Alec Russell

From ‘brilliant ally’ to ‘weak and stupid’ within the same paragraph, it’s hard to know how to handle the impulsive outbursts from America’s 47th President. And yet, this is the position in which the British prime minister found himself this week as he stood firm in the face of Donald Trump’s threats to Greenland. Some back channel diplomacy in Davos helped put US European relations back on an even keel but it’s clear the so-called ‘special relationship’ is under strain. So where does Keir Starmer turn now? Does he stick with the decades-old transatlantic alliance, does he push for more European integration, or does he look further afield to China?To discuss this and more, political editor George Parker is joined by Whitehall editor Lucy Fisher, columnist and writer of the ‘Inside Politics’ newsletter Stephen Bush, and the FT’s foreign editor Alec Russell.Follow: George on X @GeorgeWParker or Bluesky: @georgewparker.bsky.social, Lucy @LOS_Fisher or @lucyfisher.ft.com; Stephen: @stephenkb @stephenkb.bsky.social & Alec Russel on X:https://x.com/alecurussell Want more?UK ‘will not yield’ on Greenland, Keir Starmer warns Donald TrumpTrump’s Davos rant should alarm Starmer‘Thank you Tony’: Blair’s ‘Board of Peace’ role prompts Trump praise and Westminster angerWestminster ‘riding it out’ is not a strategy for UK-US relationsFlatter or confront? How world leaders are dealing with TrumpAnd sign up here for Stephen's morning newsletter, Inside Politics, for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue-(mostly)-in-cheek analysis. Get 30 days freePolitical Fix was presented by George Parker and produced by Clare Williamson. Flo Phillips is the executive producer. Sound engineering by Breen Turner. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s global head of audio.Clip from Channel 4What did you think of this episode? Let us know at: politicalfix@ft.comRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alec Russell, FT Weekend editor with a rich background in Eastern European geopolitics, shares insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine and its historical implications. He emphasizes the importance of understanding regional dynamics and the West's responsibilities. Joining him is Imogen West-Knights, a journalist who delves into the perplexing mystery of 'the hum' in Halifax. This low-frequency sound has troubled many, primarily middle-aged women. Is it real or imagined? Their conversation uncovers emotional tales and broader themes around perception and the unexplained.

Jim Pickard, a regular contributor on political affairs, Anna Gross, a political correspondent for the Financial Times, and Alec Russell, the FT's foreign editor, dive into Labour's tumultuous relationship with rural voters after proposed changes to inheritance tax. The discussion highlights the farmers' protests and their challenges, while also scrutinizing Rachel Reeves' controversial CV edits. The trio shifts gears to analyze the implications of Ukraine's recent missile strikes on Russia, revealing the complex dynamics of international support and military strategy.

FT's foreign editor, Alec Russell, shares insights on processing bad news by reflecting on historical conflicts like the Rwandan genocide and Yugoslavia war. He discusses finding hope in seeking justice amidst global crises, navigating social media's influence, and maintaining a positive outlook during challenging times.

Queen Elizabeth II has died after a 70-year reign. This weekend, we reflect on her legacy, life and cultural impact with FT Weekend editor Alec Russell. Then, producer Lulu Smyth takes us to meet the people gathered outside Buckingham Palace.-------Links: Simon Schama, ‘Elizabeth II: an appreciation’: https://on.ft.com/3qsNI64Jo Ellison, ‘The Queen’s constancy never went out of style’: https://on.ft.com/3qpwOVF -------Special offers for FT Weekend listeners can be found here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast-------Want to stay in touch? We love hearing from you. Email us at ftweekendpodcast@ft.com. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap.-------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen Turner and Sam GiovincoRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.