THE INSIDE STORY PODCAST

What does banning Russian oil mean for the world?

US President Joe Biden has imposed a ban on Russian oil and gas. And the UK announced it will phase out imports of Russian oil by the end of the year. What are the consequences…

The war that opened Europe’s borders

It’s hard to convey just how fast and how much Europe has changed, including at its borders. More than a million people fled from Ukraine to the EU in just over a week. But in…

Can Europe have its own military power?

"How can Europe protect itself from Russian blackmail? The European Union and other major economies have imposed swift, broad and devastating sanctions in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But given Europe’s energy dependence on…

What are the global implications of sanctions on Russia?

Russians are paying a price for the invasion of Ukraine as economic sanctions start to bite. But Russia is also a major producer of oil, gas and grains for the rest of the world, so…

What now for Mali as France withdraws its troops?

French troops are being withdrawn from Mali after a nine-year mission. Other European troops are also leaving but Russian mercenaries are staying. Where's the French connection now in West Africa, and what does it mean…

Is war between Russia and Ukraine inevitable?

Russia insists it won't invade Ukraine, but the US and its allies say the signs suggest otherwise. Shelling has intensified in eastern Ukraine, while diplomatic talks for Russia to de-escalate appear to be going nowhere.…

Can the EU survive without NATO and the US?

There have been growing calls for a united European defence strategy to confront security threats and global crises. Leaders including EU Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen have highlighted the need for the bloc to…

What’s next for Germany after Merkel?

Germany is starting a new era without Chancellor Angela Merkel as she steps down after 16 years of leadership. So, what's next for the country? And how will her successors take on the challenges facing…

Can the EU’s infrastructure plan compete with China’s?

The European Union has unveiled a global infrastructure plan called the Global Gateway strategy. It's seen as an attempt to rival China's Belt and Road Initiative with the goal of investing in developing countries and…

Why has Germany suspended Russian gas to Europe?

Germany has suspended approval for the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline which would bring Russian gas to Europe. The project is complete and ready to supply energy to the region, so why is it…

Could conflict return to the Balkans?

The peace deal that ended the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina 25 years ago is in danger of unravelling. Bosnian Serb leader, Milorad Dodik, is threatening to pull out of state-level institutions, raising fears that the unity…

Are NATO and Russia on a collision course?

The tense relationship between Russia and NATO has hit its lowest point since the end of the Cold War. Moscow is breaking ties with the alliance after accusations of spying. So, is Russia on a…