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The Foreign Desk
Monocle’s global-affairs show with Andrew Mueller. Expert guests, in-depth analysis, and sharp commentary on major geopolitical issues.
Latest Episodes
Explainer 513: Why does Viktor Orbán’s defeat matter?
Despite a relatively small population and limited economic power, Hungary’s general election result, turning out far-right prime minister Viktor Orbán in favour of conservative Péter Magyar, has outsized international significance. But why?
Operation Epic Fury: Is that it?
A ceasefire has been announced between Iran, the US and Israel, but are all parties in agreement on the terms? Who is the victor? And what did Operation Epic Fury actually achieve?
Explainer 512: Why is JD Vance in Hungary?
US vice-president JD Vance is in Hungary to bolster its prime minister, Viktor Orbán, ahead of elections this weekend. The VP accused the EU of “foreign election interference” – but why is he getting involved?
As the war in Iran enters its second month, is victory for anyone still possible?
Iran’s regime is battered but intact and holding the Strait of Hormuz while the US is militarily dominant but strategically stagnant. Is victory for anyone still possible? Do realistic off-ramps exist?
Explainer 511: Why is Germany telling Syrians to return home?
At a joint press conference this week, chancellor Friedrich Merz and president Ahmed al-Sharaa encouraged Syrians to return home. But who benefits from the plan?
Why has Israel invaded Lebanon?
Israel has invaded Lebanon, again. With more than 1,000 people killed and 1.2 million displaced, many fear a return to civil war. What does Israel want from this? Does Lebanon have any options?
Explainer 510: From Angola with love: are there Russian spies in southern Africa?
This week two Russians are on trial in Angola, accused of espionage. Has the southern African nation been infiltrated by foreign spies or are they scapegoats for a failing government? Andrew Mueller explains.
The war in Iran: the global fallout
The consequences of the US-Israel war in Iran are rippling around the world. Can Volodymyr Zelensky retain focus on the war in Ukraine? Will an already fragile Nato splinter? Is this the end of rules-based order?
Explainer 509: Is Cuba next on Trump’s hit list?
Despite the ongoing military strikes in Iran, Donald Trump has been sizing up his next potential conquest: Cuba. But could, would and should he actually strike the country? Andrew Mueller explains.
Iran: Are the US and Israel fighting the same war?
The US and Israel have a shared target in Iran but do they have the same goals? We discuss with guests including John Bolton and Nate Swanson.
