Podcasts about defence

Day 1,393.Today, as EU leaders meet to decide what – if anything – to do with frozen Russian assets, we examine just how consequential this moment could be for the bloc and for European security more broadly. We also analyse how Vladimir Putin has deliberately shifted his language to appeal to Donald Trump, and track another attack on a Russian oil tanker as Moscow's Black Sea Fleet appears to have blockaded itself inside Novorossiysk rather than risk further Ukrainian drone strikes.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Putin: European leaders are ‘pigs' who will be replaced (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/17/putin-european-leaders-are-pigs-who-will-be-replaced/ Zelensky's race against time to plug £48bn war black hole (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/18/the-budget-black-hole-that-threatens-the-future-of-ukraine/ How Putin's favourite pop star became ‘most hated woman in Russia' (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/16/putins-favourite-pop-star-most-hated-woman-russia/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Possibly the longest shownotes in history thanks to Gemini 3 Pro. Bless the swamp from which this AI slop emerged and enjoy the episode. Or just read this, I suppose. The title sucks terribly. Do better, Gemmo! Show Notes with Time‑Shifted Timestamps(All timestamps below have been shifted forward by 25 seconds to allow for theme music, as requested.)00:00 – Welcome, Cricket and the Pink Ball at the Gabba00:00:25 – Jack the Insider (Joel Hill) opens episode 137 of The Two Jacks and notes they're recording just after midday on 4 December.00:00:36 – Quick chat about the looming day–night Test at the Gabba and the prospect it could finish very quickly.00:00:44 – Hong Kong Jack explains why dusk session timings in Hong Kong line up perfectly with “Asahi o'clock”.00:01:07 – The Jacks wonder which pink ball is in use – Duke or Kookaburra – and what that means for Mitchell Starc and the batters.00:01:30 – They flag that full cricket chat will come later in the episode.Tai Po Fire, Mourning and Accountability in Hong Kong00:01:53 – Jack the Insider pivots from sport to tragedy: an update on the Tai Po (Typo) fire in Hong Kong, now with 159 dead, from ages 1 to 97.00:02:07 – Hong Kong Jack describes the government‑ordered three‑day citywide mourning period, mass flower layings, official ceremonies and a three‑minute silence.00:02:35 – Discussion of schools cancelling Christmas parties and staff functions in solidarity; a sense the tragedy is being taken seriously across society.00:02:55 – Hong Kong Jack outlines the judge‑led inquiry: not only into the Tai Po fire's causes, but also systemic issues in building management and renovation contracts on large estates, with hints of corruption.00:03:30 – Evidence emerging that the green construction cloth lacked proper fire retardant and that flammable materials were used to seal lift wells, helping the fire move inside.00:04:23 – Bodies, including one man, found in stairwells and lobbies; Hong Kong Jack cautions against jumping to conclusions before investigators reconstruct the fire.00:04:53 – Arrest tally climbs to around 12, mostly consultants/contractors involved in management and renovations rather than labourers.00:05:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes large numbers of displaced residents in hotels and temporary accommodation and outlines generous government payments to families of foreign domestic workers killed (about HKD 800,000 per family).00:06:05 – A harrowing vignette: a Javanese truck driver receives a final phone call from his wife, trapped with her employers' baby, seeking forgiveness because there is no escape.00:06:35 – The Jacks reflect on the horror of the story and promise to revisit the inquiry as more facts emerge.Australia's Under‑16 Social Media Restrictions & VPNs00:06:50 – Jack the Insider turns to domestic Australian politics: the under‑16 social media restrictions about to kick in.00:07:05 – He notes overwhelming parental support (around 80%) but says the government is now “hosing down expectations” and reframing the policy as a long‑term “cultural change” effort.00:07:30 – Platforms not yet on the restricted list – Roblox and Discord – are flagged as problematic globally for child sexual exploitation, illustrating rollout gaps.00:08:05 – They discuss technical enforcement: existing account age data, length of time on a platform and the likelihood that some adults will be wrongly flagged but quickly reinstated.00:08:35 – Jack the Insider explains the government's theory of cultural change: a generation that grows up never having had TikTok or Instagram under 16 “won't know what they're missing”.00:09:00 – Hong Kong Jack compares Australia to mainland China's efforts to control the internet and points out China still can't stamp out VPN usage, predicting similar Australian difficulties.00:09:25 – Jack the Insider clarifies that VPNs are not illegal in Australia; about 27% of connected Australians already use one, probably now closer to a third.00:09:55 – He strongly recommends everyone use a VPN for privacy and location masking, and warns that good VPNs now explicitly advise not to choose Australia as an exit node because of the new regime.00:11:00 – They note that Malaysia and several European countries (Denmark, Spain, France and EU initiatives) are eyeing similar under‑age social media restrictions, with large fines (Australia's up to about AUD 50 million or 1% of turnover).00:12:20 – Meta is already scanning and booting under‑age users, but teenagers are sharing tips on evading age checks. Jack the Insider describes various age‑verification methods: selfie‑based AI checks, account age, and Roblox's move to ban under‑15s.00:13:45 – Anecdote about Macau security doing ID checks: Hong Kong Jack's son is checked for being over 21, while Jack's own age makes ID unnecessary—an amusing generational moment.00:14:55 – The Jacks agree the policy is unlikely to stop kids having TikTok accounts but might “nudge” behaviour toward less screen time.00:16:00 – Jack the Insider stresses the real dangers of the internet—particularly organised child sexual exploitation rings like the notorious “764” network—and questions whether blunt prohibition can solve these issues.Bruce Lehrmann, Appeals and Costs00:18:22 – They move to the Bruce Lehrmann defamation saga: his appeal has failed and he's likely millions of dollars in debt.00:18:45 – Discussion of the prospect of a High Court appeal, the low likelihood of leave being granted, and the sense that further appeals are “good money after bad”.00:19:22 – Jack the Insider notes outstanding criminal charges against Lehrmann in Toowoomba relating to an alleged statutory rape, and outlines the allegation about removing a condom after earlier consensual sex.00:20:07 – They discuss the probable difficulty of prosecuting that case, and then pivot to the practical question: who is funding Lehrmann's ongoing legal adventures?00:20:35 – Hong Kong Jack explains why some lawyers or firms may take on such cases for profile, despite poor prospects of payment, and they canvass talk of crowdfunding efforts.00:21:07 – The Jacks agree Lehrmann should have left the public stage after the criminal trial was discontinued; now, bankruptcy in 2026 looks likely.00:21:58 – Limited sympathy for Channel 10 or Lisa Wilkinson; more sympathy reserved for Brittany Higgins and Fiona Brown, who are seen as exceptions in an otherwise “pretty ordinary” cast.NACC, Commissioner Brereton and Conflicts of Interest00:23:24 – The Jacks turn to the National Anti‑Corruption Commission (NACC) and Commissioner Paul Brereton's side work for Defence.00:24:03 – Hong Kong Jack recounts Senate Estimates footage where officials first claimed Brereton's Defence consulting work occurred outside NACC hours, then later admitted more than ten instances (possibly close to 20) during NACC office time.00:25:25 – Discussion of conflict‑of‑interest: the Commissioner maintaining a paid Defence relationship while heading the body that may need to investigate Defence.00:25:57 – The Jacks question the tenability of his position, especially given the NACC's opaque nature, its minimal public reporting obligations and a salary around AUD 800k–900k plus expenses.The Struggling Australian and Global Economy, Productivity and ANZ00:26:20 – Jack the Insider outlines Australia's sluggish economy: inflation remains sticky, GDP growth is flat, and government spending is driving much of the growth.00:27:00 – They discuss a small, tentative rise in productivity (around 0.2% for the quarter) and the Treasurer's caution that productivity figures are volatile.00:27:57 – Hong Kong Jack stresses that historically, economies escape malaise through productivity‑driven growth; there is no easy alternative, in Australia or globally.00:28:23 – Broader global picture: the US isn't in outright recession but is crawling; Europe is sluggish; Poland is a rare bright spot but rapid growth brings its own risks.ANZ and Post‑Royal Commission Failures00:28:54 – Focus shifts to ANZ's continuing governance and compliance failures after the Banking Royal Commission.00:29:30 – Jack the Insider shares a personal story about dealing with ANZ's deceased estates department following his mother and stepfather's deaths and the difficulty in releasing funds to pay for funerals.00:30:20 – Justice Jonathan Beach's scathing remarks: ANZ is still mishandling deceased estates, charging fees and interest to dead customers, despite years of warnings.00:31:34 – They recall Royal Commission revelations about “fees for no service” and charging the dead, plus ANZ's recent exclusion from certain Commonwealth bond business due to rorting.00:32:12 – The Jacks see this as a clear culture problem: five years on, the basics still aren't fixed, suggesting inadequate investment in compliance and little genuine reform.UK Justice Backlog and Curtailing Jury Trials00:33:05 – The conversation moves to the UK's proposal to restrict jury trials for offences likely to attract less than a two‑year sentence.00:33:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes the English historical attachment to jury trials dating back to Magna Carta, and that defendants have long had the right to opt for a jury if imprisonment is possible.00:34:38 – Justice Minister David Lammy, once a fierce critic of similar Tory proposals, is now advancing the idea himself, creating a political shambles.00:35:02 – They weigh up pros and cons of judge‑only trials for complex financial crimes, where juries may struggle to follow long, technical evidence.00:36:10 – Jack the Insider points out that even judges can find such cases difficult, but there is at least some expertise advantage.00:36:22 – They revisit the Southport riots and harsh sentences for people inciting attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers, arguing that common‑sense community judgment via juries may be better in such politically charged cases.00:37:26 – Ultimately, they doubt the reforms will meaningfully reduce the UK's huge court backlog and see it as another noisy but ineffective response.Ethics in Politics, Misleading Voters and the “Ethics Czar” Problem00:39:21 – Discussion moves to the UK budget, alleged “black holes” and whether the Chancellor misled voters about a AUD 22 billion‑equivalent gap.00:40:14 – They examine calls for the Prime Minister's ethics adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, to rule on ministerial truthfulness, and Hong Kong Jack's discomfort with handing moral judgment to “anointed officials”.00:40:51 – The Jacks argue accountability should rest with Parliament and ultimately voters, not appointed ethics czars, whether in the Johnson era or now.00:41:36 – In Australia, Tony Burke's handling of “ISIS brides” returning to Australia is cited: he asked officials to leave a meeting so he could talk politically with constituents. The Jacks see this as legitimate hard‑headed politics in a very complex area rather than an ethical scandal.00:43:03 – Jack the Insider defends the principle that Australian citizenship must mean something, especially for children of ISIS‑linked families; stripping citizenship or abandoning citizens overseas can be a dangerous precedent.00:44:08 – Anecdotes segue into a broader reflection: politicians have always misled voters to some extent. They quote stories about Huey Long and Graham Richardson's defence of political lying.00:45:24 – They swap observations about “tells” when leaders like Malcolm Turnbull or Julia Gillard were lying; Scott Morrison, they say, had no visible tell at all.00:46:22 – Cabinet solidarity is framed as institutionally sanctioned lying: ministers must publicly back decisions they privately opposed, and yet the system requires that to function.Ukraine War, Peace Efforts and Putin's Rhetoric00:46:42 – The Jacks discuss reports of draft peace deals between Ukraine, the US and Russia that Moscow rejected over wording and guarantees.00:47:17 – Jack the Insider describes a gaunt Foreign Ministry spokesman, not Sergey Lavrov, delivering Russia's objections, sparking rumours about Lavrov's status.00:47:56 – Putin goes on TV to reassure Russians they're winning, threatens destruction of Europe if conflict escalates and claims territorial gains Russia doesn't actually hold.00:48:17 – Hong Kong Jack argues European fantasies of imposing a “strategic defeat” on Russia are unrealistic; retaking all occupied regions and Crimea would exact unbearable costs in lives and money.00:49:33 – The Jacks infer that Putin will eventually need to “sell” a negotiated deal as a victory to his own public; his current bluster is partly domestic theatre.00:49:50 – They note some odd, Trump‑like US talk of structuring peace as a “business deal” with economic incentives for Russia, which they find an odd fit for a brutal territorial war.Trump's Polling Collapse, Economic Credibility and 202600:50:13 – Attention turns to Donald Trump's polling in his second term: his net approval is negative across all major polls, in some cases approaching minus 20.00:51:04 – Jack the Insider highlights Trump's recent promises of USD 2,000 cheques to every American plus no income tax—claims they see as fantastical and electorally risky when voters inevitably ask “where's my money?”.00:51:39 – They compare Trump's denial of inflation and cost‑of‑living pressures to Biden's earlier mistakes in minimising pain; telling people “everything's cheaper now” when their lived experience contradicts that is politically fatal.00:52:34 – Hong Kong Jack notes history shows that insisting things are fine when voters know they aren't only accelerates your polling collapse.00:53:02 – They briefly touch on a special election in Tennessee: a safe Trump district where the Republican margin has shrunk. They caution against over‑reading the result but note softening support.00:54:14 – CNN's Harry Enten is quoted: this has been Trump's worst ten‑day polling run of the second term, with net approval among independents plunging to about minus 43 and a negative 34 on inflation.00:55:15 – They speculate about what this means for the 2026 midterms: Trump won't be on the ballot but will loom large. A future Republican president, they note, might still face governing without a Congressional majority.Disability, Elite Colleges and the Accommodation Arms Race00:56:07 – The Jacks discuss Derek Thompson's forthcoming Atlantic piece on surging disability registrations at elite US colleges: more than 20% at Brown and Harvard, 34% at Amherst and 38% at Stanford.00:57:10 – Hong Kong Jack explains how disability status yields exam and assessment advantages: extra time, flexible deadlines, better housing, etc., and why wealthy students are more likely to secure diagnoses.00:57:48 – They cite intake breakdowns at one college: small numbers for visual/hearing disabilities, larger numbers for autism, neurological conditions and especially psychological or emotional disabilities—suggesting a big shift in what counts as disabling.00:58:45 – Jack the Insider counters that many of these conditions were under‑diagnosed or ignored in the 1970s and 80s; growing recognition doesn't automatically mean fraud.00:59:40 – He brings in chronic conditions like ME/CFS: historically treated as malingering or “all in the head”, now increasingly accepted as serious and often disabling.01:00:02 – Hong Kong Jack quotes a Stanford professor asking, “At what point can we say no? 50%? 60%?”—underlining institutional concern that the system can't cope if a majority claim accommodations.01:01:05 – They wrestle with the employer's problem: how to interpret grades achieved with significant accommodations, and whether workplaces must also provide similar allowances.01:02:21 – Jack the Insider's answer is essentially yes: good employers should accommodate genuine disability, and it's on applicants to be upfront. He stresses diversity of ability and that many high‑achieving disabled people are valuable hires.01:03:40 – Hong Kong Jack remains more sceptical, shaped by long legal experience of people gaming systems, but agrees lawyers shouldn't be the priestly class defining morality.Cricket: India–South Africa, NZ–West Indies, BBL and the Gabba01:04:25 – They pivot back to sport: a successful South African tour of India, including a series win in Tests and a 1–1 one‑day series with big hundreds from Virat Kohli, Gaikwad and Aiden Markram.01:05:31 – Quick update on New Zealand's Test against the West Indies in Christchurch, with New Zealand rebuilding in their second innings through Ravindra and Latham.Women's Cricket and Phoebe Litchfield01:06:19 – Jack the Insider raves about the Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat game and singles out Phoebe Litchfield as the best women's batter in the world: technically sound, not a slogger, scoring “runs for fun” and hailing from Orange.Gabba Day–Night Test: Australia v England01:06:50 – With Usman Khawaja out, they discuss the unchanged 12 and whether Bo Webster plays, potentially pushing Travis Head up to open.01:07:39 – For England, Mark Wood hasn't recovered; they bring in Will Jacks, a batting all‑rounder and part‑time spinner, to bolster the order but lose their fastest bowler.01:08:11 – If you win the toss? Bat first, they say—if the conditions allow—and look to control the game with the bat for four hours or more.01:08:44 – They caution that with recent heavy Queensland rain, the pitch could be juicy whether you bat first or second; the key is getting cricket on Saturday.01:08:48 – Hong Kong Jack rates this as the best England attack to tour Australia in a long time, especially with Wood and Archer firing in Perth, although Archer's pace dropped markedly in the second innings.01:09:36 – They dissect England's first‑Test collapse: at one stage it was an “unlosable” match according to Ponting and the stats, but reckless strokes from set batters (Duckett, Pope, Root, Brook) handed it back to Australia.01:09:55 – Mitchell Starc's extraordinary home day–night record—averaging around 17 with the pink ball—looms as a big factor.Franchise Cricket, Empty Stadiums and Saving the Red‑Ball Game01:12:11 – Jack the Insider describes watching the ILT20 in the UAE: near‑empty stands, disengaged fielders and an overall “soulless” spectacle aimed solely at TV viewers in South Asia and the Gulf.01:13:49 – Despite his love of cricket, he worries this is a glimpse of the future if the longer formats aren't protected and nurtured. He pleads, in effect, for saving Test and other red‑ball cricket from being cannibalised by anonymous franchise leagues.Class and Cricket: Private Schools, Clubs and Stuart Broad01:14:11 – The Jacks explore the class divide in English cricket: all but one of England's Perth XI finished school at private schools; the sole exception is captain Ben Stokes, who grew up partly in New Zealand.01:15:05 – In contrast, Australia's pathway still runs largely through club cricket, though private schools with professional coaching (like Cranbrook) give some players a head start.01:15:47 – Jack the Insider notes Sam Conscientious (Sam Constance / Cummins reference is implied) spending two years at Cranbrook, reflecting how elite schools build academies with ex‑first‑class coaches that state systems can't match.01:16:20 – They agree state‑school kids like the Waugh twins still come through club cricket, but in England, some top private schools effectively operate as de facto county academies.01:17:31 – Anecdotes about Stuart Broad: a likeable “nepo baby” of former England player Chris Broad, who was toughened up by a formative season at Hoppers Crossing in Melbourne sub‑district cricket. Local players loved him.01:18:20 – Hong Kong Jack recommends Broad's appearance on The Front Bar as essential viewing for understanding his character and the cultural contrasts between English and Australian cricket.01:18:40 – More class culture: Chris Cowdrey, briefly England captain, shows up in full whites and blazer to toss with Viv Richards in surf shorts and thongs. When Cowdrey starts reading out England's XI, Viv cuts him off: “Mate, I don't care who you play, it's not going to make any difference.”F1, Oscar Piastri's Bad Luck and AFLW Glory01:21:11 – Brief detour to Formula 1: Oscar Piastri's season with McLaren seems dogged by terrible luck and questionable team decisions that have cost him a near‑certain championship.01:21:57 – Jack the Insider reflects on how F1 drivers like Piastri have effectively been in vehicles since toddlerhood, climbing the ladder from go‑karts to supercars.01:22:50 – They express hope he can clinch the title in the final race, but wryly note that F1 rarely grants fairytale endings.AFLW01:22:23 – AFLW: North Melbourne complete an undefeated season to win the premiership, comfortably beating Brisbane in the grand final.01:23:07 – Hong Kong Jack praises it as the best AFLW season yet, with marked improvement in depth and skill across the competition. North remain the benchmark everyone else must chase.Wrap‑Up, Tom Stoppard Anecdote and Season Timing01:23:49 – The Jacks look ahead to watching the Gabba Test, beers on ice for Jack the Insider and the late Hong Kong dusk session for Hong Kong Jack.01:24:01 – They note the death of playwright Tom Stoppard at 88 and share a favourite story: Spielberg offers him the Jaws screenplay; Stoppard declines because he's writing a play—“actually for BBC Radio”.01:25:11 – Final reflections on how Stoppard would have improved Jaws, then a note that the podcast will soon reach its final episodes for the year, with plans to feature listener feedback before a short summer break.01:25:56 – Jack the Insider signs off, thanking listeners and Hong Kong Jack, and promises they'll be back next week.

A whole mess of AI generated shownotes. Enjoy! 00:25 – Christmas in Hong Kong, KFC in JapanJoel (Jack the Insider) opens Episode 138 and checks in with Jack (Hong Kong Jack) about Hong Kong's love of Christmas shopping, surreal mall installations and the absence of nativity scenes, before detouring to Japan's KFC-at-Christmas tradition.​01:50 – Australia's world‑first social media ban for under‑16sThe Jacks unpack the new national ban on social media for under‑16s, the generational politics of Gen Alpha kids and millennial parents, and the “pick up a book, go for a bike ride” messaging from Anthony Albanese and Julie Inman Grant.​They read out Vox pops about kids discovering life without apps, YouTube‑driven body image issues, and the early scramble to alternative chat and file‑sharing apps like LemonAid.​05:35 – Social engineering, High Court challenge and mental health concernsThey describe the policy as a conscious piece of social engineering aimed at reshaping youth culture over a decade, and note the High Court challenge led by the Digital Freedom Movement and Libertarian MLC John Ruddick.​Beyond Blue, Headspace, ReachOut and the Black Dog Institute warn about cutting off access to online mental‑health support, as the Jacks weigh the internet's harms against the value of peer support communities for young people.​09:35 – Enforcement gaps, workarounds and parental resistanceThe Jacks discuss uneven implementation, with some under‑16s apparently still able to access Facebook and Instagram while other apps are wiped, and a rush into less‑regulated platforms.​They note reports that up to a third of parents will quietly help kids stay online and float the idea of a nationwide “kitchen‑table” style forum to help parents understand the risks and responsibilities around kids' social media use.​12:00 – A social experiment the world is watchingThey canvas overseas interest, with Denmark, Spain and others eyeing bans at 15 rather than 16, and Sarah Ferguson's description of Australia's move as a live “social experiment” whose results are very much unknown.​13:05 – Richo's state funeral and the dark arts of NSW Labor RightThe conversation turns to Graham “Richo” Richardson's state funeral, his reputation as Labor's master organiser and electoral numbers man, and his long life “on the public purse”.​Joel recounts Richo's link to Balmain Welding and Stan “Standover” Smith, arguing that New South Wales Labor Right's success always had a darker underbelly.​15:10 – Paul Brereton, the NACC and conflicts of interestThey examine National Anti‑Corruption Commission boss Paul Brereton's updated disclosures about his ongoing work with the Inspector‑General of the ADF and Afghanistan war‑crimes inquiries, revealed via FOI.​The Jacks question whether someone so intertwined with Defence can credibly oversee corruption matters touching Defence acquisitions, and whether carving out whole domains from his remit makes his appointment untenable.​18:25 – A quiet NACC, no perp walks and media theatreThe Jacks note how quietly the NACC has operated in Canberra—“blink and you'd miss them”—with none of the televised “perp walks” beloved of New South Wales ICAC coverage.​Jack welcomes the absence of media spectacle; Joel admits to missing the grimace‑through‑the‑cameras moment as accused figures run the gauntlet.​19:50 – Victorian youth vote turns on LaborNew polling of 18–34‑year‑olds in Victoria shows Labor's vote down 11 points to 28 per cent and the Coalition's up 17 points to 37 per cent, with the Greens steady at 20 per cent.​The Jacks argue the Victorian Labor government looks to be in terminal decline, discuss leadership options for Jacinta Allan, and canvass how quickly preference “cascades” can flip a long‑term government once momentum turns.​22:15 – Green exports vs coal, Treasury modelling under fireThey dissect Treasury modelling which suggests “green exports” (critical minerals, rare earths, battery inputs) will surpass coal and gas within a decade, and note scepticism from former Treasury official and now CBA chief economist Stephen Yeaman.​The Jacks highlight International Energy Agency updates showing coal demand in key markets staying high, and the reality that renewables growth is largely meeting new demand rather than cutting deeply into existing coal and gas use.​25:05 – Coal to 2049 and the reality of the gridJack points to Australian market operator projections that coal will remain in the domestic mix until at least 2049, while Joel questions which ageing coal plants will physically survive that long without new builds.​They agree modelling must continually be revised against actual demand profiles in China, India, Indonesia and elsewhere, where coal still supplies half or more of electricity.​27:20 – 30‑year suppression orders and transparencyThe Jacks shift to a 30‑year suppression order over evidence behind Tanya Plibersek's decision to block a $1 billion coal mine until 2055, and more broadly the proliferation of long‑term suppression orders in Australia.​They criticise the over‑use of secrecy in both environmental and criminal matters, arguing it breeds suspicion that justice and accountability can be bought by the wealthy.​28:25 – The “prominent family” sexual assault case in VictoriaWithout naming the individual, they discuss a Victorian case involving the convicted son of a prominent family whose identity remains suppressed even after guilty findings for serious sexual offences.​They worry that blanket suppression encourages rumour, misidentification and a sense that powerful people get special treatment, even when protection of victims is a legitimate concern.​30:05 – From undercover cop to gangland wars: how secrecy backfiresJoel revisits an NSW example where an undercover police officer's drink‑driving conviction was suppressed for 55 years, and Melbourne gangland cases where key cooperating witnesses remained pseudonymous for decades.​The Jacks argue that when authorities create information vacuums, gossip and conspiracy inevitably rush in to fill the space.​33:50 – MP expenses, family reunion travel and Annika Wells' bad day outThey turn to MPs' entitlements and “family reunion” travel: Annika Wells' ski‑trip optics and poor press conference performance, Don Farrell's extensive family travel, and Sarah Hanson‑Young's $50,000 in family travel for her lobbyist husband.​While acknowledging how hard federal life is—especially for WA MPs—they question where legitimate family support ends and taxpayer‑funded lifestyle begins.​37:05 – Why family reunion perks exist (and how they're abused)The Jacks recall the tragic case of Labor MP Greg Wilton as a driver for more generous family travel rules, given the emotional cost of long separations.​They conclude the system is necessary but ripe for exploitation, and note the Coalition's relatively muted response given its own exposure to the same rules.​39:15 – Diplomatic drinks trolleys: London, New York and the UNJoel notes Stephen Smith's stint as High Commissioner in London—the “ultimate drinks trolley” of Australian diplomacy—and his replacement by former SA Premier Jay Weatherill.​Jack mentions Smith's reputation for being stingy with hospitality at Australia House, in contrast to the traditionally lavish networking role of London and New York postings.​40:40 – Barnaby Joyce joins One NationThe big domestic political move: Barnaby Joyce's shift from the Nationals to One Nation, including his steak‑on‑a‑sandwich‑press dinner with Pauline Hanson.​The Jacks canvass whether Joyce runs again in New England or heads for the Senate, and the anger among New England voters who may feel abandoned.​42:25 – One Nation's growth, branch‑building and Pauline's futureThey dig into polling from Cos Samaras suggesting 39 per cent of Coalition voters say they'd be more likely to vote One Nation if Joyce led the party, and the risk of the Coalition following the UK Tories into long‑term decline.​The Jacks note One Nation's organisational maturation—building actual branches and volunteer networks in NSW and Queensland—and wonder whether Pauline Hanson herself now caps the party's potential.​45:20 – Kemi Badenoch, a revived UK Conservative Party and Reform's ceilingAttention swings to the UK, with fresh polling showing Labour slumping to the high teens, the Conservatives recovering into the high teens/low 20s, and Reform polling in the mid‑20s to low‑30s depending on the firm.​They credit new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for lifting morale by dominating Keir Starmer at the despatch box, but caution that Reform's rise may still be more protest than durable realignment.​49:45 – Fragmenting party systems in Europe and the UKDrawing on Michael Gove's comments, the Jacks sketch the new “four‑party” pattern across Europe—radical left/Green, social democratic, Christian Democrat centre‑right, and populist right—and argue the UK is slowly following suit.​They suggest both Labour and the Conservatives can no longer comfortably absorb all votes on their respective sides of politics, with Reform and Greens carving out durable niches.​53:05 – US seizes a Venezuelan tanker, Trump calls it the “biggest ever”The Jacks look at the US Coast Guard's seizure of a sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker accused of moving Venezuelan and Iranian oil in support of foreign terrorist groups.​Joel notes Trump's boast that it's “the largest tanker ever seized”, while quoting Pam Bondi's more sober explanation of the sanctions basis.​54:45 – Five years of social media to enter the US?They examine a Trump‑era proposal to require even visa‑waiver travellers to provide five years of social media history before entering the United States.​The Jacks question the logistical feasibility, highlight the trend of travellers using “burner phones” for US trips, and argue measures like this would severely damage American tourism.​57:10 – SCOTUS, independent agencies and presidential powerThe Jacks discuss a pending US Supreme Court case about whether presidents can hire and fire the heads of independent agencies at will, with even liberal justices expressing sympathy for expansive executive authority.​They link this to a broader global question: how much power should be handed from elected ministers to expert regulators, and how hard it is to claw that power back once delegated.​01:00:25 – Trump's national security strategy and an abandoned EuropeThey turn to the Trump administration's new national security strategy framing Europe as both security dependent and economic competitor, and signalling an end to automatic US security guarantees.​The Jacks describe openly hostile rhetoric from Trump figures like J.D. Vance and Marco Rubio towards Europe, and portray it as part of a broader American drift into isolationism as China and Russia advance.​01:02:20 – Europe rearms: Germany, Poland and conscription talkThe conversation moves to European responses: big defence spending increases in Poland and Germany, and German plans to assess 18‑year‑olds for potential limited conscription.​Joel argues Europe may need to build its own strategic table rather than rely on a fickle US ally, while Jack stresses serious military capability is the price of a genuine seat at any table.​01:03:50 – Biden, the border and a blown political callThe Jacks examine a New York Times reconstruction of how the Biden administration mishandled southern border migration, from 75,000 encounters in January 2021 to 169,000 by March.​They say Biden officials badly underestimated both the scale of migration and the law‑and‑order backlash, including resentment from migrants who followed legal pathways.​01:07:05 – Migration then and now: Ellis Island vs the Rio GrandeJack recounts Ellis Island's history: the small but real share of arrivals turned back at ship‑owners' expense, and how many migrants later returned home despite being admitted.​They contrast a heavily regulated, ship‑based 19th‑century system with today's chaotic mix of asylum flows, cartels and porous borders, and argue that simple “open borders” rhetoric ignores complex trade‑offs.​01:09:55 – Americans know their ancestry, and that shapes the debateJoel notes how many Americans can precisely trace family arrival via Ellis Island, unlike many Australians who have fuzzier family histories.​He suggests this deep personal connection to immigration history partly explains the emotional intensity around contemporary migration and ICE enforcement.​01:10:30 – Ashes 2–0: Neeser's five‑for and Lyon's omissionSport time: Australia go 2–0 up in the Ashes with an eight‑wicket win at the Gabba.​The big call is leaving Nathan Lyon out for Michael Neser; the Jacks weigh Nesser's match‑turning 5/42 and clever use of Alex Carey standing up to the stumps against the loss of a front‑line spinner over key periods.​01:11:55 – Basball meets Australian conditionsThey discuss the limits of “Bazball” in Australia, praising Stokes and Will Jacks' rearguard while noting most English batters failed to adapt tempo to match situation.​Jack cites past blueprints for winning in Australia—long, draining innings from Alastair Cook, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rahul Dravid—that hinge on time at the crease rather than constant aggression.​01:15:05 – Keepers compared: Alex Carey vs England's glovesJoel hails Carey's performance as possibly the best keeping he's seen from an Australian in a single Test, including brilliant work standing up to the seamers and a running catch over Marnus Labuschagne.​They contrast this with England's struggling keeper, question whether Ben Foakes should have been summoned, and note Carey's age probably rules him out as a future Test captain despite his leadership qualities.​01:17:05 – England's bowling woes and Jofra Archer's limitsThe English attack looks potent in short bursts, especially Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, but lacks the endurance to bowl long, hostile spells over a five‑day Test in Australian conditions.​Archer hasn't bowled more than 10 overs in an international match for over two years, and the Jacks argue that's showing late in games as speeds drop and discipline wanes.​01:25:45 – World Cup 2026: Trump's “peace medal”, Craig Foster's critiqueSwitching codes to football, they note FIFA awarding Donald Trump a “peace” medal ahead of the 2026 World Cup and his delight in placing it on himself.​Craig Foster attacks world football for embracing a US president he accuses of human‑rights abuses, prompting the Jacks to point out FIFA's recent World Cups in Russia and Qatar hardly make it a moral authority.​01:27:20 – Seattle's Pride match… Iran vs EgyptJack tells the story of Seattle's local government declaring its allocated World Cup game a Pride match, only to discover the fixture will be Iran vs Egypt—two teams whose governments are unlikely to embrace that framing.​01:27:55 – Stadiums in the desert and the cost of spectacleJoel reflects on vast, underused stadiums in the Gulf built for the World Cup and now often almost empty, using a low‑attendance cricket game in Abu Dhabi as an example of mega‑event over‑build.​01:29:05 – Wrapping up and previewing the final show of 2025The Jacks close Episode 138 by flagging one more episode before Christmas, thanking listeners for feedback—especially stories around the social media ban—and promising to return with more politics, law and sport next week.​a

Day 1,392.Today, as Russia attempts to insist that one of its $400 million submarines was not destroyed by a Ukrainian sea drone — in a manner that appears to prove the opposite — we bring you inside reporting from the American and Ukrainian negotiating teams at this pivotal moment. We also look ahead to a crunch European vote on whether to unlock and use frozen Russian state assets.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Michael Weiss (Editor of The Insider). @michaeldweiss on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Russia: US has promised us Ukrainian territory (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/16/russia-us-promised-ukrainian-territory-war-sergei-lavrov/ Susie Wiles, JD Vance, and the “Junkyard Dogs”: The White House Chief of Staff on Trump's Second Term (Vanity Fair):https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-susie-wiles-interview-exclusive-part-1 Ukraine Support Tracker (Kiel Institute):https://www.kielinstitut.de/topics/war-against-ukraine/ukraine-support-tracker/ How Europe Can Defend Itself with Less America (CSIS Report):https://www.csis.org/analysis/how-europe-can-defend-itself-less-america Canadian military intelligence officer allegedly shared classified information with Ukraine (Globe & Mail):https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-canadian-forces-intelligence-officer-classified-information-ukraine/?intcmp=gift_share Swedish Navy spots armed Russian military personnel aboard shadow fleet tankers in Baltic Sea (Euromaidan):https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/12/16/swedish-navy-spots-russian-military-aboard-shadow-fleet/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cork-born Josephine McNeill became the first Irish woman to head a diplomatic mission abroad in 1949. What would she make of this week's promotion of Helen McEntee to Minister for Defence and Foreign Affairs, almost eight decades after her own appointment?That's the question that Clodagh Finn asks. The Columnist with the Irish Examiner, author and Researcher of Women's History joins Seán to chat more about the first female envoy who paved the way in foreign affairs…

Володимир Заблоцький, військово-морський експерт Defence express, капітан першого рангу у відставці, на Radio NV про те, що підводні дрони СБУ Sub Sea Baby підірвали російський підводний човен класу 636.3 Варшавянка в порту Новоросійська, реакцію на це росіян. Ведучий – Павло Новіков

Episode 246

The war in Ukraine has pushed defence issues to the top of the agenda in Germany, where the federal government has confirmed that a military call-up will return as early as next year. All young men born from 2008 onwards will have to register and undergo medical exams, starting in 2027. To begin with, service will be voluntary. But if the ranks of Germany's armed forces are not filled fast enough, authorities reserve the right to bring back compulsory conscription, which was suspended in 2011. This prospect is awakening old ghosts: war, the militarisation of youth and conscientious objection. Our correspondents report.

Day 1,390.Today, after another weekend of intense diplomatic activity, we take you to Berlin, where President Zelensky is meeting the American delegation – joined by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz – as Europe seeks to reassert itself in the peace process. We also examine the surge in military activity over the weekend, which saw multiple cities plunged into blackout, before turning to Germany's rapidly evolving position, where comparisons are increasingly being drawn between today and the events that sparked the Second World War.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.James Rothwell (Berlin Correspondent). @JamesERothwell on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Zelensky gives up Nato ambitions in peace deal concession (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/14/zelensky-gives-up-nato-ambitions-in-peace-deal-concession/ MI6 chief warns Putin: We won't abandon Ukraine (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/12/15/mi6-chief-warns-putin-we-wont-abandon-ukraine/ FBI boss met with Ukraine's top peace negotiators (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/12/12/fbi-boss-ukraine-top-peace-negotiators/ Lithuania in state of emergency over smuggler balloons linked to Russia (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/09/lithuania-in-state-of-emergency-over-smuggler-balloons-link/ German tank-shaped Christmas calendar ‘glorifying war' (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/10/german-tank-shaped-christmas-calendar-glorifying-war/ New Ukrainian Polling:https://kiis.com.ua/ Chess-FIDE reinstates Russian and Belarusian teams in official contests (Reuters):https://www.reuters.com/sports/chess-fide-reinstates-russian-belarusian-teams-official-contests-2025-12-15/ ‘Disrupting Russian Air Defence Production: Reclaiming the Sky' (RUSI):https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/research-papers/disrupting-russian-air-defence-production-reclaiming-skyComprehensive approach to security: Federal Council launches consultation on Switzerland's security policy strategy (Swiss Government)https://www.news.admin.ch/en/newnsb/BLkWfUbUsXtBFoSj-krgUUN Press Page:https://press.un.org/enLISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of Upside at the EUVC Podcast, where ⁠Dan Bowyer⁠,⁠ Mads Jensen⁠ of ⁠SuperSeed⁠ and ⁠Lomax Ward⁠ of ⁠Outsized Ventures⁠⁠⁠ gather for a holiday-home special to cut through the noise around Europe's tech, geopolitics and AI shifts. What begins as an innocent debate about whether DeepMind is “still a UK company” quickly spirals into a tour of sovereign AI strategy, the SpaceX mega-raise, Europe's increasingly uncomfortable place between China and the US, defence-spending reality checks and a surprisingly uplifting set of deep-tech deals across the continent.It is classic Upside: the takes are sharp, the geopolitics gets spiky, and the optimism… well, it arrives eventually.What's covered:04:36 AI-for-Science, robotics and the new “AI scientist” era06:50 A national-curriculum Gemini and the vision of a tutor for every child09:39 The SpaceX 2026 IPO: what investors are actually buying14:00 Starship, orbital compute and the trillion-dollar imagination gap18:07 Why Europe missed the space race once again19:43 Portugal flips the script: “Economy of the Year”22:58 Europe between China's export tsunami and America's cold shoulder32:07 Defence budgets: the hype, the delay and the reality for startups34:25 AI Corner: bubble fears, Mistral's comeback, Meta goes closed, China goes full-stackComms Strategy Expert SessionApply or share the opportunity with a founder or investor in your network: https://luma.com/euvc-comms-expert-session

Defence ministers from Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom met at the Pentagon for the first Australia-United Kingdom-United States (AUKUS) ministerial discussions, marking a shift towards delivering the trilateral submarine pact. The leaders highlighted regional stability needs, defence capability and the $368-billion project's strategic value, while critics remain concerned over nuclear risk, transparency and Australia's obligations under nuclear-free treaties.

Paul McAuliffe, Fianna Fáil Party Whip and TD for Dublin North West / David Cullinane, Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson and TD for Waterford /Senator Laura Harmon, Labour spokesperson on Disability

(0:00) Intro (0:02) Khutba, Qur'ani Aayaat aur Dua (0:59) Har Nabi ke 4 Farz-e-Mansabi (2:06) Ambiya ki zimmedari: Rooh ko zinda karna (2:20) Rooh vs Jism (3:59) Insaan aur janwaron ki neend ka farq (4:27) Panda vs Karachi ke sust naujawan (4:51) Sehat ke liye neend kyun zaroori hai? (7:04) Rooh ko zinda rakhne ke liye kam khana (7:56) Do waqt khana vs din bhar thora thora khana (9:36) Muslim fasting ka concept (9:55) US university professor ka Muslim fasting par tabsira (11:07) Angrezon ka propaganda (11:27) Mufti Sahab ka Germany mein Iqbal House ka visit (12:09) Angrezon ki haqeeqat: infradi vs ijtemai nizam (13:01) Africa mein gold par qabza (13:09) Recent war mein US ki reality (14:07) Gora vs Muslim: zulm aur berahmi (14:26) Hitler ke mazalim (Germany ka mushahida) (15:18) Aaj ka butt: Maghribi tehzeeb (15:37) Musalman buri kyun hote hain? (15:47) Taqleed par tanziya jumlon ka jawab (16:32) Qabar par jana aur tark-e-taqleed ka ghalat tasawwur (17:17) Mufti Sahab topic se hat'tay kyun hain? (18:00) Mufti Rasheed Ahmed Sahab ki research: Muslims ka zawaal (18:34) Dr. Hameedullah Sahab ka tabsira: tareekhi ghaltiyan (19:32) Abdul Rehman Ash'as ki misaal (20:09) Hajjaj bin Yusuf ke khilaf qadam kyun uthaya? (24:05) University students ke jazbaat se khelna (24:54) Zalim hakim ke khilaf jihad ka sahih tareeqa (25:48) Sahih Muslim ki hadith (26:04) Ehtijaj aur baghawat ka farq (26:24) Kya Nabi ﷺ logon ko buzdil bana rahe thay? (26:55) Infradi aur ijtemai nizam (27:24) KSA company report (28:51) Angrez ka clip: nizam ki misaal (29:21) Amma Hawwa: sab se khushqismat aurat (29:55) Madaris aur offices ka ijtemai nizam (31:54) Masjid committee ka nizam (32:11) Mufti Rasheed Ahmed Sahab ka usool-e-nizam (32:33) Social media par negativity (33:11) Mufti Sahab ka social media se waqfa (35:32) Sindh government aur gutter ka dardnaak waqia (36:49) Ghar ke bahar khulay gutter (37:21) Gutter ke dhakkan chori hone ka masla (41:29) Abdul Rehman Ash'as ki baghawat ka anjaam (42:32) Bangladesh mein aazadi ka game (43:49) Hakumat ke khilaf baghawat ka bhayanak natija (45:35) Pakistan ke hasideen ka zabardast ilaaj (46:47) Abdul Rehman Ash'as ki maut ka sabq (47:38) Ummat ko uksane walay scholar ka jawab (49:41) Allama Ibn-e-Taimiyyah رحمہ اللہ ki tahreer (50:23) Muslim ka khoon sasta nahi (51:02) Saudi–Pakistan agreement par manfi tabsiray (53:27) Israel ki nazar Saudi Arabia par (54:03) Defence vs economy (55:19) Ijtemai nizam ka sahi tareeqa (56:12) Saudi Arabia vs Pakistan: aman-o-amaan (57:19) Musalman ke liye sehatmand hona kyun zaroori? (1:00:10) Normal insan ke liye food timing (1:00:41) Sehat ke liye neend ke zaroori ghantay (1:02:04) Nabi ﷺ ka farman aur neend ka andaaz (1:04:39) Quality sleep (10 pm – 2 am) (1:05:32) Achha insan banne ki 4 khoobiyan (1:09:26) Khulasa bayan aur dua (1:09:55) Public wedding video ka viral hona (1:11:21) Bridal makeup mein male artists ka masla (1:14:32) Behnon ke sath rehne walay bhai ka hukam (1:15:18) Behishti Zewar se bachon ki tarbiyat (1:16:44) Khutba ke dauran sunnatain parhna (1:18:26) Desi ghee business ki research (1:26:32) Honey business aur khalis cheez ka masla (1:29:13) Azerbaijan travel aur olive oil reality (1:30:27) Cow business ka tareeqa (1:32:49) Sawalat karne ka adaab (1:33:31) Hindu ke sath khana khana kaisa hai? (1:33:34) Ameen aahista kehne ka masla (1:35:23) Ulama ka assembly mein rehna kyun zaroori hai? (1:36:57) Junaid Jamshed ki naat aur aqeede ka masla (1:39:13) Kohat se Muhabbat bhara paigham (1:40:00) Qur'an ki aayat ka matlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,387.Today, as Russia attempts to convince the world – or at least Donald Trump – that they are inexorably taking territory, President Zelensky has visited the north-east city of Kupiansk, which has been recently liberated in a rapid recapture of ground. The head of NATO warns that the West faces the prospect of war with Russia on a scale not seen since the days of “our grandparents and great-grandparents” and we examine the latest diplomatic manoeuvres ahead of tomorrow's meeting in Paris, where the question of territorial concessions will be front and centre. And later, Francis catches up with Ada Wordsworth of KHARPP to hear how your donations to her charity in Kharkiv, made in David Knowles's memory, are helping vulnerable people this Christmas.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Venetia Rainey (Co-host Battle Lines podcast). @venetiarainey on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Ada Wordsworth (co-founder of the KHARPP charity)SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:KHARPP Charity Website:https://kharpp.com/KHARPP Fundraiser for David Knowles:https://donorbox.org/kharpp-fundraiser-in-memory-of-david-knowles Nato chief: Prepare for war with Russiahttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/11/nato-chief-prepare-for-war-with-russia/ Disrupting Russian Air Defence Production: Reclaiming the Sky https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/research-papers/disrupting-russian-air-defence-production-reclaiming-skyThe decorated marine tipped to be Labour's next leader https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2025/12/12/al-carns-labour-next-leader-marine-armed-forces-minister/ Listen to Dom interview Al Carns on Battle Lines: https://linktr.ee/BattleLinesHead of US army cut out of Ukraine talks by paranoid Hegsethhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2025/12/12/pentagon-golden-boy-hegseth-dan-driscoll/LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain's military has seen better days - that much everyone can agree on. Enter ex-Royal Marine Commando Colonel Alistair Scott Carns, aka Wee Al, the UK's brand new Minister for Armed Forces. Part of the fresh batch of Labour MPs who entered Parliament in 2024, he has risen quickly through the Ministry of Defence and is considered "one to watch". Carns sat down with The Telegraph's associated defence editor Dominic Nicholls to talk about his plans to get the military into shape, the UK's commitment to Ukraine, and the ongoing Ajax debate. Plus he shared his views on Reform leader Nigel Farage and the legacy of Stakeknife in Northern Ireland. Read Dom's profile of Al Carns: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/d/dk-do/dominic-nicholls/For backgrounders on the tensions between Trump and Venezuela: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/10/24/is-trump-about-to-invade-venezuela/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/11/17/trump-builds-case-for-venezuela-war-as-worlds-biggest-aircr/Listen to Venetia's dispatch from Sweden's Gotland Island: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/17/the-tiny-swedish-island-regiment-tasked-protecting-europe/Producer: Peter ShevlinExecutive Producer: Louisa Wells► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorContact us with feedback or ideas:battlelines@telegraph.co.uk @venetiarainey@RolandOliphant Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Romania is on NATO's eastern flank, and it is feeling the heat from drone incursions attributed to Russia, and from the Trump administration's strategic shift away from Europe. We speak to Romanian President Nicușor Dan about how his country is faring with these headwinds, and also about tough economic reforms that have put pressure on his fragile coalition government.

Day 1,386.Today, as Ukraine fires hundreds of drones into Russia – forcing the closure of all major Moscow airports – we report on how the maritime war is intensifying, with Kyiv striking shadow fleet tankers in the Black Sea and oil rigs in the Caspian Sea. Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions are rising, with President Donald Trump saying he exchanged “pretty strong words” with his European counterparts, just as reports emerge of a White House plan to bring Russia's economy in from the cold. Then we return to controversial developments in the chess world with The Telegraph's chess correspondent Malcolm Pein.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Malcolm Pein (Chess Correspondent). @TelegraphChess on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Dom and Francis's Chess Game with Malcolm in Odesa:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCptvJ2tuIA With clips in our Ukraine Culture War Documentary:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28HqbQLYGMM&pp=ygUPb2Rlc2EgdGVsZWdyYXBo Starmer, Macron and Merz warn Trump over ‘Euro-Atlantic' alliance (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/10/starmer-macron-and-merz-warn-trump-euro-atlantic-alliance/ Ukrainian drone boats blow up Russian oil tankers (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/29/ukrainian-drone-boats-blow-up-russian-oil-tankers/ U.S. Blueprint to Rewire Economies of Russia, Ukraine Sets Off Clash With Europe (Wall Street Journal):https://www.wsj.com/world/europe/u-s-blueprint-to-rewire-economies-of-russia-ukraine-sets-off-clash-with-europe-72484515 US House passes bill to bolster Europe's defence, in apparent rebuke to Trump's foreign policy strategy (The Guardian):https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/dec/11/us-house-passes-bill-to-bolster-europes-defence-in-apparent-rebuke-to-trumps-foreign-policy-strategy ‘Make Europe Great Again' and more from a longer version of the National Security Strategy (The Telegraph):https://www.defenseone.com/policy/2025/12/make-europe-great-again-and-more-longer-version-national-security-strategy/410038/?oref=d1-homepage-top-story LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A plan to modernise the defence forces and to improve the country's defence capabilities has been unveiled by Minister Helen McEntee. For the latest our political reporter Sandra Hurley.

While the quarter-finals were fairly straightforward affairs, they bring up some interesting trends that we dive into ahead of the final weekend of the World Championship. Defence leading the way, the demise of the right back and focusing on player growth among the topics as we bask in the business end of the tournament. To enjoy the rest of our coverage of the championship before anyone else, as well as bonus episodes, join us on patreon.com/handballhour

United States Australian and British defence ministers have met at the Pentagon for the first AUKUS ministerial meeting with Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth. Hegseth welcomed Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles and UK Minister of Defence John Healey.

As the political term tapers to a finish, Dáil exchanges get heated, the Government details its defence spending plans and blister packs suddenly burst onto the agenda.

On this week's Military Life podcast episode, I speak with Siobhan Mullins, Defence Partner and Founder of the Paper Advocate-Simple DIY Divorce Separation Agreements.   Siobhan and I speak about; -Her introduction to Defence life, starting a family, and her first interstate move -Learning how to connect and build a support network in a new location -Pivoting her career as a Family Lawyer to work alongside Defence life -Starting her new business and platform, the Paper Advocate -How the Paper Advocate is making separations and divorce simpler                                         -The extra complexities Defence couples face when separating and divorcing -Where couples should start when they have decided to separate -What happens when couples want to move from separation to divorce -How to access the Paper Advocate and other resources   Check out the Paper Advocate-Simple DIY Divorce Separation Agreements at the link below; https://paperadvocate.com.au/

So, it was with great pleasure that I was able to arrange this podcast with Dan Bilak to discuss: - the state of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, - the prospect for a successful conclusion to the war, - Ukraine's efforts to bring about a cessation of the violence, - he difficult interactions with US President Donald Trump, and - most importantly Dan's own involvement in Ukraine and ultimately his involvement in this most dramatic European war. Dan is currently a partner at Kinstellar, a law firm that acts as counsel to leading investors across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), Southeast Europe (SEE) and Central Asia. Before that Dan served as Chief Investment Advisor to the Prime Minister of Ukraine (2016 – 2019) and headed UkraineInvest, the Ukrainian government's foreign investment promotion agency, where he supported companies in navigating the Ukrainian investment environment. As Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Ukrainian State Railways (UkrZaliznytsia), and twice as Chief of Staff to the Minister of Justice of Ukraine, Daniel oversaw governance reforms and developed anti-corruption strategies in the public sector. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Dan has served in the Territorial Defence Forces of Ukraine, a branch of Ukraine's military. He has been awarded recognition by the Minister of Defence of Ukraine “For Support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine”. Though I have not been in touch with Dan for a number of years, in fact we were colleagues at the McGill Law School in the early 1980's. As is evident Dan has been personally involved in this still raging war in Ukraine. So let's welcome Dan to the virtual studio for this podcast.

Cathal Berry, Former Independent TD

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee will today outline a €1.7 billion defence spending plan that will run until 2030.

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee today unveiled a €1.7 billion defence spending plan that will run until 2030.The Minister described this plan as "absolutely essential". Its aim is to speed up the modernisation of the Defence Forces and improve defence capabilities across land, air, and sea, as well as online from cyber attacks.Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss this is Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South-West, Catherine Callaghan, Fine Gael TD for Carlow-Kilkenny and member of the Oireachtas Committee on Defence and National Security and Conor Gallagher, Crime and Security Correspondent for The Irish Times.

The federal budget has billions of dollars allocated for defence spending. Today on the show we dive into a dicussion with industry experts on how the provincial government and business can maximize our slice of the pie. GUESTS - Florian Villaumé, CEO of techNL; Michelle Simms, CEO of the regional economic development agency Advantage St. John's; Karen Moores, Atlantic Canada at the Council of Canadian Innovators' senior advisor; Charlie Oliver, property management specialist with Martek and also with Think N.L; Mark Norman, retired vice-admiral who commanded Canada's Navy and was vice-chief of Defence.

Our panel tonight is Joe Neville, Fine Gael TD, Kildare North, Louis O'Hara, Sinn Féin TD, Galway East, Aidan Farrelly, Social Democrats TD for Kildare North and Mary Regan, Political Editor, the Irish Independent.

Day 1,385.Today, as Commander Syrskyi claims Ukraine has regained several kilometres of the frontline around Pokrovsk, we examine the format of the European counter-proposal to the US-Russia peace plan, as President Trump sets a new deadline of Christmas for President Zelensky to agree. We also take deep dives into Belgium's stance on frozen Russian state assets and the state of hybrid warfare across Europe, before hearing from the UK Minister of the Armed Forces on the evolving European position and the growing dangers ahead.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dom Nicholls (Associate Editor for Defence). @DomNicholls on X.With thanks to Al Carns MPSIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Trump: Zelensky has until Christmas to accept peace deal (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/09/trump-zelensky-must-accept-peace-deal-ukraine-losing/ Mapped: Russia and Ukraine's deadly shadow war of assassinations (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/05/mapped-russia-ukraine-deadly-shadow-war-assassination/ Russia's hybrid warfare puts Europe to the test (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/2084e87d-d491-4852-8449-f90b73d4788b Zelensky 'ready' to hold elections during war, if partners ensure security (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/zelensky-ready-to-hold-elections-during-war-if-partners-ensure-security/Leaked documents expose global Russian soft-power influence network (New Voice of Ukraine):https://english.nv.ua/russian-war/how-russia-built-a-worldwide-spy-ecosystem-using-youth-diplomacy-and-soft-power-50564951.html LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, our top defence bosses joined their US counterparts in Washington for AUSMIN. Some experts say the latest meeting was an important win for Australia after a rollercoaster year in our fragile security alliance with America. As the presence of US troops and defence personnel grows in Australia, are we preparing for an imminent conflict on our doorstep? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Defence and Security expert Jennifer Parker to unpack this week’s developments at AUSMIN and why Australia needs to prepare for greater uncertainty in the Indo-Pacific. Headlines: A 36-year-old man has been arrested after a woman was allegedly assaulted and then ran over, the federal Coalition is preparing a hardline immigration policy, and a 68-million-year-old dinosaur fossil is going under the hammer. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like all of us this time of year, Canada is looking for ways to buy new stuff for less. There are going to be some extremely irritable Australian kids this morning. Spare a thought for their parents.

Email at Merlinandmaeve@gmail.com for a seat in the class $88AUD today only! Zoom class is for December 13th and 14th 9am to 1pm ADST(GMT+10) seats still available for the Zoom online class for the defence against the dark arts. order now! contact us by Email for invoice to pay for class. limited seating.

Adrian Durham is joined by former England captain Stuart Pearce, talkSPORT's chief football correspondent Alex Crook AND former Chelsea defender Scott Minto as the lads run through all of last night's Champions League action live from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the San Siro and Bergamo.They react to a Salah-less Liverpool beating Inter Milan in the final moments in a week filled with controversy around Salah's future. Thomas Frank's Tottenham ran riot against Slavia Prague while Chelsea lead and lost to Atalanta in a big game in the hunt for the top 8.Photo Credit: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ibec, the group representing Irish business, has called on the Irish Government to increase investment in defence and security. According to Ibec, ongoing global conflicts require increased efforts to ensure Ireland can protect itself and the businesses that operate here, adding that robust security is the bedrock for business, ensuring security of supply, the ability to transact, and confidence in the rule of law. This call coincides with the publication of Ibec's latest priorities paper for Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency, which focuses on security and defence as essential elements for future-proofing European resilience in the context of global instability. Danny McCoy, Ibec CEO, said: "The world has changed fundamentally in the last five years. Europeans realize that our defence and security infrastructure is very vulnerable to external attack. Defence is not just about militarisation. However, we cannot simply avoid militarisation when the rest of our European Union colleagues- the Union, which is the domain for our economic success and prosperity- are increasing their capabilities. We must be part of a secure Europe." "This does not involve abandoning our neutrality, and we need to ensure, in having realistic conversations about our defence capabilities, that we do not conflate the two. However, neutrality does not mean being defenceless. Being part of the defence of Europe is to make our contribution, and this can be in non-lethal aspects like radar systems and cybersecurity." "Within Ireland, we need to ensure we have the people and capabilities to defend us in our seas and in our air. While the Government has committed to achieving Level 2 of the Commission on Defence Forces' ambition by 2028, a truly comprehensive national defence capability would necessitate aiming for the Level 3 capability within that timeframe rather than beyond it, which requires an investment of approximately twice the current policy commitment. Businesses rely on our ability to protect our undersea cables, our grid connection, energy, and defend against cyber threats, among others. We saw with the visit of President Zelenskyy last week and with Ireland's EU Presidency fast approaching, that our vulnerabilities are going to become more scrutinised internationally. In the future world of investment, the realities of business will require a country to be able to prove that it can defend and secure its assets. So this is of paramount national importance, not just in protecting ourselves but also ensuring future prosperity." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

This week, Adam is joined by first time guest, Fabijan Krslovic. The pair break down how United will look to bounce back after two losses in Round 11, how he has become one of the league's best 'wall up' defenders, and Fabijan's love for OG Pokemon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Email at Merlinandmaeve@gmail.com for a seat in the class $88AUD today only! Zoom class is for December 13th and 14th 9am to 1pm ADST(GMT+10) seats still available for the Zoom online class for the defence against the dark arts. order now! contact us by Email for invoice to pay for class. limited seating.

Day 1,384.Today, as President Zelensky appears to reject Donald Trump's proposal for Ukraine to cede territory to Moscow, we examine the new European plan set to be presented to the US later. We also report on how Ukrainian troops are still holding out in the frontline city of Pokrovsk, before turning to developments inside Russia: Putin's new law requiring 100,000 military reservists to undergo two months of training, growing protests over tax rises, and the outcomes of his visit to India, where he signed a series of deals with Prime Minister Modi.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dom Nicholls (Associate Editor for Defence). @DomNicholls on X.James Kilner (Foreign Correspondent). @jkjourno on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Trump's Ukraine peace deal on brink of collapse (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/08/ukraine-russia-war-latest-starmer-zelensky-trump-putin/ Zelensky meets Pope ahead of peace talks with Meloni (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/09/zelensky-appeals-for-european-support-for-new-peace-deal/ Ukrainians raise flag to show BBC the fight goes on in city claimed by Russia (BBC):https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd6x3vv7y60o Trump thrashes European leaders in wide-ranging interview: ‘I think they're weak' (POLITICO):https://www.politico.com/news/2025/12/09/trump-dasha-burns-interview-europe-immigration-ukraine-00682016?utm_content=topic/politics&utm_source=flipboard Zelensky reveals candidates for Yermak's replacement as Presidential Office head (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/zelensky-reveals-candidates-for-new-head-of-ukraines-presidents-office/ Trumpian Corruption Is Worse Than Ukrainian Corruption (Anne Applebaum in The Atlantic):https://www.theatlantic.com/international/2025/12/ukraine-fighting-corruption-trump/685162/ Exclusive: US extracted top spy from inside Russia in 2017 (The Telegraph):https://edition.cnn.com/2019/09/09/politics/russia-us-spy-extracted LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Double Tap Episode 439 This episode of Double Tap is brought to you by: Gideon Optics, Primary Arms, Night Fision, Blue Alpha, Bowers Group, and Second Call Defense   Welcome to Double Tap, episode 439! Your hosts tonight are Jeremy Pozderac, Jon Patton and me Shawn Herrin, welcome to the show! Jon Patton - https://theguncollective.com/ Dear WLS Hunter M - Wanting to upgrade my Ender 3 Pro to a Bambu X1C, but I am hesitant to buy one if there is a possibility of blocking 2A prints. I have seen where some people suggest never connecting it to the internet and only printing off of SD cards but it seems like you could be missing out on a ton of features. Is it worth it to connect it to the internet or play it safe and only use it offline? If it was connected and they pushed out anti-gun restrictions how could you get the printer back to printing freedom? Conner R - What are your go to snacks or meals when hiking, camping, hunting, or rucking? What are you favorite meals in general? Thanks!l Uvuana Suqit - Why does every host on the Firearms Radio Network seem to have an astigmatism? And a bunch of other media people in the firearms industry in general. I hear constantly about not being able to use red dots because of astigmatism, making the dot not a perfect circle, and some other shape. Just want to say that the projection on the glass for red dots won't be a perfect circle with the way they are designed/manufactured, and the “dot” has a weird shape because it is projecting a bunch of tiny dots to a general area on the glass to make up the dot. It does not create a perfect circle. And if you focus on the “dot,” then you will see “imperfection” vs looking at the target where the “imperfection” will be nonexistent, with the general dot shape being over the target. I'm just curious if everyone is mistaking this inherent design of the red dot projection for something that is wrong with their eyes. And when every host says they have an astigmatism, it just seems odd. Karl F - The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the usefulness of small drones when it comes to both reconnaissance and delivery of payloads. This usefulness could definitely extend beyond combat to a SHTF scenario. Have any of you considered adding a drone to your gear collection?#blamecanada Oopsie Daisy - If you wanted to escape thermal imaging, do you think throwing a mylar poncho over the wool Five Star Alterations poncho would have a greater effect on reducing your thermal signature? For no one in particular, I'm interested to hear all of your opinions on this. Nate B - How far back is too far back for barrel porting? I understand you'd like the port as far forward as possible as that is where it's most beneficial (better tilt point) but I've seen ported Glocks and other pistols where they have multiple, tiny holes that seem to be fairly close to the chamber. Also ports > comps Anthony L - I wanted to ask what sites you use for the 3d print files. Thank you   The winner of this week's swag pack is Oopsie Daisy! To win your own, go to welikeshooting.com/dashboard and submit a question!   Gun Industry News Switzerland Picks SIG Sauer P320 Swiss Army picks SIG P320 as new standard pistol, 5th military to do so after US, Canada, Australia, Denmark. Beats Glock and HK in tests via lower costs and Swiss production promise, despite early fixes needed for ergonomics. Gun fans celebrate another big military win for modular P320. Not for civilian sale. Tuning the Shadow 2: New Frame Weight Eemann Tech's new frame weight for CZ Shadow 2 adds 172g of front-end steel to cut recoil and steady fast shots. No mods needed, screws on easily. Special for comp shooters tuning balance without changing gun shape. Compact version coming. Available now. Sweden Police Swap MP5s for AK 24 Sweden's police are ditching MP5 submachine guns for AK 24 rifles in 5.56mm, matching the military's choice. Reasons: MP5 contract ended, 9mm sucks at range and vs. armor/vehicles, better teamwork in ops. They bought some for tests, fixed over-penetration with right ammo. Costs $2,700–$3,600 each, same as MP5. Gun fans note it's a rare police switch to rifle calibers from SMGs. Not available yet; deliveries start 2027. Staccato Stops Making C and CS Pistols Staccato stopped making C and CS pistols on Nov 21, 2025, to focus on 2011 and HD models. Gun folks can still buy leftover stock while it lasts; owners get full parts, mags, and warranty support. Special: Speeds up upgrades for main lines. Not in production now. Daniel Defense Eleanor Brings UK Spec Rifle to America Daniel Defense's Eleanor is a limited run of 250 M4A1 rifles copying UK Ministry of Defence specs, first U.S. version with real anodized FDE Vortex AMG EBR-22L optic—not fake finishes like clones. Gun fans get exact Royal Marines setup in Pelican case. Not available now. GPO's New Tactical Monocular with Gun Reticle GPO launched TACTICAL MONO 10x42 ED, a pocket-sized 10x42 monocular with offset MIL reticle for quick range estimates. Stands out with tactical reticle in super compact 5.3-inch, 13.4-oz rubber-armored body. MSRP $319.99. Available now. Gun community gets affordable, portable spotting tool for field measurements. Strike Bravo Chassis for Taurus GX4 Strike Industries and Taurus teamed up for GX4 Strike Bravo pistols with a new chassis boosting recoil control, ergonomics, and modularity via Dynamic Control system. Special: Picatinny for braces/stocks, optics-ready slide, threaded barrel, works with GX4 accessories. Four versions: 10/15-round mags, braced or not. Prices: $607 non-braced, $796 braced. Available now. New 9mm Apache Commander Gun Watchtower Defense launched the Apache Commander, a compact double-stack 9mm 1911 for carry with optics cut, aggressive serrations, adjustable 4.5-5.5 lb trigger, and tough stainless steel build in Black or FDE. First tactical model from veteran-owned brand. $3999 with three 17-round mags and lifetime warranty. In stock and shipping now. Gun fans get a premium, duty-ready carry option supporting vets. New ZeroTech Vengeance Scope Reticle Options ZeroTech updated its Vengeance 3-12x40 SFP riflescope with three reticles: precise R3, classic PHR 4, and low-light illuminated PHR 4 IR. Lightweight 1-inch tube, side parallax, multi-coated glass. Gives gun folks faster targeting and better holds in any light. Price not listed. Availability not stated. New Reticles for Vengeance Scope ZeroTech added PHR 4 and illuminated PHR 4 reticles to its Vengeance 4-16x40 SFP scope. Clean holdovers, fast aiming, low-light brightness levels on lightweight 1-inch tube. Gives gun users affordable precision for hunting and shooting. Available now. Viridian's New Green Dot for Rifles Viridian launched VENTA Green Dot rifle optic. Crisp 2 MOA green dot, instant-on motion activation, 10 brightness settings, IPX7 waterproof, 30k-hour battery, 5 oz lightweight, Aimpoint T2 footprint. Stands out for speed, clarity, and low $169 MSRP in black or FDE. Available now. Gun folks get affordable, tough optic upgrade. New Tactical Light with Green Laser NEXTORCH launches WL25 tactical weapon light with 1,200-lumen white beam to 459 yards plus green laser for fast aiming. Ambidextrous switches, quick battery swaps, recoil-proof mount, glove-friendly. German-designed, pistol-rail compatible. MSRP $239.99. Available now for LE/military eval. Gun community gets pro-grade light-laser combo at mid price. Before we let you go - Join Gun Owners of America   Tell your friends about the show and get backstage access by joining the Gun Cult at theguncult.com.   No matter how tough your battle is today, we want you here fight with us tomorrow. Don't struggle in silence, you can contact the suicide prevention line by dialing 988 from your phone. Remember - Always prefer Dangerous Freedom over peaceful slavery. We'll see you next time!   Nick - @busbuiltsystems | Bus Built Systems Jeremy - @ret_actual | Rivers Edge Tactical Aaron - @machinegun_moses Savage - @savage1r Shawn - @dangerousfreedomyt | @camorado.cam | Camorado

Keir Giles has spent his career watching, studying, and explaining Russia. Keir's work has appeared in a wide range of academic and military publications across Europe and in North America, and he is a regular contributor and commentator on Russian affairs for international print and broadcast media. He is a Senior Consulting Fellow at the UK's Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), and also works with the Conflict Studies Research Centre (CSRC), a group of deep subject matter experts on Eurasian security formerly attached to the British Ministry of Defence. He is a regular contributor to research projects on Russian security issues in the U.S., UK, and Europe.----------Silicon Curtain is a part of the Christmas Tree Trucks 2025 campaign - an ambitious fundraiser led by a group of our wonderful team of information warriors raising 110,000 EUR for the Ukrainian army. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/christmas-tree-trucks-2025-silicon-curtainThe Goal of the Campaign for the Silicon Curtain community:- 1 armoured battle-ready pickupWe are sourcing all vehicles around 2010-2017 or newer, mainly Toyota Hilux or Mitsubishi L200, with low mileage and fully serviced. These are some of the greatest and the most reliable pickups possible to be on the frontline in Ukraine. Who will receive the vehicles?https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/christmas-tree-trucks-2025-silicon-curtain- The 38th Marine Brigade, who alone held Krynki for 124 days, receiving the Military Cross of Honour.- The 1027th Anti-aircraft and artillery regiment. Honoured by NATO as Defender of the Year 2024 and recipient of the Military Cross of Honour.- 104th Separate Brigade, Infantry, who alone held Kherson for 100 days, establishing conditions for the liberation of the city.- 93rd Brigade "Kholodnyi Yar", Black Raven Unmanned Systems Battalion ----------BOOKS:Who Will Defend Europe? An Awakened Russia and a Sleeping Continent (2024)Order Keir's new book: https://amzn.to/4cFI1b6Russia's War on Everybody: And What it Means for You (2022)Moscow Rules: What Drives Russia to Confront the West (2019)The Turning Point for Russian Foreign Policy (2017)The State of the NATO-Russia Reset (2011)Potential Challenges to Public Order and Social Stability in the Russian Federation (2011)----------LINKS:Order Keir's new book: https://amzn.to/4cFI1b6https://www.chathamhouse.org/about-us/our-people/keir-gileshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keir_Gileshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/keir-giles-499a489/https://www.chathamhouse.org/about-us/our-people/keir-gileshttps://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=7Bs89WMAAAAJhttps://bsky.app/profile/keirgiles.bsky.social----------DESCRIPTION:Understanding the Russia-West Geopolitical Conflict with Keir GilesIn this insightful episode, Keir delves into his extensive experience studying Russia, sharing knowledge from his academic and military publications. He discusses the persistent misunderstandings regarding Russia's intentions by Western diplomats, driven by a cycle of short-term postings and differing diplomatic experiences. Johnson also highlights the ideological alignments between Russian and current U.S. policies, underscoring the troubling implications for Europe. The conversation touches on the complexities of international relations, the failures of economic appeasement with authoritarian regimes, and the stark realities of Russia's long-standing messianic geopolitical behavior. The episode concludes with a call to support Ukrainian armed forces in their epic battle for survival, reflecting on the tangible impact of international solidarity.----------

The Trump administration's National Security Strategy document released this week is an astonishing affront to what many of us believe to be the liberal world order. The Matts are joined by New World contributing editor and columnist Paul Mason to understand just how far reaching its consequences are - and how Europe must find new purpose if it is to resist it. Where is the UK's place in that new Europe? And sweat must this Labour government do to avoid chronic declinism? It's an engrossing conversation that sheds light on the predicament we are in - and how to escape it. Enjoy!Head to nakedwines.co.uk/matts to get a £30 voucher and 6 top-rated wines from our sponsor Naked Wines for £39.99, delivery included.OFFER: Get The New World for just £1 for the first month. Head to https://www.thenewworld.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,383.Today, after a weekend marked by continued talks in Florida between the Ukrainian and American delegations and President Donald Trump's comments blaming Zelensky for stalling negotiations, the Ukrainian president meets British PM Keir Starmer, French President Macron and German Chancellor Merz in London today. The talks, which finished as we were recording this episode, opened with Germany's ‘scepticism' of US peace proposals and France's assurance that ‘Europe had a lot of cards in its hands.' Meanwhile, Russia targets a dam near Kharkiv which supplies water to Ukraine's second biggest city. Finally, we discuss the US's National Security Strategy and the current state of Ukraine's air defence. ContributorsAdélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.With thanks to Michael Bohnert (RAND). @mbohnert on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Zelenskiy Says No Accord Yet on Ukraine's East in US Talks, Bloomberg Newshttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-08/zelenskiy-says-no-accord-so-far-on-eastern-ukraine-in-us-talksTrump: Zelensky hasn't even read my peace plan, The Telegraphhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/08/ukraine-russia-war-latest-starmer-zelensky-trump-putin/Kremlin: Trump's new defence strategy ‘consistent' with Russian vision, The Telegraphhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/07/donald-trump-defence-strategy-russia-dmitry-peskov-kremlin/France shielding €18bn Russian asset pot from EU ‘reparations loan' push, Financial timeshttps://www.ft.com/content/fe304bb8-d928-4b9b-8162-2000301be937LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The appearance of drones of unknown origin in Dublin last week around the time of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy's visit again highlighted the security challenges of the present day and Ireland's lack of capability to act in its own defence. Neutrality remains a popular policy, as again demonstrated recently by the election of Catherine Connolly as president. That popularity does not answer the question of how much Ireland should invest in its own defence. Ireland diverges from other neutral European countries in our low defence spending and reliance on others for protection, information and security. But against those calling for bigger defence budgets, others warn of militarisation and point out the money could be better spent elsewhere. So does being a voice for peace preclude greater defence spending, or is defence spending a crucial part of a viable neutrality? On today's podcast Hugh is joined by Naomi O'Leary to pick apart the elements of Ireland's approach to defence and neutrality, how we compare to others and what questions will arise as Ireland comes under increasing pressure in Europe to boost capabilities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Terry Gibson & Jon Driscoll reflect on all the news and talking points from round 16 in La Liga. INCLUDING the pressure piles on Xabi Alonso, Barcelona win an 8 goal thriller and yet another win for Villarreal!

Ian Cheeseman was the BBC's Manchester City correspondent for nearly 25 years and has been a fan all of his life. Here he hosts his weekly podcast, Forever Blue, where all things Man City are discussed. Sponsored by Counting King, experts in business finance. Ian talks to former City player Lee Croft about City's recent results, the form and quality of Rayan Cherki and City's defence. They're joined by Annabel from the Forever Blue squad and Michael Goldman, a City fan, who has a special treble winners watch up for grabs to a subscriber to the podcast. To buy a "It's Great to be a Blue" TShirt go via this linkbuytickets.at/itsgreattobeablue/storeIf you'd like to support Ian's work you can message him by DM on twitter @iancheeseman

Day 1,380.Today, we report on revelations from a European leaders' conference call, exposing the level of anxiety over the US peace proposals, cover the military drones spotted approaching President Zelensky's plane as it neared Dublin, and examine the new US National Security Strategy, which has alarmed many. Later, we return to our regular updates on the occupied territories, and speak to a doctor about frontline medical provision for Ukrainian soldiers.ContributorsAdélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dr. Jade McGlynn (War Studies Department of King's College). @DrJadeMcGlynn on X.With thanks to Dr James Gough (Chief Executive of the David Nott Foundation). @NottFoundation on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Learn more about the David Nott Foundation, which trains doctors in warzones:https://davidnottfoundation.com/ The Telegraph Christmas Charity Appeal 2025: how you can donate:https://tinyurl.com/4nnrt59sOur sister podcast Battle Lines: Why Ukraine's troops are facing an amputation crisishttps://tinyurl.com/bdzc7uknMilitary drones flew towards Zelensky's plane as it approached Dublin (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/yj27tvve"We Must Not Leave Ukraine and Volodymyr Alone with These Guys" (Der Spiegel):https://tinyurl.com/mr358sdhTrump envoys press plan with Ukraine as sanctions eased on Russia (France 24):https://tinyurl.com/mrbxraywUS National Security Strategy (White House):https://tinyurl.com/muf78x72Les fusiliers marins ont tiré sur des drones au-dessus de la base navale de l'Île Longue, abri des sous-marins nucléaires français, (Le Figaro):https://tinyurl.com/yfcd8ckbExclusive: Woman suspected by France of spying has ties to Kremlin proxies, social media posts show (Reuters)https://tinyurl.com/nbvfsejbSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister backed Rachel Reeves' budget on Monday. On the same day, Keir Starmer, not once, not twice, but on three separate occasions spoke about Brexit. We discuss what's actually going on…You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack McLaren with Joe Wilkinson. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Day 1,379.Today, after Tuesday's inconsequential meeting in Moscow, Ukrainian negotiators are updating European counterparts on Kyiv's response before flying to meet Steve Witkoff in Miami. We consider why U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau has lambasted European NATO allies for prioritising their own defence industries over American suppliers – comments made just as another billion dollars was added to the PURL fund – and we ask whether, if Pokrovsk has indeed fallen, Russia will now shift its efforts toward Zaporizhzhia oblast. And later, we return to the GRU's murder of British woman Dawn Sturgess by nerve agent in 2018, as the final report into her death is released.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Hamish De Bretton-Gordon (Former British Army Tank Commander). @HamishDBGon on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Trump: I don't know what the Kremlin is doing (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/12/03/trump-i-dont-know-what-the-kremlin-is-doing/ Britain can't let the man Putin hates most die in prison (Sir Tom Stoppard in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/05/19/britain-cant-let-the-man-putin-hates-most-die-in-prison/ The West's Last Chance (Alexander Stubb, Finland's President, in Foreign Affairs):https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/wests-last-chance Top US official berates Europe over cutting American industry out of defense buildup (POLITICO):https://www.politico.eu/article/christopher-landau-top-us-official-berates-europe-nato-cut-industry-defense-buildup/ LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,378.Today, as the world reacts to the marathon – but ultimately fruitless – talks in Moscow on Tuesday night, we examine how the impasse will shape today's meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers and, also in Brussels, the European Council's discussions on frozen Russian assets and the ‘new era' the EU says it is entering, free from Russian fossil fuels. Plus, our Russia expert assesses Moscow's ‘caviar diplomacy' and its growing problems in Africa, and we report how Australia and New Zealand are stepping up their support for Ukraine. Finally, we hear the assessment of Ukraine's former Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, on the current state of the war – and whether he harbours any ambition to succeed President Zelensky.ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.James Kilner (Foreign Correspondent). @jkjourno on X.With thanks to Latika Bourke. @latikambourke on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Latika Bourke Substackhttps://substack.com/@latikambourkeAustralia and New Zealand join forces to fund NATO weapons for Ukrainehttps://thenightly.com.au/world/australia-and-new-zealand-join-forces-to-fund-nato-weapons-for-ukraine-c-20819893Today's Telegraph Ukraine Live Blog:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/12/03/ukraine-russia-war-latest-news-peace-deal-talks/Cosmonaut Artemyev was removed from the Crew-12 crew: https://theins.ru/news/287330 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,377.Today, on a national day of mourning in Ukraine after a single ballistic missile strike killed four people and injured forty more, we report on the arrival of the US delegation in Moscow as the latest round of peace talks gets under way. Then we hear from our Washington Correspondent on the mood in the United States toward Ukraine – and the current strength of President Trump – and take a deep dive into how Russian soldiers are being sent into combat without helmets or body armour.ContributorsFrancis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Verity Bowman (Foreign Correspondent). @VerityBowman on X.Connor Stringer (Washington Correspondent). @connor_stringer on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Russian troops sent to slaughter with no helmets or armour (Verity in The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/yc4aysxrUkraine strikes Chechen special forces unit ahead of Putin-Witkoff talks (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/3f9s4vu5Zelensky warns US not to reward Putin (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/y685hcpcEx-British soldier ‘helped Russia assassinate prominent Ukrainians' (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/bdft3f7mECB refuses to provide backstop for €140bn Ukraine loan (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/616c79ee-34de-425a-865e-e94ba10be788Ukraine has brought back 1,859 Russia-abducted children, Zelenska says in Paris (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-says-1-859-abducted-children-have-been-returned-zelenska-tells-paris-summit Five South Africans in court over alleged recruitment for Russia's war in Ukraine (The Guardian):https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/dec/01/south-africans-court-alleged-recruitment-russia-war-ukraine Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,376.Today, after a fresh round of talks between the Ukrainian and American delegations in Miami, we examine a new investigation exposing the Trump administration's profit motives behind the emerging proposals. We then assess the resignation of Andriy Yermak, formerly Zelensky's right-hand man, and the unexpected intervention of former Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi – viewed as preparing for a presidential run after the war. Afterwards, we analyse Kyiv's decision to strike the Russian shadow fleet off the coast of Senegal, and how Europe – and France in particular – is positioning itself for this next, volatile phase.ContributorsAdélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Valerii Zaluzhnyi: How to defeat Putin and build a better Ukraine (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/582phz7bZelensky meets Macron in Paris (The Telegraph Live Blog):https://tinyurl.com/4vspzy8yUkrainian drone boats blow up Russian oil tankers (The Telegraph):https://tinyurl.com/5evypnz5Zelensky's chief of staff goes to front line after resigning over corruption scandal (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/29/zelensky-chief-of-staff-andriy-yermak-goes-to-front-line/ Kyiv's new peace talks chief caught in same corruption scandal as ousted predecessor (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/30/ukraine-make-or-break-week-survival-witkoff/ Antony Beevor: For Russia, conspicuous cruelty is a necessary weapon of war (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/11/30/antony-beevor-interview/ Make Money Not War: Trump's Real Plan for Peace in Ukraine (Wall Street Journal):https://www.wsj.com/world/russia/russia-u-s-peace-business-ties-4db9b290 Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.