The Intelligence from The Economist I spy: meeting Ukraine’s intelligence chief
7 snips
Jul 7, 2023 
Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s youngest spymaster, discusses his intense leadership and key strategies amid ongoing military tensions. Hal Hudson highlights deep-sea mining as a sustainable alternative for nickel needed in electric vehicle batteries, critiquing current land mining practices. Catherine Nixie reflects on the life of Donald Triplett, the first person diagnosed with autism, emphasizing his remarkable abilities and the societal context of the 1930s that shaped his experience. Their insights spark thought-provoking discussions on resource ethics and historical understanding.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Budanov's Expanding Influence
- Budanov acts as a conduit for secret talks with China and was in contact with Yevgeny Prigozhin.
- He is also involved in post-war planning and is seen as destined for a significant future role.
Nickel Sourcing and Environmental Concerns
- Electric vehicle batteries require significant nickel, leading to rainforest clearing for mining.
- The Clarion-Clipperton zone offers an alternative source with potentially less environmental impact.
Deep-Sea Nickel Mining
- The Clarion-Clipperton zone contains vast nickel reserves in the form of nodules on the seabed.
- Collecting them involves a 'hoovering' process, raising environmental questions.