Podcast appearances and mentions of Craig Unger

Craig Unger argues that Donald Trump has been a Russian intelligence asset since 1987. He highlights how Trump's first trip to the Soviet Union was followed by advertisements in U.S. newspapers featuring KGB talking points. (13)OCTOBER 1930

Craig Unger discusses U.S. unreliability and the future of the NATO alliance, noting that under Trump, the United States is seen as an unreliable partner by allies like Finland, who fear he will not honor Article 5. This lack of reliability forces European nations to consider whether they can emerge as a self-sufficient military power. (14)1936

SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 5-27-26.APRIL 1900 OTTAWA.Cliff May discusses the deepening crisis in Cuba, where extreme food and electricity shortages have led officials to describe it as a failing state. However, the regime has reportedly received hundreds of attack drones from Russia and Iran, posing a new offensive threat to U.S. interests in the Caribbean. (1)Cliff May examines the empty pageantry of the Trump-Xi summit in Beijing, where the high-profile ceremony produced no major deals regarding trade or artificial intelligence. Xi Jinping made no concessions on human rights issues, such as the persecution of Christians or the Uyghurs. (2)Jon Hartley discusses the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve Chairman, bringing a hawkish reputation focused on reducing the Fed's expanded balance sheet. Warsh advocates for a return to principles linking money growth directly to inflation control. (3)Jon Hartley proposes a new agreement modeled after the 1951 Accord that would separate the missions of the Federal Reserve and the Treasury. Under this plan, the Fed would focus strictly on short-term rates and price stability rather than long-term debt management. (4)Captain James Fanell analyzes the Balikatan military exercise, which featured 17,000 troops and, for the first time, combat forces from Japan participating in counter-invasion training. The drills demonstrated the capacity of allied nations to successfully target and strike enemy vessels at sea. (5)General Blaine Holt discusses Russian hypersonic threats and the shift to asymmetric drone warfare, noting Russia's threats of using weapons of mass destruction against Kyiv to warn European leaders against further intervention. Meanwhile, low-cost drone technology is proving to be an asymmetric force that renders expensive, multi-million dollar military systems obsolete. (6)Charles Burton examines Canada's controversial economic pivot toward China, where Prime Minister Mark Carney is pursuing a strategic partnership that includes non-public security agreements and the reduction of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Critics warn these moves compromise Canadian sovereignty and allow for significant Chineseinfiltration. (7)Charles Burton and Gordon Chang analyze China's strategic gain from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, with Beijing appearing content to allow the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz to drag out as a way to deplete U.S. military resources. This instability supports China's narrative that the United States is a declining power. (8)Michael Bernstam discusses the impact of Ukrainian drone strikes on the Russian oil market, noting that strikes on refineries and ports have forced Russia to export more crude oil at discounted prices instead of high-value refined products. Simultaneously, U.S. oil production has hit record levels, significantly influencing global market prices. (9)Michael Bernstam examines the failure of Russia's Power of Siberia 2 pipeline deal, as Vladimir Putin left Beijingwithout securing the agreement while China shows no immediate need for the gas. Furthermore, China demanded to pay domestic Russian prices, which would yield no profit for Moscow. (10)Bob Zimmerman discusses the success of SpaceX's Starship 12 test, which demonstrated major design improvements, while NASA has effectively ended Boeing's role in manned missions to the ISS. NASA awarded all manned flights through 2030 to SpaceX, leaving Boeing out of the picture. (11)Bob Zimmerman reports that the Webb telescope has detected weather variations, including morning clouds, on a distant exoplanet. Additionally, images from Mars show parallel ridges that suggest a history of climate cycles and the presence of significant near-surface ice. (12)Craig Unger argues that Donald Trump has been a Russian intelligence asset since 1987. He highlights how Trump's first trip to the Soviet Union was followed by advertisements in U.S. newspapers featuring KGB talking points. (13)Craig Unger discusses U.S. unreliability and the future of the NATO alliance, noting that under Trump, the United States is seen as an unreliable partner by allies like Finland, who fear he will not honor Article 5. This lack of reliability forces European nations to consider whether they can emerge as a self-sufficient military power. (14)Judy Dempsey examines how the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran distracts from Russian aggression in Ukraine and causes economic sluggishness in Germany. European allies feel jaundiced by the lack of consultation from the U.S. regarding Middle East diplomacy. (15)Judy Dempsey discusses how the AfD has become Germany's leading political party by capitalizing on public anger over housing shortages and the government's handling of the wars in Iran and Ukraine. The party represents a growing threat to the established political order in Europe. (16)

review for Later Today: Craig Unger examines Finnish fears regarding Russian aggression and Donald Trump's history with the Kremlin. He questions whether Trump would honor NATO's Article 5 defense commitments if Russia were to invade a member nation now.1723 ST. PETERSBURG 

Arlington National Cemetery has scrubbed from its website information and educational materials about the history of black and female service members. Also journalist Craig Unger joins the program to explain the difference between an asset and an agent. Do all roads lead to the inescapable and horrifying conclusion that Trump is a Russian asset?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Craig Unger explains the infrastructure of the alleged treason, focusing on the Safari Club, a group of high-level intelligence officials who conducted "off-the-books" operations after the CIA faced congressional crackdowns in the 1970s. Bill Casey utilized this shadow network, employing his close friend John Shaheen as a "cutout" to facilitate meetings with Iranian arms dealers without attracting media attention. Unger reveals that the Hashemi brothers, who were ostensibly helping the Carter administration negotiate for the hostages, were actually double agents working for Casey. This covert channel was further supported by Israeli military intelligence (Aman), which confirmed that source Ari Ben-Menashe was indeed an operative and that a secret arms channel existed between Israel and Iran. Unger argues that Israel's participation in sabotaging the American election was a significant secret they went to great lengths to hide. The operation reportedly involved money laundering through front businesses to finance the illegal arms deals. (5/8)1920 BUSHEHR

Craig Unger highlCraig Unger highlights the "suspiciously perfect" timing of the hostage release, which occurred exactly three minutes after Ronald Reagan completed his inaugural address on January 20, 1981. Unger argues it was physically impossible for Reagan to have negotiated this release in the minutes he was in office, suggesting a deal had been finalized long before. Even modern biographers like Max Boot now acknowledge that the evidence for the October Surprise is sufficient to conclude it happened. Unger places this event within a broader historical pattern of Republican election interference, citing Richard Nixon's 1968 use of Anna Chennault to sabotage Vietnam peace talks and Donald Trump's 2016 ties to Russia. By examining Bob Parry's 23-gigabyte archive, Unger believes much more information is still waiting to be discovered in various presidential libraries. He concludes that understanding this history is vital for recognizing the ongoing assault on American democracy through clandestine foreign partnerships. (8/8)

Craig Unger analyzes the specific allegations regarding meetings in Madrid and Paris that formed the core of the October Surprise deal. While alibis were created for both Bill Casey and George H.W. Bush, Unger and reporter Bob Parry found evidence to puncture these claims, such as Casey's supposed presence at an OSS reunion in London that he actually slipped away from. The Madrid meeting with Iranian cleric Mehdi Karrubi in July 1980 is where the parameters for delaying the hostage release were first sketched out. Regarding the Paris meeting, Unger believes the preponderance of evidence suggests Bush was there to provide a high-level "imprimatur" for the deal. The Iranians were desperate for American aircraft parts due to the sudden invasion by Iraq in September 1980, providing the Republicans with significant leverage. Unger contends that delivering arms to a hostile power holding Americans was politically unthinkable, making these secret negotiations a form of treason. (6/8)1903

Craig Unger recounts his 2014 trip to Iran, where he visited the former American embassy, now a museum called the "Den of Spies," showcasing shredded documents laboriously pasted back together by militants. During his visit, Ungersecured a rare interview with Mohsen Rafiqdoost, the former head of Iranian arms procurement, who briefly slipped up by mentioning a meeting with "the Republicans" before quickly correcting himself. Unger also interviewed former Iranian President Abulhassan Bani-Sadr in France, who provided documents describing the October Surprise as a "double coup" that empowered radicals in both the U.S. and Iran while ousting moderates. The sources confirm that the 1953 coup against Mohammad Mossadegh remains a deep-seated grievance in Iran, fueling their desire to undermine American influence. Unger emphasizes that these secret relationships between the Republicans, Iran, and Israel were considered "taboo" because they proved that the 1980 election was subverted through international collusion. (7/8)1904

Craig Unger details his time at Newsweek, where he was hired to lead an investigation into the October Surprise, only to see the magazine eventually publish multiple stories discrediting the entire narrative. Unger describes this shift as a "disgrace" to American journalism, noting that both the media and the House investigation led by Lee Hamiltonparticipated in a "whitewash" of the allegations. Despite congressional findings that the events did not happen, investigative reporter Bob Parry continued the search, eventually discovering a "treasure trove" of documents hidden in an abandoned women's restroom in a House office building. These papers, found under a tampon dispenser, contained 23 gigabytes of evidence that the congressional task force had overlooked. During this period, legendary reporter Seymour Hersh warned Unger that he would be "crushed" if he continued to challenge the powerful national security establishment, a prediction that nearly came true as Unger faced professional ostracization. (4/8)1905

Craig Unger recounts the investigative origins of the October Surprise story, which gained mainstream credibility after a 1991 New York Times op-ed by former National Security Council member Gary Sick. Working for Esquire, Ungercollaborated with fellow journalists like Bob Parry to uncover rumors of Republican interference in the hostage crisis. A central figure in their investigation was Ari Ben-Menashe, a rogue Israeli intelligence operative who claimed that Bill Casey met with Iranians in Madrid in July 1980. Ben-Menashe alleged that Casey negotiated a deal to provide Iranwith weapons in exchange for delaying the release of the American hostages until after the election, a clear violation of the Logan Act. Furthermore, Ben-Menashe claimed a follow-up meeting occurred in Paris in October 1980 involving George H.W. Bush to "seal the deal." Unger emphasizes that investigating this world of illegal arms dealers was professionally risky, often leading to accusations of being a "conspiracy nut." (3/8)1904

Craig Unger explores the transformation of the 1980 Reagan campaign following the hiring of Bill Casey as campaign manager. Casey, a legendary WWII spy from the OSS, is described as a brilliant but eccentric figure who utilized his extensive international contacts to build a secret intelligence network while the campaign was still underway. This network involved meetings with Israeli agents and South African arms dealers to discuss the ongoing Iranian revolution. Unger details how the Reagan camp feared an "October Surprise"—a pre-election hostage release that would secure Carter's victory—leading Casey to take covert preventative measures. Interestingly, Ronald Reagan himself seemed disconnected from the details of Casey's operations, often merely nodding and smiling because he could not understand Casey's muddled speech. This dynamic allowed Casey to operate with significant autonomy, setting the stage for clandestine maneuvers that Unger argues ultimately subverted the American democratic process. (2/8)1903

Craig Unger discusses the failure of Operation Desert One on April 24, 1980, a mission authorized by President Jimmy Carter to rescue 52 American hostages in Iran. The operation ended in disaster when a helicopter collided with a C-130 transport plane in the Iranian desert, resulting in eight American deaths and the immediate cancellation of the mission. This failure was a pivotal moment in the 1980 campaign, as National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski noted Carter looked as though he had been "stabbed in the face," making a political recovery virtually impossible. Ungerexplains that the crisis was rooted in the 1979 revolution that overthrew the Shah of Iran, a longtime U.S. ally installed by a 1953 American coup. Carter inherited a geostrategic nightmare, further complicated by a hostile relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, who deeply resented Carter for the Camp David Accords. (1/8)1904

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

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

15. HEADLINE: Re-examining RussianInterference in the 2016 U.S. ElectionGUEST: Craig Unger SUMMARY: Journalist Craig Unger reviews the events of October 7, 2016, involving DHS warnings of Russian hacking and the release of the Access Hollywood tape. He argues the timing benefited the Trump campaign. (15)1960 ARABIA

16. HEADLINE: Alleged Long-Term Financial Ties Between Trump and RussianIntelligence GUEST: Craig Unger SUMMARY: Craig Unger discusses alleged ties between Donald Trump and Russianintelligence dating back to the 1980s. He claims the Russian mafia used Trump real estate for money laundering to bail out his businesses. (16)1960S ARABIA

PREVIEW FOR TONIGHT. Craig Ungerdetails how Donald Trump first connected with KGB fronts in the 1980s. This relationship evolved into the Russian mafia laundering over a billion dollars in total through Trump real estate. (2)1925 STALIN AND TROTSKY

Christopher Steele, who ran the Russia desk at MI6, believes Jeffrey Epstein was a Russian asset. He used girls and young women from Russia and other former Soviet states to lure powerful men into kompromat traps.  Michael Wolff made the allegation, which has since been pulled by The Daily Beast, that Epstein introduced Melania and Trump, and that they even had sex for the first time on the Lolita Express. So was Melania a honeypot, trained to keep Trump in their pocket, and prevent an unpredictable influence from marrying Russia's asset?  Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman, of the Trump Tyranny Tracker, and a researcher on explosive books, including investigative journalist Craig Unger's House of Trump, House of Putin, fact checks the Melania honeypot memes, and provides deeper insight into the Eastern European women in Trump's life, like his first wife Ivana.  Olga Lautman will be at the Gaslit Nation Night Out! Join us to celebrate the power of art and defiance at the book launch of Mrs. Orwell, Andrea's inspiring new graphic novel, illustrated by the genius Brahm Revel. When: April 13 Where: PowerHouse Books Arena, DUMBO, Brooklyn Details here: https://powerhousearena.com/events/book-launch-mrs-orwell-by-andrea-chalupa-in-conversation-with-nomiki-konst/ Patreon Supporters: You and your guests get in free and receive a complimentary book! Just message us through Patreon to claim yours. Not a member yet? Join our community at Patreon.com/Gaslit. We couldn't make this show without you–see you there! Show Notes: Trump Tyranny Tracker: https://trumptyrannytracker.substack.com/ Daily Beast pulls story alleging Melania-Epstein connection after lawyers dispute framing https://www.foxnews.com/media/daily-beast-pulls-story-alleging-melania-epstein-connection-after-lawyers-dispute-framing Ex-MI6 Spy insists Epstein was a Russian spy and blackmailing Trump https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYRVezF5-hk Opening clip:  https://bsky.app/profile/atrupar.com/post/3mhnsvsjc7y23 Um, What Is Going on With Melania Trump in This Video? https://www.vogue.com/article/melania-trump-vladimir-putin-helsinki-video Andrea's thread on the Melania propaganda film which you should not watch https://bsky.app/profile/andreachalupa.bsky.social/post/3mgqndjhz4k2b This article is more than 1 month old Disappeared bodies, mass burials and '30,000 dead': what is the truth of Iran's death toll? https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/jan/27/iran-protests-death-toll-disappeared-bodies-mass-burials-30000-dead Russia is aiding Iran's war effort by providing intel on US military targets, sources say https://www.cnn.com/2026/03/06/politics/russia-aiding-iran-targeting How Russian military intelligence used the Taliban to bleed U.S. forces at the end of America's longest war https://theins.ru/en/politics/277723 Putin Is No Ally in the War on Terror in 2024 https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/putin-no-ally-war-terror-2024 Watch Zerina Zabrisky's powerful film for free and spread the word about Russia's human safaris in Ukraine https://khersonhumansafari.com/ Join our community of listeners and get bonus shows, ad free listening, group chats with other listeners, ways to shape the show, invites to exclusive events like our Monday political salons at 4pm ET over Zoom, and more! Discounted annual memberships are available. Become a Democracy Defender at Patreon.com/Gaslit  

15. The Complicated Legacy of Robert Mueller. Guest: Craig Unger. Craig Unger reflects on the passing of Robert Mueller, discussing the unfinished questions regarding the 2017-20 Trump-Russia investigation. He highlights the distinction between criminal and counterintelligence probes regarding money laundering and influence operations.,, (15)19222 DC

16. Trump's Ties to Russia and Epstein. Guest: Craig Unger. Craig Unger explores Donald Trump's continued favorable rhetoric toward Vladimir Putin. He discusses how the Iran war benefits Russia economically and mentions potential vulnerabilities related to the Jeffrey Epstein files and Russian intelligence.,, (16)1945 DOJ

SHOW SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 3-25-2026.1905 CAIRO.1. USS Gerald R. Ford's Successes and Innovations. Guest: Rebecca Grant. Rebecca Grant highlights the carrier's successful combat mission and technical advances like the electromagnetic launch system and high-capacity elevators. She notes these innovations significantly increase strike power compared to older Nimitz-class aircraft carrier ships.,, (1)2. China's Drive for Undersea Maritime Hegemony. Guest: Rick Fisher. Rick Fisher discusses China's long-term project to map the ocean floor for submarine warfare. He warns that China's expanding fleet and undersea sensor networks aim to achieve naval parity with the United States.,, (2)3. The Return of Conventional Amphibious Warfare. Guest: Grant Newsham. Grant Newsham explains the deployment of Marine Expeditionary Units to the Persian Gulf. He argues this move validates traditional amphibious capabilities over recent "force design" strategies that focused solely on small, island-based missile teams.,, (3)4. Taiwan's Strategic Pivot to Nuclear Energy. Guest: Jack Burnham. Jack Burnham analyzes Taiwan's decision to restart its nuclear power plants to ensure energy security. Facing vulnerabilities in LNG supplies from the Middle East, Taiwan seeks a stable, domestic baseload power for critical manufacturing.,, (4)5. Russia's Economic Bonus from Iran Conflict. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Michael Bernstam explains how skyrocketing oil prices have rescued Russia's economy, doubling weekly revenues. While Europe faces severe diesel shortages and high costs, Moscow benefits from increased prices and reduced discounts to Asian buyers.,, (5)6. Global Fertilizer Crisis and Food Security. Guest: Michael Bernstam. Michael Bernstam warns of a massive shortage in nitrogen fertilizers due to the conflict in the Middle East. This crisis threatens global food security and will likely cause significant price increases for agricultural commodities.,, (6)7. Postponed Diplomacy and China's Strategic Dependency. Guest: Steve Yates. Steve Yates discusses the delay of the Trump-Xi summit due to China's support for Iran. He highlights China's critical dependency on energy imports and export markets, which remain major points of US leverage.,, (7)8. China's Strategic Post-Conflict Energy Strategy. Guest: Steve Yates. Steve Yates examines Beijing's efforts to maintain privileged energy access in a post-conflict Iran. China is pursuing nuclear and solar alternatives while using stockpiles to mitigate its vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.,, (8)9. The Deep Iran-North Korea Missile Threat. Guest: Bruce Bechtol. Bruce Bechtol details the firing of North Korean-designed Musudan missiles at Diego Garcia. He highlights the deep technological partnership between the two regimes, which includes the construction of underground facilities and nuclear infrastructure.,, (9)10. Nuclear Proliferation and Shifting Supply Chains. Guest: Bruce Bechtol. Bruce Bechtol explores North Korea's role in developing Iranian nuclear capabilities and drones. He explains how Pyongyang uses maritime and rail routes through Russia to supply Tehran, bypassing international sanctions and interdiction efforts.,,, (10)11. Elon Musk's Vertical Integration in Space. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Bob Zimmerman discusses Musk's "Terra-fab" chip factory and plans for space-based data centers. He also notes technical failures in ULA's Vulcan rocket, which have forced the Space Force to shift launches to SpaceX.,, (11)12. Planetary Exploration and Significant Astronomical Changes. Guest: Bob Zimmerman. Bob Zimmerman details the deteriorating condition of the Curiosity rover's wheels on Mars. He also examines new Juno data on Jupiter's lightning and Hubble images showing the physical expansion of the Crab Nebula supernova.,, (12)13. Commodity Markets and European Economic Hardship. Guest: Simon Constable. Simon Constable reports on high energy prices and diesel shortages in France. He analyzes how the Iran war affects global commodities like copper and gold, while also discussing controversial new EU-aligned domestic legislation.,,, (13)14. China's Strategic Monopoly on Rare Earths. Guest: Simon Constable. Simon Constable breaks down the reality of rare earth elements, noting they are not rare but difficult to refine. He emphasizes China's dominant control, refining approximately ninety percent of the world's global supply.,, (14)15. The Complicated Legacy of Robert Mueller. Guest: Craig Unger. Craig Unger reflects on the passing of Robert Mueller, discussing the unfinished questions regarding the 2016 Trump-Russia investigation. He highlights the distinction between criminal and counterintelligence probes regarding money laundering and influence operations.,, (15)16. Trump's Ties to Russia and Epstein. Guest: Craig Unger. Craig Unger explores Donald Trump's continued favorable rhetoric toward Vladimir Putin. He discusses how the Iran war benefits Russia economically and mentions potential vulnerabilities related to the Jeffrey Epstein files and Russian intelligence.,, (16)

SEG 16: Craig  Unger explores the legal and political consequences of the Epstein investigation. He notes growing Republican dissent and argues that while presidential immunity complicates immediate prosecution, these allegations could significantly impact the upcoming national elections. (17)1863 DRAFT RIOTS

SEG 15: Craig Unger Journalist Craig nUger reviews the House Oversight Committee's investigation into Donald Trump's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. He examines subpoenas regarding missing documents and investigates long-standing allegations of sexual misconduct and many "catch and kill" patterns. (16)1963 DRAFT RIOTS

SEG 15 Bill Casey and the Traitorous October Surprise Craig Ungerdescribes how Bill Casey allegedly hijacked American foreign policy by negotiating with Iran to delay hostage releases, ensuring a Ronald Reagan electoral victory. (7)1979 TEHRAN EMBASSY

Preview for Later Today: Craig Unger investigates the 1980 October Surprise, detailing illegal weapon transfers from Israel to Iran intended to delay hostage releases until after the U.S. election. (5)1940

Craig Unger discusses his book "Den of Spies," focusing on the 1980 failed hostage rescue mission and its lasting impact on President Carter. 1.1970 IRAN

Craig Unger details Bill Casey's role as Ronald Reagan's campaign manager, highlighting his background in espionage and his secret international intelligence and arms-dealing networks. 2.TEHRAN 1970

Craig Unger discusses his investigative journey and source Ari Ben-Menashe's allegations that Bill Casey secretly met Iranians in Madrid to delay the hostage release. 3.

Craig Unger describes Newsweek's dismissal of the October Surprise story and how reporter Bob Parry discovered crucial documents hidden in a House office building bathroom. 4.

Craig Unger explores the Safari Club's covert operations and how Bill Casey utilized double agents and secret Israelichannels to facilitate off-the-books international arms deals. 5.1978

Craig Unger analyzes the alleged Paris meeting involving George H.W. Bush and confirms Casey's Madrid meeting, where they negotiated delaying the 1980 hostages' release. 6.

Craig Unger recounts his 2014 trip to Iran, visiting the former American embassy and interviewing Mohsen Rafiqdoost, who hinted at meetings with Republican representatives. 7.

Craig Unger discusses the suspicious timing of the hostage release during Reagan's inauguration and the broader historical pattern of Republican interference in American presidential elections. 8.1978

Craig Unger reports that the Trump brand served as a status symbol for Russian oligarchs, facilitating money laundering in failed developments while FBI counterintelligence efforts reportedly failed to intervene. 14.1914

1900 BAKUGordon Chang and Steve Yates discuss Japan deploying missiles near Taiwan and concerns regarding a potential Chinese biological weapons facility discovered in Las Vegas. 1.Rebecca Grant and Gordon Chang detail the US Navy's massive deployment around Iran to counter Chinese-supported missile threats and prepare for possible sustained offensive strike options. 2.Charles Burton and Gordon Chang analyze Mark Carney's shift toward Beijing, seeking trade concessions like visa-free access while Canadians harbor resentment over Trump's proposed tariffs and economic policies. 3.Charles Burton and Gordon Chang debate the dangers of Canada's "strategic partnership" with China, focusing on espionage operations, the potential expulsion from Five Eyes, and theft of aerospace technology. 4.Simon Constable reports on skyrocketing copper and silver prices alongside the arrest of Lord Mandelson for allegedly passing privileged state information to Jeffrey Epstein. 5.Simon Constable reports that the UK government faces investigations for allegedly threatening media personalities and smearing critics as pro-Russian, while struggling with housing shortages and high taxes. 6.Jonathan Adler explains the Supreme Court ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not grant the president unilateral power to impose taxes or tariffs. 7.Jonathan Adler reports that following the tariff decision, the administration must now use specific statutes with procedural strings, limiting the president's ability to adjust trade penalties on a whim. 8.Andrea Stricker discusses reports that the Iranian regime used illicit chemicals and pharmaceutical-based agents to debilitate protesters during recent, highly lethal national unrest. 9.Michael Bernstam describes Europe's liberation from Russian energy, replaced by cheap American and Qatari LNG, leaving Russia with abandoned gas fields and flaring wells. 10.Bob Zimmerman details a helium flow problem that cancelled the Artemis March launch, while SpaceX continues breaking records for booster reuse and commercial efficiency. 11.Bob Zimmerman reports that astronomers are using infrared capabilities to identify a supernova's origin and detect the first heliosphere around a distant star, advancing our understanding of stellar deaths. 12.Craig Unger explores how Trump's licensing model in Panama and elsewhere allowed the Russian mob to wash hundreds of millions through luxury real estate. 13.Craig Unger reports that the Trump brand served as a status symbol for Russian oligarchs, facilitating money laundering in failed developments while FBI counterintelligence efforts reportedly failed to intervene. 14.Craig Unger reports that the 2013 Miss Universe pageant in Moscow served as a platform for Trump to court Putin and oligarchs, marking a turning point as Russia transitioned into a mafia state. 15.Craig Unger traces Trump's political ascent back to his 1987 Moscow trip, suggesting Russian connections and talking points have influenced his foreign policy for forty years. 16.

Craig Unger traces Trump's political ascent back to his 1987 Moscow trip, suggesting Russian connections and talking points have influenced his foreign policy for forty years. 16.1917 KREMLIN

Craig Unger explores how Trump's licensing model in Panama and elsewhere allowed the Russian mob to wash hundreds of millions through luxury real estate. 13.1866 PANAMA CITY

Craig Unger reports that the 2013 Miss Universe pageant in Moscow served as a platform for Trump to court Putin and oligarchs, marking a turning point as Russia transitioned into a mafia state. 15.

NYT Times best selling author and authority on Russia's influence over Donald Trump, Craig Unger explains the vast corruption of the current administration and reasons why the next elections are more critical than ever thought. Also Thom gives his take on recent events including the longest lie-filled SOTU in US history!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Preview for later today: Craig Unger explores how $40 to $60 trillion in offshore banking fuels international scandals, money laundering, and political turmoil involving figures like Trump and Putin.

13 Bayrock, Franchising, and Financial Rescue Craig Unger details how Bayrock, a firm of Soviet immigrants with mob ties located in Trump Tower, rescued a bankrupt Trump. They introduced a risk-free franchising model, allowing Trump to profit from licensing his name while Russian intelligence and mafia figures utilized his properties for money laundering operations. Guest Author: Craig Unger1913 NYC PUBLIC LIBRARY

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Craig Unger. Unger explains the rift between Trump and Epstein, citing a real estate deal involving a Russian buyer as the primary cause for their falling out.1953

Guest: Craig Unger. Unger explains how Trump's 1980 Commodore Hotel deal involved purchasing TVs from a KGBfront. This transaction reportedly initiated contact with Russian intelligence, who identified Trump's vanity and greed as ideal traits for recruitment.1936 HERALD SQUARE

Guest: Craig Unger. Trump's 1987 Moscow trip, arranged by the KGB, was followed by newspaper ads criticizing U.S.alliances. Unger claims these ads, echoing Soviet talking points, combined with real estate dangles to seal the recruitment deal.1936 BROOME STREET

Guest: Craig Unger. Unger highlights two women with Russian intelligence ties who worked for Jeffrey Epstein. He suggests Epstein's operation gathered "kompromat" on elites and questions why the FBI failed to investigate these foreign intelligence connections.1930 MOTT STREET

Guest: Craig Unger. Unger details Donald Trump's early alleged ties to Russian state security and the mob, beginning with the Commodore Hotel deal and continuing through real estate money laundering.1885 NYSE

PREVIEW: Journalist Craig Unger presents allegations from his books regarding Donald Trump's relationship with the KGB in the 1980s. Unger cites Yuri Shvets, a former KGB major, who claims Trump was cultivated as an asset by Soviet state security. The discussion covers a timeline from 1980 to 1987, detailing how a trip to Moscow allegedly led to Trump publishing a full-page ad in the New York Times that echoed KGB talking points.1870 CASTLE GARDEN

Craig Unger follows the Epstein money trail from Bear Stearns to offshore banking, tracing how Jeffrey Epsteinmoved funds through complex financial networks to obscure the origins and destinations of his wealth.1946 VAN JOHNSON STORK CLUB

Craig Unger reports the Department of Justice has access to Epstein bank records at Morgan, potentially revealing financial connections and transactions that could expose additional figures linked to the disgraced financier's operations.1949 MYRNA DELL AND JOE DIMAGGIO