The Global Story

This week, some of the world's most influential comedians have travelled to Saudi Arabia, for comedy festival organized by the government of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The bill for the Riyadh Comedy Festival includes superstars like Aziz Ansari, Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Louis CK. And the event has attracted significant backlash, with critics accusing the participating comedians of helping Saudi Arabia to “comedy-wash” its record on human rights and free speech. We speak to the comedian Gianmarco Soresi, who has been highly critical of peers who chose to play the festival, and from BBC security correspondent and resident Saudi Arabia expert, Frank Gardner. Producers: Xandra Ellin and Valerio Esposito Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins

On Monday, President Trump outlined his proposal for a peace deal in Gaza, a moment he described as ‘potentially one of the great days ever in civilisation'. In a press conference announcing the plan, the President name-dropped Sir Tony Blair and said the former UK Prime Minister would have a key role in the governance of post-war Gaza. Blair has been part of high-level talks with the US and other parties about ending the conflict. To many in the Middle East he remains a divisive figure who is remembered primarily for his role in the US-led invasion of Iraq. So how did Blair become a central figure in this latest plan to end the war in Gaza, and what does this tell us about diplomacy under Trump 2.0? Asma Khalid speaks to the BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale, who charts the story of Blair's involvement in the Middle East and his warm relationship with President Trump.Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Viv Jones Senior news editor: China Collins Mix: Travis Evans Picture: Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair. Credit: Victoria Jones/PA Wire

After getting the red-carpet treatment at the UN in New York last week, the former al-Qaeda fighter who now leads Syria is about to hold an election. But is Syria's new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, really about to transition the country into democracy? Or does he have other plans? The BBC's senior international correspondent Orla Guerin joins us from Damascus, where she's been speaking to Syrians about the country's future. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China Collins Image: Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Khalil Ashawi / Reuters

Mistrust in science has never been higher. Fewer people are getting vaccinated, a known vaccine skeptic is leading the most powerful health agency in America and an outbreak of measels in Texas this year led to the first fatalities in almost a decade. Then, in August, a gunman opened fire on the headquarters of the Centre for Disease Control with many speculating he was fuelled by misinformation about health.Increasingly this misinformation is being exported around the world.Marianna Spring is the BBC's Social Media Investigations Correspondent and tells the story of how suspicion of science in America helped radicalise a British mom with devastating consequences.Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Martin Pope / Getty

Israel's Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu visits the White House later today, as details from the Trump administration's 21-point plan to end the war were revealed over the weekend. As Israel continues its offensive in Gaza City, Netanyahu has vowed to ‘finish the job' against Hamas and shows little sign of making concessions to end the war. Netanyahu has a proven history of getting what he wants from US presidents – so will the same happen at Monday's meeting?Today we speak to the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet who has reported on Netanyahu for three decades.Producers: Sam Chantarasak, Xandra Ellin, Aron Keller and Cat Farnsworth. Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 26, 2025. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon

On Monday President Trump and the U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. held a press conference in which they made extraordinary new claims about autism. They suggested a potential link between the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of autism. They also advocated spacing out childhood vaccinations.The two men's interest in the link between vaccines and autism goes back decades but these claims did not originate in the US. They trace back to the UK in 1998, when disgraced former doctor Andrew Wakefield first published his now-debunked theory linking MMR vaccines to autism cases in children.Today on the Global Story science journalist Adam Rutherford explains how the Wakefield vaccine conspiracy became the biggest medical disinformation disaster in recent history, and how these ideas found fertile ground in the Trump administration.Producers: Viv Jones, Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown, James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: President Donald Trump, in front of U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., delivers remarks linking autism to childhood vaccines and to the use of popular pain medication Tylenol for pregnant women and children, claims which are not backed by decades of science, at the White House. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

On Tuesday night, Donald Trump signalled a drastic U-turn in his position on Ukraine, claiming in a Truth Social post that Kyiv could win the war against Russia, and take back all the land it has lost. The Kremlin was quick to dismiss his assertion, saying it has, “no alternative” but to continue its offensive. So, is this just another rhetorical turn from the US president, or has something materially changed in Ukraine's favour? Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia editor for BBC Monitoring, joins us to discuss. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins

Heads of state and high-level diplomats have descended on New York to attend the 80th annual United Nations General Assembly. During a meandering address, President Trump railed against immigration and green energy, claimed credit for a spate of recent diplomatic victories, and questioned the legitimacy of the UN as an institution. How right is the president about the diminishing power of the UN? And what is his vision for a path forward?Today, Asma reports from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she speaks to BBC Diplomatic Correspondent James Landale and BBC New York Correspondent for the United Nations Nada Tawfik.Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Editor: China Collins(Photo: Donald Trump speaks during the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Credit: Sarah Yenesel/EPA/Shutterstock)

Apple is promising to make more products in the US, backed by a $600bn investment over the next four years. But after decades of relying on Chinese manufacturing that promise is going to be tough to keep. Today we're joined by journalist and author Patrick McGee to discuss whether Apple can navigate the demands of Donald Trump's America First agenda and disentangle itself from a made-in-China business model. Producers: Hannah Moore and Aron Keller Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Nicky Edwards, Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Picture: Apple CEO Tim Cook in Cupertino, California, U.S. September 9, 2025. REUTERS/Manuel Orbegozo

World leaders are currently gathered at the United Nations in New York for the annual General Assembly. This year, the future of the Palestinian territories hangs in the balance: several nations like the UK, France, Canada, and Australia are formally recognising the state of Palestine for the first time. The Trump administration strongly opposes the move, warning that it could embolden Hamas and provoke Israel into annexing the West Bank.How did some of Israel and America's staunchest allies decide that the time is right to recognise a Palestinian state? We speak to BBC diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams who has spent years reporting from the Middle East.Producers: Xandra Ellin and Viv Jones Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: Members of the U.N. Security Council vote on a draft resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 18, 2025. Eduardo Munoz/Reuters

At the height of the cold war in the 1970s, the Soviet Union set up an international song contest to rival Eurovision. It was called Intervision, and like its western counterpart, featured a bevy of cheesy songs, sequins and highly flammable outfits – albeit with a different political message. Intervision burned bright and fast – disappearing long before the fall of the Berlin Wall. But this weekend, with Russia still exiled from the Eurovision Song Contest because of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin is reviving the competition, and the USA is due to compete. In today's episode, BBC Moscow correspondent and Eurovision superfan Steve Rosenberg explores the intertwined histories of Eurovision and Intervision, and the politics behind Putin's decision. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Sound engineer: Travis Evans Editor: China Collins(Photo: The international music contest Intervision at Zaryadye Park in Moscow. Credit: Maxim Shipenkov/EPA/Shutterstock)

President Trump is in the UK on a State visit, where he's been hosted by the royal family and is set to meet with Prime Minister Starmer.The two leaders appear to have a strong relationship. But there's one big issue that's become a sticking point between them.Increasingly, free speech in the United Kingdom is a hot button rallying cry among the conservatives in the United States. Why have Republicans in America become so obsessed with free speech across the Atlantic? Especially when a crackdown on speech is kicking off at home.This programme includes language which some listeners find offensive.Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown and James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: US President Donald Trump on second State Visit to the UK. Kirsty Wigglesworth/PACredit: Father Ted/Hat Trick Productions/Channel 4

On Tuesday, as Israel launched its long-anticipated ground invasion of Gaza City, a United Nations commission of inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. Israel's foreign ministry said it categorically rejected the report, denouncing it as "distorted and false". The report is a major moment in the ongoing debate over whether the situation in Gaza meets the legal definition of a genocide. We speak with BBC Geneva correspondent Imogen Foulkes about the evidence. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Displaced Palestinians evacuate Gaza City. Mahmoud Issa/ Reuters

The assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk shocked America and exposed the depth of its political divides. Since a suspect has been arrested, the search for clear motive has only become more complicated. In today's episode, the BBC's Social Media investigations correspondent Marianna Spring examines the meaning of the inscriptions on the bullet casings associated with the murder. The markings take us into the dark corners of the internet, but what do they tell us about why Charlie Kirk was killed?Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Aron Keller and Lucy Pawle Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: Utah Governor Spencer Cox. Cheney Orr/Reuters

France is in political turmoil. President Emmanuel Macron has just appointed his fifth prime minister in two years. But it's unclear whether he'll be able to form a government. There are calls for Macron's resignation amid nationwide protests and shutdowns. He is running out of options. Waiting in the wings is Marine Le Pen, whose far-right National Rally party has surged in popularity and seems poised to take power. On Sunday at a rally in Bordeaux, she repeated calls for new national elections. So how did this party, with its controversial history, rehabilitate its image? And what would the first far-right government since World War Two mean not just for France, but for Europe and the rest of the world?Producers: Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins

On Wednesday, the divisive conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on the first stop of his ‘American Comeback Tour', where he invited students to engage him in political discussion. Kirk was the founder of the conservative nonprofit Turning Points USA and one of Donald Trump's most powerful advocates, especially among young people. But his impact stretched far beyond the United States, as he leveraged social media to reinvent the right's image around the world. Today, we speak to Semafor political correspondent, David Weigel, about the blueprint Kirk pioneered for winning young minds to the conservative cause. Then, we speak to Daniel Ogoloma, who partnered with Kirk for a debate while he was a student at Oxford University. He tells us about his plan to bring Kirk's ideas into Nigerian politics. Producers: Viv Jones, Xandra Ellin, Valerio Esposito, Lucy Pawle, Sam Chantarasak Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo credit: Trent Nelson / The Salt Lake Tribune / Reuters

Donald Trump wants to broker peace in two of the world's most intractable wars: Gaza and Ukraine. But this week, both crises have escalated – and the man he's tasked with solving them has no previous diplomatic experience.Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul and Trump's closest confidante, is now at the center of American foreign policy as the ‘envoy for everything'.On today's Global Story, we speak with the BBC's State Department Correspondent, Tom Bateman, and ask whether Witkoff's unconventional style is a weakness – or a strength.Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: President Donald Trump and Steve Witkoff. Sarah Yenesel/EPA/Shutterstock

On Tuesday, Israel carried out a series of unexpected bombings, targeting senior Hamas leaders. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said it was a "precise strike" on those responsible for the October 7 attacks, but the Qataris have called the strike a "blatant violation" of international law. Qatar has been mediating indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas to end the conflict in Gaza. In the US, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was notified about plans of the strike ahead of time, but said, “Unilaterally bombing inside Qatar, a sovereign nation and close ally of the United States [...] does not advance Israel or America's goals”. On today's Global Story, we talk to the BBC's Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, about the impact this could have on future peace talks. Producers: Hannah Moore and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sept 8 2025. Menahem Kahana / AFP via Getty Images.

Hundreds of workers, most of them South Korean nationals, were detained last week at a Hyundai plant in Georgia after the largest immigration raid of Trump's second term. The raid puts two of the administration's key priorities to the test - cracking down on illegal immigration and bringing manufacturing back to America - but has it exposed a conflict between the two policy goals? We speak to BBC Verify US Correspondent Nick Beake who has been to the site, and to Jake Kwon from the BBC Seoul bureau, about whether this has jeopardised relations between the US and one of its major trading partners.Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producers: James Shield and Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsImage: US immigration raid at Hyundai-LG plant in Georgia. Shutterstock/EPA

In Brazil this week an alternate reality is unfolding: a former president, who allegedly tried to incite an insurrection to overturn an election, is on trial. A verdict is expected this week, and he may go to prison for the rest of his life. On January 8th 2023, Jair Bolsonaro's supporters broke into government buildings, demanding to overturn the result of the election Bolsonaro had lost. In the aftermath of those events, Bolsonaro was accused of masterminding a plot for a military coup. He denies these claims and says the charges are politically motivated. President Trump has called the trial a “witch hunt” and gone to extreme measures to try to influence its outcome. But have his attempts to influence the trial backfired? We speak with Ione Wells, the BBC's South America correspondent, who has been reporting from inside the trial. Producers: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro in Brasilia on July 17, 2025. Mateus Bonomi / AFP via Getty Images

In 1994, Ukraine surrendered the world's third-largest nuclear arsenal, inherited from the collapsed Soviet Union, in exchange for security assurances from the US, Russia, and the UK. Ukraine's denuclearisation is often considered a huge success story in nuclear non-proliferation, but in retrospect, it may have paved the way for Putin's 2022 invasion. As talk of US-European security guarantees for Ukraine resurfaces in the context of tentative Russia-Ukraine peace talks, we speak with BBC Paris correspondent Andrew Harding about the history of the 1994 agreement, and consider whether Ukraine would ever again believe promises made to protect it.Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsFrance's President Emmanuel Macron (R) and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky arrive to chair the Coalition of the Willing Summit, at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris, on September 4, 2025. Ludovic Marin/ Getty

President Xi Jinping said humanity faces "a choice between peace and war” as China paraded a huge arsenal of weapons – including nuclear missiles – in Beijing yesterday. Xi's military parade, watched over by Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, seemed a provocation to the west – most notably, Donald Trump – and a signal of his will to redraw the world order, lessening China's reliance on the US. In today's episode, the BBC's Celia Hatton considers: how long will China's friendships last with world leaders who have for years been its rivals? Producers: Hannah Moore and Lucy Pawle Executive Producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China CollinsImage: Xi Jingping at a WW2 anniversary reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Florence Lo/Reuters

Today, we're joined by BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen to explore oppositional visions for a post-war Gaza — one from the Americans and the other from the rest of the western world.There are two competing international visions for the future for Palestinians: much of the Western world will recognise Palestinian Statehood at this month's United Nations General Assembly in a push towards the two-state solution; whilst Donald Trump has touted plans for a US-controlled Gaza riviera. But how do these ideas line up with reality on the ground, as Netanyahu's government continues to bombard the Gaza Strip, approves plans for expanding settlements and expresses support for a ‘Greater Israel' that expands across the Middle East? We consider Gaza's future with BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen.Producers: Samantha Chantarasak and Xandra Ellin Executive Producer: Annie Brown Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China CollinsImage: President Trump Meets With Visiting Israeli PM Netanyahu At The White House. Anna Moneymaker/Getty

This is the new Global Story. We're back daily with a new team, new stories and a new mission.Meet co-hosts Asma Khalid and Tristan Redman. They'll tell the intertwined story of America and the world - and how each shapes the other, daily. And they'll be backed by the finest newsroom in the business.

As Texas storms put Trump's weather agency cuts in the spotlight, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and CBS's Fin Gómez examine the president's climate policies. Plus: Musk's third-party ambitions. Every weekend, we take a closer look at what's happening in US politics and what's going on behind the scenes at the White House and on Capitol Hill. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com.Producer: Stefano FasanoEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

We follow President Trump as he visits the new Florida detention centre dubbed ‘Alligator Alcatraz', where around 3,000 migrants are expected to be held as part of his crackdown on illegal immigration. The Trump administration says alligators, crocodiles, and pythons in the surrounding wetlands will keep detainees from escaping — but concerns have been raised about conditions, with the area prone to severe heat and flooding. President Trump says it will hold the most "menacing migrants, some of the most vicious people on the planet."On this episode of The President's Path, Caitríona Perry and Sumi Somaskanda speak to Bernd Debusmann Jr., who was with Donald Trump when he visited the new Florida detention centre, where around 3,000 migrants are expected to be held as part of his crackdown on illegal immigration.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Stefano FasanoEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Is Donald Trump's phone his most powerful tool in office? From announcing ceasefires and trade deals to commenting on military actions like the recent strikes on Iran, Trump has used social media -especially his platform, Truth Social- as a direct line to the public. But what does this say about his presidency? And who's really behind those late-night posts? On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann Jr dive into the “social media presidency” of Donald Trump. They also look at the New York City Democratic mayoral primary, where former Governor Andrew Cuomo placed second behind Zohran Mamdani.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Stefano FasanoEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Donald Trump will decide if the US gets directly involved in the Iran-Israel conflict within the next two weeks. Trump made waves – and charmed voters – by promising an ‘America First' foreign policy. With the Middle East on the brink, what that means is up for debate. On this episode of The President's Path, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann Jr. break down the complexities of Trump's approach to Iran and the challenges it poses for US foreign policy. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: John Ringer Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Washington DC is hosting a military parade to mark the 250th anniversary of the US Army. The event falls on the same day as President Trump's 79th birthday. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann Jr explore how the Trump administration is reshaping the US military with a deployment to quell unrest in Los Angeles, a big parade and changes to budgets and recruitment.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: John RingerEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas(Picture: US President Donald Trump arrives on stage to speak at Fort Bragg to celebrate the US Army's 250th anniversary at Pike Field at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, USA, 10 June 2025. Credit: Stan Gilliand/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock)

Donald Trump has signed a ban on travel to the US from 12 countries, citing national security risks. There are also seven additional countries whose nationals will face partial travel restrictions. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann Jr. explore how the travel ban reflects Trump's broader approach to immigration and national security. They also discuss the latest phone call between Trump and Vladimir Putin, analysing its potential implications for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: John RingerEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas(Picture: US President Donald Trump gestures as he departs the White House in Washington DC, June 6, 2025. Credit: Reuters/Kevin Lamarque)

As part of his wider crackdown on higher education, US President Donald Trump has moved to ban Harvard from enrolling international students, accusing the school of not doing enough to combat antisemitism on campus. Harvard filed a lawsuit in response, and a judge has halted Trump's ban for now. On this episode of The President's Path, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann Jr. unpack Trump's move against one of America's most prestigious universities. Plus, they also take a closer look at the Trump administration's growing ties to the cryptocurrency world - a once-fringe business the president and his allies have embraced in recent months. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Stefano Fasano Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

In an extraordinary Oval Office meeting, Donald Trump confronted South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa with video over discredited claims of a white genocide in South Africa. In this episode, the BBC's Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann discuss how Trump handles meetings with foreign leaders visiting the Oval Office. They also examine the relationship between the Trump administration and the media.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Stefano FasanoEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas(Picture: Donald Trump during his visit with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the White House. Credit: Reuters/Kevin Lamarque)

US President Donald Trump has visited the Gulf on his first major diplomatic tour since returning to the White House. Caitríona Perry, Bernd Debusmann, and CBS News' Ed O'Keefe discuss the significance of his trip. They also explore why President Putin skipped peace talks in Turkey between Moscow and Kyiv. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducers: Aisling Taylor and Stefano Fasano Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Fewer people are crossing the US-Mexico border under President Trump. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann chat about his immigration crackdown. Plus, Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'. Every weekend, we take a closer look at what's happening in US politics and what's going on behind the scenes at the White House and on Capitol Hill. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com.Producer: Aisling Taylor. Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

President Trump has ousted his national security advisor Mike Waltz. He had been under pressure since last month, when he inadvertently added a journalist to a Signal group chat where senior Trump officials were discussing military plans to strike Yemen. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann examine the implications of this decision and what it signals for the Trump administration. Plus, concerns about the US economy. Every weekend, we take a closer look at what's happening in US politics and what's going on behind the scenes at the White House and on Capitol Hill. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com.Producer: Aisling Taylor. Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.

President Trump has been in office for nearly 100 days. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Bernd Debusmann discuss what voters think of his administration so far. Plus, we explore potential tariff and trade deals. Every weekend, we take a closer look at what's happening in US politics and what's going on behind the scenes at the White House and on Capitol Hill. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com.Producer: Aisling Taylor. Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.

Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann are joined by Politico's Jack Blanchard to discuss the Kilmar Abrego Garcia case and Trump's meeting with El Salvador's president. While Republicans frame immigration as a winning issue, Democrats focus on the economy, with AOC and Bernie Sanders' "Fighting Oligarchy" tour drawing huge crowds in red states.Producers: John Ringer and Jack Maclaren Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

President Trump's tariff policy has led to confusion on Capitol Hill, and in the markets. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann chat about what comes next. Plus, are the Democrats trying to take a new approach to tackling Trump?

Presidents Trump's tariffs trigger the steepest US stocks drop since 2020. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann chat about what comes next. Plus, Democrat Cory Booker's record-breaking filibuster.

A journalist ended up in a top secret US military group chat. How did that happen? And how is Washington reacting? BBC's Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann chat about Signalgate. Plus, a look at the other executive orders signed by President Trump this week.Producers: Aisling Taylor and Peter GoffinSound engineer: Mike RegaardEditor: Sergi Forcada Freixas

Ever since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, his representatives have been following through on promises to slash federal spending. Their latest target is public media, and this week fierce Trump-loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene led a hearing demanding that the bosses of NPR and PBS justify their government funding. Public broadcasting has been a longtime bugbear for many conservatives, who say it is tainted by a liberal bias. So, as pressure mounts, can these organisations survive?On today's episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to Micah Loewinger, co-host of On the Media, a podcast covering the intersection between politics and the media – it's made by WNYC, a member station of NPR. They discuss the resilience of public media, and consider what defunding it could mean for free speech and accountability in the modern political landscape.Producers: Laurie Kalus and Peter GoffinTechnical producer: Mike RegaardAssistant editor: Sergi Forcada FreixasSenior news editor: China Collins

Malcolm and Simone Collins hope to have 10 children to help avoid what they see as a pending demographic collapse. They tell Lucy Hockings that as pronatalists they want to promote the dangers of falling fertility rates and encourage other people to have more children.Whereas many people might see their lifestyle as extreme, pronatalism seems to be gaining support at the heart of the Trump administration. But some people worry that some pronatalist practices cross the line into eugenics and that the far right are also adopting the ideology. Our correspondent in Washington, Nomia Iqbal, helps us to put it all in context.Producers: Richard Moran and Mhairi MacKenzieTechnical producer: Frank McWeenyAssistant editor: Sergi Forcada FreixasSenior news editor: China Collins