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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
What now for France?
The Olympics provided some welcome respite for Emmanuel Macron and the French from their political headache. Have they learned anything about unity from the Games? In part two of our broadcasts live from Paris, Andrew Mueller speaks with French sports ambassador Laurence Fischer, Le Monde ‘M’ magazine editor Marie-Pierre Lannelongue…
Explainer 429: Mali and Ukraine
Andrew Mueller explains why Mali has severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine.
The Olympic spirit
The Olympics have never been just about the sports. We explore what it means for athletes to represent their countries, the mood in France and the history of boycotts and other geopolitical moments at the Games. Recorded at our pop-up studio in Paris, Andrew Mueller speaks to French journalist Daphnée…
Explainer 428: Too little too late?
As Ukraine prepares to receive some of the F-16s promised by Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway and Denmark, Andrew Mueller asks whether such a small number this late in the war can actually make a difference.
Is change coming to Venezuela?
Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, faces a real challenge to his presidency this weekend, with a united opposition of Edmundo González and María Corina Machado campaigning for victory. What will it take to unseat Maduro and the Chavismo legacy that he represents? Andrew Mueller speaks with opposition advisor Paola Bautista de…
Explainer 427: Bangladesh’s quota quandary
Andrew Mueller explains why there have been deadly protests across Bangladesh.
Is America the north star it used to be?
In this special episode, recorded partially in Washington during the Nato Summit, we take a look at the United States’ willingness and ability to assume its traditional role as leader of the free world in this pivotal era of global democracy. How much should America’s allies be worried? And if…
Explainer 426: JD Vance
Ohio senator JD Vance has been announced as Donald Trump’s running mate and potential vice-president. Andrew Mueller explains his background and the likely reasons for his nomination.
Nato comes to Washington
‘The Foreign Desk’ broadcasts from Washington for Nato’s 75th anniversary summit, with Joe Biden playing host under an intense spotlight. Andrew Mueller speaks to ministers from Estonia, Latvia and Moldova, as well as Ian Bremmer and former US defence official Ian Brzezinski. Plus: the story of Nato’s longest-serving spokesperson, Oana…
Explainer 425: Is this the end of Ecowas?
Andrew Mueller explains why the West African junta have turned their back on Ecowas and what it means for the bloc.
