Christiane Amanpour Presents: The Ex Files

In this special episode, Christiane and Jamie sum up the impact Trump has had on the world in 2025 - and discuss whether this was the year the rules-based world order was abandoned for good.They run the rule over a chaotic 12 months in foreign policy, examining Trump's impact on major stories from the war in Ukraine to the Middle East, and from the simmering conflict with Venezuela to how Trump managed to light a fuse under US relations with India.Christiane highlights how deal-making has influenced US policy-making like never before, and Jamie attempts to make sense of why European allies are being treated so harshly, as Trump seems determined to welcome Putin and Russia back into the fold.Later, Christiane and Jamie both have a festive recommendation!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked whether the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance between the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand could be disbanded over questions of the legality of Trump's bombing of alleged drug-carrying vessels in the Caribbean sea.They’re also asked, given the apparent lack of support for Europe against continued Russian aggression, whether it could be time for all US-European bases to be closed.Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected]   For more content, please follow us:  Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpod X: https://x.com/AmanpourPod= Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-Presents BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

The Trump administration has finally published its National Security strategy - and it's left Christiane and Jamie baffled. This week, they discuss why, at a time of war in Ukraine, the President seems so keen to welcome Russia back into the fold, while criticising America's European allies.Plus, Christiane reflects on her recent exclusive interview with Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa, and, one year on from the overthrow of the tyrannical Assad regime, asks how much hope Syrians can have for their future.Can the country's new leader unify a fragmented nation and rescue its dire economy? Christiane and Jamie also discuss what al-Sharaa has to say about his terrorist past, and explain why he's furious with Israel.Later, it's time for this week's Recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked about Benjamin Netanyahu’s request to the Israeli president for a pardon from the long-running corruption trial he faces, for which he’s pleaded not guilty to charges of bribery and fraud. Is a pardon really in the Israeli public interest, as he claims? They’re also quizzed on the increasingly discussed possibility of another global financial crash. How likely is such a crash and what would its impact on global geopolitics be? Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected]  For more content, please follow us:  Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpod X: https://x.com/AmanpourPod= Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-Presents BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social 

With Congress now formally looking into accusations that the War Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has asked US forces to carry out illegal orders in the Caribbean, Christiane and Jamie explain the background to the story and examine those allegations in detail. Why does the Trump administration seem so obsessed with launching a full-blown military campaign against Venezuela? And what are the consequences if Hegseth has been ordering his troops to commit war crimes?Christiane also gives her reaction to President Macron's controversial announcement that he is reintroducing military service in France. Decades after most Western nations ended conscription and compulsory national service, she and Jamie discuss whether this is a step that other nations, such as the US and the UK, should follow, given the ongoing threat posed by Russia. Jamie also reveals what Andriy Yermak - Zelensky's recently departed Chief of Staff - was like to work with, and he and Christiane assess whether we are any closer to reaching a genuine peace deal for Ukraine.And as always, they wrap up with this week's Recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, in the wake of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia’s meeting with Donald Trump at the White House, Christiane and Jamie are asked how the US should best deal with regimes that, despite condemnable human rights records, remain important strategic allies.They’re also asked why President Trump gets away with his consistently rude treatment of journalists, Christiane noting a recent but already infamous incident in which the President angrily hushed a female journalist: “Quiet, piggy”.Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPod=Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Aman

Why does Trump think he can force Ukraine to accept a “peace plan” that hands Putin almost everything he wants? In this episode, Christiane explains why the latest US-backed proposals and Trump's pressure campaign are so problematic - and gives her very personal reaction to the fast-moving negotiations.And as high-stakes talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the US take place in Abu Dhabi, Christiane and Jamie look at how Europe and Zelensky are fighting back against the Trump-Russia plan - and whether the US can be convinced to continue supporting Ukraine if the war drags on into next year.Later, Christiane and Jamie react to Trump and Mamdani's surprising first meeting in the Oval Office, plus they explore how tech bros have muscled their way into US politics, and they wrap up with this week's recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked to explain the potential rationale behind Donald Trump’s U-turn on the Epstein files. The bill ordering the release of the files has passed in the House of Representatives and the Senate, with Trump’s blessing… despite him recently labelling congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene a “traitor” for supporting the motion.They’re also asked about the “dark money” used by donors to control politicians and influence policy. What can be done to increase the transparency of policy decision-making and reduce any potential conflicts of interest?Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPod=Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Christiane reflects on the 30th anniversary of the end of the Bosnian War, revealing why current world leaders could learn valuable lessons from how that conflict ended when it comes to Ukraine and the Middle East. She and Jamie also explain what made the US military intervention in Bosnia so successful, and why it didn't turn into a repeat of the Vietnam War, as some had claimed it would.Plus, as Trump continues his crackdown on immigration, has the president just run into his toughest opponent yet? With hundreds more arrests made by ICE officials in Charlotte, North Carolina, over the weekend, Christiane and Jamie discuss what the impact could be of Catholic and Christian leaders across America joining the Pope in criticising Trump as he attempts to continue his mass deportations.And don't miss this week's recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked about the events that led to Donald Trump threatening to sue the BBC for $1bn. How serious an act is it to edit a video of the President in a way that could be considered misleading?Also posed are questions about the recent success of the Democrats in the US, at the forefront of which is Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Will he succeed as the Mayor of New York and how can the Democrats balance ambition with pragmatism?Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

This week, the famed couples' therapist Esther Perel joins Christiane for a special episode. Ahead of the Holiday season, they discuss why families and world leaders seem to be more polarised than ever by politics and an inability to resolve their differences - and Esther explains what people can do to heal divisions in their own lives at this difficult time.Esther also reveals to Christiane what she thinks of her starting a podcast with her ex-husband, Jamie Rubin - plus she has a book, a film, and a play to recommend!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked how NATO states would react, militarily, if Donald Trump’s America were to invade Canada. Assuming Article 5 would be invoked, would NATO then allow US allies to come to Canada’s defence and go to war with America?Christiane is also joined by Ernest Moniz, physicist, former United States Secretary of Energy, and Co-Chair and CEO of the Nuclear Threat Initiative. They discuss the NTI’s progress towards global nuclear disarmament via policy solutions, partnerships and innovation.Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Putin says Russia has just successfully tested a new type of nuclear-powered weapon. China has doubled the size of its nuclear arsenal in the last five years - and shows no signs of slowing down. Meanwhile, Trump is promising to restart US nuclear weapons tests. After a week of sabre-rattling from world leaders, Christiane and Jamie discuss whether we're entering a new Cold War, and analyse how seriously the West should take the nuclear threat posed by Russia and China.Christiane also explains how the world has gone backwards on nuclear disarmament since her trip to North Korea in 2008 - while she and Jamie debate how accurate the new film "A House of Dynamite" is, and what would really happen if a nuclear missile was fired at the US.Later, Christiane reveals what insiders have told her about Trump's recent threat of a military intervention in Nigeria, while Jamie breaks down why we should be worried by the growing influence of China, Russia, and the UAE in Africa.Plus: which country is number 1 in the world for gender equality? Find out in this week's Recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked what they think about the announcement from Kamala Harris that she’s considering running for president again - and how they think she’d do. Christiane and Jamie are also asked who they think will win the upcoming New York Mayoral Election and whether the 34 year old favourite, Democrat Zohran Mamdani, has provided a political template for the whole party to follow.Christiane also answers a question about her experience of dealing with ovarian cancer for a third time - something she opened up about on a recent podcast called Changing the Ovarian Cancer Story, which you can listen to or watch here. Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

The US Defence Secretary is asking journalists to "make a pact with the devil" says Christiane this week, as she and Jamie discuss why Pete Hegseth seems so intent on censoring the Pentagon Press. Does the former Army Major have something to hide? Or is this just another sign of authoritarianism creeping into the Trump administration? Christiane explains what the consequences of this move could be - and why it might backfire on the man who likes to style himself as the Secretary of War.Plus, as Trump prepares to meet with President Xi at a summit in South Korea, Christiane and Jamie predict whether the era of tariffs and trade wars might finally be coming to an end. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie tackle your questions about the growing “No Kings” protests and the viral video of President Trump wearing a crown. Why isn’t there more outrage over a president who seems to see himself as a monarch?They also explore what’s next for Syria following Assad’s overthrow last year and revisit why President Obama ultimately failed to enforce his famous “red line” on chemical weapons.Send us a question at: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

As the Trump administration's strikes on 'narco-terrorist' boats in the Caribbean continue, Christiane and Jamie discuss whether this is the start of a full-blown conflict with Venezuela - and ask whether Trump is going for regime change in the Latin American country.Christiane highlights previous US attempts at regime change - in Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan - and explains why those went wrong, while Jamie questions the legality of the recent strikes in the Caribbean, pointing to the shock resignation of the Admiral in charge of the US military in South America.Later, Christiane speaks to Emily Maitlis - the presenter of The News Agents podcast who conducted the infamous Prince Andrew interview in 2019 - about the Prince being stripped of his remaining titles, and this week's release of Virginia Giuffre's memoirs. Christiane asks Emily whether she thinks there is still more fallout to come from Andrew's friendship with the late paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.Plus - don't miss this week's Recommendations!Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie are asked why, despite widespread opposition to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, no one was able to stop the conflict until now. Also, is Tony Blair really a sound choice for the Gazan "Board of Peace"?They also address whether the U.S. Supreme Court could reverse its ruling that granted President Donald Trump immunity from criminal prosecution.Send us a question at: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

The guns have fallen silent in Gaza, and the surviving hostages have returned to Israel — but will this ceasefire lead to real, lasting peace?Christiane and Jamie unpack the complex diplomatic road ahead, examining the two biggest obstacles standing in the way of lasting peace.Christiane shares exclusive insights from key figures across the Middle East about their concerns for phase two, while Jamie breaks down how Trump managed to broker this deal where Biden couldn’t.Plus, they discuss whether Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week's Q&A episode, Christiane and Jamie are asked why the US federal government is currently in a shutdown, what impact it’ll have on the country and why the Trump administration blames the Democrats.They’re also asked how the media can help to raise awareness of femicide - given that UN statistics show rates of violence against women are growing annually across the world. Christiane and Jamie also explain the positive sides of AI, and why Israel was allowed to arrest hundreds of people aboard an aid flotilla bound for Gaza. Send us a question at: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Trump claims to have a plan which could lead to lasting peace in the Middle East - but is this any more than a framework for a fragile ceasefire? This week, Christiane and Jamie clash over how strong this plan is - and how good a chance it has of leading to meaningful peace.Jamie also explains why this deal could have been struck so much earlier if Trump had been willing to put more pressure on Benjamin Netanyahu - and Christiane reveals the concerns which Arab leaders have been expressing to her about it in private.Later, Christiane and Jamie debate whether the Democrats are right to hold firm on the issue of healthcare as the US Government shutdown shows no sign of coming to an end. Plus Christiane expresses her fears that Trump's rhetoric on immigration is spreading further into mainstream British political conversation.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week's Q&A episode, Christiane and Jamie address whether science can prevail against the rising numbers of climate change deniers and anti-vaxxers - including some within the US Government. They're also asked whether they think American journalism is likely to suffer from more censorship - in light of the recent free speech row and the cancelling of Jimmy Kimmel. Plus they give their view on whether the US should lose the honour of being the home of the UN in light of President Trump's controversial speech to the General Assembly last week. Send us a question at: [email protected] For more content, please follow us: Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

This week, as Portland pushes back against Trump's attempt to send in National Guard troops, and with Jimmy Kimmel back on air, Christiane and Jamie debate whether the President is losing some of his fear factor - and warn against the possibility of the White House ordering the military to carry out illegal orders at this week's summit of top brass in Virginia.Christiane also reveals what top politicians and diplomats were telling her behind the scenes at last week's UN General Assembly in New York - particularly on the prospect of a peace deal in the Middle East - and Jamie explains why Trump might finally have worked out that Vladimir Putin is the problem which needs solving when it comes to ending the war in Ukraine. Later, Christiane tells us what really happened with 'escalator-gate' - and we're off to the movies for this week's Recommendations. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

For this week's Q&A episode, Christiane and Jamie are in New York, where world leaders have gathered for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. They take a special question from the UN's Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed, about how they stay hopeful in such a divided world. Plus they answer your questions on what can be done to avoid the United States descending into autocracy, the Hyundai ICE raid, and whether recent events such as Charlie Kirk’s assassination prove that social media is amplifying the most extreme voices on the fringes of society. Have a question for a future bonus episode? Email it to [email protected] or follow us on social media: @amanpourpod

"A government threat to silence a comedian the president doesn't like is anti-American", says Jimmy Kimmel as his show returns to air.Christiane and Jamie are recording from New York, and Christiane gives her reaction to Kimmel being taken off air temporarily after comments he made about Charlie Kirk's murder - and Jamie reacts to the creeping levels of censorship he's seeing in Trump's America.For the first time, G7 nations have recognised the state of Palestine. So what does this historic decision actually achieve? Christiane and Jamie discuss whether this is the right time for countries such as the UK, France, and Canada to make this move - and whether it could prompt Israel to annex more of the West Bank in response. In the week of the UN's 80th anniversary, Christiane and Jamie also share their most memorable stories from their time at the United Nations - from how they met, to their work reporting on and trying to stop genocides. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Will the Supreme Court take away Trump’s powers? In this week’s Q&A, Christiane and Jamie answer whether the courts might move to limit Trump’s authority, from his use of tariffs to the growing militarisation of America’s streets.They also tackle big questions about the future of American politics: Could the US ever embrace socialism? And do many Americans blur the line between socialism and communism? Plus: does moving to the centre win elections, or just alienate voters?Send us a question at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

The White House has said it will “disrupt, dismantle and destroy” a “vast domestic terror movement” and threatens “the radical left” after Charlie Kirk’s assassination. This comes after Elon Musk addressed a London rally organised by far-right figure Tommy Robinson, urging the crowd to “fight back or die.” What does this moment tell us about the rise of political extremism and violence - and can democracy withstand it?Meanwhile, Jamie reports from The Hague where he is testifying at the International Criminal Court. He and Christiane ask is the ICC still relevant in a world of powerful leaders who appear untouchable? How do indictments work, and will figures like Putin, Netanyahu, or Assad ever face trial?And as Donald Trump touches down in the UK, what should the British government demand in exchange for the King granting him another state visit?Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

On this week's Q&A episode, Christiane and Jamie answer your questions on a range of subjects - including why Trump takes such a soft approach to dealing with Vladimir Putin while he is so tough on weaker nations.They also discuss whether there is any hope of Ukraine joining NATO in the long-term, while Christiane also explains how Israel is allowed to block international journalists reporting from inside Gaza.Later, Jamie addresses the idea that political parties of the left are moving to the centre, and Christiane reveals whether she would recommend a career in journalism to anyone starting out. Have a question for a future bonus episode? Email it to [email protected] or follow us on social media: @amanpourpod

From a series of embarrassing court defeats at home, to China asserting itself more strongly than ever as a global superpower, Donald Trump has had a bad week. But has it been the worst week so far of Oval Office 2.0? Christiane and Jamie discuss just how damaging Trump's legal setbacks on tariffs, deportations and his use of the National Guard could be - and whether the US is now playing second fiddle to China on the world stage.Christiane also gives her reaction to Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff attending the final of the US Open over the weekend, and Jamie explains why America could yet be forced to pay back tens, or even hundreds, of billions of dollars in tariffs. Later, Christiane introduces a brand-new weekly feature to the podcast: stay tuned for her and Jamie's top recommendations for what to read, watch, and listen to in the week ahead. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Artificial Intelligence: crisis or opportunity? This week, Christiane and Jamie explore how AI is reshaping democracy, asking whether it could undermine free and fair elections - or be harnessed to strengthen societies instead.They reveal Russia's large-scale interference in last year's Romanian elections - and why U.S. Vice President JD Vance chose to openly criticise Europe over the decision to rerun that vote.Plus Christiane explains the role AI played in the recent war between Israel and Iran, and the growing challenge of finding trustworthy journalism in an era dominated by generative AI.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Has America turned away from its global leadership role for good under Donald Trump? Can public opinion can still have a significant impact on foreign policy? And how big a threat does censorship pose to democracy? These are just some of your questions that Christiane and Jamie tackle on this week's extended Q&A episode. Christiane also reveals whether, as a journalist, the desire to be the first to report something has ever trumped the need to be right.Plus she and Jamie give their view on what the world's most under-reported story is - and they finish by explaining what still gives them cause to be hopeful in a world where hope often seems hard to find. Got a question for a future Q&A episode? Send it to [email protected] follow us on social media and you can leave a question there: @amanpourpod Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod

Few challenges in international diplomacy are as fraught - or as urgent - as negotiating the freedom of hostages and political prisoners. In this episode, Christiane and Jamie take us inside two high-profile deals they were personally involved in: the release of Siamak Namazi from the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran, and of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich from Moscow. They reveal the roles they played in bringing these men home, and the keys to negotiating with dictators and authoritarian regimes. Jamie also explains how the US came agonisingly close to securing the release of Alexei Navalny before his death in a Siberian prison camp.Plus Christiane looks back on her own harrowing experiences as a foreign correspondent - recounting the times she herself was held hostage, including by the Taliban in Afghanistan and by war criminals in the Balkans - and what those ordeals taught her about survival and resilience.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s Q&A bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie are asked what the elusive two-state solution could actually look like in Israel-Palestine, in terms of government, voting, policing and representation. They’re also asked what ordinary people can do to help end the war, leading Christiane to reflect on the fluctuating power of public protest in Trump's America. They’re also probed on whether they’d like to have done each other’s high profile jobs, and if so, what they’d have done better! Jamie ends up on a slightly uncomfortable trip down memory lane when he recalls his spell working as an anchor for a major broadcasting company.Have a question for a future bonus episode? Send it via email to [email protected] or on social media @amanpourpod

As Donald Trump heads to a high-stakes summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, Ukraine’s future hangs in the balance. Could a deal be struck without President Zelensky in the room - and might Trump trade away Ukrainian territory to boast that he’s ended one of the world’s most dangerous conflicts? That's what Christiane and Jamie unpack this week, as they discuss whether diplomacy or capitulation will be the theme of this week's summit. The conversation also turns to Israel’s escalating plans for a full reoccupation of Gaza — and what that would mean for the region and the world. Plus, four years after the West’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, Christiane and Jamie revisit why the evacuation went so disastrously wrong, and how it continues to undermine America’s credibility on the global stage.Later, Christiane reveals what it was like to report from Afghanistan before, during, and after the American invasion, how she was proven right about where Osama Bin Laden was hiding out, and whether there's hope for the women and girls who are currently suffering so badly under the Taliban regime.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week's Q&A bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie are asked whether President Donald Trump's MAGA movement and Nigel Farage's Reform UK - two populist political powerhouses - benefit from a disproportionate level of coverage in the media.They also address why more Republicans don't stand up to Trump - and Christiane explains the challenge journalists face when reporting on controversial topics in the news, from Trump, to Jeffrey Epstein, to the Middle East. Christiane and Jamie also answer questions about whether the Ukraine War, now in its 11th year, is still receiving the same level of attention it did in the past, or whether “war-fatigue” has set in.Have a question for a future bonus episode? Send it via email to [email protected] or on social media @amanpourpod

From Northern Ireland to Bosnia, and from Camp David to Wye River, Christiane and Jamie have covered countless conflicts and helped to negotiate many peace deals. But how were these wars really ended? And what can today's world leaders learn from the successes of the past? In this episode, Christiane and Jamie look at whether Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff really understand what it takes to bring peace to the world's conflicts. After all, Trump promised he would end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours on his re-election campaign - and he also pledged to restore peace to the Middle East. More than six months into his second term in the Oval Office, the President has failed to deliver on those promises. Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, Christiane and Jamie explain how seemingly small details - like face-to-face meetings, shared meals, and even the shape of a negotiating table - can make or break high-stakes talks.Christiane and Jamie also discuss tariffs: is there any economic logic to them, or does Trump simply use them to settle personal scores with world leaders he's clashed with?

In this week's Q&A bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie return to the crisis President Trump is facing over the Epstein Files. In response to your questions, they address the idea that the President might pardon Jeffrey Epstein’s ex-girlfriend and accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell - something he has left the door open to in the past.They also debate how damaging this crisis could be for Trump in the long-term, while Christiane gives her thoughts on why so many modern journalists fail to subscribe to her mantra of being “truthful, not neutral”. Plus Jamie reveals why he never worked in the Obama administration, even though he worked for fellow Democratic Presidents Clinton and Biden. And the pair also take your questions on who might make for the strongest Democrat candidate at the next Presidential election, and on whether Europe should be doing more to support Ukraine. Have a question for a future bonus episode? Email it to [email protected] or follow us on socials: @amanpourpod

What can end the famine in Gaza? Can President Trump get through to Benjamin Netanyahu? And an unprecedented Israeli report accuses Netanyahu's government of committing genocide in the Palestinian territory. They're just a few of the topics Christiane and Jamie discuss on this week's episode, as Trump's visit to the UK comes to an end and the starvation continues in Gaza.They also look at the state of the 'special relationship' between Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and debate whether the UK still holds any sway over America when it comes to Middle East policy.Plus Christiane reports on the chances of a new nuclear deal with Iran after the Iranians returned to the negotiating table last week, and explains why Nato allies - including President Trump - appear to be finally running out of patience with Putin over the war in Ukraine.

In this week's Q&A bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie discuss why American voters elected Donald Trump to the White House instead of Kamala Harris - and what they’d ask if they were to interview the president themselves.They also answer your questions on why third party Middle Eastern nations seem to do so little to help resolve the war in Gaza, what those countries could do to constructively support peace, and why the Palestinian cause cannot be ignored.Have a question for a future bonus episode? Send it to [email protected]!

The row over The Epstein Files is one that President Trump is still struggling to shake off. But just how damaging is it for his credibility, and where does his disappointed MAGA base turn next? Christiane and Jamie analyse whether Trump is going to suffer long-term damage from this scandal, and wonder whether the Files will ever be released in full.Christiane also points out the irony of Trump - one of the most prominent purveyors of conspiracy theories in the last decade - now being criticised by the same supporters who have gladly peddled his conspiracies for the last few years. Plus Christiane and Jamie trace the history of these theories in the US, right back to the 1960s and conspiracies around JFK's assassination and the CIA.They also react to Trump's recent decision to sell more US weapons to Ukraine, and Christiane issues her strongest call yet for an end to the Gaza War, and the slaughter of innocent civilians, plus the return of the hostages. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week's Q&A bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie discuss whether America is going back to the era of Senator Joe McCarthy's witch-hunts under President Trump - and whether the current President will be the author of his own downfall in the way the controversial Republican Senator was in the 1950s. They also answer your questions on the chances of a peace deal in the Middle East, whether the ICC - International Criminal Court - has any authority in 2025, and on whether Israel and America's strikes on Iran can be justified, now we have a better understanding of how much damage was done to Iran's nuclear facilities. Have a question for a future bonus episode? Send it to [email protected]!

In this special episode, Christiane and Jamie welcome their first guest to the podcast: former US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. In an extended conversation, Joe Biden's top diplomat speaks candidly about Gaza, Iran, and Ukraine, giving his views on how each of those issues were handled by his administration, and what mistakes have been made since President Trump returned to the White House six months ago.Christiane presses Secretary Blinken on whether Israel is guilty of committing war crimes in Gaza, and on how likely it is that a ceasefire could be close. Plus Tony Blinken exclusively reveals how close Iran was to signing a new nuclear deal before Israel and America's attacks last month.Plus, Jamie and his former boss talk about what an ageing President Biden was like to work for, and discuss whether the current administration will give Ukraine the weapons it needs to defend itself properly against Vladimir Putin and Russia's invasion. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week’s bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie explain why Israel has been allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons - even though it won't admit to it - but other Middle Eastern countries aren't. They also discuss whether cultural differences between Iran and the West are contributing to the current tensions in the region. Plus, Christiane and Jamie both offer personal insights into the former Palestinian leader, the late Yasser Arafat, and Christiane explains why Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić is a threat to liberal democracy in the Balkans. And finally - have you ever wondered why Jamie calls Christiane 'madam'? Listen to the end if you want to find out!

Did Trump's cuts to the National Weather Service contribute to the death toll in the tragic floods in Texas? And how many lives will needlessly be lost because of the President and his former adviser Elon Musk taking a chainsaw to foreign aid? This week, Christiane and Jamie look at the real-life impact of the swingeing cuts Trump has made since returning to the White House, and examine the fatal consequences of these decisions.They also tell personal stories to explain the impact USAID has had in the past, from fighting AIDS in Africa, to ending famine in Somalia and successfully combating Russian disinformation across the globe - and question what the real motivation is behind the President's bid to cut foreign aid spending. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

In this week's bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie are answering on whether the UN is 'toothless', and what Iranian and Israeli civilians misunderstand most about each other. They also discuss what the international community is really doing to support Afghan women - is there any way to pressure the Taliban to uphold basic human rights?Christiane and Jamie also reflect on the early mentors who shaped their careers and the surprising ways those influences still guide them today. Plus, Christiane recounts one of the most outrageous (and risky) requests she ever made to Colin Powell during her coverage of the Bosnian war. And for Gilmore Girls fans: she talks about being Rory’s idol and the story behind her memorable cameo.

As Iran continues to dominate the headlines, we’re turning back the clock to explore what the country was like before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Christiane shares personal memories of growing up in pre-revolutionary Tehran and during the uprising. What was life really like before and how did life start to change?We also dive into the complex world of nuclear weapons. We explain why some countries are allowed to have them while others are denied. In the wake of recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, we explain why Israel has the bomb, but Iran doesn’t. And with only nine countries possessing nuclear weapons today, how did North Korea manage to become one of them?

In this week’s bonus episode, Christiane and Jamie dive into some of the toughest questions shaping global politics today. They explore what might happen if Israel and the U.S. bring the war with Iran to a close, and whether Pakistan could emerge as an unexpected diplomatic player.They also discuss Ukraine, with a frank discussion on whether the American public truly grasps the broader risks of Russia’s invasion. Plus they debate Europe’s defence strategy: Should nations keep relying on U.S. weapons, or prioritise building their own military capabilities? Plus they consider what they’d ask Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu if given the chance.Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

Just after we finished recording yesterday’s episode, Iran launched missiles at a U.S. airbase in Qatar. This morning, President Trump and Qatari leaders brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Iran - though tensions remain high, with Israel accusing Iran of violations.Despite these developments, today’s conversation remains just as vital. We explore whether Tehran will now accelerate its pursuit of a nuclear weapon after US strikes on its nuclear facilities.With President Trump hinting at regime change, can Iran’s leadership survive this crisis - and should it? And given America’s track record in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, is this the right policy?And after Iran was deliberately misled by both the U.S. and Israel, is diplomacy still a realistic path to ending the war?

Christiane and Jamie tackle more of your questions in this week's bonus episode, including Trump's stance on immigration and whether there needs to be more investigations into allegations of corruption within the Trump administration.Christiane explains why the US risks losing credibility with the rest of the world as the conflict between Israel and Iran continues in the Middle East, and Jamie also give his views on the Democrats' chances of success in next year's midterm elections, Plus they try to finish on a more positive note and discuss whether looking back on the past gives them hope for the future. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social

As missiles fly between Israel and Iran, Christiane and Jamie tackle the big questions: is Israel pushing for regime change in Tehran? Was Israel justified in starting this war in the first place? Will Iran decide to go for nuclear weapons as a result of this conflict? And just how far is President Trump prepared to go in backing Israel? With exclusive insights from Christiane’s personal contacts inside Iran and Jamie’s firsthand knowledge of U.S. intelligence, they pull back the curtain on the reality of this war, and what's likely to happen next.Plus - for the first time - they tell the story of when Jamie was approached by senior figures in the Iranian regime to broker diplomatic talks with Hillary Clinton during her first Presidential campaign. Contact us at: [email protected] more content, please follow us:Watch us: https://www.youtube.com/@AmanpourPod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanpourpodX: https://x.com/AmanpourPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Amanpour-PresentsBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amanpourpod.bsky.social