Podcast appearances and mentions of Frank Gardner

Frank Gardner, BBC Security Correspondent, speaks to Carsten Breuer, the German chief of defence.General Carsten Breuer gives his assessment of the threat that Russia poses to the Western alliance Nato. He says that Russia is building up its forces to an "enormous extent" and says that members of the alliance need to prepare for a possible attack from Russia within the next four years, according to assessments from defence analysts. He cites recent attacks on undersea cables in the Baltic Sea, and unidentified drones spotted over German power stations and other infrastructure, as possible evidence that Russia is continuously looking for weaknesses in the defence capabilities of Western countries. Russia has denied involvement in these incidents. General Breuer argues that Nato members should build up their militaries, and that European nations should consider security a baseline for prosperity and development. 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: Frank Gardner Producers: Viv Jones Editor: Nick Holland Get in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: General Carsten Breuer. Credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

Hugh discusses Pope Leo XIV, the tax bill, and tarrifs, with Senator Mike Crapo, Comfortably Smug, Frank Gardner, Mary Katharine Ham, Suzy Welch, Eli Lake, Josh Kraushaar, Larry Elder, Sarah Bedford, and Jim Talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're just days away from Victory Day, when Moscow is due to hold a parade on 9 May to mark the victory of the Soviet Union and allies over Nazi Germany. Victoria and Vitaly are joined by BBC Verify's Olga Robinson and Alexander Zhuravlyov to discuss what the day means for Russians, and how its significance has changed since Vladimir Putin came to power.Also, security correspondent Frank Gardner is in Kyiv and tells us whether Kyiv could try and disrupt the parade in Moscow, following several days of Ukrainian attacks on Russia.Today's episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Yulia Kalantarova and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Max Deveson. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Iain Dale interviews BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner about his new thriller INVASION about potential war between China and Taiwan - they also discuss Frank's pluckiness as a self-starter when he set out in the media - and his frustrating experiences travelling by plane with a wheelchair.

An old friend of the podcast, Viktoria Kovalenko, joins us in the studio. Viktoria has experienced the horrors of war first hand. Her husband and elder daughter were killed in front of her when they tried to escape the city of Chernihiv in 2022. Three years on she's forging a new life with her four-year-old in the UK. She tells us how she's adapting to life here, what she thinks about Donald Trump and how she remembers the family members she's lost. Plus - the BBC's security correspondent, Frank Gardner, considers the international response to deadly missile strikes on Sumy over the weekend and how Steve Witkoff's talks with Vladimir Putin went in Russia.Today's episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The editor was Max Deveson. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Could Putin ever agree to peace? Would an election help Zelensky consolidate power? What's happened to North Koreans fighting in Ukraine?Vitaly is joined by BBC Verify's Olga Robinson, security correspondent Frank Gardner and Global News Podcast presenter Oliver Conway, to try and answer these questions and more.Today's episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ryan Johnston, Ben Carter and Peter Karlsen. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Just this morning, twelve people have died, and dozens injured in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih after a Russian missile attack. It's the latest attack in a week where both countries have accused each other of new attacks against each other's energy facilities, citing a US-brokered moratorium, although there is no formal agreement in place. Meanwhile the Russian president's investment envoy has been meeting officials in Washington - he's the highest ranking Russian official to go to the states since the start of the war. It comes as US President Trump was said to be angry at Putin over the state of negotiations to end the war. The BBC's Security Correspondent Frank Gardner now speaks to Susie.

Kate Adie introduces dispatches from Mexico and the USA, Bangladesh, Syria and the Faroe Islands.Donald Trump has threatened Mexico with sanctions if it does not do more to halt the flow of deadly fentanyl into the US. Quentin Sommerville gained rare access to a Mexican drug smuggling operation, meeting the foot-soldiers of a prominent cartel as it prepares to send fentanyl north of the border.Bangladesh is homes to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya people, who have been living in refugee camps since fleeing pesecution in Myanmar back in 2017. The Rohingya's survival has been dependent on foreign aid – but that lifeline is now at risk, following cuts to the US aid budget. Samira Hussain visited one of the refugee camps.US negotiators proposed an immediate 30 day ceasefire in Ukraine this week. While President Zelensky accepted the proposal, President Putin said questions remain about the nature of the truce. Frank Gardner assesses the chances for a lasting peace.Back in 2014, swathes of north-east Syria came under the control of Islamic State - though when its fighters reached the city of Kobane, they met strong resistance from Kurdish forces. With the help of international allies, IS was eventually driven out, but local Kurds still worry that IS may one day return, reports Jiyar Gol.In the autonomous Danish territory of the Faroe Islands, locals have been keeping an eye on what's been going on in another Danish territory – Greenland. Donald Trump's proposal that the US might look to buy it has sparked fresh conversations over Faroese independence – and a growing sense of local pride, finds Amy Liptrot.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison & Sophie Hill

Legends of the Brand welcomes Amin Momen from Momentum to discuss the 25th anniversary of the City Ski Challenge. Momentum, initially founded as Momentum Travel in 1996 as a bespoke travel agency, evolved to focus on mountain experiences and is now known as Momentum Experiences. The City Ski Challenge, started in 2000, was created to bring the London business and financial community together in the Alps for networking and skiing.The City Ski Challenge is more than just a race; it's a blend of networking, business opportunities, and entertainment. The event typically begins on Thursday and concludes on Sunday, offering a variety of activities. Over the years, the event has grown to include comedy shows, panel discussions, and music, creating a festival-like atmosphere. This year features Frank Gardner from the BBC, hosting a current affairs quiz. This year Momentum has partnered with Howden and Snow+Rock, as well as Crans Montana. Plus the event also supports charities, providing them with visibility and networking opportunities and this year, working with GB Snow Sport to raise awareness and support for their athletes.We encourage everyone participate in the City Ski Challenge, regardless of their skill level, and to enjoy the spirit of competition. The event is best described as the "best ski weekend in the Alps" and a "brilliant fun" networking opportunity.The Momentum City Ski Challenge takes place March 14th to 16th in Crane Montana 2025Find our more:https://momentumxp.co.uk/get-inspired/city-ski-championships/

In a pivotal day for the war in Ukraine, Donald Trump has agreed to ‘work together' with Vladimir Putin to end the conflict. Immediately after the call with Putin, Trump spent an hour on the phone with Volodymyr Zelensky.Earlier in the day, the new US defence secretary Pete Hegseth told a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels that it was unrealistic that Ukraine could return to its pre-2014 borders and he ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine. BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner joins Victoria and Vitaly to discuss the latest developments. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

It's a moment of change in the Middle East. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and Hezbollah in retreat in Lebanon. Iran and its proxies are weakened and Syria has slipped from its grasp. Now, with President Trump officially installed in the White House, what impact might his presidency have on the region? Will he forge new ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia? And what about his rocky relationship with Iran? To discuss, Jonny Dymond is joined by the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner.The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Laurie Kalus and Eleanor SlySound engineers: Hannah Montgomery and Jonny BakerAssistant editor: Sergi Forcada FreixasSenior news editor: China Collins

The EU says it won't lift sanctions on Syria, despite calls for them to end after the removal of President Bashar al-Assad. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Emergency teams have been sent to Saydnaya prison, searching for survivors potentially detained in its notorious hidden underground cells. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Corin Dann.

Frank Gardner, BBC Security Correspondent and Scott Lucas, Professor of US and International Politics at Clinton Institute in UCD

The world was stunned over the weekend as rebel forces in Syria captured the capital of Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee and ending the final chapter of his violent regime. Assad is reported to have fled to Russia whilst opposition forces now loot his empty palace and people celebrate on the streets.But who are the Syrian rebels who toppled Assad's rule? And why has it happened now after decades of the Assad family in charge.Five BBC experts - Frank Gardner, Lyse Doucet, Lina Sinjab, Mina al Jawi and Barry Marston - take us through the story.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson Editor: Verity WildeThis audio was updated after publication.

The man behind the Magnitsky Act on Trump, hybrid warfare and fighting the Kremlin.Sir William Browder is an American investor who made a fortune in post-Soviet Russia before falling foul of Vladimir Putin. He's now a fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin - and today he's in the Ukrainecast studio to discuss why the rouble is tanking, what it's like to draw the ire of the Russian president and whether an end to the war is near.Today's episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Frank Gardner. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Dan Ehrlich. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sara Wadeson. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Russian and Syrian warplanes have intensified attacks on rebel forces who took over Syria's second city, Aleppo. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

We look back on the region's history and discuss what it can teach us about the future.Jonny Dymond brings together a carefully curated panel of experts, academics and journalists to talk about the conflict in the region.What has happened in history to lead us to this point? And, what can history teach us about what might happen next? This week, Jonny is joined by BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, Dr Dina Rezk, associate professor of modern Middle Eastern history at Reading University and Dr H A Hellyer, senior associate fellow at the think tank RUSI.They explore the First Intifada, a mass uprising by Palestinians, in 1987 against 20 years of Israeli occupation, and its lasting impact on the region.This episode was made by Keiligh Baker with Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans and David Crackles. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.This episode is part of a BBC Sounds series. It was recorded at 14:00 on Wednesday 27 November 2024.

Israel's assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the long-standing leader of Hezbollah, represented a major escalation in its war with the Lebanese militant group. With the region on the brink of a widening conflict, we look at how Israel's attacks on Hezbollah's leadership have potentially weakened the organisation, and what that could mean for the course of the war. Host Katya Adler asks the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner how the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel escalated and what each actor might do next.Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alice Aylett Roberts, Peter Goffin and Beth Timmins Sound engineers: Jonny Hall and Mike Regaard Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson

A year on from the Hamas attack on Israel, Jackie Leonard and Katya Adler from The Global Story put BBC listener questions to our Middle East correspondent, Yolande Knell, and the BBC's security correspondent, Frank Gardner.

It's almost a year since Hamas launched an attack inside Israel, triggering the start of the current war in Gaza.Tens of thousands of Palestinians have died in Israel's bombing campaigns since Hamas's October 7 attack, and Israel's recent ground invasion of Lebanon has widened the conflict even further. The Middle East is once again on the brink of a deep and damaging, widespread conflict that will have an impact well beyond the region. To mark one year on from the start of the current war, The Global Story host Katya Adler is joined by Jackie Leonard from the Global News Podcast. The BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner and Middle East correspondent Yolande Knell answer some of the most-asked questions about what's really going on in the region and what might happen next.The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Pete Ross, and Judy FranklSound engineer: Jack GraysmarkAssistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson

Leila Molana Allen, Special Correspondent with PBS Newshour and Frank Gardner, BBC Security Correspondent

The Israeli Defence Force says it is sending more troops to join its efforts on the ground. The impact on civilians is being described as devastating, with Lebanon's disaster risk management unit says at least 109,000 people have been displaced because of the conflict. BBC correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Charlotte Cook.

Today, we look at Iran launching a missile attack at Israel. The Israeli military says around 180 missiles were fired, most of which were intercepted. No injuries have been reported so far. The strike follows Israel's invasion of Lebanon, with what it calls a "limited, localised and targeted" ground operation against Hezbollah.Adam and the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner discuss what we know about this latest escalation. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris. The technical producer was Johnny Hall. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

Today, we look at Israel's invasion of Lebanon which the Israeli military are calling a "limited, localised and targeted" ground operation against Hezbollah.An Israeli source has told the BBC that their ground forces have gone only "very close walking distance" into Lebanon. Meanwhile, Hezbollah claims that Israel's forces have not crossed the border. Both sides have continued to exchange fire with rockets. Adam is joined by BBC chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet and security correspondent Frank Gardner. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Gemma Roper. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

Today, Hezbollah confirmed the death of its leader Hassan Nasrallah after Israeli strikes on Beirut. So could this act result in wider war across the Middle East? Paddy and Laura are joined by the BBC's security correspondent, Frank Gardner, to make sense of today's developments.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhereNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Paddy O'Connell and Laura Kuenssberg. It was made by Tim Walklate with Anna Harris. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Israel and Hezbollah have been trading their most intense fire since the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Today, we discuss what's going on with exploding pagers and walkie-talkies in Lebanon. James Cook is joined by International Editor, Jeremy Bowen, and Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, to discuss how the devices exploded, why Israel seems to have infiltrated Hezbollah's communications network, and what this could mean for escalating tensions in the region. Plus, Chris joins James to discuss how a row has broken out in government over Keir Starmer's top aide, Sue Gray, being paid more than the Prime Minister.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by James Cook. It was made by Miranda Slade with Anna Harris, Reeta Jobanputra, and Kris Jalowiecki. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

More blasts have been reported in Lebanon, after a series of pagers exploded across the country. In what appears to be a highly sophisticated attack, devices used by the armed group Hezbollah were targeted, and the operation has captivated the security community. Hezbollah blames Israel, with which they have been exchanging cross-border fire for months, and has vowed to retaliate. With multiple reports attributing responsibility to Israeli spy agency Mossad, how much do we really know about what happened?On this episode, Azadeh Moshiri is joined by the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner, to discuss the paper trail behind the planning of the attack, and what it could mean in the context of the wider war. The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.Producers: Laurie Kalus and Alix Pickles.Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith.

At least nine people are dead and more than 2,800 are injured, 200 critically, after thousands of electronic pagers simultaneously exploded across Lebanon overnight. Lebanon is pinning the blame on Israel, describing the explosions as an attack on the country's sovereignty. Israel is yet to comment. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Fifty-one people are believed to be dead and almost 200 wounded after a Russian missile strike on central Ukraine. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Dr Chris Smith and the Naked Scientist team present the latest science news, analysis and breakthroughs.This week: The regulator says the Alzheimer's drug Lecanemab is safe, but NICE say we can't afford it. The UK Ministry Of Defence launches its first Earth imaging satellite. And the BBC's Frank Gardner on why the UK's butterflies need our help.Plus is there a link between some cosmetics and cosmetic trends and cancer? We examine this in more detail in the second part of the programme.

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: the regulator says the Alzheimer's drug lecanemab is safe, but NICE say we can't afford it; also, the UK MOD launches its first Earth-imaging satellite. We talk to the makers; and the BBC's Frank Gardner on why the UK's butterflies need our help... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Frank Gardner is the BBC's security correspondent, familiar to millions of viewers and listeners from his reports, which regularly take him around the world.He's also written six books, including a memoir about his 25 years in the Middle East, and more recently, four thrillers about the adventures of MI6 operative Luke Carlton. In 2004, while filming in Saudi Arabia, Frank and his cameraman Simon Cumbers were ambushed by al-Qaeda gunmen. Simon was killed and Frank was shot six times and left for dead. He survived, but was partially paralysed. He returned to reporting within a year, using a wheelchair. Frank's music choices range from Schumann and Shostakovich to Fats Waller, and he also includes part of a concerto for oboe and strings written by his father, Neil Gardner, who was a keen and accomplished amateur musician.

Ukraine rejects Putin's ceasefire proposal ahead of Swiss peace talks.It's been a busy week for President Zelensky. At the G7 meeting in Italy, world leaders agreed on a $50bn loan to help fund Ukraine's war effort and a ten year bi-lateral security agreement was signed between the US and Ukraine. All this before President Zelensky heads to Switzerland for a Ukrainian Peace Summit. Meanwhile, President Putin has proposed his own ceasefire plan which Ukraine has rejected.The BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale and security correspondent Frank Gardner reflect on what has been agreed so far and what progress could be made this weekend. Today's episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Send us a Text Message.This Week on T Minus 20 we rewind to tragedy in Riyadh, a cosmic crash and an indie film breakthroughs. 

Fashion designer, entrepreneur and Great British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant has put his money where his seams are with his company Community Clothing and new book 'Less' urging us to stop buying so much rubbish and appreciate fewer, better things. We're taking cheesy to another level with Razan Alsous who came to the UK as a refugee from Syria having lost almost everything. She has since settled in Yorkshire and is now an award-winning maker of squeaky cheese. And Frank Gardner, who twenty years ago was shot six times whilst reporting from Saudi Arabia, remarkably survived and is not only the BBC's Security Correspondent, he's also a bestselling novelist having released his latest book Invasion. All that plus the Inheritance Tracks of The Booker Prize winning Jamaican novelist Marlon James.Presenters: Nikki Bedi and Huw Stephens Producer: Ben Mitchell

China has eyes on Taiwan, and how can we in the West respond? Should we respond? What about our intelligence services and military capabilities? Frank Gardner, BBC Security Correspondent, joins to discuss his new thriller which envisages an invasion of the small island by its larger neighbour. This episode is thanks to the Chalke History Festival, the UK's Number 1 history festival.  Frank Gardner Links Invasion Frank at the Chalke History Festival, sponsored by Aspects of History Frank on X Aspects of History Links Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Latest issue: Aspects of History Issue 21 Thank you to our sponsor Incogni. Check them out at incogni.com/aspectsofhistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jane Garvey is back! And she has anecdotes aplenty... Brace yourselves! In this slightly bonkers episode, Jane and Fi cover sea-swimming, King Charles' first name and Greek yogurt. Plus, BBC Security Correspondent and writer Frank Gardner discusses his latest book 'Invasion'. You can book your tickets to see Jane and Fi live at the new Crossed Wires festival here: https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/book/instance/663601 If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiAssistant Producer: Eve SalusburyTimes Radio Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at the nuclear powers and those who want to join their club. Are nuclear weapons a deterrent or a strategic show of strength? We examine what treaties are in place to control the use of nuclear weapons and how they work in practice. Are there enough checks and balances to stop escalation? Claire Graham talks to the BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner.

On today's Ukrainecast we're answering your questions on our recent David Cameron interview, Kyiv's attempts to boost its troop numbers and the continued hold-up of the US military aid package in Congress. To help do this, we're joined by Patricia Lewis from Chatham House and BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner.Today's episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Cordelia Hemming, Miranda Slade, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

The United Kingdom has accused Chinese hackers of trying to break into the email accounts of British lawmakers who were critical of China and said a separate Chinese entity was behind a hack of its electoral watchdog that compromised millions of people's data. The UK's deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden says taken together the government judges those actions demonstrate a clear and persistent pattern of behaviour that signal hostile intent from China. BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner spoke to Morning Report.

Kate Adie introduces dispatches from Germany, the Red Sea, Argentina, the Hungary-Serbia border and Costa Rica.BBC security correspondent, Frank Gardner takes us behind the scenes at the Munich security conference, where the sudden announcement of the death of Alexei Navalny brought home the diplomatic challenges facing world leaders.Iran-backed Yemeni Houthis say they will continue to target ships in the Red Sea, in solidarity with Palestinian people in Gaza. This has had a major impact on global shipping and the US and UK has retaliated with air strikes. BBC Persian's Nafiseh Kohnavard has been given rare access to US navy warships patrolling in the Red Sea.In Argentina, President Javier Milei, has defended his huge public spending cuts after annual inflation in the country soared beyond 250 per cent. Our South America correspondent, Ione Wells, has been finding out what people in Argentina make of his controversial plans for change.Migration continues to fill headlines – from the ongoing saga of the Rwanda asylum plan to Republicans playing hardball over how to stem illegal crossings on the US-Mexico border. Our Central Europe correspondent, Nick Thorpe, is never far from a border flash-point, and reflects on the characters he has crossed paths with on the frontier of Hungary and Serbia.Costa Rica is often portrayed as a gold standard of eco-tourism and its Corcovado national park is one of the best places on earth to watch wildlife. But, there are concerns that some species there are in decline, in part due to illegal gold mining, hunting and logging in the region. Qasa Alom has been exploring the challenges.Producer: Sally Abrahams Production coordinator: Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

We're talking to multiple national champion, production car and Porsche icon, and inaugural Bathurst 12 Hour winner Peter Fitzgerald in this week's episode of the V8 Sleuth Podcast powered by Castrol. Fitzy shares the story of how he became a racing rookie at the age of 27 at the wheel of an ex-Pete Geoghegan Porsche, with a bit of tutelage and advice from Frank Gardner. He shares tales of how he funded his racing - including the deal that funded his first attempt to race at the Bathurst 1000 in 1981 - as well has his side of the infamous tale of how Brad Jones' dad flagged him down in Albury to secure a pivotal co-drive for his son! He also shares the story of how he managed to seamlessly switch sponsorship deals from Yokohama to Goodyear, as well as a couple of tales from his victory with Allan Grice and Nigel Arkell in the inaugural Bathurst 12 Hour in 1991. It proved his only victory in the opening era of the race - and he talks about how the win slipped away in 1993 and when the race moved to Eastern Creek in 1995. We also briefly touch on his touring car racing, including a year in the Benson & Hedges BMW squad as co-driver to Alan Jones and Denny Hulme, netting a Bathurst class podium in the process. V8 Sleuth Superstore >> https://superstore.v8sleuth.com.au/

As if the conflict in Gaza wasn't bad enough, the fighting has ignited old and new tensions elsewhere across the region. Since the surprise attack by Hamas on 7th October, clashes on the Lebanon-Israel border have restarted, attacks on US troops stationed in Syria and Iraq have escalated and a group of Houthi armed rebels from Yemen has started firing rockets at cargo ships trying to access the Suez Canal from the Red Sea. So in this week's programme David Aaronovitch asks how close the war in Gaza is to becoming a wider conflict across the Middle East. David is joined by the following experts: Frank Gardner, BBC's Security Correspondent. Dr Elisabeth Kendall, Arabist & Middle East specialist and also The Mistress of Girton College at the University of Cambridge. Jane Kinninmont, Policy & Impact Director at the European Leadership Network. Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics at University College Dublin's Clinton Institute.Production team: Nick Holland, Kirsteen Knight and Charlotte McDonald Production Co-ordinators: Sophie Hill Sound: Neil Churchill Editor: Richard Vadon

Anna Olsen was working as an army paramedic in Ukraine's 36th Brigade when she was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol.The mother-of-one experienced psychological and physical torture before she was released in a prisoner exchange, after more than six months in Russian captivity. She tells us her story.And the BBC's Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, explains the importance of the latest prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine - and why Middle Eastern countries have been mediating the process. Today's episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

As Ukraine and Russia are hit by “the storm of the century,” how does winter weather affect troops on the front line? The BBC's Security correspondent, Frank Gardner, and Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse discuss who stands to benefit from bad weather - and Russia's biggest drone attack on Kyiv yet. And Ukrainian journalist Maria Romanenko, who fled Kyiv in March 2022, joins us from Manchester, where she hosts walking tours for newly arrived Ukrainian refugees. Today's episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and Irena Taranyuk. It was made by Keiligh Baker and the producers were Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Multi gold medal winning Paralympic wheelchair athlete Tanni Grey-Thompson examines 50 years of changing attitudes to disability around the world. When Tanni was a child in the 1970s in Wales becoming an athlete with spina bifida was far from guaranteed. There was no support for her parents bringing up a disabled child and education for children with disabilities was minimal. Over the years Tanni's suffered discrimination including when she was pregnant being offered a termination. “This woman said: ‘How did you get pregnant?' says Tanni. In this programme Tanni reflects on experiences over her lifetime as she meets others who've had similar journeys in India, Pakistan, Ghana, Nigeria, Brazil and New Zealand. With Abha Khetarpal in India, Tanni reflects on several shared experiences. They both had scoliosis and use a wheelchair and faced early challenges at school - Abha having to be home schooled. Meanwhile Lois Auta in Nigeria also uses a wheelchair. She was born in 1980 and tells Tanni how she managed to challenge the status quo and stand for parliament. ‘Disability is seen in our country as something that happens through witch craft'. And Lois, who now acts as an advocate for women with disabilities says those prejudices still exist. She meets BBC war correspondent Frank Gardner who tells her how he adapted to becoming disabled after being injured during his work in a war zone in the Middle East.

Hundreds of people have been killed and kidnapped as fighting in Israel and Gaza continues. The BBC's security correspondent Frank Gardner is on to discuss what we know about the situation. And after Sir Keir Starmer's Sunday morning interview, Victoria and Paddy chat to chief political correspondent Henry Zeffman about Labour's ideas for the NHS and housing. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Today's Newscast was hosted by Paddy O'Connell and Victoria Derbyshire. It was made by Chris Flynn with Gemma Roper. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The senior news editors are Sam Bonham and Jonathan Aspinwall.

The boss of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, is presumed dead after a plane crash north of Moscow killed all on board. Ukrainecast's Vitaly Shevchenko and security correspondent, Frank Gardner, join Adam to go through what we know. Lou Osborn from the monitoring group All Eyes on Wagner also shares her expertise. And, India has made history by landing a spacecraft near the south pole of the Moon for the first time. Journalist and author of the book The Future of Geography: How Power and Politics in Space Will Change Our World Tim Marshall explains where it puts them in the 21st century space race. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Today's Newscast was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Chris Flynn with Miranda Slade and Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 01:18 - Prigozhin presumed dead in plane crash 16:36 - India's historic moon mission