Episodes

  • Explainer 510: From Angola with love: are there Russian spies in southern Africa?
    Mar 25 2026

    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.

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    7 mins
  • The war in Iran: the global fallout
    Mar 21 2026

    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?



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    35 mins
  • Explainer 509: Is Cuba next on Trump’s hit list?
    Mar 18 2026

    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.

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    7 mins
  • Iran: Are the US and Israel fighting the same war?
    Mar 14 2026

    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.

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    44 mins
  • Explainer 508: How did rapper Balen become prime minister of Nepal?
    Mar 11 2026

    Rapper turned politician Balendrah Shah was elected Nepal’s prime minister this week. Andrew Mueller traces his political ascent, fuelled by last year’s Gen-Z protests.

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    7 mins
  • The Foreign Desk Exclusive: Canada prime minister Mark Carney on the new world order
    Mar 11 2026

    Canada’s Mark Carney sits down with Monocle’s editorial director and chairman, Tyler Brûlé, to discuss how middle powers can shape the future, the importance of a national brand and finding opportunities in global disorder.

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    30 mins
  • Live special: War in Iran
    Mar 7 2026

    We head to Dubai, New York and Jerusalem for the latest developments as the war in Iran grips the Gulf. How are civilians faring? How is the US explaining this war? Is an off-ramp possible?

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    46 mins
  • Explainer 507: Pakistan-Afghanistan: What’s fuelling this week’s overlooked conflict?
    Mar 4 2026

    While the world’s eyes are on Iran, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have flared into open conflict. What is driving the latest escalation? Andrew Mueller explains.

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    7 mins