Podcasts about european allies

Tara breaks down the staggering $663 billion the U.S. has spent on European defense over the past decade—including Ukraine and NATO initiatives—and why our allies still refuse to show up when it matters. From the Strait of Hormuz to Iran threats, she explains how Europe relies on American military power while scoffing at U.S. leadership. Plus, a look at the failures of diplomacy and the real cost to Americans.

SEG 14 The Fragile Alliance and European War Hesitation The panel discusses why European allies hesitate to join the US in Iran, citing domestic unrest and a significant technological gap between military forces. (6)JANUARY 1951

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Special Brief of The Wright Report, Bryan delivers the latest on the widening war with Iran and the global economic and military consequences now unfolding across the Middle East and beyond.  Bryan begins with the tragic confirmation that six U.S. service members were killed by an Iranian drone strike at a U.S. base in Kuwait, while Tehran continues launching missile and drone attacks across the region targeting Oman, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. The conflict is now rattling global markets as LNG shipments halt, oil hubs burn, and the battle over the Strait of Hormuz threatens energy supplies for Asia and Europe. The episode then moves inside Iran, where U.S. and Israeli forces have struck thousands of targets including a secret nuclear facility outside Tehran uncovered through surveillance and intelligence cooperation between the CIA and Mossad. Iran's air defenses, missile systems, and much of its navy have been destroyed, giving allied forces near-total control of the skies as the war grinds forward. Bryan also covers the expanding regional front as Israeli forces move into Lebanon to confront Hezbollah, while global powers reposition around the conflict. Russia benefits from rising oil prices, China quietly sits on large oil reserves while watching Taiwan, and Europe scrambles to protect its energy supplies as the war reshapes global alliances. Finally, Bryan explains the political battle now unfolding in Washington, where lawmakers are debating presidential war powers, the legality of the Iran operation, and whether the true objective of the conflict is limited strikes or full regime change in Tehran.   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: March 4 2026 Wright Report, Iran war escalation Kuwait drone strike US casualties, Strait of Hormuz oil crisis LNG disruption, CIA Mossad intelligence Iran nuclear facility strike, Hezbollah Lebanon Israel conflict expansion, Russia oil profits Ukraine missile shortage, China oil reserves Taiwan surveillance reduction, Trump war powers debate Iran conflict, global recession risk energy shock

Both President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth expressing disappointment that some traditional U.S. allies are pushing back on the use of force against Iran while Washington presses forward with its campaign against the terror state. The criticism reflects growing frustration inside the administration that while some European capitals have issued statements of support, operational backing has not matched the rhetoric, raising fresh questions about NATO cohesion at a moment of escalation. Spain refused U.S. permission to use certain bases for strikes on Iran, and Turkey has also criticized the operation and warned of broader regional destabilization. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Victoria Coates, former deputy national security advisor to President Donald Trump, Vice President of the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at The Heritage Foundation, and author of 'The Battle for the Jewish State: How Israel―and America―Can Win,' who says the lack of support by longtime allies is surprising, and it could have a large effect on the balance power in the world. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Both President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth expressing disappointment that some traditional U.S. allies are pushing back on the use of force against Iran while Washington presses forward with its campaign against the terror state. The criticism reflects growing frustration inside the administration that while some European capitals have issued statements of support, operational backing has not matched the rhetoric, raising fresh questions about NATO cohesion at a moment of escalation. Spain refused U.S. permission to use certain bases for strikes on Iran, and Turkey has also criticized the operation and warned of broader regional destabilization. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Victoria Coates, former deputy national security advisor to President Donald Trump, Vice President of the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at The Heritage Foundation, and author of 'The Battle for the Jewish State: How Israel―and America―Can Win,' who says the lack of support by longtime allies is surprising, and it could have a large effect on the balance power in the world. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO, that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 20 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following:https://x.com/i/status/2028822514130977201 https://x.com/i/status/2028819290950906342 https://x.com/i/status/2028881468219396421https://x.com/i/status/2028775362746880143 https://x.com/i/status/2028746334673441103 https://x.com/i/status/2028708196588855666https://x.com/i/status/2028966913615724827 https://x.com/i/status/2028817668975767850 https://x.com/i/status/2028829656116318287 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Voiced by Jamie East, using AI, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Both President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth expressing disappointment that some traditional U.S. allies are pushing back on the use of force against Iran while Washington presses forward with its campaign against the terror state. The criticism reflects growing frustration inside the administration that while some European capitals have issued statements of support, operational backing has not matched the rhetoric, raising fresh questions about NATO cohesion at a moment of escalation. Spain refused U.S. permission to use certain bases for strikes on Iran, and Turkey has also criticized the operation and warned of broader regional destabilization. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Victoria Coates, former deputy national security advisor to President Donald Trump, Vice President of the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at The Heritage Foundation, and author of 'The Battle for the Jewish State: How Israel―and America―Can Win,' who says the lack of support by longtime allies is surprising, and it could have a large effect on the balance power in the world. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Biden-era Iran debacle is exposed — and Donald Trump has a plan. In this episode, we decode Trump's message to the Iranian people and break down the chaotic legacy of Democrat foreign policy: How Joe Biden's unfreezing of billions for Iran fueled attacks on U.S. troops and allies The scale of Iranian aggression: 223 strikes on U.S. bases, three service members killed, 186 wounded, 130 with lifelong traumatic brain injuries Why Trump's first-year actions dramatically reduced attacks compared to Biden's tenure The stakes for Europe and U.S. troops abroad, and how Democrats failed to protect American lives Plus, insights from Mike Pompeo on how Obama-Biden-era policies empowered Iran, and why the Trump administration is executing a strategy to correct it — keeping the American military and allies safe while holding Iran accountable. This episode exposes the stark contrast between Democrat inaction and Trump's decisive approach to national security. Opening Tease (On-Air Hook) Billions in cash. Hundreds of attacks. American lives at risk. Trump knows the stakes — and he's sending a message the mullahs can't ignore.

UBIO'S MUNICH SPEECH PREVIEW FOR LATER: Judy Dempsey reports that Marco Rubio's Munich speech was poorly received, described as vapid and lacking reassurance regarding the US commitment to European allies. Guest: Judy Dempsey1810

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is offering a reassuring message to U.S. allies. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports.

As the United States turns its back on Ukraine, will the European Allies step up? Professor Alexander Motyl of Rutgers University analyzes the current situation.

SEGMENT 1: GREENLAND, NATO, AND TRUMP'S REVERSALS Guest: Anatol Lieven, Co-Host: Jim McTague Lieven examines Trump's shifting positions on Greenland and NATO, unsettling European allies who question American reliability. Discussion covers the proposed Board of Peace concept and how Trump's unpredictable rhetoric complicates alliance management, leaving partners uncertain whether commitments will hold or dissolve without warning.1810 BRUSSELS

Today's National Days. Jonathan Savage as House Speaker Johnson makes history as the first ever sitting House Speaker to address Britain's Parliament, telling them that he had come to "calm the waters," as tensions between Washington and its European allies have intensified. Another World Record attempt for the show. Lawyer Jeremy Rosenthal on Erica Kirk's efforts to get a speedy trial in Utah and the latest on Timothy Busfield.

Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger PictureThe Danes are pushing back and they are planning to sell all US Treasuries. The EU is moving forward with the Great Reset. The US and EU are moving in opposite directions. SC hearing the Fed case, Cook committed fraud. Message is clear, globalism has failed. The [DS] is now planning to push the agenda of shutting down the midterm elections. They are pushing an insurrection to push Trump into shutting down the election. The opposite will happen, Trump is preparing to make it possible to have one day voting. The message is clear, expose the criminal syndicate and the crimes they have committed to the people of this country. Then once the people understand, arrest those involved. Finally win the midterms to have accountability. This is not just a 4 year election.   Economy (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2013609922974421502?s=20  push for Greenland. https://twitter.com/WallStreetMav/status/2013591319399092551?s=20 https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2013563044270383434?s=20 Europe is going for a digital Euro which will allow people to be cut off financially in 2029 if they say anything the government doesn't like    https://twitter.com/profstonge/status/2013589829951615468?s=20 Supreme Court to hear Trump case on firing Federal Reserve governor  Howard Lutnick: “Globalism Has Failed”…  The fully engaged Trump MAGAnomic team begin their outlines to the World Economic Forum in Davos with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and the top line announcement, “Globalism has failed the United States of America.”   Lutnick explains the reason are for President Trump's policy. Why would the EU destroy it's own energy policy?  “Why would Europe agree to be ‘net-zero' in 2030, when they don't make a battery,” he asked.  Thus, the pragmatic realism of policy intersects with the hypocritical action and creates an outcome that no one can explain.  “So, if they go 2030, they are intentionally deciding to be subservient to China who makes the batteries,” he continued.  This makes absolutely no sense. Source: theconservativetreehouse.com Political/Rights https://twitter.com/KristiNoem/status/2013275291385319855?s=20   last 6 weeks, our brave DHS law enforcement have arrested 3,000 criminal illegal aliens including vicious murderers, rapists, child pedophiles and incredibly dangerous individuals. A HUGE victory for public safety. There is MASSIVE Fraud in Minneapolis, at least $19 billion and that's just the tip of iceberg. Our Homeland Security Investigators are on the ground in Minneapolis conducting wide scale investigations to get justice for the American people who have been robbed blind. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN https://twitter.com/rawsalerts/status/2013058985125929230?s=20 https://twitter.com/libsoftiktok/status/2013363079086567449?s=20 https://twitter.com/lukerosiak/status/2013419999000424488?s=20   Minnesota Transgender State Rep. Leigh Finke Calls on Anti-ICE Protestors to Storm More Churches  Minnesota transgender State Rep. Leigh Finke called on leftists to storm more churches in protest of ICE. Far-left anti-ICE protestors stormed Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Sunday. Source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/mrddmia/status/2013337519853834307?s=20  ” Don Lemon can go to hell. But he must go to federal prison first. https://twitter.com/AAGDhillon/status/2013311806647738613?s=20   anything but a Government job. Investigate these Corrupt Politicians, and do it now! https://twitter.com/RealJessica/status/2013413159663534169?s=20 https://twitter.com/TheLastRefuge2/status/2013437081947640243?s=20   DOGE Geopolitical https://twitter.com/AwakenedOutlaw/status/2013431594967802038?s=20   candidates who will do precisely that. Turns out you can just do things. https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2013607858760196486?s=20 https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2013614189823004938?s=20   https://twitter.com/DataRepublican/status/2013597058142294419?s=20 https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2013624149948723648?s=20    extremely important land is an act of GREAT STUPIDITY, and is another in a very long line of National Security reasons why Greenland has to be acquired. Denmark and its European Allies have to DO THE RIGHT THING. Thank you for your attention to this matter. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP https://twitter.com/HungaryBased/status/2013364583168098337?s=20   https://twitter.com/nettermike/status/2013455319201128884?s=20   Cold War – Eisenhower → Kennedy: nonstop negotiations for bases, radar, missiles. Post–Cold War – Clinton/Bush/Obama: expanded Arctic security & missile defense. 2019 – Trump: said publicly what presidents discussed privately for 150+ years. The U.S. didn't “suddenly” want Greenland. It's been defending it, negotiating it, and embedding there since the 1800s. Greenland = Arctic power, shipping lanes, missiles, minerals. Trump didn't invent it. He said the quiet part out loud. https://twitter.com/scrowder/status/2013340689522925582?s=20  2/3 of NATO defense costs. That imbalance, and the arrogance behind it, is why Greenland is on the table.   https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2013591373006676322?s=20   Reports: Iranian Regime Accused of Using Chemical Agents in Crackdown on Protesters  The Iranian regime is accused of using deadly chemicals against the protesters who want the regime replaced. Growing allegations that the Islamic Republic of Iran may have used chemical agents against protesters have intensified scrutiny of the regime's most recent crackdown, described by observers as the deadliest suppression of public dissent in the country's modern history. The claims gained momentum following the circulation of footage from Sabzevar showing Iranian security forces equipped with protective gear typically associated with hazardous chemical environments, as well as testimony from protesters in Tehran describing prolonged and unusual medical symptoms after exposure to what authorities labeled “tear gas.” Video at Iran So Far Away.     source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/GBNT1952/status/2013441161247998050?s=20 This is how states demonstrate commitment along a shared line of effort without firing a shot: visible logistics, presence, and implied backing that complicate an opponent's decision cycle. This is also why the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is on the way to the Middle East as we speak. From a doctrinal standpoint, this kind of move deliberately raises the escalation ladder, forcing US planners to account not just for Iranian responses, but for second and third order effects involving a near peer competitor. That reality likely explains why President Trump has avoided striking Iranian targets, because any kinetic action now risks collapsing the problem set from a regional contingency into a multi theater confrontation. In simple terms, Iran stops being a standalone target and becomes part of a larger system tied to Chinese interests, and no serious commander ignores force posture, alliance signaling, and deterrence dynamics when weighing an OPLAN. China obviously understands this, which is precisely why these moves matter: they restrict American freedom of action by design, without ever needing to engage directly. Thus the Iran problem becomes even more complex. War/Peace https://twitter.com/DougAMacgregor/status/2013468575055405338?s=20 https://twitter.com/HansMahncke/status/2013426712839614628?s=20 Oh Dear – The Wall Street Journal Just Realized, President Trump is Making U.N. Functionally Obsolescent  The Wall Street Journal just realized the purpose of President Trump inviting world leaders to a new structure of global leadership. As the outlet contemplates the mission of the “Gaza Board” they recognize the bigger intention, the nullification of the United Nations. WASHINGTON DC – President Trump has expanded the mission of his proposed Gaza Board of Peace into a global body that would take on the role mediating conflicts currently held by the United Nations and carry a $1 billion fee for a permanent seat, according to a charter sent to prospective members. “It's hard not to read this as an attempt to establish a precedent in Gaza that could be used elsewhere in terms of saying that Trump is going to be calling the global shots here, and you either fall in line or you're not part of the process,” said Julien Barnes-Dacey, director of the Middle East and North Africa program at the European Council on Foreign Relations. (read more) Figured that out all on their own, did they? Source: theconservativetreehouse.com Medical/False Flags [DS] Agenda https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2013471087640686700?s=20 BUSTED: California Ordered to Return $1+ BILLION After Dr. Oz–Led Audit Exposes Federal Healthcare Funds Spent on Illegal Immigrants The Trump administration has dropped the hammer on California and a coalition of deep-blue states after a sweeping federal audit uncovered more than $1.3 billion in misused federal healthcare funds spent on non-emergency medical care for illegal immigrants, a clear violation of federal law. A Federal auditors identified nearly $1.4 billion owed back to U.S. taxpayers, with California alone accounting for the overwhelming majority: California: ~$1.3 billion New York: ~$30.7 million Illinois: ~$29.8 million Minnesota: ~$12.7 million Oregon: ~$5.4 million Washington: ~$2.3 million Washington, D.C.: ~$2.1 million Colorado: ~$1.5 million TOTAL: ~$1.394 billion These funds were billed to the federal government for routine medical care, not emergencies, an explicit violation of Medicaid rules. WATCH: https://twitter.com/USAttyEssayli/status/2013360442626973796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2013360442626973796%7Ctwgr%5E80a417827250e274cad382abb10aebc715484685%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegatewaypundit.com%2F2026%2F01%2Fbusted-california-ordered-return-1-billion-after-dr%2F Source: thegatewaypudit.com https://twitter.com/FBI_Response/status/2013361891712631238?s=20   are th https://twitter.com/BehizyTweets/status/2013417355272130860?s=20 https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/2013350008733487510?s=20   brackets of 8% and 10% on people making over $600K.  – A new 10% tax bracket for anyone making over $1M. – 3.8% investment tax on top of state income taxes. – Raise the hotel tax. – New personal property tax on landscaping equipment. – Ban gas powered leaf blowers. – Guarantee illegal aliens free education. – Make it illegal to approach somebody at an abortion clinic. – Extend the time absentee ballots can be received after election day to three days – Allow people to cast their votes electronically through the internet. – Expand ranked-choice voting. – Extend the deadline for ballot curing to one week after election day. – Redact the addresses of political candidates from FOIAs. – Add Virginia to the National Popular Vote Compact for presidential electors. – Make it illegal to hand count ballots. – $500 sales tax on firearm suppressors . – “Assault weapons” and large capacity magazine ban. – 11% sales tax on all firearms and ammunition. – Prohibit outdoor shooting of a firearm on land less than 5 acres. – Lower the criminal penalties for robbery. – Ban the arrest of illegal aliens in courthouses. – Remove mandatory minimum sentences. – Allow localities to install speed cameras.  Replace Columbus Day with “Indigenous Peoples Day.” https://twitter.com/nedryun/status/2013371388653117889?s=20  an existential threat to their party.” President Trump's Plan The Insurrection Act could be a dress rehearsal for interfering in the midterms President Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act, a statute first enacted in 1792, allowing him to deploy the military inside the United States in response to protests in Minnesota. The largely peaceful protests intensified after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency officer shot and killed Reneé Good, a Minneapolis mother, after an encounter. “If the corrupt politicians of Minnesota don't obey the law and stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the Patriots of ICE who are only trying to do their job, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT,” Trump wrote last Thursday morning on Truth Social, adding that the move would “quickly put an end to the travesty that is taking place in that once great state.” He has already alerted 1,500 troops in Alaska for possible deployment to Minnesota. If he does it, the action will certainly face legal challenges. Occasional acts of violence do not an insurrection make. But don't bet on the Supreme Court to block Trump from invoking the law. Before this court, the bottom line is that Trump usually wins.   Americans have been traditionally uncomfortable with the use of the military for domestic law enforcement. Granted, the law gives the president power to deploy troops in an emergency. Trump tried it with the National Guard in Chicago but was shot down by the Supreme Court because of the statutory requirement of showing that “regular forces,” namely the military, would not be effective in executing the law.  Does Trump see the deployment of the military in Minnesota as a dress rehearsal for the armed forces policing key polling places to intimidate voters and seize voting machines? A slippery slope is always dangerous, and a slippery slope from a fragile democracy to a malignant authoritarianism is a real red flag for all of us. Source: thehill.com https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/2013682627941630020?s=20 https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/2013329534729285982?s=20   It's all one giant criminal conspiracy, imbedded within our own system. Uprooting it, while managing public perception, is not an easy or straightforward task. This is why the Insurrection Act and the NG Quick Reaction Force are so important, because the enemy we are facing is within. Foreign adversaries have infiltrated the United States, and they used the Democrat Party as a vehicle to destroy this nation from within. The US MIL must be on standby to safeguard the public, because the Dems are going to try to burn this nation to the ground in an attempt to avoid accountability for their crimes . That's what you are witnessing right now. A cold/warm civil war, that the Dems are trying to turn into a hot civil war. https://twitter.com/DC_Draino/status/2013410848186798440?s=20  https://twitter.com/thomasjeans/status/2013481182785077577?s=20  https://twitter.com/justicecometh/status/2013434601935376795?s=20  https://twitter.com/TheNatConvo/status/2010225316598559209?s=20  https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2013577244950851725?s=20   (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");

Alicia Menendez is in for Nicolle Wallace. Alicia explores the GOP response to the Trump administration's push to annex Greenland and the resulting tension between the U.S. and its European allies.Later, Alicia covers the DOJ investigation into Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor of Minnesota Tim Walz. These investigations were announced after the Trump administration and state leaders butt heads over ICE's presence in Minneapolis.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

European allies rebuff Trump over Greenland -- we'll hear the case FOR a US takeover. Dozens dead in Spain as in a high-speed train crash. We speak to a survivor Was it thrilling or was it shameful? The sensational conclusion to Africa's top football tournament. and the Italian fashion legend - Valentino - has died.

Monday 19 January 2026 The World Economic Forum kicks off tonight in Davos, 48 hours after US President Donald Trump slapped tariffs on European Allies, which will remain until they agree to sell him Greenland. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shelves half his racial vilification legislation as parliament sits for a two day summer session The remarkable improvement in cancer recovery rates Holiday makers into Australia surge The Australian Tennis Open kicks off Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, your money bounceback plan. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump has threatened the UK and its European allies with escalating trade tariffs unless the United States is permitted to purchase Greenland. In a social media post, he said a 10% levy would take effect from the 1st of February, rising to 25% from the 1st of June if no deal is reached. Trump added that the US is “immediately open to negotiation” with Denmark and the other countries involved.

We welcome author Shane Almgren (The Trumpland Diary) to unpack a week that feels like it fell out of a dystopian novel: militarized police in Minnesota, deranged propaganda around the Renee Good shooting, a quiet Five-Alarm Fire at the White House involving Big Oil, a sitting U.S. Senator suing the Secretary of Defense, and a full-scale political revolt inside the GOP over Trump's criminal probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.These five stories, taken together, tell us something essential about the moment we're in, and also about the growing wave of resistance and pushback that may represent a  bright spot ahead.Referenced articles from today's stream: This Is Actually Happening → https://worthknowing.substack.com/p/this-is-actually-happening Does the Trump Crowd Actually Get Off On This? → https://worthknowing.substack.com/p/does-the-trump-crowd-actually-get A Five-Alarm Fire at the White House → https://worthknowing.substack.com/p/a-five-alarm-fire-at-the-white-house The Trumpland Diary → https://trumplanddiary.substack.com/00:00 Introduction and Today's Agenda01:58 Emerging Police State in Minnesota04:59 Sadistic Lies and Psychological Research07:43 Trump's Cognitive Decline and Public Reactions10:34 Resistance and Pushback Against Trump19:54 Trump's Cruelty and Sociopathic Tendencies30:01 Untrained Officers and Trump's Responsibility30:52 RFK Jr.'s Senate Confirmation and Vaccine Stance31:46 Trump's Greenland Obsession and Geographic Misunderstandings33:41 European Allies and Military Presence in Greenland34:46 Trump's Unhinged Military Speech and Illegal Orders37:27 The Impact of Trump's Policies on Science and Foreign Aid44:00 Technocracy and the Influence of Tech Billionaires52:44 The Future of Trump's Administration and Competing Agendas56:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

United States President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that Washington must "own" Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, triggering concern and criticism among its European allies.美国总统唐纳德·特朗普多次声称华盛顿必须“拥有”丹麦自治领地格陵兰岛，此举引发欧洲盟友的担忧与批评。Experts said the remarks highlighted a strategic dilemma facing the European Union in managing its relations with the US and risk weakening the trans-Atlantic alliance.专家指出，这些言论凸显了欧盟在处理与美国关系时面临的战略困境，并可能削弱跨大西洋联盟。Trump has made several statements recently about his intention to acquire Greenland. He said on Friday that he is going to do "something on Greenland, whether they like it or not". If it is not done "the easy way, we're going to do it the hard way", he said, without elaborating on what that could entail.特朗普近日多次表态有意收购格陵兰岛。他周五表示，无论格陵兰方面是否同意，他都将“对格陵兰采取行动”。他称若无法“通过友好方式解决，我们将采取强硬手段”，但未具体说明可能采取的措施。The White House said it is considering a range of options, including using military force, to acquire the island.白宫表示正在考虑多种方案，包括动用军事力量，以夺取该岛。Greenland's leaders have rejected Trump's repeated calls for the US to take control of the island, saying that Greenland's future must be decided by its people.格陵兰岛领导人已拒绝特朗普多次呼吁美国接管该岛的提议，称格陵兰岛的未来必须由其人民决定。"We don't want to be Americans, we don't want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders," Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and four party leaders said in a statement on Friday.丹麦格陵兰岛自治政府总理延斯·弗雷德里克·尼尔森与四位主要政党领袖发表声明称：“我们不愿成为美国人，不愿成为丹麦人，我们只想成为格陵兰人。”"As Greenlandic party leaders, we would like to emphasize once again our wish that the United States' contempt for our country ends."“作为格陵兰政党领导人，我们再次强调，我们希望美国对我国的轻蔑态度能够终止。”German Finance Minister and Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil said on Sunday that international law applies to all, including the US.德国财政部长兼副总理拉尔斯·克林拜尔周日表示，国际法适用于所有人，包括美国。"It is solely up to Denmark and Greenland to decide about Greenland's future. Territorial sovereignty and integrity must be respected," Klingbeil said.克林拜尔表示：“格陵兰岛的未来完全由丹麦和格陵兰共同决定。必须尊重领土主权和完整。”Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that a US takeover of Greenland would mark the end of NATO.丹麦首相梅特·弗雷泽里克森警告称，美国若接管格陵兰岛，将标志着北约的终结。According to a report by The Telegraph on Saturday, several European countries are considering deploying troops to the Arctic, hoping that a significantly enhanced presence in the region woulddissuade Trump from pursuing ambitions toannex the strategically important island.据《每日电讯报》周六报道，多个欧洲国家正考虑向北极地区派遣军队，希望通过大幅增强在该地区的军事存在，阻止特朗普实现吞并这座具有重要战略意义岛屿的野心。The report also said the EU is drawing up contingency plans to impose sanctions on US companies should Trump reject a proposed NATO deployment. Under the plans, US technology giants such as Meta, Google, Microsoft and X could face restrictions on operating in Europe, along with US banks and financial institutions.该报告还称，若特朗普拒绝北约部署提案，欧盟正制定应急计划对美国企业实施制裁。根据计划，Meta、谷歌、微软和X等美国科技巨头以及美国银行和金融机构在欧洲的运营都可能面临限制。Strategic turn战略转向Zhao Yongsheng, a researcher at the Research Institute for Global Value Chains at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said Trump's Greenland remarks reflect a strategic turn toward "America first", a shift that is likely to strain US-EU relations and erode mutual trust within NATO.北京对外经济贸易大学全球价值链研究院研究员赵永升指出，特朗普关于格陵兰岛的言论反映出美国战略重心转向“美国优先”，这种转变可能加剧美欧关系紧张，并侵蚀北约内部的互信。Trump, invoking geopolitics as a pretext, attempted to "own" Greenland, driven in reality by the island's abundant mineral resources and the increasingly favorable navigational conditions of the Arctic shipping route, Zhao said.赵永升指出，特朗普打着地缘政治的幌子，企图“拥有”格陵兰岛，其真实动机在于该岛丰富的矿产资源以及北极航道日益便利的航行条件。Europe's overall influence is waning across economic, political, military and technological dimensions, he said. Therefore, facing pressure from the US, the EU finds it difficult to take a firm retaliatory stance.赵永升表示，欧洲在经济、政治、军事和技术等各个层面的整体影响力正在减弱。因此，面对美国的压力，欧盟难以采取强硬的反击立场。"The US-EU alliance will endure, but the basis of trust has shifted. It now relies less on shared values, ideologies or institutional frameworks, but more onpragmatic interests," he said.赵永升如是说：“美欧联盟将持续存在，但信任基础已发生转变。如今它更多地依赖务实利益，而非共同价值观、意识形态或制度框架。”The Greenland dispute may not be the final blow to NATO or trans-Atlantic relations, but the US is likely to further expand its military, security and geoeconomic presence on the island, while European distrust of Washington deepens, he said.格陵兰岛争端或许不会成为北约或跨大西洋关系的致命一击，但赵永升表示，美国很可能进一步扩大在该岛的军事、安全和地缘经济存在，而欧洲对华盛顿的不信任感将持续加深。He Yun, a researcher at the Belt and Road Strategy Institute of Tsinghua University, said the move by the US has exposed the fragility of the NATO alliance and poses a challenge to global multilateral mechanisms and security frameworks.清华大学“一带一路”战略研究院研究员何韵指出，美国的这一举动暴露了北约联盟的脆弱性，对全球多边机制和安全框架构成挑战。"Trump's remarks have underscored for Europe that the US is no longer just a security provider, but could also emerge as its greatest security threat. This shift delivers a severe blow to strategic trust between the two sides," she said.何韵表示：“特朗普的言论让欧洲深刻意识到，美国不再仅仅是安全保障者，反而可能成为其最大的安全威胁。这种转变对双方的战略信任造成了严重打击。”The political premise of NATO's collective security has long been that the US serves as the core guarantor of European security. Should Washington retreat into a focus on domestic priorities at the expense of its NATO commitments, the alliance's collective defense mechanism would be rendered hollow, undermining both the trust and the strength that it relies on, He said.何韵指出：北约集体安全的政治前提长期以来是美国作为欧洲安全的核心保障者。若华盛顿为专注国内事务而削弱对北约的承诺，该联盟的集体防御机制将形同虚设，既会动摇其赖以生存的信任基础，也会削弱其核心力量。Despite clear divisions within Europe, the US' assertive actions on Greenland are likely to prompt more European countries to reassess the risks of reliance on Washington, further accelerating efforts toward strategic autonomy, she said.何韵表示，尽管欧洲内部存在明显分歧，但美国在格陵兰问题上的强硬举措很可能促使更多欧洲国家重新评估对华盛顿的依赖风险，从而进一步加速实现战略自主的进程。pragmatic/præɡˈmæt̬.ɪk/adj.讲究实际的irk/ɝːk/v.使厌烦，恼火annex/ænˈeks/v.（通常指用武力或擅自）吞并；兼并；强占dissuade/dɪˈsweɪd/v.劝说…不做某事；劝阻

The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO, that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 19 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following: https://x.com/i/status/2008082550527558038 https://x.com/i/status/2008173188132303238 https://x.com/i/status/2008165663743869367 https://x.com/i/status/2008114765500182846 https://x.com/i/status/2008092104115831046 https://x.com/i/status/2008173260614008955 https://x.com/i/status/2008134055779316042 https://www.etonline.com/media/videos/kristen-stewart-is-down-to-direct-a-twilight-remake-exclusive-239226 https://x.com/i/status/2008162878428209651 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Voiced by Jamie East, using AI, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 16. Alienating Allies: The Strategic Cost of Attacking European Partners. John Yoo argues that imposing tariffs and attacking democratic European allies undermines the coalition needed to counter China and Russia. He asserts that democracies are the most reliable partners for protecting American security and values, making cooperation essential despite resource constraints and political disagreements. 1850 FRANKLIN

Colonel McCausland reports on NATO's eastern flank "digging in," with Baltic states building defensive bunkers and Germany significantly increasing military spending. He highlights a divergence where European allies prepare for existential Russian threats while US leadership may prioritize "strategic stability" and economic cooperation with Moscow. BRUSSELS

The Role of NATO and Nuclear Proliferation: Colleague Elbridge Colby asserts the US must prioritize Asia, urging European allies to assume responsibility for NATO's defense, noting that while friendly nuclear proliferation is not a panacea, integrated allied nuclear forces in Australia or Japan could bolster deterrence if the conventional military balance becomes unfavorable. 1900 BOXER REBELLION

In a wide-ranging interview with the Politico news website, President Trump said "decaying" European countries had failed to control migration or take decisive action to end Ukraine's war with Russia, accusing them of letting Kyiv fight "until they drop". We hear from a German parliamentarian and envoy.Also in the programme: A revolutionary gene therapy has successfully treated patients with previously incurable blood cancers; and we look at the life of pioneering zoologist and elephant conservationist Iain Douglas-Hamilton.(Photo: U.S. President Donald Trump attends a roundtable discussion on the day he announced an aid package for farmers, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., December 8, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst)

Sir Keir Starmer has said any ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia must be just and lasting following talks in Downing Street. Also: A nurse says she's "beyond relieved and delighted" after winning a partial victory against NHS Fife over having to share a changing room with a transgender doctor. And the British driver, Lando Norris, has told the BBC he is looking forward to a chance to "just be normal" after being crowned the Formula One world champion.

AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports on talks in London over the U.S.-backed proposal for ending Russia's war in Ukraine.

American officials reacted angrily to a decision by the European Commission to fine X, Elon Musk's social-media platform, €120m ($140m) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The White House has released a controversial new National Security Strategy (NSS) that marks a major realignment of U.S. foreign policy under the "America First" banner. The document lays out Trump's vision for ensuring America's "dominance" in the Western Hemisphere, cultivating "resistance" within Europe, reestablishing "strategic stability" with Russia, and accepting Middle Eastern leaders "as they are." Current and former European officials are already pushing back against the strategy's assertions regarding European alliances and demographics. SPONSOR: AURA Frames: Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/FIVEMIN. Promo Code FIVEMIN Independent media has never been more important. Please support this channel by subscribing here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g?sub_confirmation=1 Join this channel with a membership for exclusive early access and bonus content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g/join Five Minute News is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential news for the US and across the world. Visit us online at http://www.fiveminute.news Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/fiveminutenews.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews Support us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/fiveminutenews You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed on this channel are those of the guests and authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Anthony Davis or Five Minute News LLC. Any content provided by our hosts, guests or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything, in line with the First Amendment right to free and protected speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AP's Lisa Dwyer reports on a new National Security strategy by the Trump administration.

PREVIEW — Mary Kissel — European Alarm Over Initial Ukraine Negotiation Strategy. Kissel analyzes ongoing Ukraine negotiations, highlighting concern generated by involving presidential counselors rather than European allies and the State Department in foundational deal-making. This approach allowed the aggressor to shape the negotiating framework. European partners express alarm given their geographic proximity to Russia and feel directly threatened by Russian capabilities to destabilize their societies.

From President Wilson on 11-11-1919 - A year ago today our enemies laid down their arms in accordance with an armistice which rendered them impotent to renew hostilities, and gave to the world an assured opportunity to reconstruct its shattered order and to work out in peace a new and more just set of international relations. The soldiers and people of the European Allies had fought and end ured for more than four years to uphold the barrier of civilization against the aggressions of armed force. We ourselves had been in the conflict something more than a year and a half. With splendid forgetfulness of mere personal concerns, we remodeled our industries, concentrated our financial resources, increased our agricultural output, and assembled a great army, so that at the last our power was a decisive factor in the victory. We were able to bring the vast resources, material and moral, of a great and free people to the assistance of our associates in Europe who had suffered and sacrificed without limit in the cause for which we fought. Out of this victory there arose new possibilities of political freedom and economic concert. The war showed us the strength of great nations acting together for high purposes, and the victory of arms foretells the enduring conquests which can be made in peace when nations act justly and in furtherance of the common interests of men. To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of nations

From President Wilson on 11-11-1919 - A year ago today our enemies laid down their arms in accordance with an armistice which rendered them impotent to renew hostilities, and gave to the world an assured opportunity to reconstruct its shattered order and to work out in peace a new and more just set of international relations. The soldiers and people of the European Allies had fought and end ured for more than four years to uphold the barrier of civilization against the aggressions of armed force. We ourselves had been in the conflict something more than a year and a half. With splendid forgetfulness of mere personal concerns, we remodeled our industries, concentrated our financial resources, increased our agricultural output, and assembled a great army, so that at the last our power was a decisive factor in the victory. We were able to bring the vast resources, material and moral, of a great and free people to the assistance of our associates in Europe who had suffered and sacrificed without limit in the cause for which we fought. Out of this victory there arose new possibilities of political freedom and economic concert. The war showed us the strength of great nations acting together for high purposes, and the victory of arms foretells the enduring conquests which can be made in peace when nations act justly and in furtherance of the common interests of men. To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of nations

PREVIEW: European Allies Consider 'Drone Wall' Amid Russian Harassment and Political Confusion Guest:Mary Kissel The discussion between John Batchelor and Mary Kissel centers on an extraordinary emergency meeting held in Copenhagen by the EU and NATO—not including the US—to address repeated harassment by drones presumed to be launched by Russia. The allies are discussing creating a "drone wall." Mary Kissel emphasizes that the purpose of Russia's actions is to exploit vulnerabilities and create "uncertainty, confusion, deterrence." When President Putin observes Europe from Moscow, he sees nations with "weaker defense capabilities, weaker ties to Washington, and weaker political systems." Specifically, many governments, such as those in Germany, Belgium, and France, are weak, noting that the French government recently collapsed after less than a month. Mary Kissel quotes her colleague, Tom Tugendhat, outlining Russia's aggressive actions in the UK alone, which include using chemical weapons, nuclear poisons, committing sabotage, attempting espionage, and threatening nuclear attack. Ultimately, the goal of Russia's "poking and prodding" is to gauge the reaction of these nations and see if they will implement the drone wall or respond with "just words."

Are these stories real or fake? Did Marco Rubio take the jobs of 750,000 federal employees? Find out!

European leaders visited the White House on Monday, where President Trump had an Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Coming just days after Trump's Alaskan summit with Vladimir Putin, many questions still remain: what will it take to negotiate an end to the war? And what do “security guarantees” look like for Ukraine, for Europe, and even for Russia? Former NSC advisor to President George W. Bush and Beacon Global Strategies managing director Michael Allen about the territory demands from Russia, European leaders pushing for Ukraine's security guarantees, and the historic peace talks being shepherded by the Trump administration. One week into President Trump's crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., and Democrats continue to push back, arguing that crime data suggests the President's actions in the nation's capital are unnecessary and that violence is not "out of control." Mayor Muriel Bowser has called the administration's actions "unsettling and unprecedented." Rafael Mangual, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and member of the Council on Criminal Justice, joins to discuss President Trump's actions, what is next for the city, and why he says crime statistics don't always reflect reality. Plus, commentary from the host of “Tomi Lahren is Fearless" on Outkick, Tomi Lahren. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

European leaders visited the White House on Monday, where President Trump had an Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Coming just days after Trump's Alaskan summit with Vladimir Putin, many questions still remain: what will it take to negotiate an end to the war? And what do “security guarantees” look like for Ukraine, for Europe, and even for Russia? Former NSC advisor to President George W. Bush and Beacon Global Strategies managing director Michael Allen about the territory demands from Russia, European leaders pushing for Ukraine's security guarantees, and the historic peace talks being shepherded by the Trump administration. One week into President Trump's crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., and Democrats continue to push back, arguing that crime data suggests the President's actions in the nation's capital are unnecessary and that violence is not "out of control." Mayor Muriel Bowser has called the administration's actions "unsettling and unprecedented." Rafael Mangual, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and member of the Council on Criminal Justice, joins to discuss President Trump's actions, what is next for the city, and why he says crime statistics don't always reflect reality. Plus, commentary from the host of “Tomi Lahren is Fearless" on Outkick, Tomi Lahren. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

European leaders visited the White House on Monday, where President Trump had an Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Coming just days after Trump's Alaskan summit with Vladimir Putin, many questions still remain: what will it take to negotiate an end to the war? And what do “security guarantees” look like for Ukraine, for Europe, and even for Russia? Former NSC advisor to President George W. Bush and Beacon Global Strategies managing director Michael Allen about the territory demands from Russia, European leaders pushing for Ukraine's security guarantees, and the historic peace talks being shepherded by the Trump administration. One week into President Trump's crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., and Democrats continue to push back, arguing that crime data suggests the President's actions in the nation's capital are unnecessary and that violence is not "out of control." Mayor Muriel Bowser has called the administration's actions "unsettling and unprecedented." Rafael Mangual, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and member of the Council on Criminal Justice, joins to discuss President Trump's actions, what is next for the city, and why he says crime statistics don't always reflect reality. Plus, commentary from the host of “Tomi Lahren is Fearless" on Outkick, Tomi Lahren. Photo Credit: AP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former President of Estonia weighs in on how Monday's meeting between President Trump and President Zelenskyy has grown in size and stakes; Bishop William Barber describes exactly why Trump's criminalization of the homeless is so heartless, and so dangerous; Michael M. Grynbaum dishes on the changing landscape of modern media in America.

When Donald Trump meets Vladimir Putin in Alaska, the cameras will capture handshakes, flags, and grand claims of peace. But according to diplomatic insiders, the real outcome will be far less celebratory — and far more dangerous. The Anchorage summit, billed as a breakthrough to “end the war” in Ukraine, is shaping up to be the moment Putin secures exactly what he set out to achieve when he launched his invasion: permanent control over the territory he's taken, a ban on Ukraine joining NATO, and the political rehabilitation of his global image. Ukraine itself will not be at the table. Join this channel for exclusive access and bonus content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g/join Five Minute News is an Evergreen Podcast, covering politics, inequality, health and climate - delivering independent, unbiased and essential news for the US and across the world. Visit us online at http://www.fiveminute.news Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/fiveminutenews.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram http://instagram.com/fiveminnews Support us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/fiveminutenews You can subscribe to Five Minute News with your preferred podcast app, ask your smart speaker, or enable Five Minute News as your Amazon Alexa Flash Briefing skill. Please subscribe HERE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkbwLFZhawBqK2b9gW08z3g?sub_confirmation=1 CONTENT DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed on this channel are those of the guests and authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Anthony Davis or Five Minute News LLC. Any content provided by our hosts, guests or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything, in line with the First Amendment right to free and protected speech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Zelensky says he's made clear to Donald Trump that sanctions must be imposed on Russia, if no ceasefire is agreed at Friday's summit with Vladimir Putin. Also: Doctors and aid organisations issue a new warning about levels of starvation in the Sudanese city of El Fasher. And the fashion accessories chain, Claire's, goes into administration putting more than two thousand jobs at risk.

Preview: EU tariffs: Colleague Theresa Fallon from Brussels reports that European allies are rattled by POTUS. More later. 1958

Edition No169 | 26-06-2025 - Appeasing Trump seems to have been the tone and substance of the NATO Summit that has just ended. Maybe it's worked. Maybe the perceived victory is illusory and temporary. America's traditional allies pledged to spend a lot more on defence, but the details are sketchy to put it mildly. At least, the Western democracies may conclude, that a Trump toddler meltdown, like that which took place in the Oval Office was averted.“Donald, you have driven us to a really, really important moment for America and Europe and the world,” wrote Mark Rutte, in a statement that managed to be both obsequious and condescending at the same time. “Europe is going to pay in a BIG way, as they should, and it will be your win.” A day later Mr Rutte went further, referring to the president as “Daddy”, in a moment of pure cringe. Was Mr Rutte's strategy was degrading or inspired, no one could decide. But it is an indication of how far Trump has dragged the tone down to his level. Rutte, Nato secretary-general, praised the US president for his galvanising effect. “Dear Donald, you made this change possible,” referring to the increase in defence spending to 5% of GDP.NATO's Potemkin Summit: Words Over Actions?In this episode of Silicon Bites, we delve into the recent NATO Potemkin Summit, dominated by attempts to appease Donald Trump. Despite soaring promises and new defense spending targets, the tangible actions and details remain vague. The summit reveals the increasing pressure European allies feel to cater to Trump, often at the expense of addressing critical issues like Russia's ongoing aggression toward Ukraine and other NATO members. Key moments include discussions about defense spending, with some nations resisting the 5% GDP target, and Trump's ambiguous commitment to NATO's Article 5. The episode underscores the complexities and contradictions in transatlantic relations under Trump's influence.----------CHAPTERS:00:00:00 Introduction and Channel Support00:00:30 NATO Summit Overview00:00:32 Trump's Influence and Reactions00:01:48 Defense Spending Commitments00:02:26 Russia's Threat and NATO's Response00:02:56 Spain's Resistance and Internal Issues00:04:21 Concerns Over NATO's Preparedness00:07:23 Trump's Ambiguous Stance on Article Five00:09:20 European Allies' Perspective00:12:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----------LINKS: https://www.economist.com/europe/2025/06/25/at-a-tricky-nato-summit-a-trumpian-meltdown-is-avertedhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/jun/25/the-guardian-view-on-the-nato-summit-europe-must-take-the-path-of-strategic-self-reliancehttps://news.sky.com/story/there-were-toe-curling-displays-of-affection-towards-daddy-trump-at-the-nato-summit-but-like-it-or-not-it-worked-13388735https://theconversation.com/how-nato-summit-shows-europe-and-us-no-longer-have-a-common-enemy-259842https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/25/nato-summit-trump-ukraine-war-zelensky-starmer/----------Car for Ukraine has once again joined forces with a group of influencers, creators, and news observers during this summer. Sunshine here serves as a metaphor, the trucks are a sunshine for our warriors to bring them to where they need to be and out from the place they don't.https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtainThis time, we focus on the 6th Detachment of HUR, 93rd Alcatraz, 3rd Brigade, MLRS systems and more. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtain- bring soldiers to the positions- protect them with armor- deploy troops with drones to the positions----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------

Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and top diplomat Marco Rubio hold talks with European counterparts in Paris. Will Washington take a tougher line with Moscow?Also on the programme: Palestinian officials in Gaza say Israeli airstrikes overnight hit camps for displaced people, killing dozens; and scientists have found new but tentative evidence that a faraway world orbiting another star may be home to life.(Photo: France's President Emmanuel Macron (L) shakes hands with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R) next to US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff before a meeting at the Elysee presidential palace in Paris. Credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

Ukraine's European allies express outrage at Russia's missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy which left 34 civilians dead. We hear from two of the survivors - a mother and her 13-year-old son. Also in the programme: Sudan's civil war forces another mass displacement of people; Colombian author Juan Gabriel Vasquez remembers his Peruvian friend Mario Vargas Llosa, one of Latin America's literary greats; and the story of skill and resilience that led Rory McIlroy to sporting immortality.(IMAGE: Ukrainian rescuers at the site of a rocket strike in downtown Sumy, Ukraine, which killed at least 32 people including two children, and injured 84 people including 10 children,13 April 2025 / CREDIT: Photo by UKRAINE STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's president, met European leaders in Paris.

President Trump on Monday continued to put pressure on Ukraine, insinuating that Volodymyr Zelenskyy should step down if he doesn't want a peace deal. This after their Friday Oval Office meeting ended in an unprecedented clash. Western leaders are scrambling to help mend the relationship, while making plans to maintain support for Ukraine if the U.S. walks away. Nick Schifrin reports. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

After his Oval Office dressing down on Friday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy faced a much friendlier group Sunday as he met with European leaders in London. Zelenskyy said he’s still willing to sign the minerals deal he was in Washington to sign on Friday and wants to repair his relationship with President Trump. Special correspondent Malcolm Brabant reports from London. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

In Munich on Friday, Vice President Vance met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and with German political leaders, including the head of the far-right AfD party. The latter meeting came after Vance critiqued America’s European allies at the Munich Security Conference, which is usually focused on Western adversaries. Nick Schifrin reports on the latest. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

European leaders pushed back against what they describe as concessions and shifts by the Trump administration on Ukraine. On Wednesday, President Trump discussed ceasefire negotiations with Putin while his defense secretary doubted Ukraine’s future in NATO. Ukrainian and European officials are demanding continued support and a seat at the negotiating table. Nick Schifrin reports from Munich. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders