It is the world's fifth-largest economy, with a combined gross domestic product of more than $3.6 trillion dollars. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) brings together 11 states, representing nearly 700 million people. As a fast-growing hub for trade, manufacturing and supply chains, ASEAN is a vital partner for both China and the United States. However, Donald Trump's tariffs on some of its members have raised concerns about whether Washington has turned its back on the region.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

There is no sign of an end to the US government shutdown. 1.4 million workers are going without pay, while some people on federal aid are worrying how they will get their next meal. How can the stand-off between Republicans and Democrats be resolved and what will happen if it goes on?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, just upgraded their free trade agreement, strengthening economic ties amid Trump’s tariff war. But key US ally president of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to assume the ASEAN chair in 2026 — what does this mean for the future China-ASEAN relations? For tensions in the South China Sea?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

A surge in chikungunya cases has hit southern China, fuelled by climate change, urbanisation and global travel. Experts warn the next pandemic is inevitable - but have we learned enough from COVID-19 to be prepared?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

As Israel continues its relentless assault on Gaza, killing and starving hundreds of thousands of Palestinians with Western backing, even during so-called ceasefires, one thing has become clear: this isn’t just about Palestine. It’s about Western supremacy, empire, and the racism that underpins them both.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

Tanzania's incumbent President has been declared re-elected with with 98% of the vote in an election, denounced by the opposition as a sham. The government denies that hundreds of people have been killed in a police crackdown. So what's behind this crisis and what's next?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

from D.C. where Veteran organizations are holding a 'Remember Your Oath Rally' in protest of Trump’s militarization of U.S. cities and ongoing support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

Zohran Mamdani was an unlikely frontrunner in New York’s mayoral election. His promise to make life more affordable for working-class New Yorkers, combined with his outspoken criticism of Israel’s crimes against the Palestinian people, earned him a powerful coalition of opponents who poured millions into defeating him.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

Donald Trump visited South Korea last week, meeting with both presidents Xi Jinping and Lee Jae Myung on the sidelines of the APEC leaders’ summit. Dae-Han Song joins Amanda Yee this week to discuss the agreements that came out of these meetings, how China won this latest round of the ongoing trade war, and the protests that erupted in South Korea in response to Trump’s visit.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.

As inequality deepens and dissent is punished, many are looking to new voices like Zohran Mamdani, the democratic socialist running for New York City mayor on a platform of rent freezes, free public transit, and taxing the rich. Can candidates like him revive the Democratic Party in the United States, or is real reform from within impossible?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-truth--6487495/support.