The John Batchelor Show

Preview for Later TodayAndrea Stricker analyzes Israel's strikes on Iranian dual-use facilities. She details how the regime co-mingles medical research with chemical weapons development, specifically highlighting a facility supplying fentanyl for the regime's mass murder.1623 PERSIA

STREAMING MAKING SHOW, FEATURING CHANG, FANELL, HOLT, YATES.1750 PERSIA COURTThis transcript from a broadcast of The John Bachelor Show features a roundtable discussion with experts regarding China's involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts and its broader strategic goals. The participants examine a report alleging that Iran utilized Chinese satellite data to coordinate strikes against American military positions, leading to a debate over whether President Trump should proceed with a planned visit to Beijing. Military analysis suggests that while the U.S. Navy is effectively maintaining a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, China and Russia may be providing tactical support to rogue actors to undermine American interests. The conversation also addresses the internal political climate of Taiwan, noting that the public remains skeptical of Beijing despite efforts by opposition leaders to forge closer ties. Finally, the panel critiques China's economic strategy, characterizing its recent pivot toward heavily subsidized manufacturing and robotics as a desperate attempt to solve deep-seated financial instability. Together, these experts conclude that while China aims for global dominance, it faces significant economic vulnerabilities and a resurgent American military presence.

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 4-15-2026.1705 PERSIAN EMPIRE1. Captain James Fanell discusses Iran using Chinese commercial satellites for targeting US bases. He notes the US Navy's successful and complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to pressure Tehran's oil economy.2. General Blaine Holt suggests China may have allowed its satellite technology transfer to Iran to be discovered. He highlights the US Air Force's successful air campaign doctrine and impressive technological capabilities.3. Steve Yates analyzes Taiwan's security, noting that Beijing should be deterred by US displays of capability in Venezuela and Iran. He observes Taiwanese skepticism toward CCP dialogue and peace overtures.4. Steve Yates critiques China's unsustainable plan to subsidize tech sectors to revive its economy. He highlights the strategic importance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry and its shift away from Mainland market investments.5. Mary Kissel reports on ceasefire talks between Israel and Hezbollah at the State Department. She discusses the US Navy's blockade on Iran and regional support for neutralizing Tehran's long influence.6. Mary Kissel examines the stalling of Venezuela's transition by the Rodriguez family. She notes a significant regional shift toward right-of-center, pro-US governments in South America, including Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.7. Annie Fixler details Iranian cyber strikes against critical infrastructure, including Jordanian wheat silos and US medical firms. She explains how Tehran pairs digital attacks with psychological operations to maximize disruption.8. Annie Fixler warns of sophisticated cyber threats from China and Russia. She highlights the danger of AI discovering software vulnerabilities and China's Volt Typhoon prepositioning within US critical infrastructure.9. Colonel Jeff McCausland assesses the Strait of Hormuz blockade and China's military resupply of Iran. He notes Vladimir Putin's strategic losses in Ukraine and the impact of Viktor Orbán's electoral defeat.10. Colonel Jeff McCausland discusses the stalling of Venezuela's transition by the Rodriguez family. He questions if oil production can increase quickly enough to impact US gas prices before Labor Day.11. Jack Burnham warns about security risks in Huawei, ZTE, and Hikvision equipment. He notes Hikvision's role in the Uyghur genocide and the export of surveillance technology to various authoritarian regimes.12. Jack Burnham explains how Iran leveraged a Chinese commercial satellite for precise military strikes on US targets. He warns that rogue nations can now easily purchase advanced orbital capabilities off-the-shelf.13. Michael Bernstam explains why the Strait of Hormuz blockade has not caused an oil price spike, citing diverted pipelines in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He notes China's impending shortfall due to the blockade.14. Michael Bernstam details Russia's exhausted budget deficit and declining oil production caused by sanctions and technological backwardness. He highlights Viktor Orbán's electoral defeat as a major democratic victory for the EU.15. Ken Croswell describes the landmark discovery of a lone black hole in the Milky Way. Using the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers identified this massive object by its gravitational effect on light.16. Ken Croswell calculates that a black hole likely exists within fifty light-years of Earth. He reassures that the galaxy's vastness makes a catastrophic encounter with our solar system extremely unlikely.

15. Ken Croswell describes the landmark discovery of a lone black hole in the Milky Way. Using the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers identified this massive object by its gravitational effect on light.1707

15. Ken Croswell describes the landmark discovery of a lone black hole in the Milky Way. Using the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers identified this massive object by its gravitational effect on light.1705

14. Michael Bernstam details Russia's exhausted budget deficit and declining oil production caused by sanctions and technological backwardness. He highlights Viktor Orbán's electoral defeat as a major democratic victory for the EU.1700

13. Michael Bernstam explains why the Strait of Hormuz blockade has not caused an oil price spike, citing diverted pipelines in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He notes China's impending shortfall due to the blockade.

12. Jack Burnham explains how Iran leveraged a Chinese commercial satellite for precise military strikes on US targets. He warns that rogue nations can now easily purchase advanced orbital capabilities off-the-shelf.

11. Jack Burnham warns about security risks in Huawei, ZTE, and Hikvision equipment. He notes Hikvision's role in the Uyghur genocide and the export of surveillance technology to various authoritarian regimes.

10. Colonel Jeff McCausland discusses the stalling of Venezuela's transition by the Rodriguez family. He questions if oil production can increase quickly enough to impact US gas prices before Labor Day.1662

9. Colonel Jeff McCausland assesses the Strait of Hormuz blockade and China's military resupply of Iran. He notes Vladimir Putin's strategic losses in Ukraine and the impact of Viktor Orbán's electoral defeat.1654

8. Annie Fixler warns of sophisticated cyber threats from China and Russia. She highlights the danger of AI discovering software vulnerabilities and China's Volt Typhoon prepositioning within US critical infrastructure.

7. Annie Fixler details Iranian cyber strikes against critical infrastructure, including Jordanian wheat silos and US medical firms. She explains how Tehran pairs digital attacks with psychological operations to maximize disruption.1574

6. Mary Kissel examines the stalling of Venezuela's transition by the Rodriguez family. She notes a significant regional shift toward right-of-center, pro-US governments in South America, including Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.168O

5. Mary Kissel reports on ceasefire talks between Israel and Hezbollah at the State Department. She discusses the US Navy's blockade on Iran and regional support for neutralizing Tehran's long influence.1574

4. Steve Yates critiques China's unsustainable plan to subsidize tech sectors to revive its economy. He highlights the strategic importance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry and its shift away from Mainland market investments.1572 HORMUZ CASTLE

2. General Blaine Holt suggests China may have allowed its satellite technology transfer to Iran to be discovered. He highlights the US Air Force's successful air campaign doctrine and impressive technological capabilities.1519

1. Captain James Fanell discusses Iran using Chinese commercial satellites for targeting US bases. He notes the US Navy's successful and complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to pressure Tehran's oil economy.NOVEMBER 1978

3. Steve Yates analyzes Taiwan's security, noting that Beijing should be deterred by US displays of capability in Venezuela and Iran. He observes Taiwanese skepticism toward CCP dialogue and peace overtures.1521

Preview for Later TodayJack Burnham discusses the security risks of Chinese tech companies, specifically Hikvision. He highlights its role as a top-tier PLA supplier and its use in surveillance for the mass detention of Uyghurs.1954

Preview for Later TodaySimon Constable examines the surging price of urea fertilizer, which has climbed twenty percent in a month. This spike, caused by shipping blockades, forces farmers to shift to planting more soybean crops.

Preview for Later TodayKen Croswell explores the discovery of rogue black holes traveling through the Milky Way. He discusses the catastrophic consequences for our solar system while noting that such an encounter is still extremely unlikely.1962

Preview for Later TodayJim Fanell analyzes reports that China provided satellite data to help Iran target American bases. He explores methods for neutralizing these threats through cyber manipulation or spoofing rather than actual kinetic weaponization.1753

Preview for Later TodayAnnie Fixler discusses Anthropic's new AI model capable of rapidly identifying software vulnerabilities. She warns that China is racing to develop similar technology to use for its very own highly sophisticated cyberattacks.1965

Preview for Later TodayMary Kissel reviews allegations that Venezuelan leaders are stalling a political transition following Nicolas Maduro's detention. They are likely waiting for a more pliable US administration to eventually replace the current one.1930 CARACAS

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING GRANT NEWSHAM, 4-14-20261909 BRUSSELS.Host John Bachelor discusses a wide variety of geopolitical and historical topics, beginning with the unpredictable nature of the Trump administration and its impact on global markets. He highlights the profitability of American corporations like JP Morgan and the success of private space ventures like SpaceX, which he credits to visionary government subsidies from NASA. Transitioning to his personal reading list, Bachelor summarizes narrative historiescovering the secretive religious themes in Vermeer's art, the NKVD's assassination of Leon Trotsky, and the collapse of global trade during the Bronze Age. He is joined by Colonel Grant Newsham, who provides analysis on the U.S. naval blockade of Iran and the strategic challenges of securing the Strait of Hormuz. Together, they critique China's predatory economic model, comparing its subsidized manufacturing surplus and use of forced labor to a modern-day plantation system. Their dialogue concludes by examining how China's lack of corporate profitability and currency manipulation threaten to destabilize international competition.

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 4-14-2026.1874 MONET1. US Economic Resilience Amid Global Conflict. Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor discuss the surprisingly strong US economy despite Middle East instability. Consumer spending remains robust, wages are rising, and the Trump agenda of deregulation and tariffs is encouraging domestic investment.2. Russia and China's Strategic Calculations. Gregory Copley explains how Russia benefits from rising oil prices and expanded influence in Central Asia. Conversely, China fears regime collapse in Iran and seeks to diminish US global prestige during the conflict.3. The Risks of Puppet Government Models. John Batchelor and Gregory Copley critique the Trump administration's attempt to use Delcy Rodriguez as a model for Iran. They discuss how hardline leaders in Venezuela and Iran prioritize personal survival over national interests.4. King Charles III's Diplomatic Mission to Washington. Gregory Copley discusses King Charles III's upcoming visit to address Congress. The King aims to heal diplomatic rifts between Donald Trump and Keir Starmer, particularly regarding the Chagos Archipelago and Diego Garcia strategic nodes.5. Naval Challenges and Maritime Chokepoints. Grant Newsham asserts that the US Navy can successfully blockade the Strait of Hormuz and manage the Bab-el-Mandeb. He notes China and Russia are encouraging Iran to test American resolve through maritime provocations.6. The Resurgence and Failure of Industrial Policy. Veronique de Rugy criticizes the resurgence of industrial policy, noting past failures in Japan and China. She warns that World Bank recommendations for government-led industry protection often result in economic distortions and higher costs.7. Purges and Divisions within the Chinese Military. Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang analyze Xi Jinping's recent military purges, including Zhang Youxia. These internal divisions and the removal of operational commanders may hinder China's ability to coordinate a successful invasion of Taiwan.8. Nuclear Deterrence and Battlefield Realities. Peter Huessy warns about the lack of nuclear education among modern policymakers. He discusses Russia's potential use of battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine to reverse military losses and Iran's acquisition of Russian missile technology.9. The California Gubernatorial Jungle Primary. Elizabeth Peek details the collapse of Eric Swalwell's campaign following misconduct allegations. The jungle primary system in California creates a risk for Democrats that two Republicans, like Steve Hilton, could face off in November.10. The Electoral Defeat of Viktor Orbán. Judy Dempsey explains how Peter Magyar defeated Viktor Orbán in Hungary by uniting a divided opposition. Hungarian voters rejected corruption and Russian interference, signaling a desire for rule of law and European integration.11. Populism and Energy Subsidies in Germany. Judy Dempsey observes the rise of the AfD party in Saxony, fueled by nationalist fervor among young voters. Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces pressure to address high energy costs and immigration while maintaining transatlantic relations.12. The Strategy of Economic Siege against Iran. Jonathan Schanzer describes the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as part of a wider economic war. This strategy aims to deplete regime revenue by hundreds of millions daily through heightened sanctions.13. Escalation and Unprecedented Diplomacy in Lebanon. Jonathan Schanzer discusses the IDF's efforts to establish a security zone in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah. Simultaneously, unprecedented direct talks between the Lebanese and Israeli governments are occurring at the US State Department.14. Dismantling Information Warfare in Hungary. Ivana Stradner celebrates Peter Magyar's victory over Viktor Orbán, emphasizing the need to dismantle the state-controlled media apparatus. She warns that Russia continues to use influence operations to support authoritarian leaders in Eastern Europe.15. Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Fissile Material Extraction. Andrea Stricker outlines the challenge of extracting Iran's 60% enriched uranium from deeply buried sites like Fordo. She emphasizes that permanent peace requires the complete removal of fissile material and centrifuges to prevent breakout.16. Geopolitics of the Strait of Hormuz Blockade. Gregory Copley analyzes the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil markets. He argues the US must ensure the Red Sea remains viable while managing pressure from Saudi Arabia.

Military Purges and the Taiwan Threat Guest: Gordon Chang and Piero Tozzi Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang analyze Xi Jinping's military purges, specifically the removal of General Zhang Youxia1945 USS ANZIO arrival Shanghai

Military Purges and the Taiwan Threat Guest: Gordon Chang and Piero Tozzi Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang analyze Xi Jinping's military purges, specifically the removal of General Zhang Youxia1906 drum tower

The Recurring Failures of Industrial Policy Guest: Veronique de Rugy Veronique de Rugy critiques the World Bank for endorsing industrial policies that failed in Japan and China. She warns that government-led protection creates economic distortions and raises costs for domestic consumers.1935 Shanghai

Naval Capabilities and Resupplying Iran Guest: Grant Newsham Grant Newsham asserts the US Navy can successfully blockade Hormuz. However, he warns that China is flagrantly resupplying Iran with rocket fuel components, testing American resolve and betting on a lack of response.2905 melbourne

King Charles III's Strategic Diplomatic Visit Guest: Gregory Copley King Charles III will visit Washington to address Congress and repair ties between Donald Trump and Keir Starmer. Discussions center on the strategic importance of the Chagos Archipelago and the Diego Garcia base.1906 Queensland

Failed Leadership Models and Australian Fuel Shortages Guest: Gregory Copley Gregory Copley critiques the Venezuelan model for Iranian political transitions while detailing Australia's fuel crisis. Australian governments have neglected domestic refining, leading to energy vulnerability and the rise of nationalist parties.1842

Global Powers and the Iranian Clerical Collapse Guest: Gregory Copley Gregory Copley notes that while Russia gains oil revenue, China fears the collapse of Iran's clerical government. Xi Jinping remains bunkered in Beijing, watching for popular uprisings that might inspire domestic unrest.2016 palatinate

Strategic Management of Global Maritime Chokepoints Guest: Gregory Copley Gregory Copley argues the US has turned the Strait of Hormuz blockade into a strategic advantage. Managing the Red Sea remains vital as Saudi Arabia fears regional escalation and bottlenecked oil exports.1948 RHINELAND-PALATANATE

The Challenge of Iranian Nuclear Extraction Guest: Andrea Stricker Andrea Stricker discusses the technical difficulty of removing Iran's 60% enriched uranium. Extracting fissile material and centrifuges is essential to preventing a nuclear breakout, though material remains buried deep within damaged facilities.1900 TOULOUSE

Dismantling Authoritarian Information Warfare Networks Guest: Ivana Stradner Ivana Stradner emphasizes dismantling Viktor Orban's state-controlled information networks following his defeat. She warns that Vladimir Putin continues to use psychological warfare and influence operations to target other European statesMONET

Ground Maneuvers and Diplomacy in Lebanon Guest: Jonathan Schanzer Jonathan Schanzer reports on Israel's efforts to establish a security zone against Hezbollah. Simultaneously, the Lebanese and Israeli governments are engaging in unprecedented direct diplomatic talks presided over by Marco Rubio.1933 COMMUNISM IN GERMANY

Implementing an Economic Siege on Iran Guest: Jonathan Schanzer Jonathan Schanzer details the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic economic war aims to deprive the Iranian regime of hundreds of millions of dollars in daily oil and gas revenue.1922 RHINELAND

German Populism and the Rise of the AfD Guest: Judy Dempsey Judy Dempsey details the rise of the AfD party in Saxony, fueled by nationalist fervor among young voters. Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces pressure to address high energy costs while maintaining complex transatlantic relations.1922 RHINELAND

 Democratic Resurgence in Hungary Guest: Judy Dempsey Judy Dempsey highlights Peter Magyar's victory over Viktor Orban, noting a massive turnout of young voters. Hungarians rejected systemic corruption and Russian interference, signaling a desire for rule of law and European integration.1867 KARL MARX

California's Jungle Primary Chaos Guest: Elizabeth Peak Elizabeth Peak explains how Eric Swalwell's withdrawal from the gubernatorial race creates a political vacuum. The jungle primary system allows two Republicans, like Steve Hilton, to potentially face off if Democratic votes remain split.1839 RHINELAND

The Resilience of the American Consumer Guest: Elizabeth Peak Elizabeth Peak and John Batchelor discuss the robust state of the US economy. Despite global conflict, consumer spending remains high, and the Trump agenda of deregulation and tariffs continues to foster domestic growth.1839 RHINELAND

Preview for Later TodayJudy Dempsey. Judy Dempsey discusses the rise of Germany's populist AfD party, noting a fervent, nationalistic rally in Magdeburg. This growing political movement, attracting both young and old, presents a worrying challenge for upcoming elections.1870

Preview for Later TodayColonel Grant Newsham. Grant Newsham explains how China benefits from US entanglement in Middle Eastern and Ukrainian conflicts. While acting as a peacemaker, Beijing quietly supports Iran and North Korea, managing its own oil vulnerabilities.1690 RED SEA

Preview for Later TodayElizabeth Peek. Elizabeth Peek examines political anxiety surrounding artificial intelligence and potential job losses. She suggests that restrictive regulations in blue states could inadvertently drive business and critical data center investment toward more welcoming red states.1905 LAS VEGAS

Preview for Later TodayIvana Stradner. Ivana Stradner explores Viktor Orbán's shifting allegiance toward Vladimir Putin. By manipulating media and leveraging Russian influence operations, the long-term Hungarian Prime Minister maintains power while reportedly offering his services to the Kremlin.1686 BUDAPEST

Preview for Later TodayAndrea Stricker. Andrea Stricker warns that Iran's highly enriched uranium must be extracted from mountain facilities. Following recent attacks, the regime is increasingly incentivized to build nuclear weapons, necessitating urgent action from the United States.1952 NV

STREAMING MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING BILL ROGGIO AND JANATYN SAYEH, MONDAY 4-13-20261742 GULFThe conflict with Iran has entered a critical phase as the U.S. prepares a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz starting April 13, 2026, following failed negotiations in Islamabad. President Trump has ordered the Navy to interdict ships that pay "taxes" to Iran—often collected via cryptocurrency—to traverse the waterway. This move is seen as part of a "mission creep" that has shifted from initial strikes on infrastructure to a broader operation to shut down Iranian maritime operations.The administration has issued three primary demands for ending the conflict: the permanent reopening of the Strait, the surrender of all 60% enriched fissile material, and the cessation of support for proxies such as Hezbollah and the Houthis. Experts indicate these demands are likely non-negotiable for Tehran, which views concessions as a sign of weakness and believes it has gained leverage by absorbing recent military strikes.Despite 50 days of warfare and the targeted killing of many high-ranking officials, the IRGC and its surrogates like Hezbollah remain resilient. Leadership vacancies are quickly filled by a "deep bench" of subordinates, and the regime maintains its internal grip through extreme brutality. In early 2026 alone, the regime has carried out over 1,000 executions, largely targeting political dissidents.The current Iranian leadership—including Ahmad Vahidi, a veteran linked to decades of international terrorism, and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf—represents a "pirates crew" of hardliners who have been in power since the revolution. Because the political core remains intact, analysts dispute claims of "regime change," characterizing the current situation as a "fragile truce" rather than a lasting peace.

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 4-13-2026.1979 WOMEN PROEST IN TEHRAN The Brewing Blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Bill Roggio discusses the potential US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following failed talks in Islamabad. US demands include opening the strait, ending nuclear programs, and stopping proxy attacks against Middle Eastern neighbors.2. The Resilience of Iranian Surrogates. Bill Roggio analyzes the continued strength of Iranian proxies like Hezbollah and the Houthis. Despite military pressure, these groups remain active, with the Houthis potentially held in reserve to threaten critical global shipping lanes.3. The Internal Struggle of the Iranian People. JANATYN SAYEH discusses the regime's brutal internal crackdown, noting over a thousand executions in 2026. The Iranian people feel abandoned by the current ceasefire, fearing the regime will survive without significant systemic change.4. Identifying Iran's Hardline Five-Man Leadership. Jonathan Schanzer outlines Iran's core leadership, including Ghalibaf and Vahidi, who possess deep ties to internal repression and international terror. These veterans represent an institutional commitment to the revolution, making significant concessions unlikely.5. Holocaust Remembrance and the Iranian Ideology. Malcolm Hoenlein reflects on Yom HaShoah and rising global anti-Semitism. He discusses how Iran's radical ideology drives its leaders to claim victory despite heavy military losses, refusing to compromise on their nuclear and proxy ambitions.6. Regional Realignments and the Houthi Threat. Malcolm Hoenlein warns the Gulf States face extreme vulnerability as Iran threatens their infrastructure. The Houthis remain a strategic reserve capable of closing the Bab al-Mandeb, while Europe continues to marginalize itself by staying on the sidelines.7. Operation Roaring Lion and Strikes on Beirut. David Daoud details the IDF's Operation Eternal Darkness, which targeted 100 Hezbollah sites in under ten minutes. The strikes hit densely populated areas of Beirut, causing massive displacement and raising questions about tactical objectives.8. Hezbollah's Inseparable Link to the Iranian Regime. David Daoud explains that Hezbollah is an essential extension of Iran's regional power, not a disposable proxy. Iran will likely fight to preserve the group, as Hezbollah's survival is critical to its revolutionary goals.9. Peru's Shift to the Right. Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports on Peru's election, where right-wing candidates Kiko Fujimori and Rafael Lopez Aliaga are leading. This trend suggests a continental shift away from the pink tide and toward pro-Western governments.10. Political Stagnation and Repression in Venezuela. Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports that the Rodriguez brothers maintain control in Venezuela by focusing on economic compliance while delaying political transitions. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado faces threats of imprisonment, hindering hopes for free elections and a democratic transition.11. Escalation and Extortion in the Straits. Edmund Fitton-Brown discusses the US Navy's mission to counter Iranian extortion and clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's big-stick strategy aims for a deal but risks a resumption of war.12. Viktor Orbán's Defeat and the European Center. Edmund Fitton-Brown analyzes the ousting of Hungary's Viktor Orbán by Peter Magyar as a victory for traditional democracy. This shift removes a major obstacle to EU aid for Ukraine and disrupts Vladimir Putin's influence.13. Ukraine's Easter Standoff and Prisoner Exchanges. John Hardy reports on Russian ceasefire violations during Orthodox Easter and significant prisoner exchanges. The removal of Viktor Orbán in Hungary is expected to unblock vital EU financial loans for the Ukrainian government.14. Iraqi Militias as Iran's Strategic Reserve. Ahmed Sharari discusses how Iraqi militias are fundraising to support Iran and Hezbollah. These groups serve as a strategic reserve for the Iranian regime, demonstrating their readiness to sacrifice resources for the revolution.15. Canada's Pivot Toward China. Conrad Black analyzes Prime Minister Mark Carney's efforts to strengthen trade with China amidst shifting relations with the US. While resource-rich Canada seeks new markets, political mistrust of China's undemocratic regime remains high.16. The Russian Mob and Political Kompromat. Craig Unger explores Viktor Orbán's long-standing ties to the Russian mafia and the FSB. He argues that both Orbán and Donald Trump have functioned as assets for Russian intelligence due to financial entanglements.

16. The Russian Mob and Political Kompromat. Craig Unger explores Viktor Orbán's long-standing ties to the Russian mafia and the FSB. He argues that both Orbán and Donald Trump have functioned as assets for Russian intelligence due to financial entanglements.1815 Moscow