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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
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. How should the West deal with Moscow? And are there any lessons to be learned from…
Explainer 301: The “freedom convoy”
Andrew Mueller explains why truck drivers have been protesting in Ottawa, Canada.
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 line? And what would a Russian assault on Ukraine look like? Andrew Mueller speaks to Monocle’s…
Explainer 300: Australia: Waving the flag
The government of Australia has just purchased the licence to the Australian Aboriginal flag for AU$20m. To mark Australia Day, Andrew Mueller explains why such a transaction was necessary and how the news has been received.
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 empire building but with Chinese characteristics? Andrew Mueller speaks to Isabel Hilton, Lucinda Elliott, Fiona Ey…
Explainer 299: What does Russia want with Ukraine?
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine tighten, Andrew Mueller reflects on their fickle friendship and speculates on what Putin really wants from the situation.
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? And how can governments address it? Andrew Mueller speaks to Hannah Lucinda Smith, Andrew Walker, Marija…
Explainer 298: Will Sudan settle?
UN-sponsored talks are taking place in Sudan after more than 60 people died demonstrating against the most recent coup-d’etat in October. Andrew Mueller explains how far back the unrest extends and ponders whether a resolution can be reached.
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. Does possessing a nuclear deterrent make the world safer? Is a world without atomic weapons even…
Capitol riots: one year later
One year ago on 6 January, a violent mob forced its way past lines of police officers and into the US Capitol building in Washington. As investigators continue to examine exactly what happened that day, many questions remain unanswered. Andrew Mueller shares his take on what we’ve learned since the…
