Archipelago in the Indian Ocean
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At a recent White House event, President Trump assessed how America's allies have responded to the US-Israel war in Iran. He praised some, but was angry with others, notably Britain and its prime minister Keir Starmer. His anger with the UK seemed to centre around a British-owned island in the Indian Ocean, which he referred to as “that stupid island”. The island is one of about 60, known as the Chagos Islands. Tropical, remote, and very mysterious. So mysterious that one person who knows what goes on there said that if you did too, it would give you vertigo. The BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale joins us to discuss what happens on the Chagos Islands that makes them so important to President Trump. What have they got to do with Iran, and why are they at the centre of an ever-growing diplomatic row? Producer: Lucy Pawle Executive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: File photo of Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos archipelago and site of a major United States military base in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Credit: Reuters
Claude wrote these. I did not. Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack are back for Episode 147, recorded on 5 March 2026. It's a massive week of news — a record Kiwi exodus to Australia, a leaked Liberal Party post-mortem, the Star Casino legal fallout, a landmark war in Iran, and a bumper AFL season preview. Settle in.Record Kiwi Migration & Trans-Tasman Economics[00:00:41]The BBC reports New Zealand citizens are leaving at record levels — over 60,000 departed in a single year, the equivalent of 180 people per day. Former PM Jacinda Ardern has joined the exodus, reportedly house-hunting on Sydney's northern beaches. Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack debate the merits of the northern beaches vs. the eastern suburbs, and the real net migration figures behind the headlines.Net migration loss from NZ: over 30,000 in 2024 to Australia aloneLong-term departures hit 101,932 in 2023 — remarkable for a nation of 5.3 millionNZ GDP per capita: USD 49,000 vs. Australia's USD 69,000New Zealand has been in negative GDP growth since December 2024, but is forecasting ~4% growth in the next financial yearAustralia has maintained consistent positive GDP growth post-COVID (0.8%–2.5% p.a.)The two countries are described as being at opposite ends of the economic cycleBrief discussion on Jacinda Ardern's post-Harvard career options and what Julia Gillard's post-PM trajectory looks like by comparison
Joining Andy for the final episode of this series are Simon Evans, Zoe Lyons, Cindy Yu and Ahir Shah and not one of them can be deemed a flight risk. Along with the latest on Peter Mandelson's arrest they discuss how UK politics is no longer a two-party system with the Greens and Reform taking centre stage in Gorton and Denton, why Trump's State of the Union address could have been mercifully shorter and why the Chagos Islands are off limits.Written by Andy Zaltzman.With additional material by: Mike Shephard and Pravanya Pillay Producer: Georgia Keating Executive Producer: Richard Morris Production Coordinator: Giulia Lopes Mazzu Sound Editor: Marc WillcoxA BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.
Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes.On today's podcast:1) The US-Israeli war on Iran reverberated across the Middle East and global markets on Tuesday, as oil and gas prices surged and Tehran vowed to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane. Both the US and Israeli militaries continued to bombard Iran’s capital. The US embassy in Riyadh was attacked by two drones, causing limited damage, and Israel sent soldiers into southern Lebanon, where the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia is based. The escalation came as the US sent conflicting messages about how long the war might last, and an adviser to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander told state TV that forces “will set fire to any ship attempting to pass through” the Strait of Hormuz. China, which buys most of Iran’s oil, urged “all sides” to ensure the safe passage of ships through the waterway, where traffic has effectively halted.2) President Trump escalated his criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a fresh indication of how strained the two allies’ relationship has become over the US president’s efforts to enlist the UK’s help in its strikes against Iran. Starmer — who declined a US request to use British bases for offensive operations against the Islamic republic — has “not been helpful,” Trump said in an interview with The Sun tabloid. “It’s very sad to see that the relationship is obviously not what it was.” It’s the latest in a series of jibes Trump has made toward the Labour Party leader since he pushed back against Trump’s designs on Greenland earlier in the year. The US president has repeatedly criticized Starmer’s deal ceding sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius — something he did again in his Sun interview — and has also dismissed Britain’s role alongside American troops in the Afghanistan war.3) US and Chinese trade negotiators are slated to meet in mid-March, according to people familiar with the matter, signaling a planned summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping is pushing ahead despite American strikes against Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng are expected to convene in Paris at the end of next week to discuss business deals that could stem from the leaders’ meeting, said the people who requested anonymity to discuss plans that aren’t yet public. Both the timing and location of the meeting could still shift, the people added. Among the issues that could be addressed are a possible Chinese purchase of Boeing Co. planes, commitments to buy US soybeans and Taiwan, the self-ruled island China views as its own, some of the people said. The future of US fentanyl tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court could also be on the agenda, they added.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss Keir Starmer's announcement that British bases in the UK and in the Chagos Islands would be used by the US in their strikes in Iran. Their use is for ‘limited defensive purposes' but is that enough to stop Britain being dragged further into war? What is the extent of the UK's involvement in the Middle East war?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Alex Phillips sits in for Julia Hartley-Brewer, speaking to former Parachute Regiment major Andrew Fox about why No10 initially resisted US use of UK military bases to attack Iran. Celebrations erupted in Iran and across the world after Ayatollah Khameini and a host of significant Iranian regime officials were killed by strikes on Saturday morning. The regime has killed tens of thousands of its own citizens and maintained brutal, theocratic rule over Iran since a 1979 revolution brought them to power. American-Israeli military action has sparked debate about US intervention in the Middle East, whether this is ultimately in Western interests, the escalation risk, a power vacuum in Iran, and potential terror attacks by Shiite Muslims.Four US servicemen have been killed so far, and three American jets have been shot down by friendly fire.Donald Trump wanted to use RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and the Chagos Islands' Diego Garcia to affect regime change and dismantle its nuclear and missile facilities. Having made it clear they would deny the president's request, the Labour government eventually shifted position as UK assets and personnel came under threat - but emphasised that any UK involvement would be "defensive".Andrew and Alex assess how this decision reflects on the UK prime minister. They also discuss Iran's missile capabilities, interception rates across the Gulf, resupply pressures, and how long the current tempo of operations can be sustained — as well as the likelihood of Russia or China escalating support for their ally in the region. Later, barrister Natasha Hausdorff, legal director of UK Lawyers for Israel, responds to arguments that Donald Trump's strikes violated international law.She weighs Lord Wolfson's critique of the Attorney General Lord Hermer's approach, examining how self-defence and the wider regional conflict framework are being interpreted by "the West's detractors". She ultimately justifies the strikes. Also: whether the UN is playing a credible role, and what the conflagration means for the UK–US "special relationship" and Britain's national security.Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The Winston Marshall Show, I sit down with journalist and former government adviser Ben Judah to dissect the Chagos Islands deal, Diego Garcia, and the geopolitical battle shaping Britain's future.We examine why the UK agreed to hand sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, the role of the International Court of Justice, and how UN decolonisation rulings placed mounting legal and diplomatic pressure on Britain. Judah explains the strategic importance of Diego Garcia, the sensitive US military capabilities based there, and why American officials quietly pushed London towards a settlement.The conversation explores China's growing influence in the Indian Ocean, the risk of Mauritius pivoting towards Beijing, and why British officials feared losing access to critical US military infrastructure. We debate sovereignty, international law, national security, and whether Britain was defending its interests or surrendering territory under diplomatic pressure.We also discuss the future of Britain's Overseas Territories, proposals to integrate them more fully into the United Kingdom, and whether the Chagos deal reflects strategic realism or managed decline.A serious and wide-ranging conversation about geopolitics, American power, China's rise, and whether Britain still knows how to protect its global position.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------To see more exclusive content and interviews consider subscribing to my substack here: https://www.winstonmarshall.co.uk/-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA:Substack: https://www.winstonmarshall.co.uk/X: https://twitter.com/mrwinmarshallInsta: https://www.instagram.com/winstonmarshallLinktree: https://linktr.ee/winstonmarshall----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters 00:00 Introduction01:20 The Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia06:32 The Secret US–UK Deal and “Super Capacities”09:35 UN Rulings, ICJ Pressure & China's Role12:09 Why Washington Forced Britain's Hand14:47 Legal vs Military Defence: The China Risk18:52 Could Mauritius Win a Binding Judgment?21:17 Why the Americans Might Move the Base23:10 The Real Prize: UK Access to US Capabilities28:54 “Everything Changes So Nothing Changes” – Inside the Deal30:00 Can Mauritius Invite China In?32:31 Why Rubio, Vance & the Pentagon Backed It35:29 Trump's Flip-Flop and the Iran Question40:31 What If Mauritius Breaks the Agreement?42:31 Why Britain Is Paying 0.2% of Its Defence Budget44:33 This Isn't About Land — It's About Power45:30 Legal, Diplomatic & Hard Power Layers of Defence51:52 Overseas Territories: From Colonies to “Overseas Kingdoms” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hillary Clinton testifies in the U.S. House oversight committee's Epstein probe, WEF Chief Borge Brende resigns, the U.S. and Iran hold a third round of talks in Geneva, Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen announces snap elections for March 24, the U.K. reaffirms its commitment to the Chagos Islands deal, Trump's surgeon general nominee testifies in a Senate confirmation hearing, an independent probe alleges systemic failures in the U.K.'s maternity care, Instagram unveils measures to alert parents if teens "repeatedly" search for self-harm content, a U.S. judge orders Greenpeace to pay an expected $345 million in a pipeline protest lawsuit, and Amazon adds three new personalities to Alexa+. Sources: Verity.News
After months of heated and passionate debate across the country and in the Houses of Parliament, is the assisted dying bill about to fall?Sam exclusively reveals that the government will not give additional time for the bill in the Lords – leaving little time to get it through before the end of the parliamentary session.Ahead of the spring forecast, the duo pore over policy areas pushing for further cash - especially student loans and defence - despite Rachel Reeves insisting this isn't a moment for increased spending.Plus, does the United States have the final say on whether the UK should sell off the Chagos Islands?
Trevor Kavanagh, former political editor of The Sun, joins Julia Hartley-Brewer to dissect the latest immigration and asylum figures — and the continued public anger at the gap between political spin and what people can see happening on Britain's borders.Ministers may point to a fall in work, study and family visas, a small dip in asylum claims, and fewer asylum seekers in hotels — but Julia and Trevor ask the blunt question: what does “control” look like when illegal migrants are still arriving in large numbers, with small boats surging as soon as the weather improves? Trevor argues that a government's first duty is to defend the country — and that Britain has become a destination of choice, with taxpayers left funding accommodation, food and healthcare for people who entered unlawfully.Trevor also gives his take on two other flashpoints driving distrust in politics: the murky fallout from the Mandelson arrest story, and the uncertainty around the Chagos Islands deal — including whether Britain really will hand over sovereign territory and then pay to lease back a strategic military base.Then Jamie Jenkins, former ONS statistician, explains what the data actually shows behind the headlines: year-to-date increases in Channel crossings, the scale of asylum claims, how many are granted at first decision versus on appeal, and why “fewer hotel rooms” doesn't necessarily mean fewer claimants — with many simply moved into other accommodation that is still funded by the state.Finally, Julia and Jamie turn to the other crisis hiding in plain sight: the NHS. With spending having doubled over recent years, why aren't outcomes improving? Jamie lays out the real pressure points — an ageing population (including a projected surge in over-75s), inefficiency, broken processes, and why digitisation and better productivity may matter as much as extra funding.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Metropolitan Police has apologised for inadvertently revealing that Sir Lindsay Hoyle told its officers Lord Mandelson was considering leaving the country. Also: The government insists it's going ahead with its deal to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, despite a minister telling Parliament it was on hold. And satellite images of penguin moulting sites highlight the dangers to the birds of climate change.
STARMER HAS LOST CONTROL – NO BORDERS, CHAGOS, MANDELSON #Starmer #BorderCrisis #IllegalMigration #Chagos #Mandelson #UKPolitics #JonGaunt Another day, another crisis — and this one's spiralling fast.
In this Trawl, Jemma and Marina survey the political carnage and ask: what's Reform's problem with equality?While America wrestles with peak what-the-fuckery, back home “Trump Lite” is workshopping his strongman routine and Reform are busy torching the Equality Act, apparently “for the boys.” Because nothing says protecting young men like removing the legislation that protects them.Then, the Trawl ladies dive into the by-election showdown between Green candidate Hannah Spencer and Reform's Matt “Tax Your Womb” Goodwin, the increasingly chaotic Reform vetting process (featuring a Succession cameo), and why their big policy platform seems to be: scrap it, bin it, cut it.Plus: Vic Derbyshire wipes the floor with Zia Yusuf, Caroline Lucas delivers a masterclass and Nigel Farage clocks up air miles to the Chagos Islands instead of doing his actual job in Clacton.There's a ring doorbell, a Benny Hill soundtrack, tactical voting chat, and Under RatedsSide effects may include eye-rolling, sharp intakes of breath, and involuntary shouting at your podcast app.Thank you for sharing and please do follow us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcast Patreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawl Twitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The government has said it is not pausing legislation that would see the Chagos Islands transferred to Mauritius. That's despite Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer telling Parliament that the process would be paused "for discussions with our American counterparts". A government spokesperson said Falconer had "misspoken".Also on the programme: as more shops use facial recognition technology to deter shoplifters, we find out what it's like to be falsely accused.And new research uncovers clues to the origin of the organ that gave Charles Darwin a "cold shudder": the eye.
Jacob Grech, activist and broadcaster, turns the story of Jeffrey Epstein upside down.Dr Helen Rosenbaum talking about her family background and her journey to membership of Jewish Council of Australia.Dr Binoy Kampmark and the denial of human rights for the people of the Chagos Islands.Dr Helen McQue and the untold story of violence, prejudice and exclusion of Muslim women in Australia.Peter Slezak, prominent Jewish academic, explains why he opposed the visit to Australia of the President of Israel.
The British Indian Ocean Territory, AKA the Chagos Islands is home to the American super-base of Diego Garcia. Located on the largest island in the archipelago and home to the joint UK/US military base since the 1970s.The Chagos handover to Mauritius has been controversial from the outset and shifting signals from Donald Trump have left the Starmer government open to a political backlash.Has the special relationship turned toxic over these islands? And should the sovereignty transfer be stopped? To discuss, Roland turns to Ben Judah who has worked for the previous foreign secretary and Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator, David Blair. Producer: Peter ShevlinExecutive Producer: Louisa Wells► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorContact us with feedback or ideas:@venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nigel Farage joins Jeremy Kyle to discuss his blockage by the UK government from the Chagos Islands and his plan to deport 300,000 people a year. Tom Tugendhat MP speaks to Jeremy about setting up a parliamentary committee to try Andrew and Peter Mandelson for treason. Peter Bleksley, Zia Yusuf and Samara Gill weigh in on the day's stories and the police officer who championed freedom of speech over Islamists in Whitechapel.Wake up with Talk Breakfast in full on YouTube, DAB+ radio, Freeview 280, Fire TV, Samsung TV Plus or the Talk App on your TV from 6am every morning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's Monday once again. Seán, Laura, and Andy get stuck into Nigel Farage's thwarted attempt to accompany a humanitarian mission to the Chagos Islands, further abuses of the Royal name by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as well as Bridget Phillipson's SEND reforms.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Big problems for King Charle’s brother; a life sentence for an ex-President; Donald Trump links Chagos Islands deal with military strikes against Iran. Adam Gilchrist shares details on these stories with Lester Kiewit. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bongani Bingwa crosses to Adam Gilchrist for a look at the top international stories making headlines. They begin with developments in the UK, where Prince Andrew, younger brother of Charles III, has been released but remains under investigation following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Then to Asia, where former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment for leading an insurrection, a dramatic fall from power that has gripped the country. Finally, they unpack fresh tensions involving Donald Trump and the disputed Chagos Islands deal, after the UK reportedly blocked access to the strategic Diego Garcia airbase for potential strikes on Iran, linking the agreement to concerns over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio7See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
'This is a huge injustice and needs to be righted.'Former Tory MP Adam Holloway, who helped Chagossians raise funds for a new settlement, reveals plans for a 'permanent return' of islanders to the Chagos Islands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
LIVE from the Chagos Islands are the British Chagossians being threatened by the British government with immigration officials forcing them with deportation. The irony that Starmer can deport his own citizens is not lost on Mark Dolan. Plus the new Reform UK shadow cabinet is investigated by the New Culture Forum's Rafe Heydel-Mankoo and Dan Hodges pulls apart the dying days or Sir Keir Starmer's premiership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The BBC has uncovered new evidence that vulnerable girls and young women in London are being groomed by gangs to carry drugs and have sex. We discuss the findings with the former head of the National Crime Agency's Child Exploitation Command.Also on the programme: the day after the US State Department approved the UK's Chagos Islands deal, President Trump launches a new attack on it.And the symphonic sounds hidden in the freezer aisle of a Sheffield supermarket.
SURRENDER MONKEY STARMER? ON EU, BORDERS, CHINA 15 U-TURNS #JonGaunt #JonGauntTV #Live #Starmer #SurrenderMonkey #UKPolitics #Labour #EU #BorderCrisis #ChinaEmbassy #ChagosIslands What's a surrender monkey? It's a political coward. A leader who talks tough, waves the flag, then folds at the first sign of pressure. Someone who gives ground, again and again, while pretending it's all part of a "reset". And that, folks, is exactly what Keir Starmer has become. The latest big relaunch, reboot, reinvention — call it what you like — is just another desperate attempt by Starmer to reinvent himself again. New suit, new slogan, same weak leader. He doesn't need re-booting. He needs booting out. Starmer said he wouldn't crawl back to the EU — now he's doing just that. He talked tough on border security — now it looks like he's simply given up. He's capitulated to China over the super-embassy. He's rolled over on the Chagos Islands. Yet somehow, with a straight face, he tells us Britain must be "war-ready" for Russia. You couldn't make it up. This is not a fighter. This is a man in managed retreat — surrendering abroad, wobbling at home, and presiding over 15 policy U-turns that expose a government with no core beliefs and no backbone. A lame-duck premiership is unfolding before our eyes. Every day he clings on, the country is dragged further down with him. Starmer should do the decent thing: admit defeat and go now, instead of letting this sorry farce grind on. That's the verdict — Jon Gaunt says it as it is. #JonGaunt #JonGauntTV #Live #KeirStarmer #Starmer #SurrenderMonkey #UKPolitics #Labour #LabourGovernment #Uturns #EU #Borders #BorderCrisis #China #ChinaEmbassy #ChagosIslands #Russia #WarReady #LameDuckPM #PoliticalCrisis #Britain Jon Gaunt, Jon Gaunt TV, live, Keir Starmer, Starmer, surrender monkey, UK politics, Labour, Labour government, policy u-turns, EU, borders, border security, China, China super embassy, Chagos Islands, Russia, war ready, lame duck prime minister, political crisis, Britain This is political blogging and hard-hitting social commentary from Triple Sony Gold Award-winning talk radio legend, Jon Gaunt — former host on BBC, Talk Radio, and Sky News. On Jon Gaunt TV, we cut through the noise and say what others won't. No political correctness. No censorship. Just real conversations that matter.
On this week's Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former DoD Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and Pentagon comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss outlook for continues Department of Homeland Security funding after lawmakers end another partial government shutdown; efforts to secure another big reconciliation measure for defense; President Trump's threat to sue his own Federal Reserve chair nominee Kevin Warsh if he doesn't cut interest rates after replacing current Chairman Jay Powell in May; implications of Texas elections that saw Democrats perform well in districts that Trump won by double digit margins; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's “naughty” contractors list; analysis of the administration's new National Defense Strategy; Washington's discordant approach to Europe where US officials promise financial support for right-wing think tanks as “resistance” to centrist governments while also pledging partnership on strategic minerals; the Pentagon resumes military cooperation with Russia as Trump seeks a new nuclear deal with Moscow and Beijing as Vladimir Putin demands Britain and France be added to talks; a second inconclusive round of talks US-Russia-Ukraine talks; what we know about the administration's new trade deal with India; Trump changes course and backs Britain's decision on transferring ownership of the Chagos Islands that's home to the strategically important base at Diego Garcia to Mauritius in exchange for a 99-year lease; the administration's drive to negotiate a new nuclear deal with Iran; and the latest on Israel's operations in Gaza and the West Bank.
Nigel Farage speaks with U.S. Senator John Kennedy. regarding the Labour government's plan to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.Senator Kennedy shares details of his recent discussions with President Donald Trump concerning the strategic implications of the deal. He expresses sharp criticism of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's proposal, arguing that transferring control of the archipelago—home to the critical U.S.-U.K. military base on Diego Garcia—could jeopardize Western security interests and increase Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.Senator Kennedy pulls no punches in his assessment of the policy, describing the decision as "dumb" and questioning the long-term strategic logic of the handover. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mary Kissel on Starmer giving away the Chagos Islands to no discernible purpose, surrendering strategic Britishterritory in the Indian Ocean without extracting meaningful concessions or advancing national interests.1942 NYC STORK CLUB
preview for later. Guest: Mary Kissel, former Senior Adviser to the Secretary of State Summary: Kissel critiques Prime Minister Starmer's plan to hand the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, arguing the nation is heavily influenced by China. She highlights President Trump's opposition to the deal, emphasizing that the U.S. requires the Diego Garcia military base to project power across the Indian Ocean and Asia-Pacific.1901 OLD HOUSE
Cleo Paskal and Bill Roggio discuss the UK's giveaway of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, highlighting China'sinfluence over the Mauritian government. The transfer raises concerns about Beijing potentially gaining strategic access to a critical Indian Ocean location near vital shipping lanes and military installations.1789 BOURBON MAURITIUS
SHOW SCHEDULE 1-26-261808 GREAT HALL BANK OF ENGLAND Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani discuss global turmoil and confrontation, examining U.S. policy failures in Afghanistan. The conversation addresses the ongoing consequences of American withdrawal and the resurgence of threats in the region, highlighting how strategic missteps continue to destabilize the area and embolden adversaries. Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani examine how Africa remains unprotected from jihadists and plunderers. The discussion explores the continent's vulnerability to extremist expansion and resource exploitation, with weak governance and insufficient international attention allowing terrorist networks and predatory actors to operate with increasing impunity across multiple nations. Ernesto Araujo and Alejandro Pena Esclusa analyze Venezuela's posture of public defiance while remaining privately obedient to the Trump administration. The segment explores the contradictions in Caracas's diplomatic stance, suggesting the regime's theatrical resistance masks behind-the-scenes accommodations driven by economic pressure and political survival calculations. Ernesto Araujo and Alejandro Pena Esclusa report on a spontaneous Rio rally supporting the Bolsonaro family. The demonstration reflects continued popular backing for the former Brazilian president despite legal challenges, indicating that conservative movements in Latin America retain significant grassroots energy and organizational capacity. Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter discuss Iran's ongoing executions and mass murders. The segment details the regime's brutal crackdown on dissent, highlighting the systematic use of capital punishment against protesters and minorities as Tehran intensifies domestic repression amid international isolation and internal unrest. Malcolm Hoenlein and Thaddeus McCotter examine Saudi Arabia's internal disagreements over a potential air campaign against Iran. The conversation explores Riyadh's strategic calculations, balancing regional security concerns against the risks of direct military confrontation with Tehran and the complexities of American alliance dynamics. Mark Simon and Gordon Chang address Hong Kong's persecution of democracy advocates through show trials. The discussion highlights Beijing's systematic dismantling of civil liberties, using the judicial system to silence opposition figures and signal that resistance to Communist Party authority will face severe consequences. Brandon Weichert and Gordon Chang analyze the PRC using ground-based nodes to influence states. The segment examines China's expanding infrastructure of political and economic pressure points, demonstrating how Beijing leverages physical assets to project power and shape foreign government policies. John Hardie reports that Russia continues targeting heat and light infrastructure in Kyiv, while Ukraine retaliates by striking Russian infrastructure. The segment examines the escalating war of attrition against civilian utilities as both sides seek to undermine morale and economic capacity through systematic attacks on essential services. Jack Burnham reveals that Chinese academics have been granted easy access to Energy Departmentsupercomputing resources used in nuclear weapon simulations. The discussion highlights alarming security lapses allowing potential adversaries to benefit from sensitive American technology with direct military applications and strategic implications. Cleo Paskal and Bill Roggio examine the PRC threat to Oceania from Guam's perspective. The segment details China's aggressive influence peddling and buying throughout the Pacific islands, as Beijing systematically works to undermine American strategic positioning and cultivate dependent relationships across the region. Cleo Paskal and Bill Roggio discuss the UK's giveaway of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, highlighting China's influence over the Mauritian government. The transfer raises concerns about Beijing potentially gaining strategic access to a critical Indian Ocean location near vital shipping lanes and military installations. Ahmad Sharawi reports that Al Sharaa continues attacking minorities in Syria, with Kurds being driven back while the U.S. stands aside. The Druze community also faces assault as the new regime consolidates power through ethnic persecution despite initial promises of inclusive governance. Janatyn Sayeh describes Iran's mass murders amid a broken economy with no communications or internet access. The segment portrays a regime in crisis, resorting to extreme violence against its population while infrastructure collapse and international isolation accelerate the government's deteriorating grip on power. David Daoud examines how Hezbollah reigns over villages in Lebanon. The segment details the organization's methods of social control, combining armed intimidation with provision of services to maintain dominance over Shia communities and enforce loyalty to the movement's political and military agenda. David Daoud explores what Hezbollah will manage if Tehran fails. The discussion considers the organization's future autonomy and survival prospects should its Iranian patron collapse, examining whether the group can sustain itself independently or faces inevitable decline without external support.
Cleo Paskal Paskal discusses the geopolitical and legal complications regarding the transfer of the Chagos Islands (which include Diego Garcia) from the UK to Mauritius. She highlights a critical oversight: a 1966 agreement between the US and the UK mandates that sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago must remain British for 50 years plus an additional 20 years, meaning the territory should legally remain British until 2036. Paskal notes that Washington has recently "woken up" to the dangers of the transfer—which President Trump has labeled as "stupid"—largely due to concerns regarding the heavy influence of the Chinese Communist Party in Mauritius.1939 guam
Luca, Josh and Firas discuss the chaos in Minneapolis, who benefits from war with Iran, and the Chagos Islands humiliation.
EXCLUSIVE JANUARY OFFER: Get unlimited access to spiked for just £1 a month for the next three months: https://www.spiked-online.com/support/ Jacob Reynolds, Tom Slater and Fraser Myers on Trump's sabre-rattling, Starmer's surrender of the Chagos Islands and China's spy HQ in London. Watch the second half of the discussion on spiked podcast: unlocked – our weekly bonus podcast, exclusively for spiked supporters – here: https://www.spiked-online.com/podcast-episode/the-mad-sad-world-of-the-groypers/ EVENT: spiked is partnering with the Free Speech Union for ‘In Defence of Trial by Jury', a live discussion on Thursday 29 January in London. spiked supporters and Free Speech Union members can get discounted tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/freespeechunion/2002087 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SHOW SCHEDULE 1-21-20251928 MOSCOWSEGMENT 1: RUSSIA'S FAILING ECONOMY Guest: Michael Bernstam Bernstam analyzes the deteriorating state of Russia's economy under the weight of sanctions and war expenditures. Discussion examines inflation, labor shortages, industrial decline, and how long the Kremlin can sustain its military campaign in Ukraine as economic pressures mount and Western restrictions continue to squeeze Russian financial resources.SEGMENT 2: PERSECUTION OF CHRISTIANS IN EGYPT Guest: Mariam Wahba Wahba reports on the ongoing persecution of Coptic Christians in Egypt, detailing discrimination, violence, and legal challenges facing the ancient community. Discussion covers recent incidents, government responses, the struggle for religious freedom, and what international pressure might do to improve conditions for Egypt's vulnerable Christian minority.SEGMENT 3: SPACE ENGINEERING AND BOOSTER TECHNOLOGY Guest: Bob Zimmerman Zimmerman discusses latest developments in space engineering, focusing on booster rocket technology and satellite deployment advances. Discussion covers SpaceX achievements, competing launch providers, the evolution of reusable rocket systems, and how private industry continues pushing boundaries in making space access more frequent and affordable.SEGMENT 4: MARS AVALANCHE AND SPACE EXPLORATION Guest: Bob Zimmerman Zimmerman examines stunning imagery of a Martian avalanche captured by orbiting spacecraft. Discussion explores what these geological events reveal about Mars surface dynamics, ongoing robotic exploration missions, scientific discoveries from current probes, and how such observations inform planning for eventual human missions to the red planet.SEGMENT 5: CANADA-CHINA TRADE RELATIONS Guest: Charles Burton Burton examines Canada's complex trade relationship with China amid growing geopolitical tensions. Discussion covers economic dependencies, security concerns over Chinese investment, and how Ottawa balances commercial interests against pressure from Washington to reduce reliance on Beijing for critical goods and strategic resources.SEGMENT 6: CANADA SUBSTITUTING CHINA FOR US TRADE Guest: Charles Burton Burton continues analysis of Canadian trade strategy, questioning whether Ottawa might pivot toward China as alternative to American markets under Trump tariff threats. Discussion weighs the risks of such realignment, political obstacles, security implications, and whether Canada can truly diversify away from its dominant southern neighbor.SEGMENT 7: CHAGOS ISLANDS GIVEAWAY TO CHINESE INFLUENCE Guest: Jim Fanell Fanell criticizes the decision to transfer Chagos Islands sovereignty, warning it opens doors to Chinese influence near the strategic Diego Garcia base. Discussion examines the geopolitical folly of this handover, implications for Indian Ocean security, and how Beijing exploits Western diplomatic missteps to expand its global footprint.SEGMENT 8: NEW NAVY CARRIER WARPLANE EXTENDS RANGE Guest: Jim Fanell Fanell discusses the Navy's next-generation carrier-based aircraft designed to extend strike range against adversaries. Discussion covers the strategic necessity of longer-range platforms to counter Chinese anti-access capabilities, development challenges, how this aircraft fits into Pacific defense strategy, and implications for future carrier operations.SEGMENT 9: OCEANIA DEFENSE AND CHINA THREAT Guest: Cleo Paskal Paskal reports from the Honolulu defense forum on Pacific island security concerns. Discussion examines China's aggressive expansion into Oceania through infrastructure deals and political influence, the strategic importance of these island nations, and American efforts to counter Beijing's growing presence across the vast Pacific region.SEGMENT 10: PALAU NEEDS HELP AGAINST CHINA CRIME GANGS Guest: Cleo Paskal Paskal highlights Palau's struggle against Chinese criminal organizations infiltrating the small Pacific nation. Discussion covers illegal activities, money laundering, and how Beijing uses organized crime as soft power tool. Palau seeks American assistance to combat these threats while maintaining its democratic independence against Chinese pressure.SEGMENT 11: SCOTTISH ENLIGHTENMENT AND NORTH AMERICAN UNITY Guest: Arthur HermanHerman traces intellectual roots of Canadian-American cooperation to the Scottish Enlightenment's shared influence on both nations. Discussion explores how common philosophical heritage shaped institutions and values, proposing this foundation supports a modern economic condominium uniting the two countries against current global challenges and trade uncertainties.SEGMENT 12: ENERGY, MINERALS, AND KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP Guest: Arthur Herman Herman outlines his vision for a US-Canada economic condominium built on energy resources, critical minerals, and knowledge industries. Discussion details how combining Canadian natural wealth with American technology and markets creates mutual prosperity, strengthens continental security, and counters dependence on hostile foreign suppliers like China.SEGMENT 13: MERCOSUR DEAL UNPOPULAR AFTER 27 YEARS Guest: Simon Constable Constable reports from the Pyrenees foothills on European discontent with the Mercosur trade agreement finally concluded after 27 years of negotiations. Discussion covers farmer protests, industrial concerns, and widespread opposition across EU nations skeptical that this long-delayed deal serves their economic interests.SEGMENT 14: PM STARMER'S HISTORIC UNPOPULARITY Guest: Simon Constable Constable examines Keir Starmer's remarkable collapse in public approval, making him Britain's most unpopular prime minister in modern polling. Discussion analyzes policy missteps, economic challenges, public disillusionment with Labour's performance, and whether Starmer can recover from such dismal ratings this early in his government's tenure.SEGMENT 15: TRADE WITH CHINA REMAINS UNWISE Guest: Alan Tonelson Tonelson argues continued American trade dependence on China remains strategically foolish despite political rhetoric about decoupling. Discussion examines persistent vulnerabilities in supply chains, Beijing's economic leverage, the gap between tough talk and actual policy changes, and what genuine trade realignment would require from Washington.SEGMENT 16: 2025 BOOSTER LAUNCHES AND 2026 PROSPECTS Guest: Doug Messier Messier previews the ambitious global launch schedule for 2025 and beyond, with multiple nations expanding space capabilities. Discussion covers SpaceX dominance, emerging competitors from China, Europe, and commercial startups, technological advances in reusable systems, and how 2026 promises even more dramatic growth in worldwide launch activity.
SEGMENT 7: CHAGOS ISLANDS GIVEAWAY TO CHINESE INFLUENCE Guest: Jim Fanell Fanell criticizes the decision to transfer Chagos Islands sovereignty, warning it opens doors to Chinese influence near the strategic Diego Garcia base. Discussion examines the geopolitical folly of this handover, implications for Indian Ocean security, and how Beijing exploits Western diplomatic missteps to expand its global footprint.1905 USN
Donald Trump brings his particular brand of terrible speeches to the billionaires and bankers at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Nish and Coco try to work out how Keir Starmer can keep on track when facing the threat of US tariffs over Greenland as well as criticism of a lease deal with the Chagos Islands - which the US had previously praised. Liam Thorp, the Liverpool Echo's Political Editor, is on hand to break down Labour's big plan to make homes warmer, the fortunes of Reform and the latest delay to the Hillsborough Law Plus comedian Alaa Shehada, fresh from his show ‘The Horse of Jenin', talks to Nish and Coco about the ‘Palestine Comedy Club', a documentary which follows a group of Palestinians as they take their comedy show on tour in an occupied state. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS SHOPIFY Shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk WISE Wise.com GUESTS Liam Thorp - Political Editor, Liverpool Echo Tess Ingram, UNICEF Alaa Shehada - Comedian USEFUL LINKS Palestine Comedy Club collective https://www.palestinecomedyclub.com/ Palestine Comedy Club documentary https://filmsandfestivals.britishcouncil.org/projects/palestine-comedy-club Starting Feb 27th: London - Rich Mix and Bertha Doc House Tywyn - Magic Lantern Cinema Birmingham - Mockingbird Cinema Brighton - Komedia Gloucester - Guildhall Belfast - Queen's Film Theatre CREDITS Donald Trump - BBC Online ‘Palestine Comedy Club' - Tough Crowd Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Get in touch - contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk Like and follow us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK Instagram: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/podsavetheuk.crooked.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukX: https://x.com/podsavetheuk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
GUEST: Jim Fanell. SUMMARY: Fanell criticizes the UK's plan to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius due to Chinese influence concerns. He highlights the strategic necessity of the Diego Garcia base for US bombers and carriers, noting that President Trump's opposition to the deal is bolstering critics within the UK government.1901
Keir Starmer scored a rare win at PMQs, talking tough on Trump in light of the President's escalating rhetoric on Greenland and the Chagos Islands. Kemi Badenoch pressed the Prime Minister on foreign affairs and Britain's relationship with the US president, and Starmer departed from his usual caution to strike a notably firmer tone.What does this moment tell us about Labour's emerging approach to Trump – and is the UK political class finally losing patience with the volatility of the White House? Was this the closest we'll get to a Keir Starmer Love Actually Prime Minister moment?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Isabel Hardman.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
To hear the full episode, search Quite right! wherever you are listening now. This week: Michael and Maddie ask whether the so-called special relationship between Britain and the United States has finally reached breaking point. As Donald Trump's threats over Greenland and his reversal on the Chagos Islands unsettle allies, has the British right begun to turn decisively against him? Was the special relationship ever more than a comforting myth – and what does a more erratic, transactional America mean for Britain's security, sovereignty and strategic future?Then: Robert Jenrick's dramatic defection to Reform UK. Was his exit from the Conservatives a naked career move, or a genuine ideological break forged by failure on migration and borders? And does his defection strengthen Reform's claim to be a serious insurgent force – or expose the growing risk of a destructive civil war on the right that ultimately benefits Keir Starmer?Produced by Oscar Edmondson.To submit your urgent questions to Michael and Maddie, visit spectator.co.uk/quiteright. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
President Trump is set to jet off to Switzerland as tensions with European leaders remain high over his moves regarding Greenland. Before departing Washington, he's stopping at the White House briefing room to tout the first year of his second term.The UK has approved Communist China's plan to build a new mega-embassy in London, which sits dangerously close to vital fiber-optic cables. This comes as President Trump is sharply criticizing the UK over its plan to hand over ownership of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.The Department of Homeland Security says nearly three million deportations have taken place during President Trump's first year back in office. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice vows to pursue federal charges after anti-ICE activists disrupted a church service in Minnesota.
Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Jason Statham Ive taken a lot of stunts too far Second lady Usha Vance announces she is pregnant with fourth child UK defends Chagos Islands deal after Trump calls handover act of great stupidity Spat deepens between Elon Musk and Ryanairs OLeary Lyse Doucet Trump is shaking the world order more than any president since WW2 UK households to get 15bn for solar and green tech to lower energy bills Prison officer jailed after having sex with inmate in chapel area Beckham vs Peltz Beckham How Brooklyn could torpedo the family brand Driver killed and several injured after train derails near Barcelona, local media report EU to suspend approval of US tariffs deal
Episode 5080: Live From Davos; President Trump U Turns On Chagos Islands
The European Commission President says that the EU stands in "full solidarity" with Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark - adding that their sovereignty is "non-negotiable". Ursula von der Leyen warned there would be an "unflinching" and "united" response to the US threat to take over the island. Also: Donald Trump has condemned Britain's decision to give away the Chagos Islands as an "act of great stupidity;" The British government has given approval for China to build a super-embassy in central London, despite concerns it could be used for spying; Israeli demolition teams have begun to tear down the east Jerusalem headquarters of the UN relief agency for Gaza; rescue teams in Spain are using cranes and other heavy machinery to access the trains which crashed on Sunday. Vietnam's ruling Communist Party is meeting to pick new leaders and set key targets for the young, fast-growing economy; research in Antarctica has found that penguins are breeding up to two weeks earlier because of climate change; and the Beckham family feud has finally exploded into the spotlight.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
The Greenland situation continues to look more theatrical than existential. To me, leaked private messages from Emmanuel Macron, public frustration from Donald Trump, and hurried diplomatic calls ahead of Davos all point to the same conclusion: this is pressure politics playing out in real time. Trump's irritation appears rooted less in Greenland itself and more in confusion over European military commitments and mixed signals from allies. That kind of misunderstanding is combustible, but it is also solvable, especially when everyone involved is about to be in the same conference rooms in Switzerland.Europe's response, though, has been pretty revealing. Ursula von der Leyen's declaration that the “old order is dead” was less a threat than a signal of insecurity. Europe wants leverage, and hinting at closer ties with China is one way to gesture at it. My priors remain that this all de-escalates quietly. The United States and Europe trade too much, rely on each other too deeply, and share too many strategic interests for this to spiral beyond bruised egos and tough talk. The laws of economics tend to win these fights.Politics Politics Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Immigration Enforcement and the Internal SplitBack at home, the most interesting fight is not between parties, but within the Trump administration itself. Tom Homan publicly arguing for better messaging around ICE operations is a tell. He understands that enforcement without a moral argument collapses under public scrutiny. His claim that roughly 70 percent of those arrested are criminals is clearly meant to counter the perception that ICE is acting indiscriminately, especially after the fatal shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis.What stands out is who is not making that case. Kristi Noem, who has leaned heavily into the aesthetics of enforcement, has ceded the substance to Homan, and that imbalance matters. When enforcement becomes spectacle, it invites backlash. When it is framed as governance, it can sustain itself politically. The friction between Homan and Noem is, to me, the most important palace intrigue to watch in Trump's second term.Britain, Chagos, and Playing to the FutureSpeaking of our relationship with Europe, Trump's sharp criticism of the United Kingdom over the Chagos Islands is best understood through a political lens, not a strategic one. The deal to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while leasing Diego Garcia back for 99 years is not new, nor was it opposed by Washington initially. Trump's reversal feels less about the base itself and more about aligning with figures like Nigel Farage, who benefit from confrontation with current European leadership.This is Trump playing a long game with the people he thinks will be in power next, not the ones currently holding office. Whether that gamble pays off is unclear, but it explains why a relatively obscure British territorial issue suddenly became Truth Social fodder. It is coalition maintenance, not military planning.Netflix, Warner Bros., and the End of Cable GravityFinally, Netflix's revised all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery does a great job highlighting just how badly legacy media wants scale — and how selectively Netflix wants assets. Netflix does not care about cable networks. It wants intellectual property: Batman, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones. Paramount, by contrast, wants the whole thing in order to fight back against Netflix, and is willing to fight in court to get it.Hovering over all of this is CNN, which Netflix has no interest in owning and Paramount views as distressed but strategically important. Trump's recent reposts criticizing Netflix's cultural dominance suggest he may no longer stay neutral, which adds another unpredictable variable. This fight is not just about entertainment. It is about who controls narrative power in a post-cable world.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro00:05:47 - Justin and Kirk Bado on Republicans, Greenland, and Trump00:32:59 - Justin and Kirk Bado on Democratic Midterm Primaries00:49:20 - Justin and Kirk Bado on Josh Shapiro and 202800:59:51 - Steelers Talk01:13:25 - Update01:13:48 - Immigration01:16:30 - Chagos Islands01:21:16 - Netflix, Paramount, and Warner Bros.01:25:06 - Interview with Juliegrace Brufke on Congressional Vibes01:58:28 - Wrap-up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.politicspoliticspolitics.com/subscribe
Today, the UK Government has defended its decision to hand over the Chagos Islands after Donald Trump called the deal “an act of GREAT STUPIDITY!” on Truth Social.Adam and Chris put the president's comments to Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, and ask whether Keir Starmer's relationship with Donald Trump is being tested by his social media posts.And, we hear Darren Jones' vision for reforming the civil service, including a digital state and changing following a speech he gave on Tuesday morning at a London tech company. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Adam Fleming and Chris Mason. It was made by Miranda Slade with Chloe Scannapieco. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
TRUMP vs STARMER – WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON? #JonGaunt #JonGauntTV #LIVE #TrumpVsStarmer #SpecialRelationship #UKPolitics #USPolitics #Trump #Starmer #ChinaEmbassy #ChagosIslands Tonight we ask a blunt question: has the US–UK "special relationship" finally broken down? Tensions are rising between Donald Trump and Keir Starmer: Trump has slammed the Chagos Islands deal as an act of "great stupidity" Starmer has approved plans for a major Chinese embassy in central London Starmer has opposed Trump's ambitions regarding Greenland And now, Starmer is skipping World Economic Forum—missing a chance for direct talks Is Britain drifting away from the US? Is Starmer gambling with national security? Or is Trump overreaching?
Donald Trump has attacked Britain's decision to hand over the Chagos Islands, using it to argue that the US needs Greenland. As relations with Washington grow more unpredictable, how should Keir Starmer respond? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Jenni Russell and James Marriott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today's episode, we discuss Don Lemon's role in an ICE protest that spilled into a Minnesota Baptist church, raising legal questions under the FACE Act and Ku Klux Klan Act about disrupting worship services. The hosts contrast the aggressive federal treatment of pro-life clinic protesters with the apparent reluctance of Minnesota authorities to prosecute the church demonstrators, framing it as another example of a “two-tiered” justice system. From there, they pivot to global strategy, unpacking Trump's anger at the UK over a sovereignty deal for the Chagos Islands and Diego Garcia, and how that dispute intersects with his push to acquire Greenland for U.S. defense and NATO leverage. They highlight Greenland's tiny, mostly Inuit population, its limited infrastructure, and Denmark's constrained ability to defend or develop it as arguments for eventual U.S. control. The conversation then widens to Venezuela, Iran, Cuba, and proxy states, with the hosts arguing that Trump prefers economic and technological pressure, proxy arrangements, and hard bargaining over large-scale troop deployments. A major domestic thread is the SAVE Act and the Senate filibuster, as they debate John Thune, Rand Paul, and other Republicans' reluctance to alter Senate rules despite claims that paper ballots, voter ID, and curtailed mail-in voting are essential to prevent future election “steals.” They close by examining Elon Musk's decision to publish X's recommendation algorithm, concerns about ideological echo chambers, and tactics for using Grok to surface opposing viewpoints instead of just reinforcing existing biases. Don't miss it!
Alicia McCarthy reports as the Government faces calls from some MPs to abandon the Chagos Islands deal following a policy shift by Donald Trump.
Keir Starmer's belief that he's the ‘Trump Whisperer' appears to be in tatters. Having managed to say nothing of any great substance in response to the President's tariff threats, the Prime Minister was on the end of a brutal social media evisceration overnight - as Trump took to Truth Social to call Labour's Chagos Islands giveaway “stupid”.Camilla and Tim question why Starmer has allowed himself to be bullied by Trump, how today's approving of plans for the controversial Chinese super-embassy will surely only inflame tensions further, and just why - when it's his favourite place in the world - Sir Keir isn't moving heaven and earth to meet the President in Davos this week. Elsewhere, Camilla and Tim discuss Brooklyn Beckham torching relations with his own family, and ask whether he's the victim of “Brand Beckham's” media control, or just a spoilt nepo baby?We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or find @dailytpodcast on TikTok, Instagram and X► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducer: Lilian Fawcett and Georgia CoanSenior Producer: John CadiganExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanVideo Producer: Will WaltersSocial Producer: Nada AggourStudio Director: Meghan SearleEditor: Camilla Tominey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.