Watch the full uncut monologue HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com/

In this solo episode of The Brink, Andrew Fox examines the extraordinary events unfolding in Ceuta, where tens of thousands of migrants crossed into Spanish territory in just 24 hours. But was this really an invasion of Europe, or something far more calculated?

Andrew breaks down the competing explanations behind the crisis, from social media-driven mobilisation and organised criminal smuggling networks to the possibility of state-backed coercion. He explores Morocco's long history of using migration as political leverage, the strategic importance of Western Sahara, and why the timing of the crisis has raised serious questions about Rabat's intentions.

The episode also examines Russia's growing influence across North Africa and the Sahel, including its links to Libya, the Wagner Group, human trafficking networks, and the weaponisation of migration as a geopolitical tool. Andrew explains what the evidence does and does not show, separating established facts from speculation while asking whether Moscow stands to benefit from Europe's latest border crisis.

Finally, Andrew explores what happens next. How does Spain process tens of thousands of arrivals? Can they freely move across Europe? And why might the political impact of the images prove even more significant than the number of people who crossed the border?

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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com/p/former-green-beret-trump-is-repeating?r=63dafp

In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by former United States Army Special Forces officer Mike Nelson for an in-depth assessment of the war with Iran, the strategic dilemmas facing the Trump administration, and whether the United States entered the conflict without a clear plan for success.

Drawing on his military experience and time working on strategy at US Central Command, Mike explains how Washington approached the conflict, why he believes the military presented viable options to political leaders, and where he thinks critical decisions were driven by unrealistic assumptions rather than coherent long-term strategy.

The discussion examines the Strait of Hormuz, Kharg Island, Pickaxe Mountain, and the enormous military and political risks associated with any attempt at regime change or ground operations inside Iran.

The conversation also explores the growing politicisation of the US military, the changing relationship between civilian leaders and senior commanders, and what these developments could mean for America's armed forces in future conflicts. Mike reflects on how loyalty, military professionalism, and strategic planning are being reshaped under the current administration.

Finally, we examine the future of the transatlantic alliance, America's relationship with Europe and Israel, the rise of isolationism within the Republican Party, and why Mike believes the West faces a critical test of both leadership and strategic resolve in the years ahead.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:23 Trump's Strategy On Iran

11:10 Is The US Military Becoming Politicised?

17:21 Did America Have A Plan?

25:30 The Military Options Against Iran

35:37 Why The West Keeps Winning Battles But Losing Wars

39:57 Why Iran Is So Difficult To Defeat

43:50 Has America Abandoned Its Allies?

49:36 Can America Recover After Trump?

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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: thebrinkpodcast.substack.com

In this solo episode of The Brink, Jake reflects on the political earthquake following Andy Burnham's rise to the premiership, asking what it means for Britain, the West, and the future of conservatism.

Jake argues that Burnham's vision represents a return to the failed ideas of the 1970s, contrasting Britain's economic decline before Margaret Thatcher with the challenges facing the country today. He explores the growing pressures on the economy, the erosion of national confidence, declining defence capabilities, and why he believes Britain has lost the sense of purpose that once defined it.

The conversation also examines what Jake describes as "centrist fundamentalism" and how it has reshaped politics, education, the media, and public debate over the past three decades. He argues that this has created the conditions for the rise of both progressive activism and populist movements, while leaving many ordinary voters feeling politically homeless.

Jake also discusses anti-Semitism, the cultural impact of October 7th, the changing relationship between Britain and Israel, and why he believes the way a society treats its Jewish community is a measure of its broader health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

04:45 Thatcher, The 1970s & Britain's Decline

10:23 Britain, Israel & National Resolve

15:48 Britain's Defence & Economic Crisis

19:02 What Is Centrist Fundamentalism?

26:34 How Britain Lost Confidence In Itself

32:03 The Rise Of The New Radicalism

Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/

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