One Decision

In this week's episode, One Decision's Christina Ruffini and guest co-host, Times Radio Political Editor Kate McCann, discuss the reactions in Washington and Europe following former President Donald Trump's historic election to another term in the White House. Also, resident spymaster and co-host, former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta joins the conversation to discuss what we can expect during this transition period, the implications for foreign relations under President-elect Donald Trump's second administration, and the recent rise of anti-incumbent sentiment across the globe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next week, American voters will decide who will become the next President of the United States: former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris. In this week's episode, One Decision’s Christina Ruffini speaks to Vivian Salama, Wall Street Journal's national politics reporter, to see what she's watching ahead of the election. Later, Christina sits down with her co-host, former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta, to discuss what the world can expect following the election, the candidates’ foreign policy plans, potential Cabinet members, and how a new administration— whether Trump or Harris—could influence Western alliances. If you enjoyed this conversation, check out a previous episode of One Decision with former National Security Advisor John Bolton, which features our other spymaster, former head of Britain's MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, host Christina Ruffini and One Decision's resident spymaster, Sir Richard Dearlove, the former head of MI6, discuss former President Donald Trump's recent complaint accusing United Kingdom's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party of election interference in support of Vice President Kamala Harris's presidential campaign. They also talk about the Israeli intelligence that led to the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Russia's potential interference in Moldova's recent election to join the European Union. Later, Sir Richard and Christina sit down with Icelandic Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson to talk about Iceland's strategic importance amid concerns over increased cooperation from Russia and China in the Arctic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, One Decision's Julia Macfarlane and Sir Richard Dearlove, the former head of Britain's MI6, sit down with Sir Michael Fallon, the former United Kingdom Defence Minister. They discuss how today's global conflicts mirror those from ten years ago when Sir Fallon oversaw British defense during the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as Russia's invasion and subsequent annexation of Crimea. Sir Michael, who served under Prime Minister Theresa May, told One Decision that it is not "morally right" for Russian tourists to travel across Europe and supports a travel ban so the middle class can feel the impact of Vladimir Putin's war. They also talk about the dangers of military underspending and the growing threat of social media disinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, One Decision’s Christina Ruffini sits down with former CIA director and former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to discuss legendary Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward’s upcoming book, War, and the book’s revelations about the rocky relationship between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with former President Donald Trump’s ongoing calls with Russia’s leader Vladimir Putin. Later in the conversation, Admiral William McRaven joins to talk about Ukrainian foreign military aid, and the behind-the-scenes story of the covert operation he and Secretary Panetta led that killed Osama bin Laden. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, One Decision's Sir Richard Dearlove returns to the host seat to interview fellow spymaster and co-host, former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta, on the growing crisis in the Middle East following Iran's missile attack against Israel. They discuss the implications of Israel's response, Iran's fragile state and influence in the region, and the role of America's next president in navigating these global crises. Plus, Sir Richard and Secretary Panetta talk about the possible intelligence methods used in the Israeli operation that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus episode, One Decision's Christina Ruffini sits down with the Czech Republic's Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky, and Poland's Ambassador to the United Nations, Krzysztof Szczerski, in New York City during the United Nations General Assembly. They discuss Russia's military threat in Eastern Europe, the strain of illegal migration, international support for Ukraine, and the role of multilateralism in a changing world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the high-level week at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City, world leaders are gathering to discuss a world in crisis. One Decision's Christina Ruffini spoke with the Philippines’ Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo and Taiwan’s Representative to the United States, Alexander Yui. They discussed the escalating threats across the Pacific region and the concerns about the reliability of the United States as an ally. Stay tuned to the One Decision feed for more interviews with world leaders from UNGA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, and journalist Kasia Madera break down how Israeli intelligence orchestrated an exploding pager attack against Hezbollah in Lebanon and how Tehran may respond. They also discuss the recent second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Plus, Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Anne Applebaum joins Richard and Kasia to discuss the future of democracy in the face of growing autocracies in Iran, China, and Venezuela and how financial interests drive autocratic success. They also explore the recent growth of populism in Germany and Ukraine's corruption in the face of Russia's invasion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe joins journalist Kasia Madera and One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss efforts by foreign actors such as Russia, China, and Iran to influence American elections, recent warnings from intelligence officials about potential terror attacks, Donald Trump's relationship with Vladimir Putin and what a Trump election win—or loss could mean for the United States. Andrew and Sir Richard also talk about their connection with John O'Neill, an FBI counterterrorism expert who later became the head of security at the World Trade Center in New York. He tragically died in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack when the South Tower collapsed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former CIA Director and United States Secretary of Defense Robert Gates joins One Decision's Christina Ruffini and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove to discuss global security challenges facing the West and its allies. Gates describes the challenges as "more perilous than we've probably faced since World War II." They also discuss what's at stake for the Taiwanese, Russia's strategy in Ukraine, Iran's brittle regime, far-right populism in Europe, and whether America should build an Iron Dome. Plus, Sir Richard shares an anecdote from former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, One Decision's Sir Richard Dearlove takes over the host seat to interview fellow spymaster and co-host, former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta, to discuss the recent rise of Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. They also explore what foreign policy would look like in a potential Harris administration, why a ceasefire in Gaza isn't likely, how Saudi Arabia's notorious silence could influence an outcome, and insights into the current stalemate between Russia and Ukraine. Plus, Dearlove and Panetta reveal their most awkward encounter with a foreign leader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former White House national security adviser Ambassador John Bolton sits down with One Decision's Christina Ruffini and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove to discuss the conflict in the Middle East and the current status of the elusive cease-fire deal. Ambassador Bolton also discusses the recent Ukrainian incursion and notes that it represents a significant win for the country. The former Trump national security adviser also looks at how efforts may be mounted to challenge the U.S. election results should Harris come up on top. Plus, the group shares the worst meal that they have ever been served on a diplomatic trip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retired four-star general and former CIA Director David Petraeus sits down with One Decision's Christina Ruffini and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove to discuss the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. General Petraeus, who commanded United States forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, discusses Ukraine's surprise attack on Russian territory, Tehran's potential response against Israel after the killing of a senior Hamas leader, and how he ranks the Afghanistan withdrawal among top foreign policy failures. Plus, General Petraeus shares a notable interaction with a world dictator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former minister, diplomat, and bestselling author Rory Stewart reflects on the root causes of the recent riots and attacks in the United Kingdom that have targeted ethnic minorities, immigration services, and police officers for a week—leading to calls for the Prime Minister to recall parliament. Social media has fanned the flames of unrest, with Elon Musk inserting himself and his role at Twitter/X into a national debate about the regulation of social media and the influence of disinformation and radicalisation online. Stewart discusses all of this and the recent developments in the US presidential election with hosts Julia Macfarlane and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove. Sign up on our website at onedecision.com for access to exclusive content and real-time updates on news, and high-level discussions shaping global perspectives. Don't miss out—join the conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

General Wesley Clark served as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander during the Yugoslav wars. After a career spanning more than three decades of military service, Clark ran as a Democratic Presidential candidate in 2003–before endorsing John Kerry. One Decision’s Julia Macfarlane and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove spoke to him about the veteran vote, his thoughts on the 2024 election, and, crucially, how the likely nominees, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, might choose to direct America’s foreign policy at a time of war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Washington focuses on the upcoming 2024 presidential election, guest host Christina Ruffini talks to One Decisions's resident spymaster, Ex-MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, about Joe Biden's decision not to run for president, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, and the latest news on the investigation into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Plus, Christina and former CIA Director Leon Panetta caught up with Slovenia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Tanja Fajon, from the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington a couple weeks ago to discuss NATO’s ability to respond to increasing global conflicts and the growing threat from Vladimir Putin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest host and correspondent Christina Ruffini speaks with One Decision's resident spymaster's—Ex-MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove and former CIA Director Leon Panetta to get their take on this week's shocking assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump and Europe’s anxiety over Trump choosing Ohio United States Senator JD Vance as his vice president, particularly in light of Vance's isolationist views and the potential impact on Ukraine's ability to win the war. Plus, Christina and Secretary Panetta's conversation with Iceland's Foreign Minister, Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir from the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington on the challenges faced by the alliance in the face of Russian aggression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NATO alliance solidified support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's aggression, pledging an “irreversible path” to membership once the war ends. Guest host Christina Ruffini and One Decision co-host and former United States Defense Secretary Leon Panetta spoke with Sweden's Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson, and Albanian Foreign Minister Igli Hasani on the sidelines of the summit in Washington. They discussed the significance of Sweden and Finland joining the alliance and smaller member countries increasing their contributions to NATO's defense spending. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NATO alliance is meeting in Washington amidst the most dangerous security environment since the Cold War. One Decision teamed up with the International Spy Museum for a live panel discussion in front of hundreds of delegates, press, and political leaders. Our new co-host, former US Defense Secretary and CIA director Leon Panetta sat down with Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, Estonian Minister of Defense Hanno Pevkur, former Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, along with the US House Intelligence Committee's top Democrat, Jim Himes. The panel was moderated by Christina Ruffini and the museum’s historian Dr. Andrew Hammond. They looked at what this summit and the future holds for the alliance. They also delve into what Ukraine needs for the next stage of the conflict and how the next American administration will impact global security. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As France prepares to vote in the second round of its parliamentary elections, it appears that Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally may not end up with the majority French President Emmanuel Macron fears—but his troubles are far from over. The Economist's Paris Bureau Chief Sophie Pedder joins One Decision to discuss how the National Rally's recent stunning European election results sent shockwaves across France all the way to the Elysee, prompting Macron to call a snap election that likely has backfired for him and his allies. Plus, Reuters' Defense and Foreign Policy correspondent Idrees Ali gives us the picture from Washington as preparations are underway for the upcoming 75th anniversary of NATO at a time of growing skepticism across Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Columbia University Professor and Nobel Laureate Joseph E. Stiglitz is one of the world's best-known economists—and one of the most outspoken. He's locked horns with a fellow Nobel laureate, the neoliberal economist Milton Friedman, and openly criticizes globalization. He sits down with One Decision's resident spymaster, Sir Richard Dearlove, and guest host, BBC anchor Kasia Madera, to discuss his recently published book, The Road to Freedom: Economics and the Good Society. Stiglitz argues that authoritarian populism is on the rise today due to governments doing too little rather than too much. They also discuss the impact of Donald Trump's isolationism and why Liz Truss' plan to revive "trickle-down economics" failed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Armitage, a former Deputy Secretary of State for the George W. Bush administration and a Reagan-era Republican has been deeply involved in America's security and defense policy in the Indo-Pacific region, continuing to represent the United States in trips abroad, joining high-level delegations including a visit to Taipei in May to attend the inauguration of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. Secretary Armitage sat down with One Decision's Julia Macfarlane and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove to talk about the trip and how US policy and attitudes towards the threats from the East have evolved. They also discuss the rising alliance between Moscow and Beijing and Putin's increasing dependence on China as he continues to wage war in Ukraine. Plus, Julia and Sir Richard catch up on the week's news, including his take on the ongoing election campaign in the UK and his prediction on whether the Tories will do as badly as the polls say and Russian President Vladimir Putin's trip to Pyongyang to meet with North Korean President Kim Jong Un. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Conservative Party is on track to see fourteen years in power end, when the United Kingdom votes next month. A popular left-wing figure and co-host of The Trawl podcast Marina Purkiss discusses with One Decision's resident spymaster and Conservative figure Sir Richard Dearlove what a Labour government takeover led by Sir Keir Starmer would mean for the future of British foreign policy. Richard and Marina debate whether the UK is more secure under Labour or Conservative party rule, the controversial Rwanda policy, relations with the United States if Donald Trump is reelected president, and how far-right election victories across Europe will impact security and holding the line for Ukraine against Russia's aggression. Plus, Sir Richard on what Keir Starmer should have on his agenda for his first day at No. 10 Downing Street. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Belarus has spent the past 30 years under the authoritarian rule of President Alexander Lukashenko. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya challenged his rule after her husband was imprisoned by the regime, only two days after he declared his intention to run for office. She is now living as the exiled Belarusian opposition leader and sits down with One Decision’s guest host Kasia Madera and the former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, for a discussion on Belarus' struggle for freedom under Lukashenko's iron-fisted rule, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the need for European countries to step up in the fight against autocracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julianne Smith serves as the United States Permanent Representative to NATO—a role she assumed at the end of 2021, shortly before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Ambassador Smith sits down with One Decision's foreign correspondent Christina Ruffini and resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, for a discussion on what to expect at the NATO summit being held in Washington in July, which marks the 75th anniversary of the transatlantic military alliance. They discuss Ukraine's complicated path to membership, progress on Germany's stepped-up security commitments, and whether a second presidential term for Donald Trump will bolster member countries' defense spending. Plus, more on NATO's strategy to tackle global security challenges and counter Russia's influence with China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove gives his verdict on this week's biggest news stories—the surprise summer general election in the United Kingdom announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the shock death of Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi and the implications for the regime's succession plan. Julia Macfarlane and Sir Richard also sit down with the European Union's Dragos Tudorache MEP, Chair of the Special Committee on Artificial Intelligence and one of the leading architects of the EU's new landmark legislation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Trent Maul is the Associate Deputy Director for National Intelligence (ADDNI) for Mission Integration, Office of the Director of National Intelligence. He previously served as the Director of Analysis at the United States Defense Intelligence Agency which produces and analyzes national and foreign military intelligence that supports national security strategy, defense policymakers, and warfighters. Dr. Maul joins guest host and correspondent Frankie McCamley and One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about the challenges posed by multiple global security threats, the state of play of Russia's war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East and how its affecting terror organizations in the region, and how AI in collecting intelligence on the battlefield. Frankie also asks what decisions keep Dr. Maul and Sir Richard up at night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lord David Frost, Boris Johnson's pugnacious Brexit chief negotiator, was one of the driving forces behind the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union and a powerful force behind the scenes. But for a man who has had so much influence on British people's lives, he's not often heard from in detail. With time to reflect, Lord Frost sits down with One Decision's Julia Macfarlane and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove in the latest in a series looking at the state of UK politics ahead of the general elections, which could end 14 years of the British Conservative Party's rule. Frost also shares what he thinks of Britain's foreign policy, supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia and criticism of Israel and how it's conducting its war in Gaza. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the British Conservatives head to what may be the end of 14 years in power, One Decision speaks to some of the most influential voices from Britain's ruling party on what's gone wrong, what's gone right, and what lies ahead for the UK and its allies in the West. In the first of these conversations, Julia Macfarlane and former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove speak to the longtime rising star of the right and former Finance Minister Kwasi Kwarteng, who oversaw a brief period of huge instability with a controversial package of tax cuts and spending that sent the markets into turmoil. Kwarteng reflects on the disastrous 'mini-budget' that caused him to get sacked and ended Liz Truss's Premiership, if the Tories will lose the upcoming elections, and how his party has handled recent issues of racism and division in an increasingly fractious time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the United States Congress finally passed a $95 billion military aid package for its allies after months of delays. Democratic Defense leader, Congressman Adam Smith of Washington, joins correspondent Christina Ruffini for a wide-ranging interview to discuss the package that provides crucial aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan and shares his thoughts on recent pro-Palestinian protests spreading across the United States. Plus, One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, discusses Europe's reaction to Washington's support for Ukraine, and if America's delay in passing aid has forced Europe to step up its support for Kyiv and its own security. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norman Roule served for 34 years in the Central Intelligence Agency, managing significant programs related to the Middle East, including his role as National Intelligence manager for Iran at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence from November 2008 to 2017. Roule joins guest host and journalist Christina Ruffini and One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, to discuss the new security threats in the Middle East after Iran's unprecedented drone and missile attack against Israel. Roule says Tehran will test the limits of the "new red lines" to keep Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom, and others under pressure in a quagmire in the region. They also discuss how the crisis will change U.S. Middle East policy, the status of Iran's nuclear program, and predictions on the Islamic Republic's next steps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ambassador Laurent Bili has served as his nation's diplomatic eyes and ears on the ground in Washington, D.C. —and across the country—since he began his posting in the spring of 2023. Guest host and journalist Liz Landers and One Decision's resident spymaster Sir Richard Dearlove speak with him about the prospects for Congress to pass a support package for Ukraine and President Macron's comments that Western boots on the ground cannot be ruled out. They also discuss the NATO alliance and the European Union's military commitment to Ukraine, the war in Gaza, and the potential security concerns around the upcoming Paris Olympics. Plus, Sir Richard talks with Bili about his previous posting in Beijing, where he arrived as the ambassador in September 2019, and navigated several years of diplomacy during the COVID-19 global pandemic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greece's Special Envoy to Ukraine, Ambassador Spiros Lambridis, knows firsthand what Ukrainians have been experiencing since Russia's full-scale invasion of their country. He tells One Decision's resident spymaster Sir Richard Dearlove and guest host, BBC anchor Kasia Madera, how a Russian ballistic missile struck just a few hundred meters from where he and Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis were meeting Ukriane's President Volodymyr Zelensky. In a wide-ranging interview, Ambassador Lambridis shares strong words about Russia. He also speaks of his heartache over the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, a region he knows well, having served as Greece's Ambassador to Israel. Ambassador Lambridis also discusses his government's enthusiasm for building closer relations with China at a time when Western nations are issuing sanctions in attempts to stop widespread Chinese state-sponsored cyber attacks. Plus, Sir Richard discusses coordination and intelligence methods on the ground in Gaza after seven international aid workers from Chef José Andrés World Central Kitchen charity were killed in an Israeli air strike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican Congressman Michael McCaul of Texas serves as the chairman of the powerful House Foreign Affairs Committee, which oversees the State Department and shapes the United States foreign policy. Guest host and correspondent Christina Ruffini sat down with McCaul for a wide-ranging interview about the stalled $60 billion aid package for Ukraine, Middle East security, and whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza could damage Israel's standing on the global stage. McCaul discusses his work leading the oversight investigation into the Biden administration's chaotic withdrawal from Kabul and says that U.S. foreign policy has been "abysmal," starting with the fall of Afghanistan in 2021. Plus, One Decision's resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, discusses the current state of intelligence-sharing with Russia after the deadly mass shooting in Moscow and whether the Kremlin failed to heed the West's warning of a terrorist attack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The United Kingdom and the United States are two leading governments working on transitioning to net zero emissions by 2050. Both the Sunak and Biden administrations have set ambitious goals for the next several decades, and in some ways, they are going about it similarly with sweeping legislation—like the Inflation Reduction Act—that is setting new standards. Guest host and journalist Liz Landers spoke with two top officials overseeing this work for their respective countries: UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Claire Coutinho, and United States Deputy Energy Secretary David Turk. Coutinho's a rising star in the conservative government who was first elected in 2019—and has the ear of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as a close advisor. We asked her about nuclear power, using oil and gas drilling licenses to stabilize energy sources during the transition, and how the war between Ukraine and Russia has impacted energy policy. Across the pond in the United States, Turk has decades of experience in government, including working in President Biden's senate office, and more recently was the Deputy Executive Director of the International Energy Agency. We spoke with Turk about the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act, a massive piece of legislation signed in 2022 that invests in clean and domestic energy projects—and why there aren't more electric vehicle charging stations around the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Vladimir Putin hailed a landslide win for a fifth term in an election with no real opposition, whose result was never in question. In a victory speech extending his iron grip on power, Putin warned that World War III between Russia and the West is not out of the question. Guest host and foreign affairs journalist Indira Lakshmanan and One Decision’s resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove speak with Sir Laurie Bristow, who served two tours in Putin’s Russia as Britain’s ambassador to Moscow and as deputy chief of mission, about what to expect in the next six years from the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin. Bristow says that relations between Russia and NATO are at their most fragile point since the Cold War. Indira also spoke with Putin expert Dr. Angela Stent for her readout of the election results. Stent, a former U.S. national intelligence officer for Russia and Eurasia says the reelection of Donald Trump could be a victory for Putin, and warned of Russia’s attempts to meddle in the U.S. election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

California Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna represents parts of Silicon Valley— the wealthiest congressional district in America and the world's largest technology hub, home to tech giants Apple, Meta, and Google. Khanna sits down for a wide-ranging conversation with One Decision guest host and correspondent Liz Landers to discuss tech, AI regulation, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, saying the United States’ “bear hugging" of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been a "strategic mistake.” As one of the leading voices on technology regulation in the House of Representatives, Khanna says Europe shouldn't be "preaching" when it comes to regulation, and we're past the days of "colonialism where Europe thought they could tell the world what to do." They also discuss his role as a Biden campaign surrogate and President Biden's reelection prospects. Plus, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove joins Liz to discuss the proposed ban on TikTok in the United States and the backlash over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new citizenship law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democratic Congressman Jim Himes is the ranking member on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, with oversight of U.S. intelligence agencies, including the CIA and the NSA. He’s also one of the most outspoken members of Congress advocating for supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. Guest host and foreign affairs journalist Indira Lakshmanan spoke with Himes about his recent meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Republican leaders block a vote on a $60 billion aid package to Kyiv, and with Yulia Navalnaya, wife of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, just as she learned of her husband’s suspicious death in a Russian gulag. Himes discusses the global competition between democracy and autocracy and says there's one decision for the United States—"Do we shrink from that fight?" He calls Donald Trump a "cult leader" whose hold over the Republican Party is dangerous to democracy and global stability. Indira and One Decision’s resident spymaster, former MI6 Chief Sir Richard Dearlove, discuss the Congressman's comments on the threat of Russia deploying a nuclear weapon in space, the massive growth in open-source intelligence, and threats to security from internet-connected technologies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlene Chu, the world-renowned economic analyst whose warnings in 2014 prompted the Chinese government to hastily change their economic policies, is back on One Decision to discuss the fallout from the liquidation of the Hong Kong assets of Evergrande, China’s massive, troubled property developer that she described as “the canary in the coal mine”. As scores of developers default on their debts, countless Chinese homeowners see the value of their savings and assets plummet, and the CCP considers putting foreign investors on the hook for massive losses to protect the domestic market—what are the global ramifications of the property market crisis? Chu’s analysis on the latest stage of the crisis comes with a dire warning of a different looming challenge, one that could be an even bigger catastrophe for China—and the world—and is coming down the track soon. Plus analysis from One Decision’s Sir Richard Dearlove, the former chief of MI6. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The team behind the top global affairs podcast, One Decision, brings you "Power Decisions," a new energy series that explores the world's energy sources and the politics and power behind the clean transition. At the beginning of a critical election year in the United States, the Biden administration made waves when it announced a pause on proposed liquid natural gas export projects in the US. In 2023, the US became the number one exporter of LNG—surpassing previous global leaders in the industry. American LNG exports have helped Europe keep the lights on as the war between Ukraine and Russia severed other energy sources. But President Biden, in keeping with his climate commitments to younger voters and green groups, announced the pause while his administration conducts public interest reviews on future projects. Guest host and journalist Liz Landers convenes a roundtable of energy reporters: Timothy Gardner of Reuters, POLITICO's Ben Lefebvre, and The Hill's Zachary Budryk. They discuss the reasons behind the Biden administration's decision, the reaction from the European Union and other nations relying on US LNG exports, impacts on US national security, and how the decision could affect the clean energy transition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the news that longtime Vladimir Putin critic Alexei Navalny had died mysteriously while serving in a Siberian penal colony, it seemed that the hopes of the opposition to Putin inside Russia had died with him. While there are still remaining critics in Russia, jailed and facing an uncertain future, Navalny was undoubtedly the most high profile. However, another well-known activist against the Kremlin continues to speak out—from the United States. One Decision sits down with the famed former chess grandmaster Garry Kasparov, who has campaigned against Putin for years, to discuss the West’s eroding support for Ukraine and the continued fight against Putin, now increasingly being fought outside Russian borders, by voices like Kasparov’s. Sir Richard and Julia discuss Navalny’s legacy and his choice to return to his homeland, which ended up costing him his life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison overlapped with two American presidents, navigated his nation's response through a global pandemic, and brokered one of the most consequential security agreements that Australia has signed in years. Morrison sits down with One Decision's resident spymaster Sir Richard Dearlove and guest host and journalist Liz Landers to discuss the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine alliance with the United States and the United Kingdom more broadly and how the trilateral pact will counter Indo-Pacific threats. Morrison, who had a good working relationship with Donald Trump and Joe Biden, weighs in on the upcoming domestic elections in America and shares his observations about the United States' China policy as it has transitioned from former President Trump's presidency to the Biden administration. Sir Richard also presses him on COVID origins, an issue that earned Morrison the wrath of Beijing in 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Indonesia is a rising powerhouse. Its economy is growing— now the 7th largest in terms of GDP. It has huge oil and gas stockpiles, the biggest nickel reserves in the world, and critical materials for semiconductors, laptops, and smartphones. And—arguably its most valuable resource— a diverse, youthful, and digitally native population. Next week, 205 million registered voters head to the polls to vote in the nation's legislative and presidential elections—the world's biggest single-day election. The current presidential frontrunner, Prabowo Subianto, an aging former general accused of war crimes and former son-in-law to Indonesia's last dictator, is on the cusp of winning power thanks to a TikTok campaign that's rebranded him as a 'cuddly Grandpa' figure. One Decision—your Global Election Headquarters for 2024—sits down with Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, a retired four-star Army general and now Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment who has known Prabowo Subianto for decades. Host Julia Macfarlane talks with Chatham House's Asia Pacific Director, Ben Bland, for his analysis of what's at stake in the election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican Marco Rubio is one of the United States Senate's most outspoken China hawks—criticizing Beijing's human rights practices and warning about its dominance in the semiconductor industry. He's endorsed a candidate in the 2024 presidential elections, throwing his support behind former President Donald Trump, who started a trade war and recently threatened new tariffs on Chinese imports. Guest host and BBC Correspondent Katty Kay and One Decision's resident spymaster Sir Richard Dearlove sit down with Senator Rubio to discuss the U.S. relationship with China under the Biden administration and how it could change if Donald Trump returns to the White House, and concerns that the ex-president could strike a deal to end the Ukraine war on Moscow's terms that would embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin's imperial ambitions in Europe. They also discuss what U.S. support for the war in Ukraine will look like this year, the collapse of property giant Evergrande, and the implications for the Chinese economy. Katty and Richard discuss the drone attack that killed three American soldiers in Jordan and what the U.S. response may be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How's the global transition to clean energy going? The team behind the top global affairs podcast, One Decision, brings you "Power Decisions," a new energy series that explores the world's energy sources and the politics and power behind the clean transition. On this episode, guest host and journalist Liz Landers speaks with former Peruvian Environment Minister and COP 20 President Manuel Pulgar Vidal to assess the international progress towards the Paris Climate Agreement. Vidal explains what countries agreed on at this year's COP summit in Dubai. He also discusses China's monopoly of critical minerals needed for clean energy power sources and weighs in on a recent pause from the Biden administration on liquid natural gas exports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lithuania was the first country to declare independence from the Soviet Union before its dissolution. And when their first female leader, Dalia Grybauskaitė, was among the first to raise the alarm about the new Russian President Vladimir Putin, few listened—at first. One of the most outspoken small countries in the world, Lithuania has not only been among the first to send arms to Ukraine in 2022, right before the invasion but has also publicly supported Taiwan and Tibet to the fury of Beijing. This is a country worth listening to. One Decision sits down with former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė, who warns that the threat of war is coming, whether the West is prepared for it or not. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

International terrorism is coming back—that’s the stark warning from former Acting Director of the CIA Michael Morell. Following the January 6th insurrection in Washington, the United States government agencies said that far-right groups posed the greatest threat to national security—an assessment Morell says ought to be revisited in the light of the radicalizing nature of the war in Gaza. Morell sits down with One Decision’s resident spymaster, the former head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove and discusses the famed Abbottabad raid where Osama Bin Laden had been hiding, and the rapidly evolving espionage threat from China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weekend, Taiwan will hold the only free and fair elections in the Chinese-speaking world. Whoever wins will lead in a pivotal time—and their term will cover the period during which President Xi Jinping has promised China will annex what it considers a breakaway territory, even by force, if necessary. Could this be Taiwan’s last election? The incumbent Democratic Progressive Party led by Vice President Lai Ching Te is pro-independence, and is being challenged by the China-friendly opposition Kuomintang Party led by Ho Yu-Ih. There’s also a wildcard in the form of Ko Wen-Je, who says both parties are too pro or too anti-Beijing. One Decision—your Global Election Headquarters for 2024—sits down with correspondents in Taipei and Washington, DC to explore potential scenarios coming out of the Taiwanese polls and whether the United States can handle a third potential war, as it already struggles to support allies embroiled in major conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Pentagon correspondents also discuss the fallout over the secret hospitalization of America's Defense Chief Lloyd Austin and why top Defense Department officials and even the White House were kept in the dark about his condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, we talk to one of the BBC's longest-serving political presenters, James Naughtie, who has covered every United States and United Kingdom election since the 1990s. We hear his observations on the recent implosion of the Scottish National Party, the stunning downfall of Nicola Sturgeon, one of the longest-running political leaders in the UK, and the 2024 American presidential election and why he thinks Donald Trump appeals to the electorate. Naughtie is one of many journalists who have written espionage thrillers, so our resident spymaster, Sir Richard Dearlove, gives his verdict on what these novels get right and wrong. Sir Richard reacts to Israel's landmark Supreme Court ruling striking down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial judicial overhaul plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices