Since the Cold War ended more than 35 years ago, many of us have likely not given much thought to Bloc warfare. Those nuclear threats that the Western and Eastern Blocs hurled at each other? A thing of the past.

But lately, the beginnings of a return to Bloc warfare have revealed themselves.

Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on the group of countries that are assisting each other to fight wars. And why few have heard of their grouping.

Next Thursday, we'll be airing a special episode with Peter, in which he will be answering your questions. So if you have any questions about the state of our world that you've been dying to ask Peter, or a topic you'd love him to discuss, emails us at podcasts@nine.com.au and we may feature it on air next week. 

Background reading

• Peter Hartcher's article:  Trump’s madcap folly emboldening this ‘axis of upheaval’
• Peter Hartcher's columns and stories.