Podcasts about Copley

Gregory Copleyreports that King Charles is navigating a crisis involving Prince Andrew's arrest and Prime Minister Starmer's appointment of Ambassador Mendelson, both linked to the widening Jeffrey Epstein scandal. 16.1808 BANK OF ENGLAND

1896 PERSIAElizabeth Peak, columnist for The Hill and Fox News, discusses Wall Street's AI "doom" narrative, the disruption of white-collar professions, and market anxieties regarding potential conflict with Iran and new trade tariffs. 1.Elizabeth Peak, columnist for The Hill and Fox News, criticizes Mayor Mamdani's inexperienced handling of a deadly NYC blizzard, specifically his initial refusal to compel homeless individuals to enter shelters during extreme cold. 2.Judy Dempsey of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Thaddius McCotter of American Greatnessexamine the Ukraine war's stalemate, debating European unity, Putin's untrustworthiness, and the difficult search for a viable diplomatic peace offramp. 3.Judy Dempsey of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Thaddius McCotter of American Greatnessdiscuss the upcoming State of the Union, critiquing Trump's economic messaging while highlighting concerns over AI-driven job losses and the growing divide regarding national prosperity. 4.Mary Kissel, Executive Vice President at Stevens Incorporated, analyzes the US naval buildup near Iran, exploring potential regime change and the interconnected nature of global authoritarian threats from Russia to Beijing. 5.Mary Kissel, Executive Vice President at Stevens Incorporated, explains how unpredictable tariff policies create business uncertainty, hindering capital investment despite potential strategic benefits in managing trade relations with aggressive regimes like Beijing. 6.Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discusses the massive USarmada near Iran and whether military pressure or internal protests can force the regime to negotiate on missiles and proxies. 7.Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, analyzes Hezbollah's remaining missile arsenal, Israeli deterrence strategies, and the security vacuum in Syria following the escape of ISISrelatives from detention camps. 8.David Livingston of The Space Show and Kishalay De of Columbia University discuss a star collapsing into a black hole without a supernova, challenging established theories about the minimum mass required for such cosmic events. 9.David Livingston of The Space Show and Kishalay De of Columbia University outline future astronomical surveys using advanced telescopes to identify more "disappearing" stars, aiming to create a comprehensive population road map for black hole formation. 10.Michael Toth, Research Director of the Civitas Institute, compares the thriving US equity markets with Europe's "eurosclerosis," attributing American growth to deregulation and dynamism while critiquing Europe's failure to produce new unicorns. 11.Michael Toth, Research Director of the Civitas Institute, defends financialization against critics, arguing that expanded market participation through 401ks and deregulation drives median income growth and American productivity compared to Europe. 12.Gregory Copley reports that amid a military buildup and failing talks, President Trump is considering kinetic action against Iran's clerical leadership, while the Iranian people remain largely anti-regime. 13.Gregory Copley reports that Prime Minister Starmer is blocking US use of British bases in Cyprus and Diego Garciafor Iran strikes, causing a terminal rift with President Donald Trump. 14.Gregory Copley reports that President Zelensky warns Putin is untrustworthy as the war reaches four years, while Copley suggests the conflict persists primarily because of continued external Western funding and arms. 15.Gregory Copley reports that King Charles is navigating a crisis involving Prince Andrew's arrest and Prime Minister Starmer's appointment of Ambassador Mendelson, both linked to the widening Jeffrey Epstein scandal. 16.

Gregory Copley reports that amid a military buildup and failing talks, President Trump is considering kinetic action against Iran's clerical leadership, while the Iranian people remain largely anti-regime. 13.1638

Gregory Copley reports that Prime Minister Starmer is blocking US use of British bases in Cyprus and Diego Garciafor Iran strikes, causing a terminal rift with President Donald Trump. 14.1896 PERSIA

Gregory Copley reports that President Zelensky warns Putin is untrustworthy as the war reaches four years, while Copley suggests the conflict persists primarily because of continued external Western funding and arms. 15.1855 TATARS ON CRIMEA

Preview for later today: Gregory Copley discusses Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership crisis, where scandals and internal party opposition threaten to trigger new national elections or parliamentary suspension.2016 WINDSOR

Gregory Copley of Defense & Foreign Affairs discusses the US deployment of one hundred troops to Nigeria to counter ISIS and Boko Haram, arguing stability requires addressing economic disenfranchisement from damming the River Niger rather than treating symptoms with military advisors.1910 BRUSSELS

Gregory Copley reports Nigerian President Tinubu advocates for an African credit rating agency to reduce reliance on external assessments from firms like Moody's, reflecting growing desire for statistical independence and better quantification of local economies to attract investment.1910 BRUSSELS CATHEDRAL

Gregory Copley argues Europe suffers from a leadership vacuum caused by post-WWII dependency on the US and bureaucratic corrosion within the EU, with economic recovery requiring slashing regulations as current welfare models become unsustainable amidst geopolitical threats.1900 BRUSSELS PLACE OF MARTYS

  Gregory Copley notes that despite scandals surrounding Prince Andrew, the Royal Family remains essential glue holding the UK and Commonwealth together, with the King and working royals performing vital diplomatic functions while spares struggle without defined roles.1900 BRUSSELS

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the Nile dam dispute, criticizing Egypt's historical entitlement to water and suggesting US cooperation with Ethiopia could better stabilize the Red Sea region.1907

Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Peek discusses Kevin Warsh's nomination as Fed Chair, the market's enthusiasm for AI, Elon Musk's visionary ventures, and economic concerns regarding housing shortages and inflation. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Peek critiques potential 2028 Democratic candidates, arguing Gavin Newsom's California record and Kamala Harris's past campaign failures make them weak contenders for the presidency. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddius Mart. The guests analyze global economic anxiety, Macron's push for EU strategic autonomy, and rising US-EU tensions regarding digital regulation, hate speech, and technological competition. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddius Mart. They examine German concerns over US political influence, the rise of the AfD party, and the fracturing transatlantic relationship amidst widespread economic uncertainty and unpredictability. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg assesses potential Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, highlighting his "realist" approach to monetary policy and desire to reduce the Federal Reserve's balance sheet. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg explains how the Peter Mandelson scandal is fueling internal Labor Party conflict, allowing the left wing to purge Blairites while Starmer remains in power. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Schanzer analyzes Iran's stalling tactics in negotiations via Oman, noting the pressure from a US armada while questioning Oman's neutrality as a mediator. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Schanzer warns that Turkey is positioned to fill the power vacuum if Iran falls, complicating regional dynamics as Erdogan confronts his own mortality and succession. Guest: Mary Kissel. Kissel condemns the brutal sentencing of Jimmy Lai, illustrating Hong Kong's total loss of freedom and the failure of Western powers to hold Beijing accountable. Guest: Mary Kissel. Kissel attributes Prime Minister Starmer's declining popularity to economic failures and the scandal involving Peter Mandelson, which has boosted the populist Reform party's standing. Guest: Grant Newsham. Newsham analyzes Prime Minister Takichi's landslide victory in Japan, noting her hawkish defense stance and economic plans significantly strengthen the US-Japan security alliance. Guest: Conrad Black. Black criticizes Mark Carney's anti-American rhetoric, arguing that Canada's economy relies on the US, while domestic issues like housing shortages remain unaddressed. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley highlights Australia's booming AI and space sectors under AUKUS, contrasting this success with the political instability and bureaucratic malaise of the Albanese government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley evaluates the "forever fleets" pressuring Iran and Venezuela, questioning if current pressure tactics will yield long-term resolutions or merely prolong regional instability. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the Nile dam dispute, criticizing Egypt's historical entitlement to water and suggesting US cooperation with Ethiopia could better stabilize the Red Sea region. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley details the scandal linking Prince Andrew and Peter Mandelson to Epstein, arguing the monarchy remains a crucial stabilizing force during Britain's political turmoil.

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the Nile dam dispute, criticizing Egypt's historical entitlement to water and suggesting US cooperation with Ethiopia could better stabilize the Red Sea region.1772 LONDON

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley highlights Australia's booming AI and space sectors under AUKUS, contrasting this success with the political instability and bureaucratic malaise of the Albanese government.1842

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley evaluates the "forever fleets" pressuring Iran and Venezuela, questioning if current pressure tactics will yield long-term resolutions or merely prolong regional instability.1746

00:00 Intro01:09 Trump Rejects Putin Offer to Extend New START Nuclear Treaty03:10 U.S.: China Has Conducted Secret Nuclear Testing05:23 Copley on Bringing China Under New Nuclear Control07:10 Nuclear Treaty Fails to Constrain China's Growth: Copley09:37 Trump-Xi Deal Carries Long-Term Risks: Copley11:16 U.S., Taiwan Successfully Test New Jet Attack Drone12:19 China Develops Hypersonic Missile for Drones, Aircraft13:36 U.S. Boosts Rare Earth Output, Reduces China Reliance14:22 Democrat Senators Ask for SpaceX Probe15:26 Ikea Shuts Down 7 Major Stores in China16:11 Japan Election: Key Things to Watch This Sunday19:49 TSMC to Make Advanced AI Semiconductors in Japan

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley analyzes new talks involving Turkey and the UAE, noting U.S. reluctance to support Iranian civil society leaves the clerical regime breathing room despite weakness.1890 ALEPPO

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley observes Russia targeting Ukrainian infrastructure to pressure the public, noting that despite Western support, Moscow retains the upper hand while demanding territorial concessions.1941 UKRAINE

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley details a civil war within the CCP as Xi Jinping purges military leaders, risking regime collapse while Western leaders ignore China's economic hollowing.1903

Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the Epstein scandal involving Lord Mandelson and Prince Andrew, suggesting King Charles is distancing the monarchy from these revelations to protect the institution.1901 COMMONS

SHOW SCHEDULE 2-3-20261882 CONSTANTINOPLE Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Peek discusses Trump's nomination of hawk Kevin Warsh for Federal ReserveChairman, noting the immediate drop in precious metals and potential monetary policy shifts. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Peek predicts Democrats will take the House in midterms, forcing Trump to rely on executive actions and non-traditional voter turnout to maintain his agenda. Guest: Judy Dempsey. Dempsey analyzes the stalemated Ukraine conflict, noting European refusal to accept Russian victory, while discussing rising tensions and internal political divisions within Iran. Guest: Judy Dempsey. Amidst the Mandelson-Epstein scandal, Dempsey explains how economic struggles and Brexit regrets are driving the Labour Party to consider re-engaging with the European Union. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg details Starmer's unpopularity and lack of economic agenda, noting potential leadership challenges within the Labour Party from rivals like Burnham and Streeting. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg warns that revelations linking Peter Mandelson to Epstein reinforce narratives of elitism, damaging Starmer's already unpopular Labour government among working-class voters. Guest: David Shedd. Shedd discusses the conviction of a Google engineer for stealing AI secrets, illustrating corporate naivety regarding China's state-mandated espionage and intelligence gathering operations. Guest: David Shedd. Shedd warns against selling advanced chips to China, describing Beijing's "capture, cage, and kill" economic strategy and criticizing the U.S. administration's transactional approach. Guest: Mary Kissel. Kissel argues U.S. talks with Iran are dangerous, as Tehran uses negotiations to stall while maintaining brutality and nuclear ambitions amidst regional military buildup. Guest: Mary Kissel. Kissel discusses the futility of appeasing Putin regarding Ukrainian territory and the need for security plans to support Venezuela's opposition against the Maduro regime. Guest: David Albright. Albright warns of "loose nukes" and dangerous materials in Iran, urging planning for a "day after" scenario to secure nuclear assets during potential regime instability. Guest: David Albright. Albright emphasizes the need for a coalition-led inspection and removal regime to secure Iranian nuclear materials and protect scientists if the government collapses. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley analyzes new talks involving Turkey and the UAE, noting U.S. reluctance to support Iranian civil society leaves the clerical regime breathing room despite weakness. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley observes Russia targeting Ukrainian infrastructure to pressure the public, noting that despite Western support, Moscow retains the upper hand while demanding territorial concessions. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley details a civil war within the CCP as Xi Jinping purges military leaders, risking regime collapse while Western leaders ignore China's economic hollowing. Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley discusses the Epstein scandal involving Lord Mandelson and Prince Andrew, suggesting King Charles is distancing the monarchy from these revelations to protect the institution.

Gregory Copley assesses China's instability under President Xi Jinping, who continues arresting generals in sweeping military purges that reveal deep fissures and distrust within the People's Liberation Army leadership.1932

Gregory Copley recounts King Charles correcting President Trump on protocol, with the President accepting the royal guidance—a notable moment of deference during the state interactions between the two leaders.1900COTSWOLDS

Gregory Copley assesses China's instability under President Xi Jinping, who continues arresting generals in sweeping military purges that reveal deep fissures and distrust within the People's Liberation Army leadership.1949 STORK CLUB

Gregory Copley on Arctic competition and parallel dynamics in Antarctic waters, analyzing how major powers including Russia, China, and the United States are maneuvering for strategic advantage in polar regions.1949 HITCHCOCK AND LAMOUR STORK CLUB

SEGMENT 13: NATO'S DECLINE AND THE GREENLAND CRISIS Guest: Gregory Copley Copley argues the Greenland controversy reveals deeper fractures signaling NATO's erosion. Discussion examines how the alliance has weakened through neglect and diverging interests, European defensiveness over Arctic claims, and whether the transatlantic security architecture built after World War II can survive current political and strategic pressures.

SEGMENT 14: EMERGING SUNNI OR ISLAMIC NATO IN ASIA Guest: Gregory Copley Copley explores the potential formation of a new security alliance among Sunni Muslim nations in Asia. Discussion covers the strategic drivers behind such a coalition, which countries might participate, how this Islamic NATO could reshape regional power dynamics, and implications for Western alliances and Middle Eastern stability.

SEGMENT 15: GREAT POWERS VERSUS SMALL STATES IN STRATEGIC THINKING Guest: Gregory Copley Copley contrasts how great powers often act impulsively while smaller states analyze carefully before moving. Discussion examines the hubris of major nations shooting from the hip on foreign policy, the advantages smaller countries gain through meticulous strategic calculation, and lessons for American policymakers in an increasingly complex world.

SEGMENT 16: THE CALMING POWER OF KINGSHIP Guest: Gregory Copley Copley offers praise for monarchical systems as stabilizing forces in nations facing discontent. Discussion examines how kingship provides continuity, national unity, and legitimacy that elected leaders often cannot muster, with examples of how constitutional monarchies successfully navigate political turbulence and maintain social cohesion during crises.

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Gregory Copley. Copley explains that European states fear the United Stateswill dictate terms regarding Greenland, viewing this as a continuation of post-WWII history. He argues Washington has systematically subordinated allies by compromising their defense industries and autonomy, leaving them as dependent states liable to be "insulted at will."1914 AUSTRALIA IN FRANCE

Lessons from the Superpower's Economic Resurgence. Guest: GREGORY COPLEY. The 21st century reveals that nations prioritizing energy security and enforced borders tend to succeed. President Trump's focus on manufacturing and cheap energy has bolstered the U.S. economy, positioning it as an unchallenged superpower. However, his dynamic approach often alienates allies while redefining grand strategy.1940 ALLENTOWN BUS

Sovereignty and the Russian Identity Crisis. Guest: GREGORY COPLEY. Sovereignty is fundamentally tied to geography and identity. In the current period of "cratomorphosis," Russia exhibits defensive nationalism rather than expansionism. To the Kremlin, Ukraine remains the "cradle of Russia," making its loss a profound threat to Russianethos, historical religious origins, and its personal identity.ROSTOV ON DON

China's Quest for Legitimacy and Defense. Guest: GREGORY COPLEY. The Chinese Communist Party yearns for ancient China's legitimacy while defending its modern borders. Rather than traditional imperial expansion, Chinaemploys "total war" non-military means. However, the state currently faces a crisis of sovereignty as it implodes internally under disproven totalitarian models and intensifying defensive pressures.1903 QING DYNASTY DOWAGER EMPRESS

The Reassertion of American Empire. Guest: GREGORY COPLEY. During Donald Trump's second term, the United States moved into an offensive mode to reassert dominance and energy security. Simultaneously, the European Union faces a crisis of legitimacy, with nation-states rebelling against its supra-state model. The EU lacks a cohesive vision, leading to internal distress.1886 APACHE AND GERONIMO

SHOW1-14-251671 Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists.  Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacre 7Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western.8 Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

SHOW SCHEDULE1-13-251868 PUBLISHER'S ROW NYC Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacres. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Iran could ignite Central Asian economic potential.

Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.1970 TEHRAN

Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S. seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures.1902 CARACAS

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY: This transcript features a discussion between John Batchelor and Gregory Copley regarding the potential political return of Reza Pahlavi to Iran. The speakers suggest that the Crown Prince is currently the only figure with sufficient name recognition and historical legitimacy to lead the nation following a potential collapse of the current regime. While the United States Department of State historically opposes monarchic structures, the experts argue that Pahlavi could serve as a transitional leader or a constitutional monarch similar to the British model. They emphasize that his return is increasingly supported by internal Iranian voices seeking stability through his established plans for economic and agricultural reform. Ultimately, the dialogue positions Pahlavi as a unique bridge between the country's imperial past and a future democratic transformation.1970 TEHRAN

Guest: Gregory Copley. King Charles III is demonstrating resilience by outworking other royals and returning to full duties despite his ongoing cancer treatment, while steadfastly ignoring the distraction of gossip surrounding Prince Harry and Prince Andrew. The King faces a challenging year managing a relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose government Copley describes as hostile to the monarchy and struggling with a tattered economy and a severe illegal migration crisis.1828 BANK OF ENGLAND

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT: Gregory Copley explains that relentless media coverage of Royal Family troubles acts as an enduring institution catering to public appetites for scandal, particularly regarding "spares" like Prince Andrewand Prince Harry. He notes that younger siblings often lack purpose, leading to entitlement and conflict seen throughout monarchical history.COTSWOLDS

Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the precise U.S. tactical operation to abduct Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, the strategic focus has shifted to securing the hemisphere and managing oil access, though major companies currently prefer the easier reserves off Guyana over Venezuela's tapped-out infrastructure. Copley notes that while the raid was surgically successful, the lack of follow-up planning risks a messy, protracted conflict driven by Russian and Chineseinfluence, potentially damaging U.S. prestige if the new government does not quickly align with Washington.1925 GUYANA

Guest: Gregory Copley. President Trump's interest in acquiring or occupying Greenland is driven by the island's strategic value for polar routes, satellite contact, and missile positioning, though Copley argues that administration claims regarding Russian and Chinese provocation in the area are exaggerated to justify the move. While the U.S. seeks to enforce a version of the Monroe Doctrine across the Americas to ensure hegemonic control, this approach risks alienating loyal allies like Denmark, especially since the Greenlandic people have no desire to become Americansdespite close defense ties.1770 GREENLAND

Guest: Gregory Copley. Discussing Niall Ferguson's comparison of the current geopolitical climate to the imperialism of 1906, Copley argues that while territorial annexation is less common, a new form of technological and economic imperialism has emerged where the U.S. maintains spheres of influence through dominance in global defense sales. Copley notes that while Turkey attempts to reassert Ottoman-style control through "gunpowder diplomacy" despite being bankrupt, and the U.S. acts as a self-proclaimed global guardian, the primary rival, China, is currently failing due to internal collapse rather than expanding like the powers of the early 20th century.1905 TR BROKERS PEACE.

THE DANGERS OF TRANSACTIONAL NATIONALISM Colleague Gregory Copley. Copley warns that suppression in republics often leads to uncontrollable demands for liberty, citing the collapse of the Shah's Iran and the USSR. He distinguishes between "tribal nationalism," based on shared history, and "state nationalism," which is often transactional. Copley argues that transactional systems eventually fail because the state runs out of resources to trade for support, leading to corruption and the potential fracturing of society. NUMBER 14 1680 CHARLES II OF GREAT BRITAIN

THE RETURN OF THE NOBLE MONARCH Colleague Gregory Copley. Gregory Copley argues that the world has reached "peak republicanism," where republics have become inefficient political battlegrounds. He defines nobility not as a class structure, but as a quality of honorable leadership that embodies the state's values. Copley suggests modern monarchies, like that of King Charles III, are reinvigorating this role by acting as apolitical symbols of unity and diplomacy, unlike elected leaders who only represent their voters. NUMBER 13 1670 CHARLES II OF GREAT BRITAIN

CONSTITUTIONS, BELIEF, AND THE EMPIRE Colleague Gregory Copley. Copley describes the US Constitution as the "de facto crown" holding the American empire together, though it faces challenges from populist movements. He argues that a "faith-based electorate" or a "belief in beliefs" is essential for social unity, noting that when people stop believing in God, they will believe in anything. Monarchy utilizes mysticism and continuity to maintain this unity, a quality difficult for republics to replicate. NUMBER 15 1689 CHARLES II AND LADY JANE ENROUTE TO BRISTOL