

Amanpour
CNN Podcasts
Amanpour is CNN International's flagship global affairs interview program hosted by Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 10, 2025 • 56min
Tough Year for the BBC, British Monarchy
David Dimbleby, a seasoned broadcaster, discusses his latest examination of the British monarchy, exploring themes of power, wealth, and public perception. He delves into its influence on politics, the monarchy's finances, and its relevance today. Kiran Desai, a Booker Prize-winning novelist, shares insights on her new work that tackles loneliness and diaspora, reflecting on race dynamics and the pressures of representing culture in literature. Minnesota State Senator Zainab Mohamed speaks candidly about ICE actions affecting her Somali community, highlighting resilience amidst rising anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Dec 10, 2025 • 56min
Hostile to Europe, Warm to Russia
Celeste Wallander, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, and Peter Frankopan, an Oxford University professor of global history, tackle the controversial Trump national security strategy. They discuss its European backlash and how it aligns with Russia's interests. Wallander emphasizes the importance of Europe for U.S. security, while Frankopan warns against underestimating Russia and China's strategic narratives. Together, they explore Europe's military capabilities and the implications for Ukraine's future settlements.

Dec 8, 2025 • 56min
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new Interim President of Syria and former opposition leader, discusses the fragile transition following Bashar al-Assad's fall. He highlights the need for national reconciliation, addressing concerns from minority groups, and aims to lift economic sanctions for recovery. Dimitri Daskalakis, a former CDC official, shares insights on U.S. public health policies and critiques recent changes at the CDC. Their conversation dives into governance, women's rights, and the importance of inclusivity in Syria's future.

Dec 6, 2025 • 43min
US ramps up pressure on Venezuela, Snubs Europe
Ivan Duque, former President of Colombia, discusses his support for U.S. pressure on Venezuela, asserting that it could curb narco-trafficking and restore democracy. He contrasts his administration's close ties with the U.S. to President Petro's policies. Julianne Smith, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, highlights the diplomatic significance of the U.S. Secretary of State missing a NATO meeting, warning that Putin's rhetoric aims to weaken the alliance. The conversation dives into regional politics, security dynamics, and the complexities of modern diplomacy.

Dec 5, 2025 • 56min
Former NATO Commander Rupert Smith
Rupert Smith, a former senior British military commander with extensive experience, shares gripping insights on the complexities of modern warfare. He discusses the parallels between the conflicts in Ukraine and Bosnia, emphasizing the critical need for stronger security guarantees. Smith also reflects on his experiences during the Dayton Agreement and the importance of achieving ceasefires. Meanwhile, renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz speaks about her new book, celebrating women's narratives through powerful portraits of iconic figures like Michelle Obama and Rihanna.

Dec 4, 2025 • 56min
Former Colombian President Ivan Duque
Former Colombian President Iván Duque, known for his focus on security and anti-narcotics, shares insights on U.S. strikes against drug cartels and the implications for Colombia and Venezuela. He emphasizes the threat posed by Maduro harboring narco-terror groups and calls for coordinated regional action. Journalist Farnaz Fassihi discusses young Iranians defying social norms post-Mahsa Amini, while Joshua Yaffa analyzes the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the challenges both sides face, highlighting the complexities of achieving peace amid geopolitical tensions.

Dec 3, 2025 • 56min
Lengthy Talks, No Progress
Julianne Smith, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, shares insights on the stalled Russia-U.S. negotiations and critiques Putin's tactics as NATO remains vigilant. Ehud Olmert, former Israeli Prime Minister, voices concerns over government complicity in settler violence and calls for accountability in Gaza. Senator Bill Cassidy discusses health policy, proposing converting subsidies to health savings accounts to help families manage costs and emphasizing the need for bipartisan solutions in healthcare.

Dec 2, 2025 • 56min
Is US Prioritizing Business Over Peace?
Andrey Kurkov, a Ukrainian novelist known for chronicling life in a war-torn Ukraine, shares harrowing stories of survival amidst constant bombing and cultural destruction. He reflects on the displaced population and the fight for identity. Brian Muehlberger, whose daughter was a victim of a school shooting, discusses the emotional weight of preserving memories in her bedroom and the power of storytelling in healing. Mahnaz Afkhami, a pioneering Iranian women's rights activist, spotlighted the struggles women faced after the 1979 Revolution and the importance of grassroots activism for change.

Dec 1, 2025 • 56min
US Double Boat Strike Prompts Bipartisan Criticism
Brian Winter, Editor-in-chief of Americas Quarterly, delves into the U.S. strategy to oust Maduro, exploring the implications of the recent military actions and political risks involved. Former Secretary of State John Kerry offers insights on diplomacy with Russia, critiquing the current approach and emphasizing effective sanctions. Pastor Tim Johnson shares his transformative experiences at Rikers Island, highlighting the importance of emotional connections in rehabilitating young inmates. Together, they explore the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and the roots of incarceration.

Nov 29, 2025 • 42min
Outrage Over Leaked Witkoff Call Coaching Russia On How To Sway Trump
Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry shares insights on a leaked call involving Trump's envoy, which appears to coach a Putin aide. He critiques the blunt diplomacy style of the Trump administration, urging a harder stance on Russia. Kerry also tackles the controversial 28-point plan that could require Ukraine to cede territory. Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's former Foreign Minister, offers Kyiv's view on the leaked transcripts, expressing betrayal and the detrimental implications for U.S.-Russia negotiations. Additionally, acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz discusses her new book on iconic women.


