The Story

Cindy Yu, a columnist at The Times, dives into the heated US-China trade tensions. She explores how the distinct negotiation styles of Trump and Xi shape outcomes. Listeners hear insights on how supply chains adapted post-2018 tariffs and the economic impacts on households in both nations. Yu explains China's strategic control over rare earth minerals and what 100% tariffs could mean for US consumers. With uncertainty looming, she reflects on both countries' goals and the broader global influence of China.

Matt Dathan, Home Affairs editor at The Times, explores the UK government’s controversial shift to house asylum seekers in military barracks, a move previously opposed by Labour. He discusses the staggering number of migrants currently in hotels, potential capacity issues at barracks, and the financial implications, including past contract failures. Dathan also delves into political motives behind this change, the expected public reaction, and how costs will be managed in this new approach to asylum accommodation.

Join Charles Bremner, seasoned Paris correspondent for The Times, as he unpacks the bizarre conspiracy surrounding Brigitte Macron's identity. Discover how false allegations emerged and gained traction through social media and right-wing influencers like Candace Owens. Charles explores the ten people on trial for cyberbullying and the Macrons' legal battle against the spread of lies. Dive into the political implications of these rumors and the challenges of combating fake news in today's world.

Matilda Davies, a data journalist at The Times, and tech journalist Chris Stokel-Walker dive into a wave of cyberattacks affecting major UK businesses. They discuss the staggering £1.9 billion cost of the Jaguar Land Rover hack, orchestrated by teenage hackers. The duo explores the motivations behind these hackers, their organization on dark-web forums, and the devastating impacts of their actions on industries. Insights into recruitment tactics from gaming and the challenges faced in restoring hacked systems paint a compelling picture of this alarming trend.

David Chazan, Paris correspondent for The Times, unpacks the stunning Louvre heist where thieves brazenly stole the French crown jewels in just seven minutes. He reveals public outrage and the feelings of humiliation that the crime sparked across France. Chazan shares details about the audacious methods used by the robbers, the rapid execution of the theft, and theories on where the jewels might be now. He also discusses the implications for national security and cultural pride amidst rising political tensions.

In this enlightening discussion, Andrew Bastawrous, an eye surgeon and founder of Peek Vision, shares how his personal journey shaped his mission to combat preventable vision loss. He highlights the innovative use of smartphones for eye testing, enabling easier access to care in underserved areas. Andrew recounts impactful stories, including a woman's life transformed by cataract surgery, while emphasizing the importance of vision as a development issue. With a goal of reaching a million people a week by 2028, his optimism and groundbreaking work are truly inspiring.

Maxim Tucker, Ukraine correspondent for The Times and The Sunday Times, shares his insights on the implications of recent U.S. sanctions against Russia’s oil giants. He discusses how these financial pressures could potentially weaken Putin's war efforts and reshape global banking practices. Tucker also examines the European Union's strategies involving frozen Russian assets and the mixed reactions within Ukraine. With complexities in negotiations and the role of China, Tucker warns of the long path ahead for peace.

Stephen Gibbs, a contributor for The Times covering Latin America, dives into Trump’s surprising $20 billion offer to Argentina, tied to the midterm elections. He explores the U.S. motivation to back incumbent Javier Milei amid Argentina's economic crisis and hyperinflation. Gibbs sheds light on Milei's charismatic appeal and radical libertarian policies that won him votes. The discussion also touches on wider trends across South America as right-leaning politics gain traction, revealing how U.S. interests are guiding its intervention in the region.

Oliver Moody, Berlin correspondent for The Times, discusses the alarming rise in drone incursions from Russia into NATO airspace. He shares insights on the September 9 incident in Poland, where NATO scrambled aircraft in response. Moody explores the evolving European defense strategies, emphasizing the need for coordinated responses and new rules for shooting down drones. He also highlights the challenges of airport vulnerabilities and Russia's use of drones as a grey zone tactic to amplify fear across Europe.

George Greenwood, an investigations reporter at The Times, and Katie Gatens, commissioning editor at The Sunday Times, dive deep into Prince Andrew's scandals. They discuss the fallout from his infamous Newsnight interview and new revelations about his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. With the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir, they explore her harrowing allegations and the complexities of legal settlements. Greenwood also addresses Andrew's relinquishment of his duke title and ongoing concerns about his financial dealings and judgment.