The Monocle Daily

Why Armenia has become Putin’s latest target

As Vladimir Putin issues a public warning to Armenia against forging closer ties with the EU, we assess the seriousness of the threat. Plus: India begins the world’s largest census. We explore why it is so controversial. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Will China’s plan to position itself as a peacemaker in the Iran war work?

As China pushes for a swift end to the conflict in the Middle East, we assess whether its role as a peacemaker will work. Plus: Japan’s new rules for cycling come into force today but do they go far enough? See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

What is the realistic timeline for ending the conflict in the Middle East?

We assess the possible timeline for ending the war in the Middle East, as Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that more than half of his military aims have been achieved. Plus: Why Eurovision is heading to Bangkok. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Russian fuel enters Cuba after another Donald Trump U-turn

The US president has given Cuba a lifeline, despite wanting the country’s socialist leadership to fall. Then: Volodymyr Zelensky uses the Middle East conflict to his advantage and Viktor Orbán flounders on the campaign trail. Plus: how does political satire make light from darkness?    See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Iran declares the Strait of Hormuz closed as Trump hints at a ‘final blow’

The US considers sending 10,000 more troops to the Middle East. Then: Can Mark Carney’s alliance save world trade from Trump? Plus: British museums consider a tourist fee and funeral directors accused of faking reviews.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.