POPULARITY
A former Defence Minister says our forces will help plug a gap in Ukraine aid. The Government's revealed New Zealand will be involved in an initiative to train Ukraine forces in Poland. It includes personnel from countries like Denmark, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and Ukraine. Ron Mark says Ukraine soldiers do basic training before learning specialties. "What does New Zealand offer? They take the pressure off of the Ukrainian training system, and getting their soldiers through that first phase. That's pretty essential." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode of Europe Today, Lithuania's Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas told our correspondent Angela Skujins that the Baltic states face a “new reality” amid a series of recent drone incursions, including an incident which ground Lithuania's capital of Vilnius to a halt on Wednesday.We also speak to the EU's Commissioner for Tech, Henna Virkkunen, about her executive's new plans to ban nudification apps that use AI to undress individuals without their consent.We also preview NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting in Sweden later today and bring you the reaction from Europe after Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared a video showing him taunt activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.Europe Today is Euronews' daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe. Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How does the UK transition its armed forces to a true warfighting footing? In Season 3, Episode 2, we are joined by Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, to discuss the structural and cultural changes required to rebuild Britain's defence industrial base.The conversation tackles the reality of legacy procurement delays and the push for faster, more adaptable equipment delivery. Defence Minister Luke Pollard unpacks the Royal Navy's transition to a hybrid fleet of uncrewed and autonomous platforms, the practical steps being taken to clear hurdles for SMEs, and how a reformed defence strategy can deter peer adversaries while acting as a genuine engine for UK economic growth.Find Defence Talks: Securing UK Advantage on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Castbox, Radio Public, Soundcloud, Pocketcast and Overcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.britainsworld.org.uk
2026-05-01 | UPDATES #189 | Girkin has issued another outburst from prison — 'we are heading for military defeat.' The man who did more than most to start this war now says it is lost. He is a criminal, but this pronouncement is worth listening to. The implication, the Putin regime has lost control of its own founding myth – its own justification for existing. The rest is failure and defeat. His name is Igor Vsevolodovich Girkin. Pen name: Strelkov — the Shooter. Former colonel of Russia's FSB. The self-proclaimed man who "pulled the war's trigger" in April 2014 by leading armed Russian militants across the border into Sloviansk. The so-called Defence Minister of the Donetsk People's Republic. Convicted in absentia by a Dutch court in November 2022 for the mass murder of 298 civilians on Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. By any honest accounting, an international war criminal of the first order.----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformation----------A REQUEST FOR HELP!I'm heading back to Kyiv next month, to film, do research and conduct interviews. The logistics and need for equipment and clothing are a little higher than for my previous trips. It will be cold, and may be dark also. If you can, please assist to ensure I can make this trip a success. My commitment to the audience of the channel, will be to bring back compelling interviews conducted in Ukraine, and to use the experience to improve the quality of the channel, it's insights and impact. Let Ukraine and democracy prevail! https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrashttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformationNONE OF THIS CAN HAPPEN WITHOUT YOU!So what's next? We're going to Kyiv in April 2026 to film on the ground, and will record interviews with some huge guests. We'll be creating opportunities for new interviews, and to connect you with the reality of a European city under escalating winter attack, from an imperialist, genocidal power. PLEASE HELP ME ME TO GROW SILICON CURTAINWe are planning our events for 2026, and to do more and have a greater impact. After achieving more than 12 events in 2025, we will aim to double that! 24 events and interviews on the ground in Ukraine, to push back against weaponized information, toxic propaganda and corrosive disinformation. Please help us make it happen!----------SOURCES: Ukrainian News (Ukranews.com) — "Terrorist Girkin predicts Russia's military defeat" (Late April 2026) Euronews — "EU approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine after Hungary lifts controversial veto" (23 April 2026)Council on Foreign Relations — "Orbán's Fall in Hungary Opens a Door for Europe — and Closes One for Russia" — Liana Fix and Benjamin Harris (3 April 2026) Ukrainska Pravda / European Pravda — "Hungary's Magyar comments on EU's €90bn loan for Ukraine" (13 April 2026) Ukrainska Pravda — "EU wants to unblock €90bn for Ukraine as quickly as possible after Orbán's defeat" (13 April 2026)Wikipedia — Igor Girkin (Strelkov) The Moscow Times — "Ex-Rebel Leader Girkin Sentenced to 4 Years for Extremism After Criticizing War" (25 January 2024) Newsweek — "Putin's forces heading to military 'defeat,' former Russian commander warns" (April 2023)Newsweek — "Russia has suffered 'strategic defeat' as war nears 10th month: Igor Girkin" (December 2022) The New Voice of Ukraine — "Former 'DPR' leader argues Russia is 'heading for a military defeat'" (April 2023) ----------
Former Defence Minister Ron Mark says its not clear how New Zealand could meaningfully support reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The US has formally provided an initial plan to New Zealand for the Government to consider - but Foreign Minister Winston Peters says more detail's needed. Mark told Heather du Plessis Allan that our defence forces have reduced capability - and he could only see us helping with aerial surveying. He says we are strategically irrelevant right now - and there's no way he could see us deploying a frigate. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ray white speaks to Dr Adeoye Akinola, Head of Research and Teaching at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg about the latest deadly escalation in Mali. The country was rocked by intense fighting as armed groups including jihadists and rebel forces launched coordinated attacks on military bases, the airport, and key strategic areas. What followed was chaos, fear, and a deepening sense of uncertainty. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio7See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ray white speaks to Dr Adeoye Akinola, Head of Research and Teaching at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg about the latest deadly escalation in Mali. The country was rocked by intense fighting as armed groups including jihadists and rebel forces launched coordinated attacks on military bases, the airport, and key strategic areas. What followed was chaos, fear, and a deepening sense of uncertainty. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa broadcast on 702: https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/36edSLV or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/zEcM35T Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio7See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World news in 7 minutes. Tuesday 28th April 2026.Today: US dinner shooter. Microsoft-OpenAI rift. Brazil concert death. Mali defence minister. South Sudan crash. China blocks Meta. Lebanon airstrikes. Germany Merz comments. Romania coalition. And Adidas shares rise. With Ben MallettSEND7 is supported by our amazing listeners like you.Our supporters get access to the transcripts written by us every day.Our supporters get access to an English worksheet made by us once per week.Our supporters get access to our weekly news quiz made by us once per week.We give 10% of our profit to Effective Altruism charities.You can become a supporter at send7.org/supportContact us at podcast@send7.org or send an audio message at speakpipe.com/send7Please leave a rating on Apple podcasts or Spotify.We don't use AI! Every word is written and recorded by us!Since 2020, SEND7 (Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes) has been telling the most important world news stories in intermediate English. Every day, listen to the most important stories from every part of the world in slow, clear English. Whether you are an intermediate learner trying to improve your advanced, technical and business English, or if you are a native speaker who just wants to hear a summary of world news as fast as possible, join Stephen Devincenzi, Ben Mallett and Juliet Martin every morning. Transcripts, worksheets and our weekly world news quiz are available for our amazing supporters at send7.org. Simple English News Daily is the perfect way to start your day, by practising your listening skills and understanding complicated stories in a simple way. It is also highly valuable for IELTS and TOEFL students. Students, teachers, TEFL teachers, and people with English as a second language, tell us that they use SEND7 because they can learn English through hard topics, but simple grammar. We believe that the best way to improve your spoken English is to immerse yourself in real-life content, such as what our podcast provides. SEND7 covers all news including politics, business, natural events and human rights. Whether it is happening in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas or Oceania, you will hear it on SEND7, and you will understand it.For more information visit send7.org/contact or send an email to podcast@send7.org
Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
On Thursday's episode of Europe Today, we have exclusive interviews with the former NATO Secretary-General, Anders Rasmussen, and Latvia's Defence Minister, Andris Sprüds. Rasmussen said that Europe needs to speak to President Trump like he speaks to Europe: “I say time for flattery is over.” We also speak to EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen, who gave a stark warning about the repercussions of the war in Iran: “Even in a best-case scenario (...) we are looking at some very difficult months, and even years”. We also explained what the potential jet fuel crisis means for your summer holidays. Our correspondent Sasha Vakulina also analysed the importance of the EU's unlocking of its €90 billion loan to Ukraine. Europe Today is Euronews' ….Europe Today is Euronews' daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe. Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Defence Minister Marles has a new plan for Australia, but what's actually in it?
Malaysia offers Anthony Albanese more petrol after praising him for being pro-Palestinian, the Defence Minister warns China is arming up and we need more weapons. Plus, Harry And Meghan Markle's fake royal tour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Events in the Middle East continue to evolve in rapid and unexpected directions. Following the failure of peace talks in Pakistan between the US and Iran, the US is now hoping to open the Strait of Hormuz by blockading it. In the short term, the fuel crisis in Australia may get worse before it gets better - not that you would know that by looking at the amount of jet fuel being burnt up by our PM and Defence Minister. Speaking of which, a new National Defence Strategy will be released this week. It is likely to be dead on arrival because it has been written by people who refuse to accept that the world is changing and that the US is no longer a reliable ally. Finally - what does this government have against South Korea, which is the largest supplier of petroleum to us, along with Singapore? Why are they being ignored in the current flurry of high level diplomatic activity? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A former Defence Minister has warned that the handling of the arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith will cause people to reconsider joining the Australian Defence Force.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The army is ramping up combat training amid growing Indo-Pacific security risks. Senior commanders say the pressure on our defence forces is greater than at any point in recent memory, citing a dangerous strategic backdrop of Chinese expansion in the Pacific and an increasingly unstable world order. Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp told Mike Hosking we actually had a much bigger deployment in the first part of the century, but pressures have shifted. He says uncertainty has replaced predictability, which has created a level of anxiety everyone's experiencing. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's a war between Israel, the US and Iran...but how did Lebanon get dragged into it? Its militia group, Hezbollah, is a loyal proxy of the Iranian regime, placing tens of millions of Lebanese citizens at risk in the name of loyalty to its top financier and ally. More than 1000 people have been killed, and more than a million have been displaced. Earlier this week Israel's Defence Minister said his country plans on annexing a large portion of southern Lebanon for security purposes, a move Canada denounced. Host Maria Kestane speaks to Aurel Braun, a political science and international relations professor at the University of Toronto to discuss the Lebanese government's complex relationship with Hezbollah, how Canada and other NATO countries could help the government dismantle the militia, and what comes next for its civilians. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky
Well, despite the great news from Energy Minister Chris Bowen that Australia faces no energy crisis other than silly unwashed Australians panicking, the Iran War has already created a global energy crisis even if it stops now. That's less about whether the Strait of Hormuz is open and more about the broader damage already inflicted on Gulf infrastructure. Marcus journeys to Oodnadatta to pick up some premium diesel bargains - without any sign of panic.Taking a break from the War gives space to admire honorary Kentucky Colonel Richard Marles' (who is also probably still Australia's Defence Minister) latest masterclass in not answering questions: a new Personal Best from the Colonel is 11 questions, 13 deflections and zero answers. Super Bowl stuff.Then the Grumpies dive into the picture for Australia's AUKUS submarines from data about US and UK partners' actual experience maintaining and operating their nuclear subs. Best case for Australia is after 30 years (when Australia gets 8 submarines) we will be able to consistently deploy 2....Hmmmm.
Tobias Ellwood, former British government defence minister and speaker on international security, discusses the latest on the war in the Middle East.
The situation in the Middle East risks spiralling out of control with Donald Trump threatening to destroy Iran's electricity grid and that country saying it will retaliate by targeting water desalination plants throughout the region. Australia will not send a warship to the region at the moment, even if one were available, because the nature of warfare is being radically altered. The information about the ship was provided to the public by Transport Minister Catherine King because the PM, Defence Minister and Foreign Minister were all too scared to say anything that might displease the US. Our government's slavish attachment to Washington continues. Australia needs to seriously consider the possibility of being inadvertently drawn into committing war crimes. We conclude with some very wise words from retired AVM John Blackburn, who says AUKUS is a waste of money and should be scrapped. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Israel's Defence Minister says Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iran will be stepped up, significantly in the coming days - just a day after President Donald Trump mused about "winding down" the war. Meanwile, at least one managed to break through Israel's air defences, hitting a building near the country's main nuclear facility. Israel is promising to retaliate, while issuing new warnings about Iran's long-range capabilities. Also: In Hawaii, the island of Oahu has been experiencing catastrophic flooding caused by a "Kona low" - a seasonal sub-tropical cyclone. The flooding has caused officials to issue an evacuation order for thousands of people in the North Shore. It's the worst flooding Hawaii's most populous island has seen in twenty years. And: Complaints about Canada's big telecoms reached an all-time high last year. According to a recent watchdog report, More than 23-thousand Canadians lodged complaints, with billing problems topping the list. The CBC's Marketplace went inside the system, hearing from whistleblowers on the pressure they face inside call centres.Plus: France's local elections, Hong Kong rethinking the use of bamboo scaffolding, Melting of the world's oldest and largest iceberg, and more.
Defence Minister Judith Collins says it's vital New Zealand's able to look after a vast area, stretching from Antarctica to Tonga. The Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces have laid out their plans for a combat-capable ANZAC force by 2035. Defence Minister Judith Collins told Mike Hosking it makes absolute sense for us to be closer with Australia. She says it's not as though our two countries will be a threat to anybody, but it means we can make use of our assets and people in a much more clever way. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's still unclear when our Defence Force will be able to evacuate New Zealanders out of war-afflicted areas in the Middle East. Kiwis there are being urged to alert SafeTravel, with 3000 already registered in the region. Defence Minister Judith Collins says our planes will leave in the coming days and will take people to safer nearby areas, when conditions allow. She says they're prepared to take thousands if necessary. "Well, if they wanted to go, we would simply have to make it happen, but we would obviously have to do it in relays." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australia's Defence Minister confirms the nation is not a participant in the US-led war against Iran, The government under pressure to return Australians stranded across the Middle East, FIFA world cup bosses face a tough dilemma over Iran's ability to compete in the US based tournament
Pakistani military jets have hit targets inside Afghanistan, bombing parts of Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, as open military conflict surged between the two countries. Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, said Islamabad's patience had run out and declared the neighbours at "open war" following months of tit-for-tat clashes and heavy losses for both sides. Islamabad accuses Afghanistan of failing to act against militant groups that carry out attacks in Pakistan, which the Taliban government denies.Also: the BBC has obtained a video that shows how Israeli soldiers shot a Palestinian boy and stood around as he bled to death. Netflix drops out of the bidding war for Warner Brothers Discovery, leaving Paramount as the top contender to acquire the legacy studio. As former US President Bill Clinton prepares to testify before a Congressional committee investigating the fall-out from the Epstein files, his wife Hillary, who appeared before the panel on Thursday, says her husband's connection with Epstein ended several years before anything about the sex offender's criminal activities came to light. In a landmark trial in Los Angeles, the woman at the heart of a case against social media giants says she became addicted to their platforms aged six. The British Labour government suffers a by-election defeat in key political test for Prime Minister Keir Starmer. How Pokémon's 30th anniversary is being marked worldwide. And we test our spelling skills after a survey reveals the words British pupils most struggle with.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Deputy Defence Minister, General Bantu Holomisa has visited 2 Military Hospital in Cape Town, highlighting its crucial role in supporting troops deployed to gang-infested areas. The hospital faces infrastructure and resource challenges, with facilities built decades ago. Minister Holomisa emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to modernize the hospital. The visit focused on pharmacy services, vital for patient care and deployment readiness. Elvis Presslin spoke to Minister Bantu Holomisa.
Former Deputy Defence Minister Kofi Amankwa-Manu has warned that Ghana risks compromising critical security decision-making due to the continued absence of a substantive Defence Minister.
Is the UK at war or at peace? The Defence Minister and Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard joins us to discuss the global picture - and talks about what's going on locally. A major government U-turn means Exeter's cancelled May elections are back on. More rainy weather has battered the already fragile Slapton Line in South Devon. And the Gary Caldwell era at Exeter City is over. Interim coaches Dan Green and Kevin Nicholson take charge of the League One side. Josh Tate presents this edition of Devoncast.
The Defence Minister says possible requirements for Army leaders having to know waiata and karakia from memory is unacceptable. Act MP Todd Stephenson wrote to Judith Collins about the cultural skills framework with concerns it went beyond normal expectations of the Public Service. She says the force hadn't raised it with her, but after speaking with army leaders they had decided to pause implementation. Collins told Mike Hosking a soldier's ability to serve their country has nothing to do with their ability to recite waiata. She says it would be nice for people to do it, but as evidenced in her visit to the Munich Security Conference there's more pressing concerns, like ending up speaking Russian. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Khawaja Asif is the Defence Minister of Pakistan.Khawaja Asif comes on TPE to discuss the war with India, the war with Afghanistan, Imran Khan destroying politics, the hybrid regime, PML-N, the Mehdi Hasan Interview, 27th Amendment and more.The Pakistan Experience is an independently produced podcast looking to tell stories about Pakistan through conversations. Please consider supporting us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/thepakistanexperienceTo support the channel:Jazzcash/Easypaisa - 0325 -2982912Patreon.com/thepakistanexperienceAnd Please stay in touch:https://twitter.com/ThePakistanExp1https://www.facebook.com/thepakistanexperiencehttps://instagram.com/thepakistanexpeperienceThe podcast is hosted by comedian and writer, Shehzad Ghias Shaikh. Shehzad is a Fulbright scholar with a Masters in Theatre from Brooklyn College. He is also one of the foremost Stand-up comedians in Pakistan and frequently writes for numerous publications. Instagram.com/shehzadghiasshaikhFacebook.com/Shehzadghias/Twitter.com/shehzad89Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC44l9XMwecN5nSgIF2Dvivg/joinChapters0:00 Introduction1:30 Politicians being vilified 5:00 The culture of politics 11:09 Did Imran Khan destroy politics?18:58 How long will PTI be blamed for everything?30:20 Khawaja Asif's tweet on Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan33:00 Pakistan's Afghanistan policy38:14 Single National Curriculum 39:51 Pakistan's involvement in Afghanistan 47:00 Balochistan and Deporting Afghans51:00 Pakistan-Afghanistan talks57:06 Hot Pursuit, India and Afghanistan 1:03:00 Future of Pakistan-Afghanistan1:08:00 Operation Sindoor and India1:10:30 Iran Border1:12:55 Mehdi Hasan Interview1:15:27 Elections Fairness and Hybrid Regime1:28:41 Israel and the two-state solution1:30:29 Audience Questions, Education and Conclusion
Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
Day 1,370.Today, as the United States holds secret talks with separate Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi, we unpack the emerging 19-point peace plan – and react live on air to breaking reports that President Zelensky has agreed to the framework of a potential deal. We then gauge the mood in Europe's capitals: is this a moment of quiet strategy and resolution, or rising panic as the diplomatic landscape shifts beneath their feet?ContributorsFrancis 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.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 ‘agrees' to Trump's amended peace deal (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/25/russia-ukraine-zelensky-putin-war-latest-news5338/ Trump and Zelensky set for crunch talks on peace plan (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/11/24/trump-zelensky-ukraine-peace-plan-talks/ Battle for Ukraine splits Trump's top team (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/11/25/ukraines-future-depends-who-wins-battle-white-house/ How Trump's 28-point plan for Ukraine shocked the world (Axios):https://www.axios.com/2025/11/24/trump-ukraine-plan-28-points-back-story Japan to deploy missiles to island near Taiwan, Defence Minister sayshttps://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/japan-to-deploy-missiles-to-island-near-taiwan-defence-minister-says US and Ukraine draft new 19-point peace plan but defer biggest decisions (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/883e5a47-430c-4fc2-85ee-cd6af9bb599d Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“Everyone has a role to play”, those are the words of today's guest Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Sweden's first minister for civil defence since 1947. Bohlin has become a key figure in Sweden's evolving security landscape, as threats against Europe are rapidly increasing by the day. Grey zone aggression – covert actions that fall short of open military conflict – is on the rise, and countries along Russia's eastern flank are on the frontline: from cyber attacks, disinformation and drone sightings. As the war in Ukraine is set to enter its fourth year and with no end in sight, countries like Sweden are urging European allies to take civilian preparedness seriously. Carl-Oskar Bohlin speaks to us during a visit to Paris.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has called for the urgent appointment of a substantive Defence Minister to effectively steer the affairs of the ministry. He noted that although the acting Defence Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, is competent, the demands and pressures of the office require a permanent appointment
A view Australia's recent military alliance with Papua New Guinea could be the springboard for a wider 'Pacific Eyes' alliance. Australian think-tank Lowy Institute's proposing an intelligence sharing agreement between us, Australia, PNG and Fiji to counter China's influence in the region. It claims it'd also help tackle trans-national crime and climate-related disasters. Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says it would be a tough deal to negotiate, but it's feasible. He says Australia's alliance is about sharing more intelligence and cooperating more, like this proposed deal. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Japan set to welcome first female PM following coalition deal; Defence Minister says jobs expected to flow from AUKUS defence agreement; And in AFL, coaches named ahead of first State of Origin game in almost 27 years.
Australia welcomes Israel and the Hamas signing the first phase of peace deal; India's Defence Minister visits Australia, as both countries deepen defence ties; and in sport, Matildas coach Joe Montem calls for more investment in A-League Women teams.
"Made in New Zealand" - Defence Minister Judith Collins hopes to put that label on more drones and weapons around the world. The new Defence Industry Strategy, announced today, aims to boost local defence businesses and encourage tech companies to branch out into military technology. Felix Walton reports.
Togolese Prime Minister Faure Gnassingbe's sister-in-law, who's also the ex Defence Minister, has been arrested after calling for end to family rule.How aid cuts and crocodile attacks are contributing to malnutrition in northern Kenya.And why do Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso apparently want to leave the International Criminal Court?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers : Mark Wilberforce, Bella Hassan, Nyasha Michelle and Sunita Nahar in London. Jewel Kiriungi in Nairobi. Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical producer: Jack Graysmark. Editors: Andre Lombard, Samuel Murunga, Maryam Abdalla and Alice Muthengi
Are two headline-grabbing incidents—the overnight Russian drone incursion into Poland and the explosion of eight Polish gas tankers on a train in Lithuania—part of the same campaign? Dr. Artis Pabriks thinks so. The former Latvian Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister, now chairman of the Northern Defence Policy Centre, joins us to explain why he believes the events are connected and why he holds Russia responsible. He also lays out what NATO can do next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the Netherlands' Defence Minister says Dutch F-35 fighter jets shot down Russian drones over Poland earlier today.
Defence Minister Judith Collins says New Zealand's support for Ukraine remains "steadfast". Collins spoke to Corin Dann.
Defence Minister Judith Collins has had frontline access to the war in Ukraine. She's returned from the war-torn country, visiting sites impacted by Russia's three and a half year long invasion. Collins met with Ukraine's Defence Minister while there, alongside speaking with the Foreign Minister, the Office of the President, and Deputy Minister of Defence. She told Mike Hosking it's a difficult situation. Collin says the Ukrainians are not giving in, but they do want a ceasefire, and they do worry about the people being slaughtered. The Defence Minister says she saw appalling behaviour from Russia, with war crime after war crime. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A post-war plan for Gaza is circulating within the US government. Meanwhile, Israel's Defence Minister says its forces have killed a Hamas spokesman in a strike on Gaza.And a flotilla of 20 boats has set sail from Barcelona for Gaza, in hopes of getting past Israel's blockade.
Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970). We're back to Hammer Horror, back to Christopher Lee, and back to Dracula. In this episode of General Witchfinders, we sink our teeth into Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970), the fifth official film in Hammer's Dracula series and our sixth Hammer Dracula review to date. You can find links to all previous vampire escapades at https://tinyurl.com/Witchdrac. This British gothic horror classic, directed by Peter Sasdy and written by Hammer regular Anthony Hinds (under the alias John Elder), was nearly a Dracula-free affair. Christopher Lee had originally declined to return, and the script focused instead on Ralph Bates's doomed Lord Courtley. But Warner Bros. insisted: no Dracula, no deal. So #BigChrisLee once again rises from the grave — bloodthirsty, silent, and furiously regretting his contract. Taste the Blood of Dracula opens with a satanic ritual involving Dracula's powdered remains, a trio of Victorian hypocrites, and the ill-fated resurrection of evil. It's a moody, blood-soaked revenge tale packed with brooding graveyards and Hammer's trademark blend of sex, sin and satin capes. Cast Highlights:Christopher Lee as Count Dracula — in his fourth Dracula outing for Hammer.Ralph Bates as Lord Courtley — Hammer's would-be replacement for Lee.Geoffrey Keen as William Hargood — a patriarch with a hidden penchant for brothels.Linda Hayden as Alice Hargood — the daughter turned devotee, previously seen in Baby Love and The Blood on Satan's Claw.Peter Sallis as Samuel Paxton — yes, that Peter Sallis: Cleggy, Wallace, and voice of animated British melancholy.Roy Kinnear as Weller — bringing tragic optimism, as only Kinnear can. There's Hammer horror royalty in every frame, from Linda Hayden's eerie innocence to Ralph Bates's foppish devilry. And Geoffrey Keen? You may recognise him as Sir Frederick Gray, the Defence Minister across six Bond films — The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, A View to a Kill and The Living Daylights. Ralph Bates, meanwhile, would go on to star in Dr Jekyll and Sister Hyde, The Horror of Frankenstein, Lust for a Vampire, becoming one of Hammer's key players. He also turned up in the final season of Secret Army (inspiring 'Allo 'Allo), and was once considered for major roles in Lifeforce — as discussed back in episode 39.Peter Sallis, who we last touched on in our Nicolas Lyndhurst deep-dive (episode 54), had an extraordinary career in British television, from Doctor Who to The Wind in the Willows to Wallace & Gromit. His role in this film might be brief, but his CV is longer than Dracula's cape. And finally, Roy Kinnear: from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory to Help!, Watership Down, Blake's 7, and beyond — always brilliant, always beleaguered. Trivia for the diehards:This film was part of a double bill with Crescendo on release.The infamous brothel scene was trimmed from the theatrical cut but restored for later DVD editions.Released just 22 weeks before Scars of Dracula (covered back in episode 28). Whether you're a lifelong Hammer horror collector, a Christopher Lee completist, or simply a fan of vintage British horror with gothic flair, Taste the Blood of Dracula is essential viewing.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/general-witchfinders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
India's next defence leap needs American fighter pilot John Boyd's ‘do something' philosophy.
Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonSocial links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypodA few hours after the U.S. Army, under orders from President Donald Trump, bombed Iran's nuclear facilities, Yonit sat down for an in-depth conversation with former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They discussed the ongoing operation in Iran, the aftermath of October 7th, the ICC arrest warrant—and even found a glimpse of optimism for the region's future.
A round-up of the main headlines in Sweden on June 16th, 2025. You can hear more reports on our homepage www.radiosweden.se, or in the app Sveriges Radio Play. Presenter: Dave Russell, Producer: Kris Boswell
Ottawa accepts Ontario's request for federal assistance with wildfires.Donald Trump orders National Guard to L.A. following immigration raids. Israel's Defence Minister says he has instructed the military to stop a boat carrying aid and activist Greta Thunberg from reaching Gaza.Colombian presidential hopeful survives assassination attempt. Italy holds referendum on who gets citizenship.A small town in southern Manitoba held it first-ever pride parade Saturday.
BBC Defence Correspondent Jonathan Beale speaks to Dovilė Šakalienė, Lithuania's Defence Minister.The Baltic nation, along with its neighbours Latvia and Estonia, share a border with Russia, and have nervously watched the invasion of Ukraine, fearing they could be next.All three countries have had turbulent relationships with their much larger neighbour, Russia. They were annexed by the Soviet Union during the Second World War, and were subject to decades of rule from Moscow up until the end of the Cold War.In 2004, Lithuania joined both the European Union and NATO, and just over a decade later, adopted the Euro as its currency. But despite looking westwards, the country has always kept one eye on developments over its eastern border in Russia.Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian region of Crimea in 2014 set off alarm bells in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, and when the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia began in 2022, Lithuania and its neighbours began fearing - and preparing - for the worst.The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Jonathan Beale Producer: Ben Cooper Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
PRC: Another condemned Defence Minister. Rick Fisher, Gordon Chang 1910 Shanghai