In this episode of The Language of Power, EPC Podcast host and Senior Visiting Fellow Paul Taylor is joined by senior policy analyst Philipp Lausberg and policy analyst Svitlana Taran from the European Policy Centre to question how sanctions can become more impactful and effective in the long run. They also examine the political logic, economic consequences, and strategic dilemmas behind EU sanctions. Why do they persist despite mixed results? What happens when unity among member states starts to fracture? And how should the EU respond if key allies, like the United States, shift their stance?

Senior visiting fellow Chris Kremidas-Courtney joins host Paul Taylor on The Language of Power to discuss how Europe must prepare for defense in an era of mass precision warfare—possibly without U.S. support. With Russia’s military buildup and ongoing aggression in Ukraine, how should Europe invest its growing defense budgets? They debate the relevance of tanks, fighter jets, and aircraft carriers in a world of drones, missiles, and uncrewed systems. They also examine key capabilities Europe has long relied on the U.S. and NATO for—such as command and control, space-based intelligence, logistics, and nuclear deterrence. With over 35 years in military and security, Kremidas-Courtney shares expert insights on adapting to this new era of warfare.

This week's episode of the Language of Power podcast focuses on Russia’s war in Ukraine, the war crimes committed by Putin’s forces, and efforts to hold those responsible accountable. A very special guest, Andriy Kostin, Ukraine’s former prosecutor-general, shares insights on evidence collection and legal action against Putin and his inner circle. As ceasefire negotiations unfold in Saudi Arabia, we’ll explore the role of transitional justice in securing a just and lasting peace.

With Paul Taylor, EPC's senior visiting fellow for the Europe in the World programme and podcast host and Andriy Kostin, Ukraine's former prosecutor general.

This Podcast is part of the EPC's Europe in the World Programme.

In this week’s episode of The Language of Power podcast, host Paul Taylor sits down with experts Mihai Chihaia and Katarzyna Sidlo to explore the future of the Middle East. They discuss the region’s impact on Europe and consider how the EU can foster peace and stability. Tune in for insightful analysis and thought-provoking perspectives on one of today’s most pressing geopolitical challenges.

With Paul Taylor, EPC's senior visiting fellow for the Europe in the World programme and podcast host, Mihai Chihaia, Policy Analyst for the Europe in the World Programme at the EPC and Katarzyna Sidlo, Senior Policy Analyst for the MENA region, EU Institute for Security Studies.

This Podcast is part of the EPC's Europe in the World Programme.

Where does Ukraine stand following President Zelenskyy’s disastrous meeting with Trump and Vice-President JD Vance at the White House last week? Having left Washington with no agreement and with US officials calling for his replacement, the Ukrainian leader went on to meet in London with European leaders, who offered him their full support but also encouraged him to mend fences with Trump. EU leaders are holding a special summit this week to discuss support for Ukraine and launching their own defence surge.

With Paul Taylor, EPC's senior visiting fellow for the Europe in the World programme and podcast host, Amanda Paul Senior, Policy Analyst and Deputy Head of the Europe in the World Programme at the EPC and Svitlana Taran, Research Fellow at the EPC.

This Podcast is part of the EPC's Europe in the World Programme.

Germany is heading to the polls in a high-stakes general election, set against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape. With Europe’s security order facing its second major upheaval since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, the outcome of this vote could have far-reaching consequences for Germany, the EU, and beyond. Join us as we break down the key issues, political dynamics, and global implications of this crucial election.

In this episode of the EPC's foreign affairs and policy podcast 'Language of Power', we discuss the aftermath of the informal retreat on defence that occurred on February 3rd, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in attendance. Crucial questions were addressed, such as Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, which is about to enter its fourth year and threatens Europe’s security, as well as its increasingly covert war against Europe in general.

With Paul Taylor, EPC's senior visiting fellow for the Europe in the World programme and podcast host, Juraj Majcin, policy analysts for the Europe in the World programme and Maria Martisiute, policy analyst for the Transnationalisation programme at the EPC.

In this episode of the EPC's foreign affairs and policy podcast 'Language of Power', we discuss what's next for Europe in light of Trump's second presidency regarding security and foreign policy. How can the EU best address Trump's numerous threats and strengthen its defence and security capabilities? How will this impact Ukraine? Will the EU finally step-up and deliver?

With Paul Taylor, EPC's senior visiting fellow for the Europe in the World programme and podcast host and Almut Möller, EPC's Director for European and Global Affairs and head of the Europe in the World programme.

In the past few weeks, the political landscape in both Europe and the United States has seen unprecedented twists and turns, resulting in tensions all across the Atlantic.

With the rise of the far-right in the European Parliament, the surprise french elections which saw the left-wing parties rally successfully, Donald Trump'controversial Vice-President pick, the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the National Republican convention, and and the withdrawal of President Biden as democratic nominee; What does it all mean for the transatlantic alliance?

In this episode of the EPC's newest security and defence podcast 'Language of Power', we discuss the Summit Declaration, The future of NATO under a potential second Trump presidency, defence expenditure and planning reforms as well as what's next for Ukraine.

With Garvan Walshe, EPC's head of communications and podcast host and Armida van Rij, Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House, and head of the Europe Programme.

The snap-elections called by French president Macron, after the rise of Le Pen's Rassemblement National at the EU parliament, took an unprecedented turn on Sunday, July 7th.

With the far-left coming as the surprise winner of the elections with 182 seats, Macron's party coalition secured 153 seats while the Rassemblement National predicted to lead with a majority only ended third with 143 seats. This political climate is a clear shift for France which is heading for a cohabitation and a mix of coalitions; one that puzzles experts. How will France will govern with a far-left and far-right influence?

In this episode of the EPC's newest security and defence podcast 'Language of Power', we discuss the impact of the surprise results of this historic legislative election in France, as well as what it means for Ukraine, the future of European defence and finally, the role of France in the western alliance.

With Garvan Walshe, EPC's head of communications and podcast host, Paul Taylor, a senior visiting fellow for the EPC and Eric Maurice, policy analyst in the European Politics and Institutions programme.