus: Samsung’s spring launch and the Monocle 100 issue hits newsstands.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Merz in Beijing and Trump's State of the Union address

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:27:17 +0000

What can Merz’s visit to Beijing really achieve? Then: Warnings that the Horn of Africa is on the brink of war, Trump’s State of the Union address and how Canada is stepping up to help Cuba. Plus: Why Etihad is flying high.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine marks four years since Russia’s invasion and the UK’s Chagos Island deal faces uncertainty

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:24:05 +0000

The EU fails to agree fresh sanctions as the Russia-Ukraine war enters another year. Then: will Donald Trump’s intervention kill the Chagos Island deal? Plus: exploring the memory of Beirut through its cinema and the latest aviation news.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The countdown is on as Trump ups pressure on Iran

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:20:25 +0000

With the risk of war looming over the Middle East, pressure mounts on Iran’s theocracy. As Washington moves more warships and aircraft into the region and Donald Trump’s deadline for Tehran to strike a new nuclear deal counts down, how close are we to a new conflict?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump convenes the Board of Peace

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:23:55 +0000

Amid backlash from the EU, the UN and even the Vatican, President Donald Trump hosts his inaugural Board of Peace. Then: former UN special advisor on how to end the war in Sudan. Plus: the latest urbanism news.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diplomacy converges in Geneva and we speak with Georgia’s Salomé Zourabichvili

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:33:22 +0000

We unpack the two high-level talks that took place in Geneva and speak with Salomé Zourabichvili, who maintains that she’s the legitimate president of Georgia. Plus: Greenland gets closer to the Nordics and Indonesian news.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geneva’s role in Ukraine and Iran peace talks

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:19:09 +0000

The latest from Geneva as the US mediates two separate rounds of talks on Iran and the war in Ukraine. Then: we speak to Bill Browder about the future of Russia’s economy. Plus: Macron’s high-profile visit to India and news from the Balkans.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rubio pledges US support for Orbán ahead of Hungary's parliamentary elections

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:09:11 +0000

US secretary of state Marco Rubio visits Hungary to boost ties with pro-Trump prime minister Viktor Orbán. Then: we meet Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Belarus’s opposition leader at the Munich Security Conference.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Munich Security Conference 2026: a new era in geopolitics?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:26:26 +0000

As this year’s edition comes to a close, we discuss the key takeaways and the future ahead for global security. Then: what does the US want from Cuba? Plus: the Italy-Africa summit and Monocle in Milan.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s on the agenda at this year’s Munich Security Conference?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:14:14 +0000

We catch up with our team in Munich and discuss the Nato summit in Brussels. Then: the competition to be the main US-Iran mediator. Plus: the Women’s Prize for Fiction and Monocle at the Olympic Winter Games.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bangladesh heads to the polls in the first vote since Sheikh Hasina’s ousting

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 08:26:31 +0000

We discuss what’s at stake in the Bangladesh elections and whether the outcome could set the country on a path towards democracy. Then: preparations for the Munich Security Conference and cultural news from Japan Plus: we dig into recipes from a famed Parisian bistro.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netanyahu in Washington as Iran calls his visit ‘destructive’ to diplomacy

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:41:36 +0000

Benjamin Netanyahu will meet Donald Trump as US-Iran negotiations continue. We discuss his aims and if he can achieve them. Then: Is partial EU membership possible for Ukraine? Plus: A month of Mamdani and Olympics latest.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran cracks down on top dissidents ahead of Netanyahu’s US trip

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 08:10:47 +0000

The arrests of leading Iranian reformists. Tyler Brûlé sits down with Estonia’s president, Alar Karis. Plus: How are luxury hotels bucking the slowdown? Then we ski jump to the Olympics for the latest from our team in Milan.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan and Thailand at the polls: What next for the region?

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:32:28 +0000

As two mammoth elections take place in Japan and Thailand, we discuss the domestic and regional consequences. Then: former UN special representative for Sudan, Volker Perthes, on if Trump’s Board of Peace can sign off an agreement in Sudan without the UN. Plus: Monocle at the Olympic Winter Games.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US-Iran talks begin in Oman. Can common ground be found?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:21:45 +0000

US-Iran talks kick off in Oman, marking the first negotiations since Tehran’s 12-day war with Israel in June. We head to Muscat for the latest. Then: have tourists ruined the Mount Fuji cherry blossom festival? Plus: Taiwan’s government advises parents on teens’ K-pop obsessions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last remaining US-Russia nuclear treaty expires: What next?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 08:24:11 +0000

For the first time since the 1970s, there are no legally binding limits on US and Russian nuclear forces without a new pact in progress. We assess the risks. Then: Italy’s Giorgia Meloni and Czech prime minister Andrej Babiš meet in Rome. Plus: a look ahead to Japan’s elections.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colombia’s president at the White House: Can US-Latin America tensions be resolved?

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:13:32 +0000

Gustavo Petro meets with Trump as US-Latin America tensions soar. Then: the head of Nato makes a trip to Kyiv. Plus: Balochistan explained and Monocle at the World Governments Summit. And: the latest in architecture.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talks begin in Dubai for the World Governments Summit

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:15:16 +0000

We join our team at the World Governments Summit in Dubai for the latest from the event. Plus: the low-down on Singapore Airshow and a check-in from Spain’s annual global tourism fair, Fitur.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keir Starmer heads to Japan and the World Governments Summit kicks off in Dubai. Plus: the Grammy Awards

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:13:06 +0000

UK prime minister Keir Starmer lands in Japan as he looks to improve his nation’s ties with East Asia. Plus: we head to Dubai for the World Governments Summit and to Los Angeles for the Grammy Awards. Then: the business behind couture.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela opens up its oil industry. Plus: a look ahead at Costa Rica’s presidential elections

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:41:45 +0000

We look at the new law allowing foreign companies to operate in Venezuela’s oil industry, and what that means for the country. Then: France’s push for digital sovereignty. Plus: Emma Nelson samples the UK’s best croissant.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mexico calls off oil shipment to Cuba and US escalates Iran strike threats

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:28:22 +0000

Mexico’s president insists that halting oil to Cuba is a “sovereign” decision. Then: US military builds up in the Gulf as President Trump tells Iran that time is “running out”. Plus: A look inside Monocle’s February issue.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gaza’s Rafah crossing to reopen and the ‘mother of all deals’ agreed between EU and India

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:25:40 +0000

Israel says that it will reopen the key border crossing with Egypt after nearly two years. Then: we look into the details of the landmark free-trade agreement between India and the EU. Plus: the latest from Mozambique as the country suffers ongoing floods. And: K-pop soft power in Mexico.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European commitment to renewable energy and security cooperation in the North Sea

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:25:10 +0000

Ten countries, including the UK, back a vast fleet of offshore wind projects in the North Sea and outline security co-operation. Then: Life in Iran, and high jewellery at Paris Couture Week.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan dissolves parliament: Will the gamble pay off?

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:17:48 +0000

Japan prime minister Sanae Takaichi’s 12-day election campaign gets under way. And: why Ukrainian Fashion Week has been rescheduled.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wrapping the week in Davos: Greenland, Ukraine and Trump’s Board of Peace

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:18:37 +0000

We analyse a furious week of heavyweight diplomacy and conflict at the World Economic Forum in Davos, including Donald Trump, Mark Carney’s ‘rupture’, Greenland and Ukraine-Russia peace talks. Juliet Linley and Gorana Grgić tell us how the world order is changing.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump climbs down from escalating Greenland threats

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:36:39 +0000

US President announces a ‘framework of a future deal’. We look at what’s next. Then: we check in from the World Economic Forum in Davos and speak to the mayor of Nuuk. Plus: the latest in the world of culture.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will anyone stand up to Donald Trump at Davos?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:35:29 +0000

Trump is set to appear at Davos as he continues to undermine key allies. Then: Spain in mourning after deadly train crash and Syria’s fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance. Plus: Dispatches from Nuuk and LVMH Watch Week.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump’s first year back: Is he making America great again?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:43:00 +0000

At its one-year mark, we assess the Trump’s administration’s global impact. Plus: we join our team in Nuuk for the latest in Greenland and head to the World Economic Forum in Davos.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The World Economic Forum kicks off in Davos

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:37:00 +0000

As the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum begins, we unpack this year’s theme of dialogue amid geopolitical tensions. Plus: the big moments of Milano Fashion Week.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could Trump send the US military to quell protests in Minnesota?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:17:04 +0000

The US president threatens to invoke the “Insurrection Act” in Minnesota. Plus: How Thailand and Brazil view a US pause on visas, Greece’s civil aviation head resigns and tropical fruit farming comes to Sicily.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran threatens retaliation for any US strikes as American troops are evacuated from Middle East bases

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:41:12 +0000

Is a US strike on Iran imminent? Our Gulf correspondent joins to detail what US evacuations from key bases in the Middle East signals. Then: foreign ministers from Greenland and Denmark at the White House. Plus: our design editor on the highlights at Maison&Objet.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Trump win the fight against Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell? Plus: Finnish technology

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:36:44 +0000

Pushback against the investigation into Fed chair Jerome Powell grows. What does that mean for markets? Then: Russian strikes in Ukraine leave millions without power. Plus: the latest news from Japan.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump pushes Canada closer to China and Marine Le Pen’s trial begins

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 08:10:10 +0000

Canadian prime minister Mark Carney to “recalibrate” relations with China. Plus: Marine Le Pen’s trial threatens to shake up France’s presidential election. Then: How fashion houses are changing film and Turkish Airlines’ Murat Şeker on balancing global risks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Iran protests continue, is US intervention likely? Plus: Myanmar’s election and the fall of Saks

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:35:27 +0000

The latest from Tehran as protests enter a third week and US president Donald Trump warns that Washington is ready to intervene. Plus: Myanmar heads to the polls, Nato’s position on Greenland, Nordic news, the Golden Globes and our chairman Tyler Brûlé on the fall of luxury retailer Saks.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Europe’s relationship with South America on the line in Mercosur trade deal

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 08:21:12 +0000

A long-anticipated trade deal with South American trading bloc Mercosur hangs in the balance as the EU tries to overcome France’s strong objections. With French farmers taking to the streets, we explore what’s at stake during an extremely sensitive time for Latin America.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US seizes Russian-flagged oil tanker in the Atlantic with ties to Venezuela

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:32:37 +0000

We discuss the seizure of the Marinera oil tanker, its Russia connection and how much this escalates the situation beyond Venezuela and the West. As Donald Trump announces an oil deal, how co-operative is the new Venezuelan regime going to be with US demands?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine ‘declaration of intent’ signed in Paris

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:26:23 +0000

UK and France agree to send troops to Ukraine if a peace deal is reached, Thailand accuses Cambodia of truce violation and Berlin’s ongoing blackout after infrastructure attack. Plus: the French antidote to Dry January.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maduro appears in US court and Trump doubles down on Iran protest intervention

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 08:19:17 +0000

The latest reactions as Venezuela’s ousted Nicolás Maduro appears in Manhattan court and Trump renews his threat to intervene in Iran’s ongoing protests. And: Portugal’s presidential campaign kicks off. Plus: the movement to undam the world’s rivers and a look ahead to Pitti Uomo in Florence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela and the ‘Donroe Doctrine’: What happened and who’s next?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:24:20 +0000

After the weekend’s stunning display of Trumpian foreign policy, we explore US plans for Venezuela, as well as global and market reactions. Plus: wooden architecture makes a comeback in Japan and return-to-work fashions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday 2 January

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:54:51 +0000

Georgina Godwin delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A look ahead to 2026

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 07:40:00 +0000

We discuss what 2026 has in store. Gorana Grgic on the future of Europe's security landscape. Then: We review Pope Leo XIV's first year and discuss his next steps with Juliet Linley. Plus: Monocle's upcoming travel plans.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday 31 December

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 07:44:18 +0000

Emma Nelson delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday 30 December

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:41:03 +0000

Georgina Godwin delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday 29 December

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:02:02 +0000

Georgina Godwin delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The year in fashion, design and hospitality

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 07:35:00 +0000

We recap the biggest design events of the year with Grace Charlton and Nic Monisse and unpack 2025's travel trends Plus: We meet the CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, Chris Hartley, at ILTM in Cannes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The year in culture

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 07:35:00 +0000

In this special episode, we explore the year that was in film and theatre. Plus: Wine recommendations for the holidays with Chloé Lake, including the sparkling stuff to toast the new year.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The year in global affairs

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 07:40:00 +0000

A special episode dedicated to the biggest stories in affairs and diplomacy from around the globe.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday 23 December

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:54:53 +0000

Georgina Godwin delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday 22 December

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 07:51:40 +0000

Emma Nelson delivers Monocle Radio's essential weekday news show, anchored from Midori House in London.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shifting Western priorities, from Europe and the US to Asia

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:26:25 +0000

We assess the US defence authorisation bill and the EU summit in Brussels. Plus: an update on the Bondi Beach attack, a rail corridor for Angola and Andrew Mueller’s ‘What We Learned’ for the year.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The EU decides on Russia’s assets, France’s social security vote and bartenders wanted in Saudi Arabia

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:20:56 +0000

European leaders vote on whether to use Russia’s frozen assets to help Ukraine, France’s social security bill and the end of Air Albania. Plus: newspapers, musician Tiago Caetano and bartenders wanted in Saudi Arabia.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Europe establishes a Ukraine war damages body, Christmas returns to Bethlehem and aviation news

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:09:01 +0000

The latest on Ukraine’s peace plan, Christmas celebrations return to Bethlehem, new cultural platform ‘Der Pavilion’ in St Moritz, Brazilian telenovelas head to the US and aviation news.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How will the Bondi beach attack affect the security landscape?

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:13:59 +0000

As authorities stand accused of lax security at Bondi Beach, we assess what could have been done differently. Plus: Ukraine talks in Berlin and why France is delaying an EU trade deal with Latin American nations.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How will Australia cope with the Bondi beach shooting?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:42:48 +0000

As Australians grieve yesterday’s shooting at Bondi beach, how will the government respond to the crisis? Nick Bryant, Latika Bourke and Allison Kaplan Summer weigh in. Plus: Chile election results and Jimmy Lai’s verdict.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The global reaction as the US seizes a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Caracas accuses the US of “theft” and “international piracy” after its forces seize an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China-Japan tensions: Why the US is backing Japan

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:12:00 +0000

Why the US is backing Japan after Chinese radars locked on to Japanese jets at the weekend. And: Belgrade is finally getting a metro – but will it arrive on time?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lithuania sounds the alarm over Belarussian balloons. Is Europe still too soft on provocation?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:26:39 +0000

Belarussian weather balloons are testing the patience of Nato member Lithuania, with the latest incursion raising fresh security concerns and prompting the government to declare a nationwide emergency. Monocle’s Andrew Mueller and exiled Belarussian journalist Hanna Liubakova discuss how much harassment Europe is prepared to tolerate from a Moscow ally.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine peace talks, Beijing might be about to sit down with Taiwan and aviation news

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:24:31 +0000

Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky sits down with European leaders, Xi Jinping could be about to meet Taiwan’s government and Paramount launches a cash offer for Warner Bros. Plus: Aviation news and Corinthia Hotels at ILTM.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Syria marks a year since the fall of Bashar al-Assad

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 08:27:57 +0000

As Syrians celebrate ‘Liberation Day’, we get the mood on the ground in Damascus and assess how far the country has come. Then: Hong Kong’s local elections in the wake of deadly fires and the future of Hollywood as Netflix buys Warner Bros Discovery. Plus: Monocle’s Christmas market in Paris.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Putin in India and what Mogherini’s fraud accusation means for EU trust

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:19:34 +0000

We discuss what’s on the agenda as Putin meets Modi in India. Then: the potential fallout for Ursula von der Leyen as the EU’s former chief diplomat, Federica Mogherini, is accused of fraud. Plus: we speak to the winner of The Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for Comic Fiction.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eyes on Venezuela and the search for MH370 will resume

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 08:44:55 +0000

We assess the situation in Venezuela as US assets build up in the Caribbean and Trump shows no sign of backing down. Then: the search for Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 will resume more than a decade after it vanished. Plus: we’re in Cannes for the International Luxury Travel Market.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emmanuel Macron’s balancing act on his state visit to China

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:15:34 +0000

Can Emmanuel Macron strike a balance with Beijing on his state visit? Then: The US carried out a deadly “double tap” strike on a Venezuelan boat but who was responsible for the order? Plus: The top global cities for cyclists.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pope Leo’s last day in Lebanon and the Monocle book on Switzerland

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:16:25 +0000

We assess the impact of Pope Leo’s first foreign trip to Turkey and Lebanon. Then: the history of democracy in Gdańsk as Polish prime minister Donald Tusk and German chancellor Friedrich Merz meet in Berlin. Plus: we dive into Monocle’s new Switzerland handbook.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The spotlight is back on Ukraine’s corruption scandal – what does this mean for peace?

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:16:10 +0000

As Ukraine's corruption scandal makes headlines again, we unpack what this means for the prospect of peace. Then: We sit down with with New Zealand’s former prime minister Jacinda Ardern. Plus: News from the Mediterranean.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is Washington so interested in Honduras's presidential election?

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:30:24 +0000

Hondurans head to the polls on Sunday to vote for a new president – we unpack Washington's keen interest. Then: The reaction from France as Macron announces a voluntary military-service plan. Plus: Tyler Brûlé looks ahead to Monocle's Christmas Markets, which begin this weekend in Zürich.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The future of a nuclear deal and Russia’s path to democracy

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:15:09 +0000

We get the latest as French and Iranian officials work through a nuclear standoff and prisoner dilemma. Then: Pope Leo XIV heads to Turkey on his first foreign trip. Plus: how to make a Thanksgiving feast with an international flair.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicolás Maduro’s terrorist group designation and modern space woes

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:17:29 +0000

Donald Trump labels Venezuela president Nicolás Maduro the head of a terrorist organisation. What does this mean for the South American country? Plus: why do modern space missions seem to be struggling?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sudan rejects a US-led ceasefire plan and Salone del Mobile debuts in Riyadh

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:12:53 +0000

Sudan’s army chief dismisses the latest ceasefire proposal as “the worst yet”. What will this mean for the country’s expanding war? Then we flip through the Nordic newspapers and head to Riyadh for a new edition of Salone del Mobile.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What next in the White House’s renewed push for peace in Ukraine?

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:24:40 +0000

We assess the negotiations behind the Trump administration’s 28-point peace plan for Ukraine and ask whether Republika Srpska's presidential election can actually bring change? Plus: The 11th Explorers Festival in Húsavík.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Johannesburg braces for G20 summit protests

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:30:29 +0000

As leaders and diplomats from more than 40 nations arrive in South Africa for a historic G20 summit, the Trump administration’s decision to skip the event is raising eyebrows. With demonstrations expected, we discuss the stakes and what Africa’s first-ever G20 summit could mean for the continent.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s next for Kosovo as it fails again to pick a prime minister?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:13:28 +0000

For a second time, Kosovo’s parliament has failed to elect a prime minister. We assess the implications for the region.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Poland rail blast spotlights Russian sabotage in Europe and Zelensky goes to Turkey

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:43:59 +0000

Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, accuses Russia of an unprecedented act of sabotage. How dangerous a game is Russia playing here? Meanwhile: Zelensky heads to Turkey for talks with president Erdoğan and US envoy Steve Witkoff – but without Russia’s participation. Plus: Zürich’s Christmas market comes to Paris.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why South Korea is proposing military talks with North Korea

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:23:22 +0000

In recent months, rocket testing and loudspeaker broadcasts have been added to the list of border incursions in South Korea by North Korean troops. We consider whether military talks could offer a solution.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How close is too close for Germany and China? Beijing meeting sets the stage

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:44:49 +0000

German finance minister Lars Klingbeil travels to Beijing at a time of serious questions about just how reliant Germany’s economy is on China. Plus: Andrew Ross Sorkin on the next financial bubble, Pope Leo goes to Hollywood and Shezad Dawood on using art to profile the environment.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Swiss negotiators seal a new trade deal with the US?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:36:22 +0000

Switzerland’s hopes rise for tariff relief as talks in Washington intensify. Plus: Chile prepares for a lurch to the right in Sunday’s elections. And: the winner of the Latte Art Grading System World Championship.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela prepares for a US attack and tariffs slam the brakes on Japanese carmakers

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:21:26 +0000

Venezuela is preparing guerrilla-style resistance in the case of a US attack and the UK halts some intelligence-sharing with Washington over increasingly unpredictable offensives in the Caribbean. Then: Saudi Arabia hosts Tourise. Plus: Japan’s carmakers feel the sting of US tariffs.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iraq’s parliamentary elections and a new EU intelligence unit

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:19:56 +0000

Iraq holds parliamentary elections plagued by political boycotts and voter disillusionment. Can they buck the trend? Then: will a new EU intelligence community secure the bloc’s international standing? Plus: the latest aviation news and Abu Dhabi’s cultural offerings.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine’s energy companies fighting to keep heat and electricity running

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:17:16 +0000

We explore life on the ground in Ukraine with a charity founder and the business editor of the ‘Kyiv Independent’ as Russian attacks limit the country’s ability to provide heat and electricity to its citizens. Plus: The Booker Prize winner and Christie’s London head of jewellery.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Syria announces itself on the international stage: Ahmed Al-Sharaa at the White House after sanctions lifted

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:21:13 +0000

Syria’s leader can celebrate the UN Security Council lifting sanctions, just ahead of his visit to the White House today. Plus: We ask the founders of A Land for All: is there is a better two-state solution for the Middle East? Also: Baillie Gifford Prize winner Helen Garner.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Viktor Orbán at the White House: can Hungary’s PM avoid the bear in the room?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:12:54 +0000

Donald Trump hosts Hungary’s prime minister, who hopes that Russian oil won’t be on the meeting agenda. Plus: What next for Hamas, news from the Mediterranean and can you guess the Louvre’s password?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Morocco celebrates as the world gambles with Western Sahara peace

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:21:59 +0000

Morocco has declared a national holiday after UN powers recognised its plans for Western Sahara. But what if the Trump administration and others miscalculated in the name of peace? Plus: why the Summit of the Americas is cancelled and the latest from World Travel Market.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does Russia care so much about the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:16:44 +0000

We discuss the significance of the fierce battles around the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. Plus: the results of a series of US elections, the State of Asia conference in Zürich and the Tokyo International Film Festival comes to a close.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s in a name? Taiwan’s recognition in Estonia hits a snag

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:27:41 +0000

Taiwan’s ongoing battle for resignation has stalled in Estonia over the naming of its representation. Plus: The director of Dubai Design Week, Natasha Carella; and OK Go frontman Damian Kulash on why the music video lives on.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Novi Sad anniversary protests and Australia’s historic state treaty

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:22:47 +0000

Serbians gather in Novi Sad for protests marking a year since the station-canopy collapse that killed 16 people. Plus: US nuclear testing, Victoria’s Indigenous treaty, London’s oldest Islamic bookshop and theatre news.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 12 out of 10 meeting: Trump lowers tariffs on China, Xi cuts rare earth controls

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:17:23 +0000

After a meeting between the leaders of the world’s two biggest economies seems to go better than expected, we discuss the ramifications for the world.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump and Xi meet in Seoul and raids in Rio de Janeiro

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 08:21:44 +0000

Presidents Trump and Xi hold a consequential meeting in Seoul to iron out trade relations. Is progress possible? Plus: police raids rip through Rio de Janeiro and the Dutch election results. Then: are you faster than the Slovakian pedestrian speed limit?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dutch elections, Lebanon seeks to disarm Hezbollah and the US government shutdown’s impact on aviation

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 08:18:23 +0000

Dutch voters head to the polls, Lebanon’s race to disarm Hezbollah, Australia’s PM heads to Malaysia and the US government shutdown’s impact on aviation. Plus: the ‘Perfume, sculpture of the invisible’ exhibition in Paris.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump says he will solve the Afghanistan-Pakistan crisis ‘very quickly’. Plus: Europe’s rival to Starlink

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:14:58 +0000

Peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan continue. Will Trump’s intervention help? Then: Canada’s ambitions for a trade agreement with the Philippines. Plus: European aerospace companies look to build a rival to Elon Musk’s Starlink.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asean leaders meet and Pope Leo heads to Turkey

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 08:35:10 +0000

The Asean summit kicks off in Kuala Lumpur as the world watches trade negotiations between China and the US. Then: Argentinians head to the polls, Pope Leo embarks on his first foreign trip and we take you to the Helsinki Book Fair.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EU and US sanctions on Russia, Art Basel Paris and tariffs’ impact on the superyacht industry

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:14:08 +0000

Moscow is hit with new sanctions from the EU and the US, we explore Art Basel Paris, hear how tariffs are reshaping the superyacht industry and get the latest business news. Plus: newspapers and ‘What We Learned’ this week.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EU leaders meet to discuss Ukraine, the Middle East and ‘simplification’

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:15:47 +0000

We discuss the European Council meeting and what’s on the agenda for today’s high-profile talks. Plus: Ramaphosa’s Asia tour, Germany takes on AI, the soft power of football and food news from Tokyo.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Erdoğan embarks on Gulf tour pursuing a deal with Qatar to buy used Eurofighter Typhoons

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:28:17 +0000

Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, visits the Gulf, Japan stocks hit record high and the Berlin Process Summit 2025 begins. Plus: The rise of microdramas.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.