John Ratcliffe’s in-person Moscow meeting: could it have been an email?

What would happen if South Korea joined the war against Iran? Then: why are so many Republicans a no-show at Trump’s new convention? And: how closely should we listen to AI whistleblowers?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel angry as the UK, France and Canada ban imports from West Bank settlements. Then: Odesa considers prohibiting the Russian language in the arts. And: How could a ban on lying in politics be enforced?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the AfD wins in Saxony-Anhalt, how strong is Germany’s firewall against the far right? Then: Is the US concerned about Europe’s space agenda? And: How can a country bounce back after record tourist complaints?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Italian prime minister has beaten Silvio Berlusconi’s record to lead the country’s longest-serving postwar government. We look at what the recipe of her success has been and how this achievement might inspire other far-right parties in Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What can be done to stop Russia meddling in European elections? Then: France and the UK boost their historic ties. And: South Korea unveils plans for a second presidential office and a new national assembly in Sejong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As strikes resume, we discuss whether the Iran war could stretch on forever. Then: are democratic socialists going to ruin US capitalism? Could a new secretary-general rebrand the UN? And what the hell is an “aura battle”?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Vladimir Putin tells Iran it has Moscow’s support, what is he saying to Washington? Then: is the UAE trying to make itself indispensable around the world? Plus: has the price of gold made museum heists less sophisticated?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Chancellor Merz prepares to point the finger at Moscow for hybrid attacks in Leipzig, how has Germany’s foreign policy changed over the last few years? Plus: When does Japanese etiquette go too far?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We examine the steep decline of the loyalty scheme and spotlight two luxury brands that are bucking the trend. Plus: Andrew Mueller defends his title in the weekly quiz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Moscow confirms the director of the CIA’s not-so-clandestine visit, we discuss what was on the agenda. Then: The Butcher of Bosnia dies and Syria starts shopping. Plus: Should you consider hotel-first trips?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.