Podcast appearances and mentions of cleo paskal

8. Headline: Typhoon Recovery and Systemic Corruption in the Northern Marianas Guest: Cleo Paskal Summary:A super typhoon has devastated the Northern Mariana Islands, leaving residents without water or electricity. However, there are significant concerns that federal relief funds will be misused due to a history of unaccounted-for billions and local officials with ties to Chinese casinos. 81962 YEMEN

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, FEATURING BILL ROGGIO, HASAIN HAQQANI, GORDON CHANG, CHARLES BURTON AND CLEO PASKAL, 4-27-26.1994 YEMENThe sources describe a "global scale contest" where multiple regional conflicts, such as those in Iran and Ukraine, are increasingly "crushing in on each other". The Iran war is currently in a "cold phase" or "pause," characterized by asymmetric diplomacy as the regime attempts to "run out the clock" on U.S. pressure. While Iran's conventional forces have been significantly damaged, experts express concern that Russia and China may assist the regime in rebuilding its military and nuclear capabilities. Simultaneously, Ukraine has emerged as a "Silicon Valley of drones," innovating with interceptor drones and automated logistics to counter Russian aggression.Geopolitical fragility is further highlighted by a recent assassination attempt on the U.S. President during a dinner in Washington D.C., an event that immediately triggered a wave of "conspiracy entrepreneurs". Experts warn that the shift from niche to mainstream conspiratorial thinking signals a "post-truth" era where political violence is increasingly normalized.Diplomatic relations remain fraught as President Trump considers a May meeting with Xi Jinping, which some argue could make the U.S. appear as a "supplicant" if the Middle East conflict persists. This friction extends to Canada, where certain political elements advocate for closer ties with China to compensate for trade losses and inflammatory rhetoric from the U.S. administration. Finally, in the Northern Mariana Islands, super-typhoon recovery is complicated by deep-seated corruption, unaccounted federal funds, and Chinese influence operations, illustrating the strategic vulnerabilities of U.S. territories in the Pacific.

16. Guest: Cleo Paskal. Paskal reports on Super Typhoon Sinlaku's impact on US Pacific territories. She also discusses the fuel supply crisis in the Marshall Islands caused by the Strait of Hormuz closure. Finally, she details the withdrawal of a controversial UK deal to cede the strategic Chagos Islands to Mauritius. 161945 HOLLYWOOD BLD LOOKING EAST.

Preview: Cleo Paskal reports critical fuel shortages across the Pacific Islands, exacerbated by vulnerabilities in the long supply chain. The Marshall Islands declared a state of emergency, closing government offices early. To coordinate a response, the Pacific Island Forum is considering a regional emergency declaration to address these failures.1944 SAIPAN

China's strategy in the Pacific is not just military — it's political, economic, and deeply embedded in places most Americans rarely think about. In this follow-up episode of The China Desk, host Steve Yates welcomes back Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to build on their earlier conversation and go deeper into what a real Pacific conflict could look like — and where the United States is most vulnerable. Paskal explains why any Chinese move on Taiwan would require neutralizing Guam and other U.S. territories in the Pacific, not necessarily through direct military strikes, but through political warfare, infrastructure disruption, and influence operations designed to delay or weaken an American response. A major focus of the conversation is the vulnerability of U.S. territories like the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), where visa policies, corruption, and weak enforcement mechanisms have created potential entry points for Chinese influence and intelligence activity. The discussion also explores: • Why Guam is central to any Taiwan conflict scenario • How China uses political warfare to undermine U.S. military advantage • The role of U.S. Pacific territories in national defense strategy • Visa loopholes and security risks in the Northern Mariana Islands • How corruption acts as an entry point for CCP influence • Why Americans misunderstand the geography of their own country • The importance of the Pacific as a strategic “corridor” • How China studies World War II strategy in the Pacific • The concept of disabling infrastructure without triggering war • What a “block and build” strategy looks like in practice • How the U.S. can support allies like Palau under pressure • When economic ties with China become a strategic liability • The risks exposed by the Diego Garcia debate and UK policy decisions • Why allied coordination is critical in a potential Indo-Pacific conflict Paskal also highlights how gaps in U.S. awareness — both among policymakers and the public — have allowed key vulnerabilities to persist, particularly in overlooked territories that play outsized roles in national security. The conversation concludes with a stark warning: if the United States does not address corruption, policy blind spots, and strategic neglect in the Pacific, it risks creating vulnerabilities not just for itself, but for its allies across the region. 00:00 — Intro + Cleo Paskal returns to the China Desk 01:28 — Recap of Episode 89 and Pacific strategy framework 02:14 — Taiwan conflict scenario: why Guam matters 04:13 — Political warfare vs kinetic warfare 06:23 — Disabling Guam without triggering U.S. response 07:50 — Cognitive warfare and shaping U.S. public opinion 09:35 — CNMI visa loopholes and security risks 11:11 — Chinese access to U.S. territory explained 12:16 — Policy failures and lack of enforcement 13:54 — Why the Pacific is overlooked in U.S. strategy 14:42 — How maps distort American understanding 16:28 — Rethinking U.S. geography and strategic positioning 19:03 — Historical roots of U.S. Pacific strategy 20:27 — “Block and build” strategy explained 21:30 — Palau agreements and countering CCP influence 23:09 — Supporting allies through stability and security 25:29 — When economic ties become strategic risk 26:12 — UK, China, and the Diego Garcia controversy 29:08 — Legal, military, and nuclear implications 31:06 — Iran conflict and alliance reliability concerns 33:00 — Risks of dependence on allies in conflict 34:56 — Corruption risks in CNMI and governance failures 37:04 — Final warning: systemic vulnerabilities in U.S. strategy 38:44 — Closing thoughts and where to follow Cleo Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

13. Cleo Paskal highlights China's efforts to undermine U.S. relationships in the Central Pacific through corruption. She details new U.S. strategies to support local governments in Palau and the Marianas against illegal CCP activities. (13)1960 ARABIA

14. Cleo Paskal discusses the critical role of the Diego Garcia military base and the legal risks involved in transferring the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, which could complicate U.S. nuclear policy and regional security. (14)1967 KINF FAISAL II OF ARABIA

c1. Judy Dempsey discusses the rising popularity of Germany's AfD party, its anti-American stance, and growing pro-Russian sentiment driven by energy concerns, alongside public distrust regarding the conduct of the war in Ukraine. With Thaddeus McCotter.(1)2. Judy Dempsey analyzes strained transatlantic relations following President Trump's remarks on energy independence. She also highlights the significance of Hungary's upcoming election for regional populist movements and the European Union's future.  cc(2)3. Jonathan Schanzer explains Israel's military objectives against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. He details the threat of Iranian-backed Houthi attacks on maritime trade and Egypt's potential forced entry into the conflict. (3)4. Jonathan Schanzer details Iran's strategy of survival amidst U.S. and Israeli decapitation strikes. He discusses the global economic impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure and diplomatic friction caused by European allies' reluctance. (4)5. Mary Kissel discusses shifting global alliances, noting stronger ties with Gulf partners while European relations fray. She highlights Ukraine's savvy outreach for energy and defense support from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. (5)6. Mary Kissel examines a possible leadership transition in Cuba involving Marco Rubio and Raul Castro's grandson. She discusses the regime's fear following U.S. actions in Venezuela and the complexities of negotiating transitions. (6)7. Joseph Sternberg critiques the Federal Reserve's tendency to "overtalk." He argues that excessive public forecasting and the confusing "dot plot" mislead markets and obscure the economic reality of ongoing global conflicts. (7)8. Joseph Sternberg discusses Prime Minister Keir Starmer's indecisive response to President Trump's "get your own oil" remark, highlighting Britain's military limitations and the public's deep anxiety over rising energy prices and deficits. (8)9. Gregory Copley argues that NATO is entering a new era of disorder, suggesting European states should pursue independent security interests and potentially restore energy trade with Russia as U.S. leadership becomes increasingly abrasive. (9)10. Gregory Copley reports the U.S. has virtually eliminated the Iranian Navy. He assesses global energy markets, noting stable oil prices despite insurance companies' risk-aversion nearly bankrupting regional states like Egypt. (10)11. Gregory Copley critiques the removal of hereditary peers from the House of Lords, arguing the chamber has become a politicized "rubber stamp" for the Prime Minister rather than an independent house of review. (11)12. Gregory Copley previews King Charles III's state visit to Washington, emphasizing its role in preserving the strategic alliance and common purpose between English-speaking nations despite political tensions between the Trump administration and London. (12)13. Cleo Paskal highlights China's efforts to undermine U.S. relationships in the Central Pacific through corruption. She details new U.S. strategies to support local governments in Palau and the Marianas against illegal CCP activities. (13)14. Cleo Paskal discusses the critical role of the Diego Garcia military base and the legal risks involved in transferring the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, which could complicate U.S. nuclear policy and regional security. (14)15. Bob Zimmerman contrasts NASA's risky Artemis 2 mission with SpaceX's successful reusable rocket program. He also reports on a secretive medical emergency on the ISS and China's deep commitment to its space program. (15)16. Bob Zimmerman warns that political pressure is compromising safety for the Artemis 2 moon mission. He also reflects on Voyager 2's historic images of Neptune and Hubble's observations of active black hole galaxies. (16)

When the U.S. recently launched strikes on Iran, the world's attention turned to Diego Garcia, a vital military base in the Indian Ocean. Known as the “footprint of freedom,” this isolated atoll allows the U.S. to port Navy ships, resupply nuclear submarines, and launch strategic bombers. However, its future is in serious jeopardy.During the conflict, the UK initially withheld permission for the U.S. to launch strikes from the island. Beyond that, the UK has been pushing a highly controversial deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia, to Mauritius.In this episode, hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso are joined by Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a leading expert on Chinese political warfare. Cleo unpacks the dangerous implications of the Chagos handover, warning it could allow Chinese maritime assets to operate dangerously close to U.S. forces, threatening American power projection.Cleo unpacks the uncertain prospects for the deal, and then proposes instead giving the Chagossian people a democratic vote in their future, and suggests they may very well prefer the status quo or even a U.S. affiliation to any handover to Mauritius.The conversation then pivots to the Pacific Islands, where China is quietly expanding its influence through political and gray zone warfare. Cleo details how a Chinese state-owned company secured a foothold in Yap (Federated States of Micronesia) by building a remote runway, gaining political leverage and physical presence right next to planned U.S. defense infrastructure.Cleo also sounds the alarm on the U.S. territory of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Located on the Second Island Chain, CNMI currently allows Chinese tourists to arrive without a visa, leading to massive local corruption, intelligence risks, and illegal maritime crossings into the highly secure military hubs of Guam.Tune in to discover why Cleo believes the transfer of Diego Garcia would be a “colossal strategic blunder,” how China is co-opting U.S. funds for its own Belt and Road projects, and why the frontline of Indo-Pacific security is much closer to home than we realize.

In this episode of the China Desk Podcast, host Steve Yates speaks with Indo-Pacific expert Cleo Paskal about China's growing influence across the Pacific Islands and why the region is central to U.S. national security. The conversation explores geopolitical competition in Oceania, corruption and political warfare, Taiwan diplomacy, Guam's strategic role, and how Chinese economic projects intersect with military strategy. Paskal breaks down the “3.5-tier” framework for understanding Pacific Island priorities and explains why Americans should pay closer attention to the region's strategic importance. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

Guest: Cleo Paskal. Paskal contrasts U.S. actions in Palau with worsening corruption in the Northern Marianasand new Chinese infrastructure in Yap, highlighting vulnerabilities in Pacific defense.1939 BRITISH SOLOMONS

Guest: Cleo Paskal. Paskal analyzes the U.S. State Department's designation of corrupt officials in Palau and the Marshall Islands, a significant move countering Chinese influence in Oceania.1900 NORTHERN MARIANNAS

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Cleo Paskal. The U.S. sanctions politicians in the Marshall Islands and Palaufor Chinese-linked corruption, restricting their travel and access to American services.1883 MARSHALLS

SHOW SCHEDULE1-30-202617501.Jeff Bliss reports heavy Sierra snowpack is quenching California's thirst, also noting the seventy-fifth anniversary of Nevada atomic tests and new Las Vegas rail options connecting the desert city.2.Lorenzo Fiori reports Milan requires artificial snow for the Olympics, detailing security controversies regarding the USdelegation's protection and recommending local sparkling wines from the Italian region.3.Richard Epstein of the Hoover Institution endorses Kevin Walsh for the Fed, arguing that while independent boards challenge executive power, long-standing institutions gain legal legitimacy through historical prescription.4.Richard Epstein contrasts the Minnesota-ICE conflict with the Whiskey Rebellion, arguing against deporting non-criminal long-term residents and criticizing the administration's harsh rhetoric and refusal to compromise.5.Jim McTague reports on Lancaster County's frozen yet resilient economy, noting full factory order books and labor shortages despite the cold weather currently suppressing human activity in Pennsylvania Dutch country.6.Cliff May of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes the strategic necessity of securing Greenlandagainst Russian and Chinese threats, advocating for a NATO-led solution and increased defense spending.7.Cleo Paskal reports from Yap on China constructing a strategic runway on the island of Woleai to gain influence, noting the United States lacks a necessary physical presence in Micronesia.8.Cleo Paskal details Chinese influence patterns, including weaponized healthcare in the Solomons and casinos in Saipan, while noting new US efforts to support Palau's sovereignty against destabilization.8:54 PM Guest: Padraic Scanlan. Scanlan discusses Prime Minister Peel's famine relief efforts via Indian corn imports and the Duke of Wellington's skepticism regarding reports of Irish starvation. Guest: Padraic Scanlan. Scanlan details the volatility in the Irish countryside, the use of coercion acts, and the lack of circulating cash as evidence of uncivilization. Guest: Padraic Scanlan. Scanlan explains the evolution of Poor Laws, the harsh discipline of workhouses, and the implementation of soup kitchens like Soyer's during the famine. Guest: Padraic Scanlan. Scanlan describes the eviction practice of de-roofing cottages and discusses the lasting biological blight and the famine's central role in Irish diaspora memory. Guest: Henry Sokolski. Sokolski discusses the 75th anniversary of atomic testing, health risks for downwinders, nuclear energy costs, and the omission of extended deterrence from defense strategies. Guest: Jeff Bliss. Bliss reports on San Francisco business closures, rampant copper theft affecting Los Angelesinfrastructure, and political pressure on Governor Gavin Newsom regarding rebuilding efforts. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Zimmerman updates on the next Starship launch, Starlink milestones, and challenges facing Europe's Ariane 6 rocket program compared to private U.S. space industry success. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Zimmerman highlights James Webb Telescope discoveries challenging Big Bangtheories, new estimates of Europa's ice thickness, and unique images of Saturn and Pluto.

Cleo Paskal reports from Yap on China constructing a strategic runway on the island of Woleai to gain influence, noting the United States lacks a necessary physical presence in Micronesia.1888 Cook monument

Cleo Paskal details Chinese influence patterns, including weaponized healthcare in the Solomons and casinos in Saipan, while noting new US efforts to support Palau's sovereignty against destabilization.1870 COOK MONUMENT

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 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.1870 HAWAII

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

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.1944 SAIPAN

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.1915 PALAU

GUEST: Cleo Paskal. SUMMARY: Paskal reports from a defense forum where Palau's President Surangel Whipps Jr.detailed Chinese political warfare against his strategic nation. Whipps described destabilization tactics including illegal fishing, cyber attacks, and scam centers, emphasizing the urgent need for international assistance to combat corruption and Chinese transnational crime.1900

HOW ARE DOMESTIC POLITICS SHAPING ISRAEL'S NATIONAL SECURITY?HEADLINE 1: A big Gaza announcement is expected.HEADLINE 2: The Lebanese Armed Forces said it completed the first phase of its plan to deploy across south Lebanon and disarm non-state groups.HEADLINE 3: An Iranian hacking group claimed it identified an Israeli agent coordinating Mossad operations inside Iran.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer provides timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Gadeer Kamal Mreeh, former member of Knesset (Israel's parliament) and founder and CEO of GKM Global Consulting LLC.Learn more at: fdd.org/fddmorningbrief--Featured FDD Pieces: "Lebanon Must Become Independent of Saudi Arabia Too" - Hussain Abdul-Hussain, This is Beirut"Can Iran Hold the Line Against Its Protesters?" - Reuel Marc Gerecht and Ray Takeyh, The Wall Street Journal "How the UK Is Undermining US Indo-Pacific Security" - Alexander Gray and Cleo Paskal

Guest: Cleo Paskal. Paskal details severe corruption in Saipan, where Chinese interests have exploited visa loopholes and influenced local politics via a casino. Illegal entry by Chinese nationals poses security risks to nearby Guam, though Palau is receiving U.S. assistance to strengthen defenses against similar influence operations.1944 SAIPAN

Guest: Cleo Paskal. The Solomon Islands remain heavily influenced by China, leading to social decay and the suppression of democratic voices like the late Daniel Suidani. Paskal urges Australia to combat corruption by targeting funds flowing into their banks, while noting positive U.S. engagement in Palau to counter Chinese aggression.1910 PALAU

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Cleo Paskal details a new US initiative to support Palau's national defense against Beijing's influence operations and visa-less entries. While headlines focus on Palau accepting 75 US deportees, the underlying deal provides this strategic ally—which recognizes Taiwan—with resources to patrol borders and secure its sovereignty.1930 PALAU

US BOLSTERS PACIFIC SOCIETAL RESISTANCE AS CHINA ENTRENCHES IN PALAU AND YAPColleague Cleo Paskal. Cleo Paskal details the intensifying struggle for influence in Oceania, specifically regarding Palau and Yap, which are vital for defending the corridor between Hawaii and the Philippines. In Palau, a new comprehensive agreement aims to counter China's "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities" by strengthening the island's law enforcement and healthcare systems to build "societal resistance." This partnership, which notably involves Palau accepting US deportees, represents a strategic shift from purely kinetic defense to political warfare, helping the nation block Chinese organized crime and preserve sovereignty. Conversely, in Yap, despite a new US commitment of nearly $1.5 billion for dual-use infrastructure, Chinese state-linked entities are aggressively embedding themselves. By underbidding on projects like rebuilding a bridge and an Imperial Japanese runway on Woleai, Beijing is effectively subsidizing expansion to gain leverage over local elites during critical access negotiations. 1900 PALAU

SOMALIA PUNTLAND 2022 Ambassador Hussein Haqqani and Bill Roggio discuss global terror outbreaks, including ISIS-linked attacks in Australia and Afghanistan. Haqqani argues the West prematurely declared victory, ignoring radical ideologies. He notes Pakistan's internal power struggles and failure to track jihadists, warning the region remains a launchpad for international terrorism. Bill Roggio analyzes the ISIS allegiance of Australian shooters, distinguishing ISIS's immediate caliphate goals from Al-Qaeda's patient state-building. He warns that while Al-Qaeda focuses on consolidating control in places like Somalia (Al-Shabaab), they remain a potent global threat capable of launching external attacks when strategically advantageous. John Hardie discusses US pressure on Ukraine to withdraw from Donetsk and drop NATO bids for peace. He details Russian advances near Pokrovsk but doubts their ability to capture remaining fortress cities. Hardie notes Ukrainian resistance to territorial concessions despite Russian battlefield initiative and Western diplomatic maneuvering. David Daoud reports on Hezbollah's regeneration in Lebanon, aided by Iranian funding and weapons. He criticizes the Lebanese government's inaction and the international community's appeasement strategy. Daoudargues that failing to disarm Hezbollah to avoid civil war only guarantees Lebanon's slow deterioration into a failed state. Malcolm Hoenlein condemns the Bondi Beach terror attack as part of a global pattern of Islamist violence fueled by appeasement. He highlights the Australian government's failure to address warning signs, including anti-Semitic marches, and notes Iranian influence, warning that ignoring these threats invites further radicalization and violence. Malcolm Hoenlein expresses skepticism about Syria's leader, Al-Sharaa, calling him a "terrorist in a suit" despite Washington's support. He details Israel's concerns over weapons flowing into southern Syria and Hezbollah'srearmament, warning that Iran continues to build missile capabilities and destabilize the region despite economic ruin. Cleo Paskal critiques the UK's deal to hand the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, endangering the strategic US base on Diego Garcia. She warns that China's influence in Mauritius could compromise the base. Paskal argues the deal ignores Chagossian rights and leaves the region vulnerable to Chinese expansionism. Akmed Sharawi reports on a "blue-on-green" attack in Syria where an infiltrated security officer killed Americans. He attributes this to the Syrian leadership's reckless integration of jihadist militias into security forces without vetting. Sharawi and Roggio argue this proves terrorists cannot be trusted to police other terrorists. Edmund Fitton-Brown warns that the West's premature "retirement" of counterterrorism efforts has allowed threats to incubate in conflict zones like Afghanistan. He argues that ignoring these regions inevitably leads to attacks in the West, as terrorists seek attention by striking "peaceful" environments, necessitating renewed forward engagement. Edmund Fitton-Brown argues the Muslim Brotherhood creates an environment for violent extremists like ISIS. He criticizes Western governments, specifically Australia, for appeasing Islamists and recognizing Palestine, which he claims fuels anti-Semitism and radicalization. He warns of "copycat" attacks spreading to the US and Europe due to this permissiveness. Alejandro Pena Esclusa and Ernesto Araujo celebrate the Nobel Peace Prize for Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado, viewing it as recognition of peaceful resistance against the Maduro regime. They discuss the regional struggle against a "project of power" linking Marxist socialism, drug trafficking, and authoritarian allies like Russiaand Iran. Ernesto Araujo and Alejandro Pena Esclusa analyze Latin America's rightward shift, citing Chile's rejection of a leftist constitution and election disputes in Honduras. They attribute leftist defeats to the failure of socialism and credit the "Trump Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine for encouraging democratic changes against regional narco-regimes. Professor Jonathan Healey details King Charles I's failed 1642 attempt to impeach and arrest five MPs, a move driven by Queen Henrietta Maria calling him a "poltroon." This "cinematic" blunder, betrayed by Lady Carlisle, unified Parliament against the King, marking a decisive step toward the English Civil War. Professor Jonathan Healey explains how the plague and volatile London crowds, including "Roundhead" apprentices, eroded King Charles I's authority in early 1642. The King's failed arrest attempt alienated moderates, shifting support to Parliamentarian John Pym, while the atmosphere of fear and disease accelerated the nation toward inevitable conflict. Professor Jonathan Healey describes the collapse of royal authority as King Charles I flees London after facing hostile crowds and biblical threats. While Queen Henrietta Maria seeks foreign aid, Charles establishes a court in York, accepting that armed conflict is necessary to subdue Parliament's radical legislative challenges. Professor Jonathan Healey recounts the humiliating refusal of Hull's governor to admit King Charles I, a key moment signaling open warfare. He discusses the irreconcilable ideological split over whether power derives from God or the people, illustrating the tragedy through figures like John Bankes who sought futile compromise.

Cleo Paskal critiques the UK's deal to hand the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, endangering the strategic US base on Diego Garcia. She warns that China's influence in Mauritius could compromise the base. Paskal argues the deal ignores Chagossian rights and leaves the region vulnerable to Chinese expansionism.  MAY 1953

Chinese Hybrid Warfare and Lawfare in the Solomon Islands Guest: Cleo Paskal Cleo Paskal detailed China's hybrid warfare in the Solomon Islands, focusing on Daniel Suidani, a former premier of Malaita who resisted Chinese influence by instituting a moratorium on CCP-linked businesses due to concerns over environmental and social harm, but after being politically ousted, he and his colleague were targeted with spurious "lawfare" charges (unlawful assembly) designed to demoralize and bankrupt them, with Suidani tragically dying of kidney failure after being denied use of a China-donated dialysis machine, while India-donated machines sat unused due to government stonewalling on training. 1905 WHITE HOUSE DINNER GUESTS

CONTINUED Chinese Hybrid Warfare and Lawfare in the Solomon Islands Guest: Cleo Paskal 1905,

The Battle for Oceania: Remembering Daniel Suidani and Chinese Political Warfare Guest: Cleo Paskal Cleo Paskal discusses the death of Daniel Suidani, a leader from Malaita in the Solomon Islands who strongly resisted aggression from the Chinese Communist Party. Suidani's province instituted a moratorium on CCP-linked businesses. Paskal highlights how CCP proxies employed political warfare, financial pressure, and control over vital healthcare resources, such as the country's only functioning dialysis machine, to undermine him. This situation reflects broader CCP influence operations across the Indo-Pacific, including in US territories.

The Battle for Oceania: Remembering Daniel Suidani and Chinese Political Warfare Guest: Cleo Paskal Cleo Paskal discusses the death of Daniel Suidani, a leader from Malaita in the Solomon Islands who strongly resisted aggression from the Chinese Communist Party. Suidani's province instituted a moratorium on CCP-linked businesses. Paskal highlights how CCP proxies employed political warfare, financial pressure, and control over vital healthcare resources, such as the country's only functioning dialysis machine, to undermine him. This situation reflects broader CCP influence operations across the Indo-Pacific, including in US territories.

hinese Infiltration, Visa-Free Access, and Illegal Activity in the Northern Mariana Islands Cleo Paskal John Batchelor speaks with Cleo Paskal about the highly strategic US territory, the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), which are being overrun by Chinese nationals. CNMI is the only part of the US where Chinese can arrive without a visa. This access facilitates illegal activities like money laundering, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, with estimates suggesting thousands of illegal residents. 1959

Tribute to Daniel Suidani: Solomon Islands Hero Against CCP Aggression Cleo Paskal, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, with John Batchelor Paskal honors Daniel Suidani of the Solomon Islands, a hero who resisted CCP aggression and sought democracy and accountability. Suidani, a school teacher and premier of Malaita, issued a moratorium on CCP-linked businesses due to concerns over environmental, social, and political consequences. His principled stand, backed by traditional chiefs, held off actions like the installation of Huawei towers. His loss is a severe setback in the ongoing geopolitical contest as China seeks to dominate Indo-Pacific sovereign powers. 1944 SOLOMONS

The Heroism and Legacy of Daniel Suidani, Premier of Malaita, Against PRC Corruption. Cleo Paskal (Foundation for Defense of Democracies) discusses with John Batchelor the death and legacy of Daniel Suidani, the Premier of Malaita in the Solomon Islands. Suidani was a schoolteacher who sought democracy, transparency, and anti-corruption for his people, resisting development that harmed the environment. Following the Solomon Islands' switch from recognizing Taiwan to the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 2019, Suidani fought the overwhelming lawfare, money, and corruption of the PRC. Working with traditional chiefs, Suidani built consensus and issued a moratorium on CCP-linked businesses operating in his provincial capital, Auki. His passing leaves a significant void in the fight for accountability in Oceania.

SHOW SCHEDULE  8-13-25 1917 ODESSA CIRCUS THE SHOW BEGINS IN UKRAINE ENROUTE TO ALASKA... CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor First Hour 9:00-9:15 #Ukraine: Putin wants; Kyiv wants. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @McCauslJ @CBSNews @DickinsonCol 9:15-9:30 #Ukraine: Trump wants. Colonel Jeff McCausland, USA (Retired) @McCauslJ @CBSNews @DickinsonCol 9:30-9:45 PRC: Repeating failure. Anne Stevenson-Yang @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 9:45-10:00 South China Sea: PLA provocation. Jim Holmes, @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Second Hour 10:00-10:15 Nixon: Continues with Trump vs Administrative State. Steve Hayward, Civitas Institute 10:15-10:30 Nixon: Continues with Trump vs Administrative State. Steve Hayward, Civitas Institute 10:30-10:45 Sudan: Anarchy with guns. Husain Abdul-Husain, FDD 10:45-11:00 Robert Kaplan and the analog Weimar Republic 2025. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover Third Hour 11:00-11:15 Alaska: Low expectations. John Bolton 11:15-11:30 Alaska: Power secondary sanctions. Michael Bernstam, Hoover 11:30-11:45 Oceania: CNMI influenced by PRC. Cleo Paskal, FDD 11:45-12:00 US Navy: Sea going drones and the fleet. Jim Holmes @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Fourth Hour 12:00-12:15 France: Heat wave. Simon Constable 12:15-12:30 UK: Vance in the Cotswolds 12:30-12:45 Kuiper launching. Bob Zimmerman BehindTheBlack.com 12:45-1:00 AM Interstellar comets unknowns. Bob Zimmerman BehindTheBlack.com

Oceania: CNMI influenced by PRC. Cleo Paskal, FDD 1944 SAIPAN

Oceania: CNMI in Play: The Back Story. Cleo Paskal, FDD 1944 SAIPAN

Oceania: CNMI in Play: The Back Story. Cleo Paskal, FDD continued 1944 SAIPAN

SHOW SCHEDULE  8-12-25 THE SHOW BEGINS AT THE FEDERAL RESERVE, WAITING FOR THE SEPTEMBER CUT. 1931 CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor First Hour 9:00-9:15 #Markets: Fed Behind the Curve. Liz Peek, The Hill, Fox News and Fox Business 9:15-9:30 #Markets: Midsummer and All Well. Liz Peek, The Hill, Fox News and Fox Business 9:30-9:45 Israel "The Campaign Between the Wars." Jonathan Schanzer 9:45-10:00 Israel "The Campaign Between the Wars." Jonathan Schanzer, FDD continued Second Hour 10:00-10:15 Turkiye: Munitions Lords. Sinan Ciddi, FDD 10:15-10:30 Turkiye: Munitions Lords. Sinan Ciddi, FDD 10:30-10:45 #LondonCalling: BLS Mysteries. @JosephSternberg @WSJOpinion 10:45-11:00 #LondonCalling: The Cotswolds with the Vances. @JosephSternberg @WSJOpinion Third Hour 11:00-11:15 Alaska: What Slow Motion or Hasty Peace Costs. Gregory Copley, Defense & Foreign Affairs 11:15-11:30 Alaska: What Slow Motion or Hasty Peace Costs. Gregory Copley, Defense & Foreign Affairs continued 11:30-11:45 Alaska: What Slow Motion or Hasty Peace Costs. Gregory Copley, Defense & Foreign Affairs continued 11:45-12:00 King Charles Report: State Dinner POTUS Trump. Gregory Copley, Defense & Foreign Affairs Fourth Hour 12:00-12:15 Oceania: CNMI in Play: The Back Story. Cleo Paskal, FDD 12:15-12:30 Oceania: CNMI in Play: The Back Story. Cleo Paskal, FDD continued 12:30-12:45 EU: Costs of Peace. Judy Dempsey, Senior Scholar, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Berlin 12:45-1:00 AM EU: Costs of Peace. Judy Dempsey, Senior Scholar, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Berlin continued

PRC IN THE MARIANNAS (US). CLEO PASKAL FDD, GORDON CHANG https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/567970/david-apatang-sworn-in-as-cnmi-s-11th-governor 1944 GUAM LANDINGS

SHOW SCHEDULE 7-28 THE SHOW BEGINS IN GAZA IN THE LINES OF GAZANS FEARING FOOD SUPPLU COLLAPSE,,, 1945 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9:00-9:15  GAZA: AIRDRIOS DAVIDDAOUD, BILL ROGGIO, FDD 9:15-9:30 GAZA: AIRDRIOS DAVIDDAOUD, BILL ROGGIO, FDD CONTINUED 9:30-9:45AFGHANISTAN: LESSONS LEARNED OF USE IN UKRAINE. BILL ROGGIO, FDD 9:45-10:00  AFGHANISTAN: LESSONS LEARNED OF USE IN UKRAINE. BILL ROGGIO, FDD (CONTINUED) SECOND HOUR 10:00-10:15 GAZA: DISINFORMATION. MALCOLM HOENLEIN @CONF_OF_PRES @MHOENLEIN1, @THADMCCOTTER @THEAMGREATNESS 10:15-10:30 IRAN: REARMING. MALCOLM HOENLEIN @CONF_OF_PRES @MHOENLEIN1, @THADMCCOTTER @THEAMGREATNESS 10:30-10:45 PRC IN THE MARIANAS (US). CLEO PASKAL, FDD; GORDON CHANG.https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/567970/david-apatang-sworn-in-as-cnmi-s-11th-governor 10:45-11:00 MOBILE NUCLEAR MISSILES. PETER HUESSY, GORDON CHANGhttps://www.defenseone.com/ideas/2014/11/last-thing-us-needs-are-mobile-nuclear-missiles/98828/ THIRD HOUR 11:00-11:15 #NEWWORLDREPORT: MADURO CONDEMNED AS DRUG LORD. JOSEPH HUMIRE @JMHUMIRE @SECUREFREESOC, ERNESTO ARAUJO (FORMER FOREIGN MINISTER, REPUBLIC OF BRAZIL), ALEJANDRO PENA ESCLUSA 11:15-11:30 #NEWWORLDREPORT: ARGENTINA REWARDED. JOSEPH HUMIRE @JMHUMIRE @SECUREFREESOC, ERNESTO ARAUJO (FORMER FOREIGN MINISTER, REPUBLIC OF BRAZIL), ALEJANDRO PENA ESCLUSA 11:30-11:45 SYRIA: DRUZE AND EXISTENTIAL THREAT. AHMAD SHARAWI, BILL ROGGIO, FDD 11:45-12:00 SYRIA: DRUZE AND EXISTENTIAL THREAT. AHMAD SHARAWI, BILL ROGGIO, FDD (CONTINUED) FOURTH HOUR 12:00-12:15 UKRAINE: LESSONS LEARNED FOR NATO. JOHN HARDIE, BILL ROGGIO 12:15-12:30 UKRAINE: SOVIET TANKS. JOHN HARDIE, BILL ROGGIO 12:30-12:45 KGB: THE RED SPARROWS AND EPSTEIN. CRAIG UNGER, SUBSTACK, AUTHOR "AMERICAN KOMPROMAT" 12:45-1:00 KGB: THE RED SPARROWS AND EPSTEIN. CRAIG UNGER, SUBSTACK (CONTINUED)

OCEANIA: PRC  NATIONAL ON GUAM. CLEO PASKAL FDD 1944 GUAM INVASION

PREVIEW: OCEANIA: PRC: COLLEAGUE CLEO PASKAL, FDD, COMMENTS THAT US TERRITORY REMAINS VULNERABLE TO CHINESE NATIONALS FLYING INTO THE NORTHERN MARIANNAS AND BOATING TO A LANDING ON GUAM. MORE. 1939 GUAM

OCEANIA: FBI WALKS AWAY FROM THE SAIPAN CASINO UNKNOWNS. CLEO PASKAL, @GORDONGCHANG, GATESTONE, NEWSWEEK, THE HILL 1944 SAIPAN

SHOW SCHEDULE 7-14-25: GOOD EVENING. THE SHOW BEGINS IN YEMEN WITH THE RELENTLESS HOUTHIS AND THEIR MISSILE ARSENAL... 1966 YEMEN CIVIL WAR CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9:00-9:15 YEMEN: HOUTHIS SALVO INTO THE RED SEA. Bill Roggio. 9:15-9:30 OCEANIA: FBI WALKS AWAY FROM THE SAIPAN CASINO. Cleo Paskal, @GORDONGCHANG, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill.9:30-9:45 GAZA: FOOD LINES AND HAMAS GUNMEN. David Daoud, Bill Roggio, FDD. 9:45-10:00 LEBANON: BEIRUT CAN HELP ITSELF. David Daoud, Bill Roggio. SECOND HOUR 10:00-10:15 IRAN: REPORTS OF THE ENRICHED URANIUM STOCKPILE. Malcolm Hoenlein @CONF_OF_PRES @MHOENLEIN1 @THADMCCOTTER @THEAMGREATNESS. 10:15-10:30 HOUTHIS: PAY NO PENALTY. Malcolm Hoenlein @CONF_OF_PRES @MHOENLEIN1 @THADMCCOTTER @THEAMGREATNESS. 10:30-10:45 #NEWWORLDREPORT: BRAZIL AND COLOMBIA PRESIDENTS. Joseph Humire @JMHUMIRE @SECUREFREESOC. Ernesto Araújo, Former Foreign Minister Republic of Brazil. #NEWWORLDREPORTHUMIRE, Alejandro Peña Esclusa. 10:45-11:00 #NEWWORLDREPORT: CHILE AND ARGENTINA. Joseph Humire @JMHUMIRE @SECUREFREESOC. Ernesto Araújo, Former Foreign Minister Republic of Brazil. Alejandro Peña Esclusa. THIRD HOUR 11:00-11:15 DPRK: LAVROV SMILES. David Maxwell, @GORDONGCHANG, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill. 11:15-11:30 DPRK: UNIFICATION RHETORIC. David Maxwell, @GORDONGCHANG, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill. 11:30-11:45 TAIWAN: ISLAND NATION. Lance Gatling, @GORDONGCHANG, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill. 11:45-12:00 JAPAN: IN THE EVENT OF HOSTILITIES. Lance Gatling, @GORDONGCHANG, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill. FOURTH HOUR 12:00-12:15 SYRIA: GUNFIGHT. Ahmad Sharawi, Bill Roggio, FDD. 12:15-12:30 SYRIA: GUNFIGHT. Ahmad Sharawi, Bill Roggio, FDD, continued. 12:30-12:45 UKRAINE: WEAPONS INCLUDING ATACMS. John Hardie, Bill Roggio, FDD. 12:45-1:00 AM UKRAINE: WEAPONS INCLUDING ATACMS. John Hardie, Bill Roggio, FDD, continued.

PREVIEW: SAIPAN CASINO: Colleague Cleo Paskal of FDD reports that the FBI has now closed an investigation into alleged PRC corruption on the US territory of Saipan in the Marianas. More to come. 1944 SAIPAN

SOLOMONS VS PRC: CLEO PASKAL, FDD 1944