Russia’s plans to increase its propaganda budget, Vance meets Netanyahu and the EU’s first anti-far-right European Council

Trump sanctions two of Russia’s big oil companies. How big will the impact be? Then: China’s religious charm offensive on Taiwan. Plus: Vienna’s surprising history with voice messages.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Russia continues to bombard Ukraine while looking to boost its propaganda budget. Then: JD Vance meets with Benjamin Netanyahu to assert the US’s commitment to the Gaza ceasefire. Plus: the fate of heritage crafts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Trump and Putin delay their summit, what’s next for the war in Ukraine? Then: Sarkozy begins his five-year prison term. Plus: Lime marks a billion rides – but are they a help or hindrance?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As reports emerge of a “shouting match” between Zelensky and Trump during their latest meeting, we discuss what lies ahead for Ukraine. Plus: Will Japan get its first female PM, will France’s wealthy flee the country’s turmoil, and are “scream clubs” the future for all of us?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monocle’s Sophie Monaghan-Coombs on one of the biggest events on the art calendar. Plus: Leila Molana-Allen reports from the Middle East, Zelensky goes to Washington and Andrew Mueller gets a lesson in autumnal wines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sébastien Lecornu keeps his job but at the expense of Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms. Plus: Why was Tony Blair given a role upholding Gaza’s ceasefire but no other European heavyweights were? And is China a friend or foe?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Vladimir Putin cancels a summit with Arab leaders in Moscow and Pete Hegseth takes Russia to task in Brussels, is the mood shifting post-Gaza ceasefire? Plus: Germany’s “lottery conscription” and two new surveys on AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pentagon orders journalists to sign restrictive new rules. Plus: How long-range missiles could place Moscow in striking distance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After more than two years in captivity, all 20 living hostages are returned by Hamas. Plus: Why Cuba is denying its military’s participation in Russia’s war against Ukraine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As France’s president meets with party leaders to discuss the next French prime minister, Monocle’s Paris bureau chief explains why Macron might take an unexpected approach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.