Owen Matthews

Michael Simmons, Economics Editor at The Spectator, discusses how the Bank of England's decisions have contributed to Britain's economic turmoil, attributing much blame to Andrew Bailey and the ongoing fiscal mismanagement. Owen Matthews, writer and expert on Ukraine, reveals the decline in public faith in President Zelensky amid rampant corruption and military challenges. The conversation also touches on the intriguing practice of mudlarking, where people search riverbanks for lost historical treasures, highlighting its rising popularity as a form of escapism.

Richard Connolly, an associate fellow specializing in the Russian economy, and Simon Jenkins, a renowned journalist, debate the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia. They argue that these penalties may not alter autocratic regimes and could even destabilize Western governments. Opposing them are Russia expert Owen Matthews and journalist Anna Reid, who discuss the challenges of imposing sanctions while managing geopolitical consequences. The debate raises pressing questions about the moral implications and actual impact of these measures on the Russian population.

Owen Matthews, Russia correspondent and Middle East expert, offers on-the-ground perspective. He discusses the intercepted missile over Turkey and the uncertain Turkey–Iran relationship. He examines reports of the US and Israel courting Kurdish forces and the risks of proxy blowback. He weighs Turkey's regional role and how China and oil shape strategic interests.

Charlie Gammell, an author and Spectator contributor in Riyadh, discusses the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, highlighting Netanyahu's push for regime change. Owen Matthews, a Russia correspondent in Rome, explains how Putin navigates this conflict to maintain his influence. They delve into the implications for Trump's foreign policy, especially his cautious stance on military involvement. The conversation also explores Iran's expanding global reach and the potential consequences if its nuclear ambitions go unchecked.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum and writer Owen Matthews as they dissect the tumultuous power struggle in Russia. They explore Yevgeny Prigozhin's Wagner group's surprising mutiny and its implications for Putin's control. The discussion delves into the fragile stability of Putin’s regime, international reactions, and the geopolitical landscape shifting beneath his feet. With insights into the potential aftermath and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, this conversation reveals the uncertain future of Russia.