Newscast Bonus: Review of the Year 2026, So Far...
11 snips
Jan 28, 2026 
Lyse Doucet, chief international correspondent known for reporting on geopolitics, joins to map key hotspots. Short takes cover Trump’s unpredictability and military signaling. They flag Venezuela’s regional fallout and debates over Greenland’s strategic role. The conversation also touches on UK politics, international reactions and where to watch in 2026.
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Burnham Blocked To Avoid Leadership Risk
- Keir Starmer blocked Andy Burnham from contesting a by-election to avoid creating a high-profile leadership rival.
- That decision inflamed divisions within the parliamentary Labour Party and triggered public backlash.
Polling Fever Drives Labour Tactics
- Labour's fear of losing votes to Reform led them to prioritise avoiding risky local contests.
- The party believes polls showing Reform's surge are driving tactical decisions at national level.
Jenrick Defection Sparked By Tory Tactic
- Kemi Badenoch publicly removed the whip from Robert Jenrick after learning he planned to defect to Reform UK.
- The dramatic public move accelerated and crystallised the defection story within hours.