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
The Foreign Desk Live: Russia invades Ukraine – week one
On 24 February, Russia commenced a full invasion of Ukraine. What is the latest? Can Ukraine continue to defend itself? And what is likely to happen next? Andrew Mueller speaks to Ukrainian MP Lesia…
What to expect from Olaf Scholz
The thorny issue of how to manage Vladimir Putin’s Russia is one of the biggest foreign-policy challenges facing Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, who has come under fire for his perceived passivity in the…
Canada’s trucker protests: where is this going?
As protesters in trucks continue to paralyse the centre of Ottawa, Justin Trudeau has demanded an end to the so-called Freedom Convoy blockade. Are we witnessing a pivotal moment in Canadian politics? What options…
How do you solve a problem like Russia?
Amid fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine, one thing is clear: Vladimir Putin’s obsession with the former Soviet republic is unlikely to waver. But this concern is nothing new for Russia’s eastern neighbours.…
The Foreign Desk Live: What’s happening in Ukraine?
Tensions between Moscow and Nato members are at their highest in years, as Russian troops mass on Ukraine’s border. Do Ukrainians believe a full-scale war is imminent? How are soldiers preparing on the front…
China’s Belt and Road: a win-win or debt trap?
China’s Belt and Road Initiative has manifested in railways, airports, seaports and highways all over the world. What is China’s endgame? How do locals feel about these development projects? And are we witnessing old-fashioned…
When currencies collapse
Turkey, once an economic powerhouse, is experiencing a currency meltdown as inflation skyrockets against a backdrop of unorthodox policies. What can we learn from past currency crises? How do people get around hyperinflation woes?…
Is the doctrine of nuclear deterrence still relevant?
In a rare joint statement issued on Monday, five of the world’s most powerful nations pledged to avoid nuclear war. In this episode of ‘The Foreign Desk’, we examine the doctrine of nuclear deterrence.…
Looking back at 2021 and forward to 2022
We look back on the big events of the past 12 months and peer ahead to 2022. Andrew Mueller speaks to Quentin Peel, Latika Bourke and Lewis Lukens.
War and peas: the role of food in diplomacy
As millions of families tuck into their Christmas turkey and load up their plates with leftovers from the festive season, we examine the role of food in global politics. What is culinary diplomacy? Is…
