The Christian Science Monitor Daily Podcast

After decades of conflict, Iraqis have enjoyed increased political stability and a promising future, even embracing a unified national identity. But attacks by Iran, the United States, and homegrown militias are tugging at the divides that had held Iraq back. Also: today's stories, including how MAGA voters are throwing their support behind the Iran war, despite strident criticism from some conservative commentators; how government UFO records and films exploring out-of-this-world connections are renewing attention on the question of whether humankind is truly alone in the universe; and how Haiti's 'Resistance Artists' believe in new beginnings. Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

President Donald Trump has been pressuring the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. But the Iran war and surging oil prices are complicating the economic picture, prompting the U.S. central bank to hold rates steady. Also: today's stories, including a look at how U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees are seeking relief during another funding shutdown; how U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is assessing the Iran war; and how a growing court backlog is delaying justice in India. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

Israel's claim to have killed Ali Larijani, a pivotal Iranian leader, served only to escalate the crisis atmosphere that Iranians are feeling: How to cope and envision a future, while facing crushing U.S.-Israeli attacks and a rigid regime that sees protesters as “just like the enemy”? Also: today's stories, including how Israelis acknowledge war fatigue's toll even as they want arch foe Iran to be defeated; how U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran have had wide impacts on the Middle East — and the U.S. budget; and how in Nigeria, Hoomsen Women Farmers Shepwan Cooperative Society are helping women obtain ownership of land plots. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Iran has shown they can do a lot of damage to United States and Israeli assets – and regional allies in the Gulf – via missile and drone attacks. But one country can offer its deep experience on how to counter such a blitz: Ukraine. Also: today's stories, including why President Donald Trump's appeal for assistance in reopening the Strait of Hormuz has not been well-received by allies; how a leadership change is underway at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at a critical time for the agency; and how, despite economic insecurity and a violent conflict fueled by the resurgence of the M23, in the Congo, children there have found a lifeline in dance. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

The Persian Gulf region is a vital source of oil and gas for the global economy. But the war in Iran is putting scarce water resources for the parched populations there in jeopardy, too. Also: today's stories, including how Asian countries are forced to make do with oil supplies; our critic's take on which films should be nominated for an Oscar; and a Monitor contributor's tale of her family car and the milestones it has seen. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

If the United States expected Iran to capitulate by now, it refuses to do so. Instead, it is pursuing a survival strategy of fighting on and selecting targets to raise the war's costs so high that the U.S. and Israel would think twice before attacking again. Also: today's stories, including how the disruption of oil-tanker traffic is becoming increasingly urgent for the global economy; how a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing housing affordability that passed through the U.S. Senate could hit a snag in the House of Representatives; and whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can declare victory without a regime change in Iran, despite it being his goal in the war. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

American farmers are seeing fertilizer prices spike as supply is choked off by Iran's threats to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, in response to attacks by the U.S. and Israel. It's a sign of how the war is affecting the global economy – including spring planting. Also: today's stories, including how African students in Iran are finding themselves increasingly affected as the conflict widens; how higher education institutions are tightening their fundraising practices in the wake of the Epstein files; and how “Sinners” has added to the cultural dialogue around what makes a great movie and who gets to make it. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's tone in his public statements about the war in Iran is drawing criticism that it glorifies violence and is posturing that runs counter to professional soldiering. Also: today's stories, including a look at Japan's return to nuclear energy, 11 years after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident; how as the UK's Labour Party tacks right, the Green Party is scooping up its spurned voters; and how locals in Jordan are inviting stranded foreigners to “break-the-fast” evening Ramadan meals amid the stress of war. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Choosing continuity amid war, Iran named Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, despite President Donald Trump's criticism and Israel's threats. He has a hard-liner's pedigree, but will his tenure be confrontational, or aimed at broadening internal support for the regime? Also: today's stories, including why oil prices spiked to near $120 per barrel Monday before retreating below $100; why 17 candidates are competing in Tuesday's special election for Georgia's 14th Congressional District; and why Balendra Shah is on track to become Nepal's next prime minister. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Once again, a crisis in the Middle East has the U.S. appealing for military help from the stateless Kurds, this time as boots-on-the-ground proxies in Iran. Affecting any desire to contribute is the memory of letdowns after vital roles played in Iraq and Syria. Also in today's stories: why Kristi Noem lost President Trump's trust; how war in Iran adds to existing strains on U.S. employment; and contributor Murr Brewster shares her enduring love of libraries. Join the Monitor's Stephanie Hanes for today's news.

The U.S. and Israeli leaders have made it clear they want regime change in Iran. But the Islamic Republic had prepared for this day, with a political succession plan and a battlefield strategy. The result so far is Iranian confidence, despite the existential threat of the war. Also: today's stories, including how the Iran conflict is generating criticism from many prominent MAGA commentators; why the U.S. is blocking oil shipments to Cuba; and how some Democrats seek to reclaim a moderate version of Christianity to attract voters they've lost to Republicans. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Gulf Arab states lobbied hard for the United States to engage in talks with Iran. Yet in the war, 1,800 Iranian missiles and drones have been intercepted in Gulf airspace, with hundreds breaking through. The Gulf is being transformed by conflict. Will that last? Also: today's stories, including how America's recent strikes on Iran have underscored the task of ensuring the safety of U.S. citizens abroad during the escalating conflict; a look at the results of Texas' primary elections, and what lies ahead for the candidates; and how, in Nepal, the country's first elections since protests overthrew the government are a reason for some youth to stay. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

For many Iranian opponents of the regime, news of the supreme leader's death at the start of the new war brought elation. But, says a Tehran student who risked his life in protests before the war, there are concerns that the job of regime change is incomplete. Also: today's stories, including how the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran are sending political ripples through Congress; a look at how a partial U.S. government shutdown is affecting TSA; and how China is engaged in a huge nuclear weapons expansion, growing the size and capabilities of its arsenal. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

Airstrikes against Iran were effective in the early days of the mission. But there's more to do – both offensively and defensively – if the U.S. hopes to crack Iran's regime. Also: today's stories, including what's at stake for global oil prices as the Iran conflict escalates; a look at a hardball battle for the Republican U.S. Senate nomination in Texas; and how Mexico's diplomatic support to Cuba has long boosted the communist island. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

For former President Bill Clinton, who left office 25 years ago, the impact of the Epstein scandal may only further damage his image, particularly among younger Democrats, amid changing mores around sexual misconduct by powerful men. Also: today's stories, including, how in Boston, a Monitor reporter set off to find out what cities do with an abundance of snow; how India has increasingly used cricket as an extension of its foreign policy with Pakistan; and how a contributing writer finds respite in his postcard pastime despite living in a digital world. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

President Donald Trump has issued executive orders on voting, and his administration is suing states that have refused to turn over voter rolls. Congress has taken up legislation that would require proof of citizenship for voter registration. Last month, the FBI raided an election center in Georgia as part of a criminal investigation into the 2020 election. Also: today's stories, including how students in Iran have courageously protested for days despite leadership claims; how in a politically red Texas, Democrats have hope in the upcoming primaries; and how the misconduct investigation into the former Prince Andrew is putting the British monarchy under a harsh glare. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

President Donald Trump's brief mention of Iran in his State of the Union address was still short of a complete argument for how and why striking Iran, which would risk a wider Middle East conflict, would further U.S. interests. Also: today's stories, including how U.S. President Donald Trump's new retirement plan builds on a bipartisan model; what Trump's view of U.S. military power could mean for Iran-US talks; and how some prominent U.S. universities are paring back campus spending in response to endowment tax hikes. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

The United States has amassed the largest force since the war in Iraq. Iran threatens an all-out response to any attack, even if limited. As they prepare for nuclear diplomacy in Geneva to avoid conflict, each side appears to be misreading the other. Also: today's stories, including how as the world fights over Greenland, its people double down on their own values; a look at space-based data centers; and how mobile libraries are upending the belief among many Pakistanis that reading is a pastime reserved for the elite. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

President Donald Trump tried to respond boldly with new tariffs to counter a Supreme Court ruling that went against him. But the White House's economic calculus is in flux as global leaders reconsider trade deals. Also: today's stories, including how violence that often follows the takedown of a drug cartel leader is a public reminder that peace might not be imminent; how some economists see income taxes as a drag on productivity; and how one Monitor reporter fell in love with the roses in the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

President Donald Trump tried to respond boldly with new tariffs to counter a Supreme Court ruling that went against him. But the White House's economic calculus is in flux as global leaders reconsider trade deals. Also: today's stories, including how violence that often follows the takedown of a drug cartel leader is a public reminder that peace might not be imminent; how some economists see income taxes as a drag on productivity; and how one Monitor reporter fell in love with the roses in the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

The hostages, living and dead, are home, yet the war in Gaza is unfinished business for Israelis. As the country pivots toward election-year politics, how is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's refusal to authorize an independent state inquiry into Oct. 7 playing? Also: today's stories, including why the Supreme Court struck down the Trump administration's use of an emergency economic law to set broad tariffs; how schools that support undergraduates' basic needs are reporting better retention and achievement rates; and our reviewers' favorite books of February. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Artificial intelligence is developing so rapidly that some industry insiders fear safety concerns aren't getting enough attention. That's sparking conversation about how to balance innovation, competition, and safeguards. Also: today's stories, including how recent internet blackouts in Iran, Uganda, and beyond highlight a new front emerging in conflicts around the world; how missing the Winter Olympics podium can be the motivation athletes need to do better next time; and how a great “de-risking” is underway among some of the oldest allies of the United States, writes our columnist. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

President Donald Trump's Board of Peace is convening amid doubts about this approach to diplomacy. Muslim and Arab countries, hoping to influence Gaza's path forward, have signed on. Western democracies, wary of further weakening international institutions, are staying away. Also: today's stories, including how refugees in Minnesota are challenging the Trump administration; a look at some Democratic U.S. governors emerging as top contenders for their party's 2028 presidential nomination; and how India wants to shape the AI era – not just service it. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Ukraine and Russia may be at the negotiating table, but for the Ukrainian public, the idea of giving up territory for peace is still anathema. What would make Ukrainians consider such concessions? Guarantees of security against future Russian aggression. Also: today's stories, including how yellow cement blocks demarcating Israeli-held territory in Gaza are making Palestinians feel trapped; how women Olympians are making their mark in the Winter Games at ages well past what is considered the prime for elite athletes; and how support for tribal members has surged among residents of the Twin Cities. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

Recent votes on tariffs and blunt public criticisms signal a GOP that's more willing to defy President Donald Trump – and worried about this fall's midterm elections. Also: today's stories, including a look at community ski hills in New Hampshire; how British politicians are finding no place to hide in the wake of the Epstein files; and why Democrats are pressing for immigration enforcement reform as a Department of Homeland Security shutdown nears. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

As U.S. and European security officials gather for key meetings this week, leaders are taking steps to navigate shifts in the traditional transatlantic alliance. Also: today's stories, including: why the Trump administration is rescinding a rule that enables the EPA to regulate greenhouse gases; how a Portuguese election hints at the potential limits of U.S. President Donald Trump's brand of far-right populism in Europe; and a look at the International Olympic Committee's decision to ban a Ukrainian Olympian trying to honor those who had lost their lives at home during the Winter Games. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The release of documents surrounding sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has stirred massive media attention, but it remains unclear if prosecutions will result. Instead of the files providing clarity, one result so far is a frenzy of speculation and conspiracy theories. Also: today's stories, including why a positive January jobs report leaves economists uncertain; why women are notably absent from this week's ballots in Bangladesh; and the importance of this year's location for the Winter Olympics. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

As Iran urges attendance at rallies Wednesday marking the anniversary of the revolution, many citizens could not be further estranged. On one side are grieving families and others infuriated by the regime's brutality, and on the other, officials who voice no expressions of regret. Also: today's stories, including how upcoming elections offer a chance for a democratic reset in Bangladesh; how AI-generated music, writing, and images are generating questions about the nature and source of creativity itself; and how joy was the point for skiers flying through the air at the Livigno Snow Park on Tuesday afternoon. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

The SAVE Act would require Americans to prove citizenship before voting in federal elections, and Republicans are eyeing a new strategy to advance it. Opponents say it would disenfranchise millions. Also: today's stories, including how some Olympic athletes want to preserve artistry in the quest for “faster, higher, stronger” maneuvers; whether Brazil's leftist leader can stay on Donald Trump's good side; and how thousands of dogs and people convened in Colorado for the “world's largest unofficial gathering” of golden retrievers. Join the Monitor's Story Hinckley for today's news.

The SAVE Act would require Americans to prove citizenship before voting in federal elections, and Republicans are eyeing a new strategy to advance it. Opponents say it would disenfranchise millions. Also: today's stories, including how some Olympic athletes want to preserve artistry in the quest for “faster, higher, stronger” maneuvers; whether Brazil's leftist leader can stay on Donald Trump's good side; and how thousands of dogs and people convened in Colorado for the “world's largest unofficial gathering” of golden retrievers. Join the Monitor's Story Hinckley for today's news.

Prediction markets, where people can bet on outcomes of real-world events, often forecast better than traditional polls. But the evolving markets also raise concerns about cheating and corrosion of trust. Also: today's stories, including why Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and her party are expected to sweep in Japan's upcoming election, what one Monitor correspondent recalls from past Winter Olympics coverage, and why USPS chose poet Phillis Wheatley for the latest stamp in its Black Heritage series. Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

U.S.-Iran talks set for Friday were briefly canceled, then revived, at the urging of Arab governments. But the two adversaries' preferred agendas are very different. Amid reciprocal threats, does each side have a realistic grasp of what is at stake? Also: today's stories, including how pricey offerings aimed at the wealthy have changed football fans' stadium experiences; how the International Olympic Committee is testing an affordable approach for host cities; and our film critic's take on the Cannes favorite, “The President's Cake.” Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

U.S.-Iran talks set for Friday were briefly canceled, then revived, at the urging of Arab governments. But the two adversaries' preferred agendas are very different. Amid reciprocal threats, does each side have a realistic grasp of what is at stake? Also: today's stories, including how pricey offerings aimed at the wealthy have changed football fans' stadium experiences; how the International Olympic Committee is testing an affordable approach for host cities; and our film critic's take on the Cannes favorite, “The President's Cake.” Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

Reforms following Watergate strengthened the Justice Department's independence and restored public confidence. Now, amid the Trump administration's pressure on DOJ norms, polls show that half of Americans doubt that federal law enforcement is fair and impartial. Also: today's stories, including why a Reagan-appointed judge resigned over actions by the Trump Administration, why the United States needs to replenish its weapons stockpile, and what role India could play in the emerging global order. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

After more than a decade of economic crisis and authoritarian rule in Venezuela, President Donald Trump and Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez are banking on oil for the success of their political futures. But that may not be enough for Venezuelans who want more than just economic relief. Also: today's stories, including how Republicans are pushing back as Democrats target Department of Homeland Security funding; how Russian forces have been advancing in Ukraine; and how bipartisan opposition to massive data centers is playing out in Wisconsin. Join the Monitor's Scott Baldauf for today's news.

After more than a decade of economic crisis and authoritarian rule in Venezuela, President Donald Trump and Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez are banking on oil for the success of their political futures. But that may not be enough for Venezuelans who want more than just economic relief. Also: today's stories, including how Republicans are pushing back as Democrats target Department of Homeland Security funding; how Russian forces have been advancing in Ukraine; and how bipartisan opposition to massive data centers is playing out in Wisconsin. Join the Monitor's Scott Baldauf for today's news.

In cases that haven't gotten a national spotlight, U.S. citizens and legal residents say they've been injured by federal immigration enforcement personnel. Their lawyers say these cases are part of a rise in the use of excessive force, tied to the administration's efforts to detain and deport unauthorized immigrants. Also: today's stories, including how one bridge challenges President Donald Trump's view that Canada is freeloading; and how schoolchildren may see food and fitness change through the “Make America Healthy Again” movement; how in at least one part of the city, Cape Town's gangs face a formidable foe: the neighborhood “aunties.” Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

President Donald Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh to head the Federal Reserve calmed markets, but the former member of the board of governors could also set the Fed on a new course. Also: today's stories, including how an electoral victory in Myanmar offers hope to some for the restoration of democratic norms; a theme of resistance from 1960s Mississippi to 2020s Minnesota civil rights protest history, as examined by our cultural commentator; and one essayist's take that winter has much more to offer than snow and slush. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

President Donald Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh to head the Federal Reserve calmed markets, but the former member of the board of governors could also set the Fed on a new course. Also: today's stories, including how an electoral victory in Myanmar offers hope to some for the restoration of democratic norms; a theme of resistance from 1960s Mississippi to 2020s Minnesota civil rights protest history, as examined by our cultural commentator; and one essayist's take that winter has much more to offer than snow and slush. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Amassing military forces and bolstered by Iran's perceived vulnerability, President Donald Trump says “time is running out.” Replying with threats of its own, the Islamic Republic is trying to restore its deterrence and survive what it realizes is an existential challenge. Also: today's stories, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's appearance at the Monitor Breakfast; how members of the public and lawmakers are investigating use of force by local and federal law enforcement in the U.S.; and whether President Donald Trump's energy policy cedes the future of energy production to China Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

The seizure of Nicolás Maduro has encouraged Venezuelans, especially in terms of economic growth, but they are unsure what it means for the state of democracy in the South American nation. Also: today's stories, including how the U.S.' National Defense Strategy is pledging “more limited” U.S. support to friendly nations and deterring China “through strength, not confrontation”; how, for a group of young musicians in the Republic of Congo, their orchestra is a cherished opportunity of a lifetime; and our immigration reporter offers more information about the roles various federal agencies play in immigration enforcement. Join the Monitor's Victoria Hoffmann for today's news.

Alex Pretti was a lawful gun owner, and not brandishing his weapon, when he was disarmed and then fatally shot by federal agents. The resulting controversy focuses on an incident that appears to contradict decades of conservatives' efforts to legitimize public gun carry. Also: today's stories, including how despite billions in foreign aid to Haiti, life for most Haitians hasn't improved; how many in Pakistan worry the government has made a Faustian pact by joining Trump's “Board of Peace"; and how Democrats now say securing Department of Homeland Security reforms is worth the price of a government shutdown. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Videos of incidents like the recent Minneapolis shootings can be ambiguous, but they can also help determine the narrative most people believe. In the Alex Pretti case, the Trump administration's description of what happened conflicted with what people saw from witness recordings. Also: today's stories, including how, despite Beijing's campaign to encourage women to have more children, new data shows China's population decline is accelerating; how populism can awaken a nation to concerns ignored by elites, but also unravel institutions; and how, in novelist Val McDermid's newest book, winter comforts offer a respite from Scotland's short days and long nights. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

After a lightning military advance in Kurdish-held northeastern Syria, Damascus is demanding that the Kurdish-led SDF, a key U.S. ally in the fight against ISIS, agree to integrate into the national army. The United States has thrown its support behind a unified Syria. Also: today's stories, including why the Pentagon is changing Stars and Stripes' independent status, one man's journey from a poor Russian village boy to custodian of state secrets, and our essayist's advice for when the world's worries threaten to weigh you down. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Former special counsel Jack Smith's efforts to prosecute Donald Trump for trying to overturn the 2020 election results ended more than a year ago. But political partisanship around the issue remains strong – and was on display as Mr. Smith made his first public comments on the case during a House hearing. Also: today's stories, including a look at how some voters now disapprove of President Trump's handling of immigration, why winter has been an added hardship for displaced Palestinians, and how the dispute over Greenland generated mistrust between Washington and its European allies. Join the Monitor's Audrey Thibert for today's news.

Money matters have driven foreign policy throughout history. But President Donald Trump's oil moves in Venezuela may hint at a new era of unapologetic grabs for economic power, causing growing resentment – even among allies. Also: today's stories, including why SCOTUS is skeptical of President Trump's attempt to remove a member of the Federal Reserve Board, why China is raising its retirement age for the first time in 70 years, and a look at how The Patriotic Citizen Initiatives shelter gives male migrants in Nigeria. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

With President Donald Trump adamant that the U.S. must acquire Greenland, Europe is at a crossroads. The economic tools it has to dissuade Mr. Trump are strong, but slow to roll out. And if Europe does push back, it risks injuring itself, too. Also: today's stories, including how five Central Asian nations that all rely on water from regional glaciers appear set to move past bickering and instead share a negotiated usage; how the Trump administration's cuts and changes to the federal workforce have forced groups to reckon with new norms for outstanding public service; and how Mr. Trump's focus on Greenland has shaken the NATO alliance and put the entire world on notice. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

A brutal Iranian crackdown has appeared to quash most protests, and officials are seeking to portray a sense of “national solidarity.” But images and eyewitness accounts of shocking “atrocities” are accumulating that paint a different picture. Also: today's stories, including a look at how U.S. President Donald Trump may respond to protests in Iran; how Ukrainian citizens are being put to the test by Russian air attacks against energy infrastructure; and our review of the Dolly Parton biography, “Ain't Nobody's Fool.” Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Some businesses in Minneapolis and other cities are refusing entry to federal immigration officers, reflecting local dissatisfaction with the Trump administration's deportation campaign as tensions continue to escalate. Also: today's stories, including how the formation of the apolitical Palestinian committee was greeted with skepticism and hope in Gaza; how Europe and the U.S. are handling AI chatbot Grok's “deepfake” images of women and children differently; and how historic protests in Iran are showing more parallels with another uprising nearly 50 years ago. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The United States has attempted to annex Greenland several times in the past. But it also has a history of cooperation with Denmark on Greenland's security – so much so that it's dubious that direct control would be better for U.S. defense. Also: today's stories, including how young voters in Uganda must decide between a 40-something former pop star and a sitting president in his 80s; how a spat over Yemen has spiraled into what is being called a diplomatic “divorce” between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia; and how the presence of Cuban nationals in Venezuela shows Cuba's soft power in Venezuela and elsewhere. Join the Monitor's Christa Case Bryant for today's news.

There's a difference between constitutionally protected free speech and acts of civil disobedience that could lead to arrests. Still, it's not clear that Renee Good in Minneapolis was interfering illegally with ICE operations. And civil disobedience isn't terrorism under traditional definitions. Also: today's stories, including how the Trump White House wants to make sure Smithsonian museum exhibits conform to its ideology; how efforts to diversify rare earth supply chains are bringing new attention to war-ravaged Myanmar; and how since the start of the war in Ukraine and Western sanctions, getting from Russia to the rest of Europe has become a frustration. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.