Ione Wells

Ionee Wells, BBC South America analyst, breaks down the White House meeting between Donald Trump and Gustavo Petro and possible cooperation. Major Christian Sedano, leader of the Jungle Commandos, gives operational context on destroying cocaine labs. Orla Guerin reports on-the-ground in the Amazon and Andes, following anti-narcotics raids and rural coca cultivation.

Ione Wells, the BBC South America correspondent, provides insight into the tumultuous situation in Venezuela following Nicolás Maduro's capture. She discusses the current power dynamics in Caracas, where Maduro's allies remain in control, and the mixed public sentiments surrounding the political turmoil. Ione also delves into the implications of U.S. intervention in Venezuela, questioning whether the motives are truly about narco-terrorism or economic interests, and highlighting the risks of potential civil conflict as this situation unfolds.

Ione Wells, a South America correspondent for BBC News, and Laura Bicker, BBC’s senior China correspondent, dive deep into urgent climate issues. They discuss Brazil's slowed efforts to reduce Amazon deforestation and the alarming implications of proposed oil drilling in the region. Meanwhile, Bicker highlights China's ambitious hydropower project, which promises renewable energy but raises environmental concerns and regional tensions. Their insights uncover the complex interplay between economic growth and urgent ecological needs in two pivotal countries.

Ione Wells, BBC South America correspondent who reported from Caracas, gives on-the-ground perspective. She sketches rallies and who attends them. She outlines Delcy Rodríguez’s balancing act with the US and the three-phase US plan. She describes oil and mining deal dynamics and early signs of freed prisoners alongside lingering economic challenges.

Ione Wells, BBC South America correspondent, provides keen insights on Jair Bolsonaro's tumultuous political landscape. She discusses Bolsonaro's legal battles, including coup charges and a ban from future elections, drawing parallels to Trump's situation. The podcast dives into Bolsonaro's polarizing leadership and the consequences of his controversial policies on Brazilian democracy. Additionally, Wells explores how Trump's narrative of political persecution may resonate with Bolsonaro's supporters, hinting at the complex dynamics of their political futures.