Russia has become the first country to recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan’s government. Andrew Mueller explains why. 

Russia has become the first country to recognise the Taliban as Afghanistan&rsquo;s government. Andrew Mueller explains why.&nbsp;

​Presented by ​Andrew Mueller, Monocle’s flagship global-affairs show features​ expert guests ​and in-depth analysis of the big issues of the week. Nominated for ‘Best Current Affairs’ show and the ‘Spotlight Award’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards. 

​Presented by ​Andrew Mueller, Monocle’s flagship global-affairs show features​ expert guests ​and in-depth analysis of the big issues of the week. Nominated for ‘Best Current Affairs’ show and the ‘Spotlight Award’ in the 2022 British Podcast Awards.

The Foreign Desk

Explainer 475: Why has Russia recognised the Taliban?

Monocle reports from Almedalen Week, the annual political summit on the island of Gotland. We assess the state of Swedish politics in an election year, with guests including minister for gender equality Nina Larsson.

Monocle reports from Almedalen Week, the annual political summit on the island of Gotland. We assess the state of Swedish politics in an election year, with guests including minister for gender equality Nina Larsson.

Live from Almedalen 2026: The state of Swedish politics 

Poland has been one of Ukraine’s biggest allies since the full-scale invasion by Russia. But will that continue after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky’s controversial tribute?

Poland has been one of Ukraine&rsquo;s biggest allies since the full-scale invasion by Russia. But will that continue after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky&rsquo;s controversial tribute?

Explainer 523: Flight of the White Eagle

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Mexico has made a promising start on the pitch but what other victories is the nation eyeing up? Andrew Mueller is joined by former ambassador to the US Arturo Sarukhán, among others.

Mexico has made a promising start on the pitch but what other victories is the nation eyeing up? Andrew Mueller is joined by former ambassador to the US Arturo Sarukh&aacute;n, among others.

Explainer 475: Why has Russia recognised the Taliban?

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