Podcasts about Central Asia

Further reading: Study: Giant Therizinosaurs Used Their Meter-Long, Sickle-Like Claws for Display Show transcript: Welcome to Strange Animals Podcast. I'm your host, Kate Shaw. I am delighted to report that Therizinosaurus lived in what is now Mongolia in Central Asia, in the Gobi Desert. 70 million years ago, the land wasn't a desert at all but a forest with multiple rivers and streams flowing through it. Lots of other dinosaurs and birds lived in the area, including a tyrannosaurid called Tarbosaurus that was probably the only predator big enough to kill Therizinosaurus. When the first Therizinosaurus fossils were discovered in the 1950s, they were initially thought to belong to a type of giant turtle. Later it was reclassified as a sauropod relation, not a turtle. These days, we know for sure it's not a turtle and we're pretty sure it's not anything like a sauropod. The Therizinosaurus fossils found so far are incomplete. All we have are some ribs, one hind foot, and mostly complete arms and hands. We don't have any parts of the skull or any vertebrae, so paleontologists still have a lot of questions about what Therizinosaurus looked like and how it lived, although we have more complete specimens of some of its close relations to help scientists make good guesses. Luckily we have its hands, because its claws are enormous. Therizinosaurus had claws bigger than any other dinosaur known. Therizinosaurus was a big dinosaur overall, with an estimated length of 33 feet, or 10 meters, although until a more complete specimen is discovered we can't know for sure how big it really was. It may have stood up to 16 feet tall, or 5 meters, and walked on its hind legs. It's classified as a theropod these days, a group that includes famous dinosaurs like T. rex and Spinosaurus, but it wasn't closely related to those big fast meat-eaters. Most paleontologists think Therizinosaurus ate plants, but again, we don't know for sure since we don't have any of its teeth to examine. Its closest relatives were herbivorous but its immediate ancestors were carnivorous. If Therizinosaurus was a plant-eater, why did it have such enormous claws? Its claws were seriously terrifying! Its arms were big and strong in general, measuring about 8 feet long, or 2.5 meters, including long, slender fingers, and the claws measured over three feet long! That's more than a meter long. If the claws were covered with a keratin sheath, which is probable, they would have been even longer when Therizinosaurus was alive. They were relatively thin and straight with a curve at the end. There are many reasons why an animal develops big claws. Predators need claws to help grab prey or tear meat into pieces, or an animal may need big claws to help it dig or climb trees. Claws are also great for defense. Some animals use claws to grab tree branches and bend them closer to the animal's mouth, which is something that giant ground sloths probably did, at least sometimes. The new study published in February 2023 examined the claws of Therizinosaurus and lots of other dinosaurs to learn how strong they were. The claws were 3D scanned, and then the scans were used in various models that measured the stress placed on each claw in various different activities. The study discovered that the claws of different dinosaurs were strong in different ways depending on what they were used for, which wasn't a surprise. What was a surprise was that Therizinosaurus's claws were weak no matter which model the scientists used. In other words, Therizinosaurus probably didn't use its claws to fight other dinosaurs unless it just had to, because they would break too easily. It wouldn't have dug with its claws or even used them to hook branches down closer to its mouth. As far as we can tell, its claws were basically useless. But obviously, Therizinosaurus used its claws for something or it wouldn't have evolved to have such gigantic claws.

Max speaks with Michael Kimmage about his immediate reactions to the new 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, and the rapid-fire diplomacy taking place in response to its release. This conversation was recorded on November 24, 2025.

I Corinthians 4:9-16 St. John 1:35-51 In this homily for the Feast of St. Andrew, Fr. Anthony contrasts the world's definition of success with the apostolic witness of sacrifice, humility, and courageous love. Drawing on St. Paul's admonition to the Corinthians, he calls Christians to recover the reverence due to bishops and spiritual fathers, to reject the corrosive logic of social media, and to return to the ascetical path that forms us for theosis. St. Andrew and St. Paul's lives reveals that true honor is found not in comfort or acclaim but in following Christ wherever He leads — even into suffering and martyrdom.  Enjoy the show! ---- St. Andrew Day, 2025 The Orthodox Church takes apostolic succession very seriously; the preservation of "the faith passed on to the apostles" is maintained by the physicality of the ordination of bishops by bishops, all of who can trace the history of the ordination of the bishops who ordained them back to one or more of the apostles themselves.  You probably already new that.  But there is another part of that respect for the apostles that you may not know of: the ranking of autocephalist (i.e. independent) national Churches.  The Canons (especially those of the Council of Trullo) give prominence to the five ancient patriarchates of Rome (Sts. Peter and Paul), Constantinople (St. Andrew), Alexandria (St. Mark), Antioch (St. Paul), and Jerusalem (St. James).   St. Andrew travelled into dangerous barbarian lands to spread the Gospel, to include the Middle East, and, most notably, then North to the lands around the Black Sea; Ankara and Edessa to the south of the Black Sea in what is now Turkey, to the East of the Black Sea into the Caucuses, and up to the North of the Black Sea to the Scythian lands into what is now Ukraine.  That was his first journey.  After this, he returned to Jerusalem and then went on his second journey to Antioch, back up into the Caucasus, out to the land of the dog-headed people in Central Asia, down through what is now Afghanistan to the Arabian Sea, and then back up through Persia and finally into Greece, where he was martyred. He sacrificed so much for the Gospel and brought so many souls to salvation through the Christ he himself knew, both before and after His glorious Resurrection.  His virtue and sacrificial service allow God's grace to flow into the world and he serves as the patron of several countries, cities, and all Christians who bear variations of His name such as Andrew, Andrei, and Andrea. As Orthodox Christians, we should know his story, ask for his intercession, and imitate his witness.  And everyone, whether Christian or not, should respect his virtue.  But does it?  Does it even respect virtue?  Do we? As Saint Paul points out in today's Epistle, many of us do not.  And don't think the problem was just in Corinth; St. John Chrysostom's homilies on this epistle show that the people there were at least as guilty.  And that was in the center of Eastern Orthodoxy, during the time of alleged symphonia between the Church and State.  Should there be any doubt that we, too, allow the world to define the sorts of worldly things we should prioritize? After all … What is it that the world respects in a man?  What is it that the world respects in a woman?  Think for a second what it is that impresses you the most about the people you admire – perhaps even makes you jealous, wishing that you had managed to obtain the same things. I cannot read your minds, but if you are like most Americans, the list would certainly include: A long, healthy life, without chronic pain or major physical injury A life free of indictment, arrest, or imprisonment The respect, admiration, and popularity of their peers Money, a big house, a vacation house, and the ability to retire comfortably (and early) These are some of the things that many of you are either pleased to enjoy, regret not having obtained, or, if you are young, are currently striving for. The Apostles Andrew and Paul, gave up the possibility for all these things to follow Christ.  Not because they wanted to; not because God made them; they gave up the life of worldly comfort and respect because – in a culture and time as messed up as theirs was – this is the only Way to live a life of grace and to grow in love and perfection. A long, healthy life, without chronic pain or major physical injury? Nope – gave it up. A life free of indictment, arrest, or imprisonment? Nope – gave it up. The respect, admiration, and popularity of their peers? No again. Money, a big house, a vacation house, and the ability to retire comfortably (and early) I don't think so (unless a prison in Rome and martyrdom count!). Because St. Paul is writing as an Apostle, instructing a parish that he was called to lead, it is tempting to put his sacrifices into the category of "things that clergy do".  And clergy certainly should follow their example.  While my example is not so bright, you may know that I gave up a life of wealth, admiration, and the possibility of a comfortable retirement so that I could serve as a priest.  God has blessed that and protected me from harm, but the opportunity costs are real, nonetheless.   And while I am a pale shadow of him (and he of Christ), I, like the Apostle Paul, did these things not because I wanted to (I liked my life then!) and not because God made me, but because in a culture and time as messed up as ours is, such a life of simplicity and complete service to others is the only Way I can live a life of grace and to grow in love and towards perfection in Christ. I have made some sacrifices, but I know other clergymen who – in our time – have given up more.  Their entire lives given over to sacrificial servce to Christ.  Who have become experts in both academic theology and the real theology of constant prayer.  Who have and continue to lead their dioceses and Churches through such difficult times.  And yet, who, like St. Paul, are not only reviled by the world, but even by Orthodox Christians.  Yes, to paraphrase St. Paul, we are so smart and educated that we can criticize and heap piles of coal on their heads because we know so much more than they do – because they, like St. Paul, are fools.  We can trash-talk them on social media and applaud others who lead the charge against them because they are so weak and we are so strong. How long does it take for a Patriarch's priestly ministry to make him respectable in our sight?  For us to respect him, or at least to forebear him? It must be more than 55 years, based on the things I have heard and read us saying about Patriarch Kyrril who has been leading his Church and people through an incredibly difficult time, as he believes the West works to undermine his people's faith and traditional Christianity everywhere. It must also be more than 55 years, based on the things I have heard and read us saying about Patriarch Bartholomew, as he works amidst the persecution of the government in the place he lives to bring Christians and Christians who have long been divided into and towards the unity for which we pray daily and which our God desires us to work towards. It must be more than 42 years, based on the things I have heard and read us saying about our own Patriach John, who has seen his people and Church crucified and persecuted and who seeks to encourage the local authorities to protect the weak and the Church and people he serves (while leading the people he serves in the West to avoid the excesses of liberty).   I hope you feel the shame, if not your own personal shame for having participated in slandering and judging our bishops and patriarchs, then feel shame for seeing the world and those Orthodox Christians who are living by its rules attacking them and questioning their virtue. This is the same shame that St. Paul was trying to elicit in Corinth.  Do you feel the shame?  If not, then the world, probably through social media, has deadened your noetic senses.  It is time for repentance.   And like St. Paul, I have to tell you that – while few of you may be called to priestly or monastic service – all of us are called to reject those things that the world has led us to value, because all of these things are like barrier between us and the eternal joy and perfection we were called to enjoy. Listen to me, my brothers and sisters, as I repeat the words of St. Paul we so desperately need to hear:   "For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.  Therefore I urge you, imitate me."   We do not have St. Paul as our father, but we have one of his successors, Patriarch John, and those whom he has assigned to us, such as Metropolitan Saba, Bishop John, and even this, your unworthy servant.  Let's stop giving attention to those who attack Orthodox clerics and thereby sow division within the Church and undermine its witness to others. Let's give up our attachment to this world and its ways.  Let's give up everything worldly we love, follow Christ, and gain the things that are really worth our love, admiration, and sacrifice.

Leaving the US after weeks on the road, we zoom out from New York and Washington and asks a question we almost never ask in Europe: what if the real future of geopolitics isn't in Brussels, Beijing or DC, but in Central Asia? To get there, we bring in historian Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads, to map the region we lazily call “the Stans”; Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, plus Afghanistan, Iran and their neighbours. Together we unpack why this vast strip of land, once the beating heart of the Silk Roads, is suddenly back at the centre of the global game: home to huge reserves of oil, gas, uranium, rare earths and critical minerals, a young and growing population, and wedged between Russia, China, India, Pakistan and Iran. We hear how Central Asian states are learning to play everyone off against everyone and why the new Great Game isn't a neat East vs West story at all. If the world is getting more dangerous, more digital and more fragmented, what does it mean that Ireland is the EU's weak link on defence, with tiny cyber budgets, under-protected seabed cables and a very cosy version of neutrality? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Japan's tourism sector is bracing for a deepening chill this winter in the wake of erroneous remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.日本首相高市早苗的失言事件后，日本旅游业正为今年冬季持续降温的局面做准备。As its travel market cools, rival destinations across Asia are moving swiftly to cater to Chinese travelers who had previously planned to visit Japan.随着日本旅游市场遇冷，亚洲各地的竞争对手正迅速行动，以吸引那些原本计划赴日旅游的中国游客。"Since last week, inquiries for Malaysia, Singapore and winter favorites such as Phu Quoc in Vietnam and Bali in Indonesia have increased by 20 to 30 percent week-on-week," said Li Mengran, marketing manager of Beijing-based travel agency Utour.北京优途旅行社市场经理李梦然表示：“上周以来，马来西亚、新加坡以及越南富国岛、印度尼西亚巴厘岛等冬季度假胜地的咨询量较前一周增长了20%至30%。”"These destinations benefit from visa-free policies, diverse tourism resources, abundant flights and flexible tour products suited for families and smaller groups."这些目的地因免签政策、丰富的旅游资源、充足的航班以及适合家庭和小团体游客的灵活旅游产品而备受青睐。Thailand moved quickly to capitalize on the shifting sentiment.泰国借势把握市场情绪变化带来的机遇。On Wednesday, the Beijing office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand emphasized that Thailand "always welcomes visitors from around the world, especially Chinese friends", announcing Chinese-specific New Year promotions and safety standards.周三，泰国旅游局北京办事处强调，泰国“始终欢迎世界各地的游客，特别是中国朋友”，并宣布推出针对中国游客的新春促销活动及安全标准。Beyond Southeast Asia, Russia is also seeking to attract Chinese tourists.除东南亚地区外，俄罗斯也在积极吸引中国游客。Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Nov 18 that visa-free travel for Chinese citizens would be introduced "in the very near future", according to Russian media reports.据俄罗斯媒体报道，俄罗斯总统弗拉基米尔·普京11月18日表示，俄方将在“不久的将来”对中国公民实施免签政策。Data from Qunar, a Beijing-based online travel agency, show that the ranking of top outbound destinations has shifted significantly.北京在线旅游平台去哪儿网的数据显示，热门出境旅游目的地的排名已发生显著变化。On Nov 15 and 16, South Korea overtook Japan as the most-booked outbound market, with Seoul becoming the most searched international destination by Nov 17. The surge has been helped by South Korea's visa-free trial program for Chinese tour groups of three or more, effective from Sept 29 through June 30 next year.11月15日至16日，韩国超越日本成为预订量最高的出境旅游市场，首尔更在11月17日跃居最受搜索的国际目的地。此轮增长得益于韩国自9月29日起实施的免签试点政策——针对三人及以上中国旅行团的免签政策将持续至明年6月30日。"From now through the end of 2025, off-peak outbound demand will remain strong," said Yang Han, a researcher at Qunar. "Japan's change has pushed travelers toward more diversified destinations, South Korea now leads, followed by China's Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions nearby, and costeffective Southeast Asian nations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia."去哪儿网研究员杨涵表示：“从现在到2025年底，淡季出境游需求将持续强劲。日本市场的变化促使游客转向更多元化的目的地，韩国目前位居首位，其次是邻近的中国香港、澳门特别行政区，以及泰国、越南、马来西亚等性价比高的东南亚国家。”Domestic destinations are absorbing some redirected traffic as well. Flight bookings to southern provinces from Nov 19 to Dec 31 had exceeded 4.72 million as of Nov 18, up about 13 percent year-on-year, according to data from aviation service app Umetrip.国内目的地也吸纳了部分转移的客流。据航空服务应用程序航旅纵横数据显示，截至11月18日，11月19日至12月31日期间飞往南方省份的航班预订量已突破472万次，同比增长约13%。The ongoing downturn in Chinese outbound travel to Japan accelerated after multiple Chinese ministries issued travel alerts, reminding Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Japan in the near term. Major Chinese airlines have subsequently announced free refunds or rescheduling for Japan routes booked before Dec 31. According to a report by China Central Television on Thursday, more than 540,000 flight tickets to Japan have been canceled since Nov 15.中国赴日出境游持续低迷，在多个中国政府部门发布旅行提示、提醒公民近期避免赴日后，这一趋势进一步加速。中国主要航空公司随后宣布，对12月31日前预订的日本航线提供免费退票或改签服务。据中央电视台周四报道，自11月15日以来，已有超过54万张赴日机票被取消。Wu Liyun, professor of the China Academy of Culture and Tourism at Beijing International Studies University, said travelers now increasingly prioritize safety, emotional comfort and geopolitical stability.北京外国语大学中国文化旅游研究院教授吴丽云指出，如今旅客越来越重视安全保障、情感舒适度和地缘政治稳定性。"People want to feel relaxed and happy when traveling. Government attitudes and how locals treat foreign visitors directly shape emotional experience," she said. When safety or political stability weakens, she added, travelers naturally turn elsewhere. "Southeast Asia, Central Asia and many regional destinations offer strong alternatives. Safety and certainty have become crucial, long-term considerations."吴丽云表示：“人们旅行时渴望放松身心、享受快乐。政府态度和当地居民对待外国游客的方式，直接影响着游客的情感体验。”她补充道，当安全或政治稳定性下降时，游客自然会另寻他处。“东南亚、中亚及众多地区性目的地提供了强有力的替代选择。安全与确定性已成为至关重要的长期考量因素”。China is Japan's largest and highest-spending inbound visitor source. In 2024, Chinese mainland tourists accounted for 21.3 percent of all foreign tourist expenditure, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Combined visitors from the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong made up 30 percent of Japan's total inbound arrivals between January and September this year.中国是日本最大的入境游客来源地，且消费水平最高。日本国家旅游局数据显示，2024年中国大陆游客支出占日本外国游客总支出的21.3%。今年1月至9月，中国大陆与香港游客合计占日本入境游客总量的30%。The impact is already being felt in Japan's northernmost prefecture. Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki said at a news conference on Friday that cancellations have appeared across local hotels and flight tickets. "As the winter travel season approaches, the concerns continue to grow."这种影响已在日本最北端的县有所显现。日本北海道知事鈴木直道周五在记者会上表示，当地酒店和机票出现大量取消预订的情况，“随着冬季旅游旺季临近，担忧情绪持续加剧”。Sapporo Stream Hotel in Hokkaido, which normally receives around 3,000 Chinese guests each month, has recorded 70 cancellations since the travel alert. Tour operators in Nagoya and Tokyo report similar losses. One Nagoya-based charter operator said all December bookings from Chinese groups had been canceled. A Tokyo river cruise company that usually serves up to 2,000 Chinese tourists annually saw about 240 people cancel in recent days.位于北海道的札幌溪流酒店每月通常接待约3000名中国游客，自发布旅行警示以来已收到70份取消预订通知。名古屋和东京的旅行社也报告了类似损失。一家名古屋包机运营商表示，12月所有中国团队预订均已取消。一家东京游船公司通常每年接待约2000名中国游客，近日已有约240人取消行程。Japan's Nomura Research Institute estimated that the decline in Chinese tourists could reduce Japan's GDP by 0.36 percent.日本野村综合研究所估计，中国游客的减少可能使日本国内生产总值下降0.36%。Tourism is Japan's second-largest source of foreign exchange, after vehicle exports, Wu of the China Academy of Culture and Tourism added.吴丽云补充道，旅游业是日本第二大外汇来源，仅次于汽车出口。"If Chinese travelers significantly reduce or halt travel to Japan, that consumption disappears," she said. "This will have a huge impact on Japan's foreign-exchange revenue, GDP growth and employment across accommodation, dining, retail and entertainment."吴丽云表示：“如果中国游客大幅减少或停止赴日旅行，这些消费就会消失。这将对日本的外汇收入、GDP增长以及住宿、餐饮、零售和娱乐行业的就业产生巨大影响。”outbound travel出境游visa-free trial program免签试点政策

Dr Eric Rudenshiold joins Neil Melvin to examine regional change, great-power competition and Washington's renewed engagement within the Caspian region. The Caspian region is being reshaped by new political and economic dynamics as Central Asia and the South Caucasus deepen regional cooperation and navigate the competing ambitions of Russia, China and a newly engaged US. President Trump's first presidential-level C5+1 summit marks a notable shift in Washington's approach to a region long viewed as peripheral. In this episode of Global Security Briefing, Neil Melvin is joined by Dr Eric Rudenshiold, Research Director at the Caspian Policy Center and former NSC Director for Central Asia, to assess how regional actors are adapting to changing power balances and what Washington's renewed focus could mean for future stability and connectivity. The discussion explores: Emerging geopolitical and economic trends across the Caspian Russia's and China's evolving roles and competing integration projects Growing regional cooperation and expanding Caspian links The impact of US re-engagement and whether it signals a lasting shift

Fires in drought-stricken Iran are threatening ancient forests that are home to endangered species. Also, Ireland considers making a program permanent that would provide a stable income for artists. And, we bring you updates on the outcome of the UN climate summit in Belem, Brazil. Plus, a look at the origins of apples in Central Asia.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Meta Ghambaryan is Web3 Global Marketing Advisor at Asterium, she helps build Central Asia's regulated crypto backbone.#crypto #MetaGhambaryan #asiacryptoAll Episodes can be found at www.thecryptopodcast.org Join my PodFather Podcasting SKOOL Grouphttps://www.skool.com/podfather/about All about Roy / Brain Gym & Virtual Assistants athttps://roycoughlan.com/ Brain Fitness SKOOL Group https://www.skool.com/brainfitness/about  Who is Meta GhambaryanMetakse Ghambaryan or simply "Meta"— the former Executive Director at Web3 Armenia -where she helped to grew a thriving Web3 ecosystem to over 20 companies and 40 experts. Now active as Web3 Global Marketing Advisor at Asterium, she helps build Central Asia's regulated crypto backbone.What we Discussed: 00:24 Who is Meta Ghambaryan01:05 Living in Uzbekistan02:50 Her home country Armenia03:54 The Meaning of Asterium 04:25 Her previous work with Web3 Armenia06:40 Different Cultures09:15 Regulating Crypto Companies10:00 Why Uzbekistan legislation is positive for Crypto13:05 Financial Freedom15:45 Is the KYC information shared19:35 Simplifying Crypto20:30 Backed up by Government Bonds22:45 Buildingthe Eco System25:52 The security to protect users29:20 Do they support Meme Coins & NFT's31:20 Protecting the users with Education34:07 No Gambling allowed35:43 The Process for a New User37:40 Educating users about a Cold Wallet38:24 Whats included in the Learning Courses3How to Contact Meta Ghambaryanhttps://asterium.uz/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/metakse-ghambaryan/https://x.com/mandarina_meta All about Roy / Brain Gym & Virtual Assistants at ⁠https://roycoughlan.com/⁠  

fWotD Episode 3125: Chagatai Khan Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Monday, 24 November 2025, is Chagatai Khan.Chagatai Khan (Mongolian: ᠴᠠᠭᠠᠲᠠᠶ; c. 1184 – 1242) was a son of Genghis Khan and a prominent figure in the early Mongol Empire. The second son of Genghis's wife Börte, Chagatai was renowned for his masterful knowledge of Mongol custom and law, which he scrupulously obeyed, and his harsh temperament. Because Genghis felt that he was too inflexible in character, most notably never accepting the legitimacy of his elder brother Jochi, he excluded Chagatai from succession to the Mongol throne. He was nevertheless a key figure in ensuring the stability of the empire after Genghis's death and during the reign of his younger brother Ögedei Khan.Chagatai held military commands alongside his brothers during the Mongol conquest of the Jin dynasty in 1211 and the invasion of the Khwarazmian Empire in 1219. During the latter, he was appointed to a key role in organising logistics in addition to battlefield responsibilities, but was censured after feuding with Jochi during the Siege of Gurganj. After the campaign, Chagatai was granted large tracts of conquered land in Central Asia, which he ruled until his death. He quarrelled with civil officials such as Mahmud Yalavach over matters of jurisdiction and advised Ögedei on questions of rulership. Chagatai died shortly after Ögedei in 1242; his descendants would rule his territories as the eponymous Chagatai Khanate.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:02 UTC on Monday, 24 November 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Chagatai Khan on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Bluesky at @wikioftheday.com.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Russell.

UBtheNews.com and UBAnnotated.com founder and researcher Halbert Katzen joins us to talk about his adventure to Central Asia and what he hopes to find among the relics and ruins of this ancient land (as it relates to Urantia Book history. Plus, listener question: How did you find the book and what do you want more of in this podcast (and less of!). Time for a metaphysical group hug as we built this podcast to even greater heights!

Day 1,366.Today, we reveal new details of the proposed American-Russian peace plan – one that would not only drastically shrink the Ukrainian army and force Kyiv to surrender vast areas of critical territory, but ban it from ever joining NATO, and even see Moscow invited back into the G7 with its frozen assets returned. After breaking down the implications and surveying the mood in the Donbas, we bring the latest reports of resistance from the occupied territories – places which would legally become Russian if the deal were signed.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Dr. Jade McGlynn (War Studies Department of King's College). @DrJadeMcGlynn on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Russia welcomed back to G7 under Trump peace plan (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/20/russia-to-be-welcomed-back-to-g7-under-proposed-peace-plan/ Zelensky agrees to negotiate on Trump's peace plan (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/20/france-brands-us-russia-peace-deal-a-capitulation/ Telegraph's Ukraine Live Blog:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/21/ukraine-russia-war-trump-putin-peace-deal-nato-live/ How ‘Spoofing' Is Diverting Russian Missiles Into Empty Fields (Forbes): https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidhambling/2025/11/20/how-spoofing-is-diverting-russian-missiles-into-empty-fields/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode opens up with all three co-hosts, Adam, Nina and Alexandra, taking a look at a few headlines coming out of the region. They discuss the sabotage operation in Poland, the ongoing war in Ukraine in midst of an emerging corruption scandal, and the fall out of the EU's new ban on multi-entry visas for Russian citizens.For the main interview, Alexandra speaks with regional expert Nurbek Bekmurzaev about Kyrgyzstan's unprecedented snap parliamentary elections taking place on November 30th. Nurbeck explains how the legacy of the 2020 unrest, whichbrought President Sadyr Japarov to power, continues to shape Kyrgyzstan's political transformation. The conversation explores the new electoral rules, the changing nature of political competition, candidate filtering, and the likelihood of any protests or instability around the vote. In our bonus section for Patrons only, Alexandra and Nurbek take a look at the recent C5+1 summit in Washington, exploring how the US under Donald Trump is reshaping its approach to Central Asia.Listen to the bonus episode here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-245-144000977Help us reach 75 Patrons by the end of 2025! Sign up for great benefits here: www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope Check out the report by the Balkan Free Media Initiative - Tackling TikTokracy: A blueprint for fighting algorithmic manipulation in Europe. https://www.balkanfreemedia.org/tackling-tiktokcracy-in-the-balkans Read this week's Brief Eastern Europe: https://www.briefeasterneurope.eu

Day 1,365.Today, we examine the proposal that has left Kyiv and Europe reeling: a US peace plan that could force Ukraine to lease part of its territory to Russia, cap the size of its armed forces, and accept a series of concessions that would amount to a major victory for Vladimir Putin. We then hear from a leading pollster about domestic attitudes in Russia towards the war – and what potential tipping points could shift public opinion. Finally, we reflect on the significance of the anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials, and what it means for justice and accountability in today's conflict – or lack thereof.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.With thanks to Dr Oleksandr Shulga.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Ukraine told to accept cash-for-land deal with Putin (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/19/us-russia-secret-28-point-peace-plan-gaza-model/ Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg ‘quits' after plan for US peace leaked (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/11/20/ukraine-envoy-keith-kellogg-quits-after-plan-for-us-peace/ France brands US-Russia peace deal a ‘capitulation' (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/20/france-brands-us-russia-peace-deal-a-capitulation/ White House Scrambles to Quell Rumors of Russia-Friendly Donbas Proposal (Kyiv Post):https://www.kyivpost.com/post/64561 BBC Today Programme featuring former US Ambassador to Kyiv:https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002mbxg LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max and Maria spoke with Nikolay Petrov and Mikhail Troitskiy, two leading experts on the contemporary Russian elite, to discuss the current status of this ruling group inside Russia today, and why it finds itself increasingly under pressure from state security organs. This conversation was recorded on November 13, 2025. "Отцы и дѣти: Генеалогическое исследование российской власти" (Proekt.media, November 2025) "Transition without a successor: The transformation of Putin's regime," by Vladimir Pastukhov and Nikolay Petrov (NEST, September 2025) "Managing multiple audiences: dual-track signals and the silencing of Russia's globalized elites before the invasion of Ukraine," by Mikhail Troitskiy (Post-Soviet Affairs, June 2025)

This week, we're digging into The B1M's recent video "The World's Tallest Megadam Will Block Central Asia". Together, we discuss how Tajikistan is finally finishing a Soviet-era mega build.This episode is sponsored by Trimble. Learn more about Trimble's design and detailing solutions here

There's a certain kind of freedom that comes with slowing down: giving yourself time to stay, to notice, and to let a place leave its mark on you.Over the years, Weronika Szalas's mindset has shifted more and more toward slow travel — working in the winters and touring in the summers. This year, she spent nearly five months on the road with her partner, bikepacking through Central Asia.In this episode of Detours, Weronika all about her adventures on the road, from Google Translate disasters to long days on remote tracks, quiet dinners with strangers, and finally making it to Kyrgyzstan, a place she'd dreamed of for years.We get into:How slow travel changed the way she experiences new placesThe emptiness of the Mongolian steppe and navigating without a shared languageThe surreal reality of riding through Western China and dealing with constant surveillanceHighlights from bikepacking in Kyrgyzstan including Karakol, Peak Lenin, Juku Pass, and the Pamir Highway/Bartang ValleyHow her definition of freedom has evolved, and what it feels like to settle back into regular life after months outsideLISTENER SHOUTOUT: As a little bonus content this week we have a voice note from Kara Woolgar who finished the Arizona Trail 800 as her FIRST EVER bikepacking race! Congrats Kara and thanks so much for sharing your story!Follow Weronika on Instagram: @weronika.szalas Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Detours on Instagram: @detourscyclingFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cyclingUse code DETOURS15 to get 15% off your next order from AlbionIf you love this show please consider pledging your support to sustain producing this show: https://buymeacoffee.com/detourspodcast

Day 1,364.Today, as Ukraine confirms the latest use of US ATACMS missiles inside Russia and Britain tracks a Russian spy ship in UK waters, we examine growing pressure on President Zelensky to dismiss a senior official over the widening nuclear-energy corruption scandal – with Andriy Yermak increasingly in the spotlight. We also report on allegations that a former British civil servant committed war crimes in Ukraine, and discuss why Spain is attempting to return to Donald Trump's good graces with a new €1 billion purchase of U.S. weapons for Ukraine. Later, we speak with the Foreign Minister of Czechia, who says he expects imminent movement on efforts to unlock frozen Russian state assets. ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.With thanks to Jan Lipavský, Foreign Minister of Czechia.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:British ex-civil servant accused of Ukraine war crimes (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/11/19/british-ex-civil-servant-graham-phillips-ukraine-war-crimes/ Russian spy ship fires lasers to blind RAF pilots (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/11/19/russian-spy-blinds-military-pilots-spy-ship-lasers/ Scoop: U.S. secretly drafting new plan to end Ukraine war (Axios):https://www.axios.com/2025/11/19/ukraine-peace-plan-trump-russia-witkoff LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,363.Today, after a 17-year-old girl was killed and 9 others injured in an overnight Russian missile attack in Kharkiv Oblast, we return to the dire situation in Pokrovsk, before asking why Vladimir Putin is targeting his own war cheerleaders in his latest clampdown. Then we look at the First World War medical condition being reported on the frontlines in Ukraine, and hear from an American serving in the Ukrainian army.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Verity Bowman (Journalist). @VerityBowman on X.Hamish de Bretton-Gordon (Chemical Weapons Expert and former Tank Commander). @hamishdbg on x.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Gas gangrene returns to Ukraine in echoes of First World War trench warfare (Verity in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/terror-and-security/gas-gangrene-ukraine-war-russia-trenches-europe/ ‘Coffin on wheels' saves wounded Ukrainian soldier from no-man's land (Verity in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/17/robot-coffin-on-wheels-saves-ukrainian-soldier-trapped/ Russia suspected of blowing up Polish railway line (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/17/russia-suspected-of-blowing-up-polish-railway-line-ukraine/ Putin goes after his own war cheerleaders (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/16/putin-goes-after-his-own-war-cheerleaders/ Putin is eating his own supporters. This is how dictators fall (Hamish in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/11/17/putin-z-bloggers-suppression-supporters-russia-war-ukraine/ Key government representatives advise Zelensky to release Yermak (Ukrainian Pravda):https://www.pravda.com.ua/news/2025/11/18/8007753/ EU eyes €90 Billion Ukraine grant (Bloomberg):https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-11-17/eu-pitches-90-billion-ukraine-grant-if-russian-asset-loan-fails Construction Accelerates at Planned Russian Navy Base (Bellingcat):https://www.bellingcat.com/news/uk-and-europe/2024/07/30/construction-accelerates-at-planned-russian-navy-base-in-disputed-abkhazia/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Akmaljon Musaev, Founder & CEO of Hyper App - Enterprise Cloud, in conversation with Gary Fowler, as they explore how a new generation of cloud innovators from Central Asia are boldly competing with global giants like AWS. Discover how Hyper App is building regionally optimized, enterprise-ready cloud infrastructure — faster, more accessible, and built for the modern global market.

Day 1,362.Today, as Poland reports sabotage on vital rail links connecting it to Ukraine and Romania evacuates civilians after Russian strikes across the Danube, we unpack President Zelensky's latest diplomatic push – including a new energy deal with Greece and a landmark agreement with France for 100 fighter jets. Later, we speak with Vladimir Kara-Murza, the prominent opposition figure arrested in 2022 for denouncing Russia's invasion of Ukraine and given a 25-year sentence in a Siberian penal colony. He discusses life inside prison and how Putin's regime suppresses dissent.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.James Crisp (Europe Editor). @JamesCrisp6 on X.With thanks to Vladimir Kara-Murza,SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Vladimir Kara-Murza: what stopped me going mad in Putin's gulag (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/2sxzyhmnNorth Korean troops deployed to clear land mines for Russia (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/25fw4kdsRussia seizes land after Kyiv diverts troops (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/ydtnrd7uExclusive: Russia plans to make up to 120,000 glide bombs this year, Ukrainian intelligence says (Reuters):https://tinyurl.com/mtymsp8cHow Britain replaced the US as Russia's villain of choice (The Guardian):https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2025/nov/16/how-britain-became-russia-villain-us-ukraine Viewings of ‘Facing War' at Bertha DocHouse in London:https://dochouse.org/event/facing-war/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Bryan Grim from the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation about his influential research on global religious freedom. Grim recounts how his personal experiences living in the Muslim world, particularly during 9/11, led him to develop the groundbreaking framework that measures religious restrictions through two distinct lenses: government actions and social hostilities. He argues that this nuanced understanding is crucial for the workplace, asserting that accommodating and respecting employees' diverse faiths fosters a more productive and engaged environment, drawing a parallel between inclusive national policies and successful corporate cultures. The conversation explores the practical challenges of accommodating various religious practices, the importance of universal religious freedom for all faiths to ensure it for any, and the critical role of data in providing perspective, informing policy, and navigating the complexities of religious persecution beyond mere anecdotes. Dr. Bryan J. Grim is a globally recognized expert on the socio-economic impact of religious freedom. He is the Founding President of the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation (RFBF) and serves as the Global Chair of Dare to Overcome, an initiative that fosters mutual respect and engagement among diverse faith-and-belief groups in workplaces worldwide. With a Ph.D. in quantitative sociology from Pennsylvania State University, Dr. Grim has authored numerous academic articles and books. His pioneering work at the Pew Research Center led to the development of global indexes measuring Government Restrictions on Religion (GRI) and Social Hostilities Involving Religion (SHI), which are now key tools for monitoring religious freedom worldwide. Dr. Grim's research has shown that religion contributes approximately $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy, surpassing the combined revenues of top tech companies like Apple, Amazon, and Google. His approach to religious freedom emphasizes building inclusive environments for people of all faiths and those without religious affiliation. He has lived and worked extensively across China, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the former USSR, where he helped establish the first Western-style business school in the Soviet Union. His global influence included advisory roles with the World Economic Forum, the Tony Blair Faith Foundation, Notre Dame University Law School's Religious Liberty Initiative, Brandeis University's Chaplaincy Innovation Lab, and affiliations with Boston University and Baylor University. Dr. Grim is also known for organizing the Global Business & Intercultural Peace Awards, held in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Seoul, Tokyo, New Delhi, and Washington, D.C., with support from global leaders and organizations including the United Nations Global Compact and American Airlines. He and his wife, Julia Beth, are co-authors of Grims' New Fairy Tales of Love Overcoming Evil (https://grimsfairytales.com/), parents of four and grandparents of 18.

In this episode guest Harriet Gruen shares what it takes to go from novice cycle tourer to an ultra cycling record-breaker. In 2022 she set off from London to ride 10,000 km to Central Asia.  She'd barely ridden much at all and so she named the trip The Unlikely Adventure.Along the way she fell in love with cycling and by the time she returned back to London 5 months later, she turned her mind to  ultra-distance racing.  She's since lined up at events such as Dales Divide, Trans Pyrenees and Badlands, more recently she has et the fastest known female time on the Three Peaks by Bike Challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon while cycling the 700 km between them.Follow Harriet via her instagram - @anunlikelyadventure and also her personal blog - An Unlikely AdventureCheck out Zorali for all your outdoor adventure needs! Support the showBuy me a coffee! I'm an affiliate for a few brands I genuinely use and recommend including:

Linking the Far East with the Mediterranean world, the Silk Road became history's most influential crossroads, shaping civilisations through trade, diplomacy and cultural encounter.From the imperial courts of China to the bustling markets of Rome, artistic, religious and cultural currents travelled these pathways – silk and spices, of course, but also ideas, technologies and beliefs.In this episode, we are joined by accomplished author, lecturer and cultural specialist Chris Aslan. Drawing on his decades of lived experience and research in Central Asia, he offers vivid on-the-ground insight into the peoples who inhabited this crossroads of empires, revealing how the Silk Road was never a single road at all, but a vast network of vibrant and interconnected routes.Academy Travel is a leading specialist in small-group cultural tours, allowing you to travel with like-minded companions and learn from internationally renowned experts. Like our podcast, our tours are designed to appeal to travellers with a strong interest in history, archaeology, architecture, the visual arts and the performing arts.Learn more here - https://academytravel.com.au/

Day 1,359.Today, as one of Russia's largest oil terminals burns following an overnight strike, we report on yet another aerial blitz on Kyiv and assess the latest wave of European support for Ukraine. We also examine German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's call for President Zelensky to stem the flow of young Ukrainian men fleeing to Germany. Later, we bring you an exclusive interview with the Deputy Head of Zelensky's Presidential Office, who shares Kyiv's latest response to the corruption scandal engulfing the administration – and warns that Ukrainian society this summer was at “boiling point.”ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Ihor Brusylov, Deputy Head of Zelensky's Presidential Office.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Francis's Book Review: ‘How Gorbachev fooled the West into thinking he was a liberal visionary' (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gift/c726678d9006e83dWatch: Ukraine helicopter shoots down Russian drone using American minigun (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/13/ukraine-helicopter-minigun-shoots-down-russian-drone/ Germany slams door on Ukrainian men fleeing war (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/13/germany-slams-door-ukrainian-men-fleeing-war-russia-merz/ US sanctions Ukrainian firms accused of helping supply parts for Iran's Shahed drones used by Russia (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/iran-buys-shahed-components-from-within-ukraine-us-treasury/?mc_cid=c6b36a0bef&mc_eid=08d0680a95 LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this talk Darya Tsymbalyuk presents her recent book Ecocide in Ukraine: The Environmental Cost of Russia's War (Polity Press, 2025). The book focuses on the impact of the Russian invasion on the more-than-human worlds of Ukraine, discussing how witnessing and experiencing environmental destruction profoundly changed our perceptions of familiar places and spaces such as forests, agricultural fields, and shelterbelts. Combining autoethnography with cultural and media analysis, and environmental data, Tsymbalyuk asks: what does it mean to inhabit a world under attack, what does it mean to live on contaminated land? Darya Tsymbalyuk is an interdisciplinary researcher, and her practice includes writing and image-making. Most of Darya's work lies at the intersection of environmental humanities and artistic research. Darya is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures and the Committee on Environment, Geography, and Urbanization (CEGU) at the University of Chicago. She is the author of Ecocide in Ukraine: The Environmental Cost of Russia's War (Polity Press 2025). Among her many shorter scholarly publications is a double special issue on the environmental humanities of Ukraine co-edited with Tanya Richardson and forthcoming with East/West: Journal of Ukrainian Studies. Her other scholarly texts have been published by Nature Human Behaviour, Journal of International Relations and Development, Narrative Culture, REGION: Regional Studies of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, to name a few. Her public-facing writing appeared in BBC Future Planet, openDemocracy, The Funambulist, KAJET, NiCHE: Network in Canadian History & Environment, and many other platforms. In 2023, she received Mary Zirin Prize from the Association for Women in Slavic Studies. In addition to writing, Darya also works with images through drawing, painting, collage, and film essays. You can learn more about her work here: https://daryatsymbalyuk.com/ This lecture is made possible in partnership with Wisconsin RISE-EARTH Initiative.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, Bryan examines President Trump's defense of his plan to double the number of Chinese students in America, Beijing's latest moves to weaponize rare earth minerals, the deepening conflicts in Gaza and Guinea, and how Sweden's cultural war on assimilation mirrors the decline of the West. He closes with promising new medical breakthroughs on Alzheimer's, cancer, heart rhythm, and anxiety. Trump Defends 600,000 Chinese Student Visas: President Trump told Fox News that Chinese students keep American colleges solvent, calling the plan "a business decision." Critics, including Laura Ingraham, warned that Chinese nationals pose espionage and bioweapon risks, while Trump insisted, "MAGA was my idea — I know what MAGA wants better than anybody else." Bryan argues the move exposes Trump's blind spot: treating adversaries as business partners instead of ideological foes. China's Rare Earth Slowdown: Xi Jinping is quietly delaying rare earth export licenses for U.S. buyers, especially those tied to military contracts, while expanding Chinese control of mines in Brazil and Central Asia. Bryan warns that "Beijing seeks domination, not cooperation — we can never trust China on anything." Gaza, Guinea, and the Global Chessboard: Trump's Pentagon is exploring a new base near Gaza to support a 10,000-member Arab stabilization force, while King Abdullah of Jordan says no Arab nation wants to "touch that mission." In Africa, China now controls the world's largest iron-ore mine in Guinea, giving it leverage to flood global steel markets and crush Western industry. Sweden's Self-Destruction: Leftist mayors in Sweden argue that native Swedes must integrate with Arab migrants, not the other way around. Bryan calls it "civilizational suicide" and a warning for America's future: "When a culture stops believing in itself, it dies." Good News in Medicine: Scientists report that NAD⁺ supplements may reverse Alzheimer's symptoms, a high-fiber diet improves melanoma survival, coffee may reduce A-Fib risk, and choline — found in salmon and eggs — helps ease anxiety. Bryan calls it "proof that science, faith, and common sense can still work together."   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Trump Chinese student visas Fox News, Laura Ingraham MAGA debate, China rare earth exports Xi Jinping, Gaza stabilization force Jordan Abdullah, Guinea Simandou iron mine Rio Tinto, Sweden migrant assimilation debate, NAD Alzheimer's research, coffee A-Fib study, choline anxiety nutrient

In this powerhouse Veterans Day episode, Ghost dives deep into the latest global shakeups, starting with Trump's bold warning to Nigeria over Christian persecution and the ripple effects across Africa. He breaks down the U.S. push into Central Asia's mineral markets, exposing the neocon agendas and globalist resistance to Trump's resource diplomacy. From Steve Bannon and Eric Prince's takes on manufacturing and Middle Eastern geopolitics to Israel's growing instability and internal dissent, Ghost connects the dots on how global power structures are crumbling. He also unpacks breaking news of a Turkish military plane crash, Saudi Arabia's diplomatic maneuvering ahead of Trump's meeting with MBS, and Viktor Orbán's efforts to mediate a Trump–Putin peace summit. Thought-provoking, fiery, and meticulously sourced, this episode maps the frontlines of the multipolar world forming right before our eyes.

Support Us :Donation Page – LibriVox Free AudiobooksThis Part 2 of "The Afghan Wars 1839-42 and 1878-80" discusses the 1878-80 war, which was one of the major conflicts during the Great Game, the 19th century competition for power and influence in Central Asia between the United Kingdom and Russia, and also marked one of the worst setbacks inflicted on British power in the region after the consolidation of British Raj by the East India Company. - Summary by Lynette Caulkins and Phil GriffithGenre(s): War & Military, Modern (19th C)Language: EnglishKeyword(s): history (891), military (45), military history (20), Afghanistan (10), central asia (2), middle-east (1), british power (1)Support Us :⁠Donation Page – LibriVox Free Audiobooks⁠

Day 1,356Today, after weekend strikes on energy facilities in both countries left blackouts in Russia and Ukraine, we report how Moscow now seems to be deliberately targeting Ukrainian nuclear plants well away from the front line, how Britain is sending military personnel to defend Belgian skies, and later we have an interview with Dr Jack Watling, Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare at the Royal United Services Institute, in which he describes Ukraine's adaptation of battlefield tactics.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Dr Jack Watling, Senior Research Fellow for Land Warfare at the Royal United Services Institute. @Jack_Watling on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Dr Jack Watling's New RUSI Report - 'Emergent Approaches to Combined Arms Manoeuvre in Ukraine':https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/insights-papers/emergent-approaches-combined-arms-manoeuvre-ukrainePokrovsk: Where Putin Shattered His Teethhttps://cepa.org/article/pokrovsk-where-putin-shattered-his-teeth/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=emailLISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max and Maria had a livestreamed conversation in the CSIS Brack Studio with Dara Massicot and Kateryna Bondar to discuss Russian and Ukrainian battlefield adaptations and technological innovations. This conversation took place on November 5, 2025. A video recording is available at CSIS.org. "How Russia Recovered: What the Kremlin Is Learning From the War in Ukraine" by Dara Massicot (Foreign Affairs, October 2025) "How and Why Ukraine's Military Is Going Digital" by Kateryna Bondar (CSIS.org, October 2025) "Russia's War in Ukraine: The Next Chapter" by Max Bergmann and Maria Snegovaya (CSIS.org, September 2025)  

Dulatbek Ikbayev is the Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company's office in Central Asia, where he leads the firm's regional […]

Day 1,346.Today, as Ukrainian forces hang on in Pokrovsk, we discuss more reports coming out of the city of Russian troops fighting in civilian clothes – a clear war crime. Plus, we hear about Ukraine's latest long range strikes inside Russia and look at a worrying message from the International Atomic Energy Agency that accuses Moscow of targeting three of Ukraine's nuclear power plants. Later, we hear how a Ukrainian opera lost for 250 years premiered earlier this month in Chernivtsi, accompanied by the sound of air alerts.Contributors:Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjzon X.With thanks to Nataliya Lukyanova and James ButterwickSIGN UP TO THE NEW ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:https://secure.telegraph.co.uk/customer/secure/newsletter/ukraine/ Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Russian soldiers disguised in civilian clothes infiltrating front-line city (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/08/13/russian-soldiers-disguised-civilian-clothing-infiltrating/Poland, Hungary and Slovakia defy Brussels as Ukraine trade deal takes effect (POLITICO)https://www.politico.eu/article/poland-hungary-and-slovakia-defy-brussels-as-ukraine-trade-deal-takes-effect/Trump-Vladimir Putin Budapest summit axed following Moscow memo (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/d6655fb1-31af-4da8-85f7-085a8fc00969Hungary's foot-dragging on Russian oil crashes into realityhttps://www.politico.eu/article/hungary-foot-dragging-russian-oil-crashes-reality-croatia-sanction/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This edition of the "Round-Up" looked at not just news from the past week, but began by remembering the great reformer, Martin Luther, who began the Protestant Reformation on this date in 1517. Also, an update was given concerning VCY's Central Asia project. News stories from this past week included: --The FBI thwarted a potential terror attack in Michigan, arresting multiple suspects accused of plotting violence over the Halloween weekend. --Authorities are sounding the alarm over drug laced candy and snacks. --Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem rebuffed a request from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to suspend immigration enforcement over the Halloween weekend. --Samaritans Purse, headed by Franklin Graham, has airlifted more than 38,000 pounds of emergency relief supplies to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa tore through the island leaving widespread destruction and thousands homeless. --Left-wing TikTok'ers are shamelessly promoting rioting and stealing as a pause of food stamps or the Snap benefits looms due to the government shutdown. --New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency to financially support food banks as the government shutdown threatens the food aid program. --President Trump has called on congressional Republicans to invoke the "nuclear option" by ending the Senate filibuster to bring the ongoing government shutdown to an end. --Jim provided audio from Chris Cuomo who appeared on NewsNation to call out Democrats for peddling the farce about the "Schumer Shutdown." --The nation's largest union representing federal workers has called on Senate Democrats to end the government shutdown immediately!

This edition of the "Round-Up" looked at not just news from the past week, but began by remembering the great reformer, Martin Luther, who began the Protestant Reformation on this date in 1517. Also, an update was given concerning VCY's Central Asia project. News stories from this past week included: --The FBI thwarted a potential terror attack in Michigan, arresting multiple suspects accused of plotting violence over the Halloween weekend. --Authorities are sounding the alarm over drug laced candy and snacks. --Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem rebuffed a request from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to suspend immigration enforcement over the Halloween weekend. --Samaritans Purse, headed by Franklin Graham, has airlifted more than 38,000 pounds of emergency relief supplies to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa tore through the island leaving widespread destruction and thousands homeless. --Left-wing TikTok'ers are shamelessly promoting rioting and stealing as a pause of food stamps or the Snap benefits looms due to the government shutdown. --New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency to financially support food banks as the government shutdown threatens the food aid program. --President Trump has called on congressional Republicans to invoke the "nuclear option" by ending the Senate filibuster to bring the ongoing government shutdown to an end. --Jim provided audio from Chris Cuomo who appeared on NewsNation to call out Democrats for peddling the farce about the "Schumer Shutdown." --The nation's largest union representing federal workers has called on Senate Democrats to end the government shutdown immediately!

Mike Hayes is a former U.S. Navy SEAL officer who served 20 years in Special Operations. A graduate of one of the toughest SEAL training classes—one of only 19 out of 120 to complete—he deployed throughout South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, including in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Hayes commanded SEAL Team TWO and led a 2,000-person Special Operations Task Force in southeastern Afghanistan. He also served as Deputy Commander for all Special Operations in Anbar Province, Iraq, and was selected as a White House Fellow (’08–’09). At the National Security Council, he served as Director for Defense Policy and Strategy, where he helped draft a proposed START Treaty and led the White House response to the Maersk Alabama hijacking. His decorations include the Bronze Star for Valor in Iraq, a Bronze Star for Afghanistan, and the Defense Superior Service Medal. After retiring from the Navy, Hayes transitioned to senior leadership roles in technology and investment, and authored Never Enough: A Navy SEAL Commander on Living a Life of Excellence, Agility, and Meaning, donating all profits to support Gold Star families. He lives with his wife, Anita, and their daughter, Maeson, and most enjoys spending time and laughing with them when not mentoring others or speaking about leadership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Max and Maria spoke with Clayton Seigle about how new sanctions from the Trump administration could potentially impact Russian energy revenues. Additionally, they discussed the effects of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian refineries. This conversation was recorded on October 23, 2025.

Day 1,339.Today, as President Zelensky meets the Coalition of the Willing in London, we discuss the shock felt in Brussels after European countries failed to come to a deal on the use of frozen Russian assets. We also hear the latest updates on the Ukrainian resistance, and Francis reports not from the frontline but the front row, as he attends a Ukrainian fashion show.Contributors:Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjzon X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Illia Riepin and the Estonian Embassy of London.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Francis's Article on Ukrainian Fashion:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/ukraine-fashion-show-london-war-francis-dearnley/ EU's €140bn Ukraine loan plan derailed (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/10/24/belgium-derails-european-union-plans-ukraine-loan/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High-Stakes Diplomacy: US-Russia Peace Talks and CCP Uncertainty Mary Kissel, Stephens Inc., with John Batchelor Kissel analyzes the proposed Trump-Putin meeting in Budapest, suggesting the postponement indicates the US hasn't gained enough leverage to truly incentivize Russia. She labels Russian diplomatic language as manipulation and "verbal mush." Kissel also addresses the rolling purges of generals in the CCP during the Fourth Plenum. She cautions that without transparency, it remains unclear whether these actions consolidate or weaken Xi Jinping's grip on power. 1892 CENTRAL ASIA

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, Bryan covers a violent attack on ICE officers in Los Angeles, political backlash over Trump's $250 million White House ballroom, new data showing rising grocery and utility costs, and how lobbyists are turning to YouTube and podcasts to reach the President. We then go global with updates on Ukraine, Gaza, and Trump's growing influence in Central Asia.   Democrat Activist Attacks ICE Officers: Federal agents attempted to arrest an illegal alien and Democrat influencer in California, who used his car to ram ICE officers before being shot and hospitalized. Bryan links this to escalating left-wing rhetoric and warns that “Democrats' calls to do whatever it takes to stop Trump are getting people killed.”   Trump's White House Ballroom Sparks Debate: The President began construction on a new East Wing ballroom funded by private donors. While critics like Mazie Hirono and Hillary Clinton call it symbolic of dictatorship, Elizabeth Warren argues it shows Trump is out of touch with struggling Americans. Bryan notes her line could resonate as power bills and grocery costs rise.   Economic Pressures Mount: Electricity prices are up four percent due to AI data centers, while turkey prices have jumped forty percent and beef remains high. Walmart and Aldi are competing to keep Thanksgiving meals under $4 per person. Bryan calls it a test of whether Democrats can exploit pocketbook frustration.   Lobbyists Turn to Podcasts: According to Politico, D.C. lobbyists are now paying to place clients on top conservative podcasts and YouTube shows to get Trump's attention — bypassing Congress entirely. Bryan warns listeners to “trust, but verify” what they hear online.   Global Peace Efforts and the Mineral Wars: Europe is drafting a “Trump Plan for Peace” to end the war in Ukraine, while Vice President JD Vance works to hold Gaza's ceasefire together amid Turkish power plays. Meanwhile, Trump is expanding influence in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan through trade and mining deals designed to block China's Silk Road ambitions.   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: ICE officer attack Los Angeles, Trump White House ballroom East Wing, Elizabeth Warren Trump economy critique, electricity prices AI data centers, Walmart Aldi Thanksgiving deals, Politico podcast lobbying Trump, Ukraine Trump peace plan Europe, Gaza JD Vance ceasefire Turkey, Trump Kazakhstan tungsten mine China Silk Road

Max and Maria spoke with Leah Kieff and Vlad Lupan about the outcomes of the recent Moldovan parliamentary elections at the end of September, and why they're significant for both Moldova, and the broader region. This conversation was recorded on October 14, 2025.

Mission Driven - How To Make Better Decisions - From Former Commanding Officer US Navy SEAL Team TwoGuest:Mike Hayes A Managing Director at Insight Partners * Former Commanding Officer of US Navy SEAL Team TWO* Managing Director, Insight Partners* Author of National Bestseller Mission Driven (distilled nicely in this article)All of Mike's profits from his book sales go to a 501(c)(3) he founded, The 1162 Foundation, which pays off mortgages for Gold Star families – he's paid off 12 widows' mortgages to date.AUMRegulatory assets under management $90B and 600 portfolio managers. Timeless LessonsLeaders Don't need to make the best decision.They need to make sure the best decision gets made. Team, Teammate, SelfAlgin these 3 things – for purpose and elite performance:What gives someone energy?What are they good at?What's good for the business?Best adviceWhenever you are having a hard day, find someone else who's having a harder day and help them. Social Profiles* Instagram @thisis.mikehayes* X @thisismikehayes* LinkedInBioMike Hayes is Managing Director at Insight Partners, a global software investment firm with $90B+ in regulatory assets under management and 800+ portfolio companies across every stage of growth.Prior to Insight, Mike was Chief Operating Officer at VMware, where he led the company's worldwide business operations, their SaaS transition, and the successful acquisition into Broadcom for $94B. Before that, Mike served as Senior Vice President and Head of Strategic Operations for Cognizant Technologies, where he ran a $2B P&L for Cognizant's global financial services clients.Mike previously spent four years at Bridgewater Associates, an investment management firm, where he served in Chief of Staff to CEO and COO roles. Prior to Bridgewater, he spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy SEALs where his career began as one of 19 graduates from a class of 120. Mike served throughout South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, including the conflicts in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan.His last job in the Navy was the Commanding Officer of SEAL Team TWO, which included ten months as the Commander of a 2,000-person Special Operations Task Force in southeastern Afghanistan. Before that, Mike was selected as a White House Fellow ('08/'09) and served two years as Director of Defense Policy and Strategy at the National Security Council.In the Bush Administration, Mike was responsible for the START Treaty, where he produced a new proposed START Treaty and flew to Russia for negotiations. In the Obama administration, he led the White House response to President Obama's first major foreign policy showdown — the hijacking of the Maersk Alabama off the coast of Somalia. Prior to the White House Fellowship, Mike served as the Deputy Commander for all Special Operations in Anbar Province, Iraq.Mike holds an M.A. in Public Policy from Harvard's Kennedy School and received his B.A. from Holy Cross College, where he was an active Big Brother. His military decorations include the Bronze Star for valor in combat in Iraq, a Bronze Star for Afghanistan, and the Defense Superior Service Medal from the White House.Mike is the author of the best-seller Never Enough: A Navy SEAL Commander on Living a Life of Excellence, Agility, and Meaning, and donates all profits to a 501(c)(3) he started that pays off mortgages for Gold Star widows and children.He serves on the board of Immuta, a data governance company, and is the founding board member of the National Medal of Honor Museum. Mike is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations, is fluent in German and Spanish, frequently speaks about leadership and elite organizations, and enjoys mentoring others to success.He is a life-long Sox/Pats fan, but most enjoys laughing with his wife, Anita, and their 24-year-old daughter, Maeson.

In this episode of War & Peace, Olga and guest host Alissa de Carbonnel are joined by Bob Deen, Head of the Security Unit at the Clingendael Institute, to assess the state of diplomacy aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. They discuss why peace efforts by the U.S. and others have struggled to gain traction, and what diplomacy can realistically achieve in the near term. They also look at Kyiv's attempts to build broader global support for a peace initiative and which countries are best positioned to play a constructive role. They also consider the roles that international organisations such as the OSCE and UN might play in shaping a settlement in Ukraine and how these institutions could fit into a future European security order.Note: This episode was recorded before President Trump's call with President Putin last week, their announcement of a planned summit in Budapest, and Trump's White House meeting with President Zelenskyy.This episode was made possible through extra-budgetary funding from the OSCE. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the OSCE.For more, check out our Ukraine and Europe & Central Asia pages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

he Uluburun Shipwreck and the Collapse of Late Bronze Age Globalization AUTHOR NAME: Eric Cline BOOK TITLE: 1177 BC, the year civilization collapsed; After 1177 BC, The Survival of Civilizations This excerpt discusses the Uluburun shipwreck (c. 1300 BC) as a microcosm of Late Bronze Age globalization, carrying copper from Cyprus and tin from Central Asia. Dating evidence includes a solid gold scarab of Nefertiti. The conversation shifts to the 1177 BC collapse, caused by a perfect storm of drought, famine, and invaders. New modeling suggests the simultaneous fall of the Hittites and Ugarit destroyed the network

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, we cover a major breakthrough in Alaska's mineral wars, a new AI scandal in Silicon Valley, the collapse of illegal crossings at America's southern border, a Supreme Court showdown over free speech and therapy laws, shocking new evidence of Biden family corruption, major trade and infrastructure deals from Central Asia to Africa, and the hidden health threat of microplastics. From Alaska's mining roads to Kazakhstan's railways and Germany's labs, today's brief connects America's economic revival to global corruption and the future of health and technology.   Trump Greenlights Alaska's Ambler Road and Trilogy Metals Stake: President Trump approved a fast-track permit for the Ambler Road and bought a 10 percent federal stake in Trilogy Metals, unlocking Alaska's copper, cobalt, and germanium reserves. The Ambler Mining District could make America less dependent on China for critical minerals. Bryan calls it “the most underreported but crucial story of the week.”   AI Model Claude Knows When It's Being Tested: Anthropic's Claude chatbot told researchers, “I think you're testing me,” revealing situational self-awareness and manipulation patterns similar to OpenAI's “scheming” models. Bryan warns, “The machines are beginning to recognize us — and that should terrify everyone.”   Illegal Border Crossings Hit 50-Year Low: CBS confirms crossings are at their lowest since 1970, with Trump's monthly totals down to 9,000 compared to Biden's 238,000 per month last year. Bryan argues the data “proves Biden's border crisis was a choice — a deliberate policy of demographic change.”   Supreme Court Hears Conversion Therapy Free Speech Case: Evangelical therapist Kaley Chiles challenged Colorado's ban on discussing faith-based counseling. Both conservative and liberal justices, including Elena Kagan, seemed to side with her on First Amendment grounds. Bryan recalls the 1977 ACLU defense of Nazi speech in Skokie, noting, “It's conservatives defending free speech now, not liberals.”   Biden Family Corruption in Ukraine and Romania: A declassified CIA report shows Ukrainian officials viewed Joe Biden's 2015 visit as “evidence of U.S. double standards on corruption” given Hunter's Burisma ties. Days earlier, Hunter and James Biden tried cutting a land deal in Romania tied to criminal charges. Bryan says, “This was a criminal racket, not a family — and they pardoned themselves.”   Trump's $4.2 Billion Locomotive Deal with Kazakhstan: Forbes reports the U.S. will sell 300 locomotives to Kazakhstan's Wabtec, while Trump's new “TRIPP Corridor” from Asia to Europe blocks China's Belt and Road trade route. “The White House is playing chess in Central Asia — one rail deal at a time,” Bryan notes.   Africa's Diamond Collapse and U.S. Opportunity: As Botswana's diamond market crashes, Trump eyes a rail deal connecting Zambia to Botswana to secure uranium and rare earths for U.S. industry.   Ukraine Using Drones Supplied by Kyiv Against Russia in Mali: AFP confirms Ukrainian intelligence is arming rebels, some tied to al Qaeda and ISIS, in Mali to target Russian and Chinese contractors.   German Scientists Warn on Microplastics and Gut Health: Researchers found that plastics change gut bacteria in ways resembling depression and cancer. Bryan invites listener feedback: “Better we talk about this now — before we learn the hard way.”   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Trump Ambler Road Alaska, Trilogy Metals federal stake, Alaska copper cobalt germanium, Anthropic Claude AI awareness, OpenAI scheming AI safety, CBS border crossings 50-year low, Biden border policy demographics, Kaley Chiles Colorado therapy case Supreme Court, ACLU Skokie Nazi free speech 1977, Joe Biden Hunter Burisma CIA report, James Biden Romania land deal, Trump Kazakhstan Wabtec locomotives TRIPP corridor, Botswana diamond collapse, Ukraine Mali drones al Qaeda ISIS, German microplastics gut health study

We continuously hear of the atrocities happening in Central Asia. Then there's the devastation of Russia's war with Ukraine with thousands of lives lost. There's the Taliban's control of Afghanistan with those living there having to flee to other nations. As devastating as these issues are, what must not be ignored is the fact that the persecution of believers continues. In spite of this, the Gospel is flourishing. People are coming to Christ and churches are being planted. The burden of the laborers is heavy. They need help to take care of physical needs to grant relief to many who are hurting or suffering. That opens the door to Gospel ministry. Are you willing to help? Appearing on Crosstalk to tell us more was "Timlar Kovalchuk" (Koh-vul-chook) (a pseudonym used to protect him and others). Timlar has been actively involved as a missionary in evangelism for nearly 28 years, the last 15 in outreach to Muslims in Central Asia. Beginning with Ukraine, Timlar noted how it's getting increasingly worse around the Kiev area. In spite of that, he's seen military members coming to Christ while other individuals have come to Christ via camp ministry. Timlar also recounted plans for a youth camp in Turkmenistan. Somehow the secret police (KGB) found out about it, followed up on the youth contacts and began to threaten the parents with loss of work as well as jail time. This is just two examples of what Timlar and his co-laborers in the Lord are having to face, yet the Gospel is moving forward. In fact, as it pertains to the Gospel's impact in Ukraine he said "...it's been beautiful to watch." Listen in as Timlar recounts more!

HEADLINE: Jurassic Sponge Reefs, Floating Wood, and the Triassic Glider Sharovipteryx BOOK TITLE: Other Lands, a journey through Earth's Extinct Worlds GUEST AUTHOR NAME: Thomas Halliday 200-WORD SUMMARY: This excerpt details events in the Jurassic and Triassic periods. The Jurassic (155 million years ago) was a time of recovery for marine reptiles like ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs, following the Triassic-Jurassic extinction, likely caused by runaway climate change. Europe was a tropical archipelago at this time. The largest biological structure ever known was a 7,000 km long reef composed of glass sponges (silicon sponges) in the fringes of the Tethys Ocean. This reef provided a diverse ecosystem, supporting ammonites, fish, and marine reptiles. Unusually, wood floated for much longer than it does today because wood-boring shipworms had not yet evolved. Evidence shows fallen logs floating across oceans and adorned with filter-feeding organisms like sea lilies. Moving to the Triassic (225 million years ago), the focus is Madigan in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia. This lake ecosystem provides a rare, well-preserved record of a terrestrial environment, notable for its extraordinary insect diversity, including most known Triassic families of beetles. A unique vertebrate found here is Sharovipteryx, a lizard-like gliding reptile that used a triangular membrane stretched between its exceptionally long hind legs to glide.

Day 1,317.Today, as Donald Trump reportedly provides Ukraine with intelligence for long-range missile strikes against Russia, we assess just how serious the economic situation is becoming amid reports of gas shortages. Then, as European leaders join President Zelensky in Copenhagen, we hear about the new 'drone wall' and how Moscow has upgraded its missiles to better evade Patriot air defense systems.Contributors:Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.James Kilner (Foreign Correspondent). @jkjourno on X.BOOK NOW: 'UKRAINE: THE LATEST' LIVE, IN-PERSON:Join us for an in-person discussion and Q&A at the distinguished Honourable Artillery Company in London on 22nd October at 7pm.Our panel includes General Sir Richard Barrons, former head of UK Joint Forces Command and latterly one of the authors of Britain's Strategic Defence Review, and Orysia Lutsevych, head of the Ukraine Forum at the Chatham House think tank. Tickets are open to everybody and can be purchased at: https://www.squadup.com/events/ukraineliveThey are going fast, so don't delay!SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Adelie's interview with mother of Ukrainian child adopted by Putin ally:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nato-and-russia-edge-closer-to-standoff-exclusive/id1612424182?i=1000728072996Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qaTQOZyq5jVUK1B2U7CqhUS ‘to provide Ukraine with intelligence for long-range strikes in Russia' (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/10/02/us-ukraine-intelligence-long-range-strikes-russia/Russian missile upgrade outpaces Ukraine's Patriot defences (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/078b8e70-a58c-47cc-b573-598850dd5685 Baltic Defences Compared (Eesti Ekspress):https://ekspress.delfi.ee/artikkel/120403794/baltic-defences-compared-the-enemy-is-the-same-but-the-preparations-and-considerations-very-differentUkraine hacks Crimea proxy head, uncovers child abduction files, intelligence source says (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-hacks-crimea-proxy-uncovers-child-abduction-files/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,316.Today, as fears are sounded over the state of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, we hear how Princess Anne has made a surprise visit to Kyiv to “demonstrate solidarity” with Ukrainian children and families affected by the conflict. Then we report how French authorities have seized a shadow fleet tanker and Polish police arrested a Ukrainian man for the Nordstream 2 pipeline sabotage. Later, you'll hear Dom's interview with the UN's Special Rapporteur for Torture, Alice Edwards, and a note: our discussion covers graphic descriptions of sexual torture. Contributors:Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.India McTaggart (Royal Correspondent). @indiamctaggart on X.With special thanks to Alice Edwards.BOOK NOW: 'UKRAINE: THE LATEST' LIVE, IN-PERSON:Join us for an in-person discussion and Q&A at the distinguished Honourable Artillery Company in London on 22nd October at 7pm.Our panel includes General Sir Richard Barrons, former head of UK Joint Forces Command and latterly one of the authors of Britain's Strategic Defence Review, and Orysia Lutsevych, head of the Ukraine Forum at the Chatham House think tank. Tickets are open to everybody and can be purchased at: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainelive They are going fast, so don't delay!SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Leaders press to reshape EU under Putin's aggressive shadow:https://www.politico.eu/article/leaders-press-to-reshape-eu-under-vladimir-putin-russia-aggressive-shadow/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Second in Command podcast, Cameron is joined by Nick Malone, former COO of Sitecore and a seasoned executive with over 24 years of leadership experience in the IT sector.During this fascinating conversation, Cameron and Nick explore the complexities of driving growth in a rapidly evolving industry. You'll hear how leaders navigate expansion strategies, balance ambitious goals with practical execution, and manage the challenges that come with building scalable systems. The discussion highlights how clarity of vision and disciplined prioritization become essential when a business is pushing toward the next stage of success.The discussion also looks at the human side of transformation. It examines how to guide teams through times of change, especially when uncertainty and cultural integration are at play. You'll gain insights into communication, alignment, and creating structures that help people feel supported while maintaining momentum.With practical takeaways and thoughtful reflections, this episode offers valuable guidance for leaders seeking to build resilience and long-term impact.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Second in Command podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Nick's career journey, starting as an engineer and moving into sales and sales leadership, which allowed him to travel extensively.His experience living in Kazakhstan with his family, the cultural differences, and the need for a command-and-control approach in business.The transformation of Sitecore from an on-premise business to a SaaS offering, including the acquisition of modern technology companies.The importance of clear communication and vision in driving the transformation, as well as the role of talented individuals in making it successful.The role of the "cycle Sherpa" in integrating new employees, ensuring they are embedded into the business quickly and effectively.And much more...Guest Bio:Nick Malone is a seasoned executive with over 24 years of leadership experience in the Information Technology and Services sector, spanning the UK, Europe, the Middle East, the USA, Russia, and Central Asia. A graduate of Loughborough University in Manufacturing Engineering, he has built a rare leadership profile combining revenue growth, sales excellence, and operational efficiency. As former Chief Operating Officer of Sitecore, Nick led global operations, sales enablement, and large-scale transformation initiatives, consistently delivering results in both public companies and private equity portfolio firms. His expertise includes business development, cloud computing, and international partnerships, with a proven track record in driving growth across mature and emerging markets. Known as an agile leader and advocate for digital transformation, Nick is passionate about continuous learning, leadership development, and building high-performing global teams.Resources:Connect with Nick: Website | LinkedInConnect with Cameron: Website | LinkedInGet Cameron's latest book –