The President's Daily Brief - Archive

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: The Justice Department unveils criminal charges against former Cuban leader Raúl Castro over the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue shootdown, as controversial evidence tied to the attack suddenly resurfaces nearly thirty years later. Iran issues a stark warning to Washington, threatening retaliation beyond the Middle East if the United States or Israel launches new military strikes against the Islamic Republic. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: Just before Vladimir Putin’s arrival in Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping, a Russian drone strike damages a Chinese-owned cargo vessel near Ukraine, creating an awkward and potentially revealing moment for the increasingly uneven Russia-China relationship. Russia launches one of its largest nuclear drills in years, mobilizing tens of thousands of troops, missile launchers, submarines, strategic bombers, and naval assets as tensions with Ukraine and NATO continue rising. NATO is reportedly considering a possible mission to help protect commercial shipping through the Strait

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Cuba’s president warns of a possible “bloodbath” if the United States attacks the island, just one day after intelligence reports revealed Havana’s growing military drone arsenal and rising concerns about threats near the U.S. mainland. New details emerge after five people are killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, including evidence investigators say may point to anti-Muslim motives behind the deadly attack. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: President Trump says he’s pausing a planned military strike on Iran as Gulf leaders push for continued negotiations, even while the White House warns Tehran that future talks may happen “through bombs.” Pakistan reportedly deploys fighter jets and thousands of troops to Saudi Arabia, despite U.S. officials claiming Islamabad also helped protect Iranian military aircraft during the war. Plus, new claims from a former Kremlin insider suggest Russian elites may finally be envisioning a future without Vladimir Putin. And in today’s Back of

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Ukraine launches one of the largest drone assaults on Moscow since the start of the war, bringing explosions and air defense fire to the Russian capital in a way the Kremlin has long tried to avoid. One of ISIS’s most elusive commanders is dead following a joint U.S.-Nigerian operation in Africa. But the raid is also underscoring growing fears that Africa is rapidly becoming the new center of global ISIS activity. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: U.S. officials are sounding the alarm over a potential new drone threat emerging just 90 miles off America’s southern coast, after intelligence reports revealed Cuba has reportedly been stockpiling military drones supplied by Russia and Iran. Iranian forces have reportedly boarded and seized a Chinese-operated vessel described as a “floating armoury” in the Gulf of Oman, raising fresh questions about maritime security in the region following the recent conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. Federal prosecutors have charged a senior Iraqi militia figure

In this special edition of The President’s Daily Brief, Mike Baker takes a closer look at the extraordinary downfall of former Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro—from ruling Venezuela with absolute power to reportedly sitting inside one of America’s most notorious federal detention centers in Brooklyn. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: @PresidentsDailyBrief Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: New intelligence assessments suggest Iran may still retain significant missile capabilities despite weeks of U.S. and Israeli strikes, as the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz continues disrupting global shipping and energy markets. Bill Roggio from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies joins us to break down the latest developments and what they could mean moving forward. We take a closer look at President Trump’s summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping following a high-stakes visit to Beijing this week. Steve Lance of NTD

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—Just hours after protests erupted across Havana over catastrophic blackouts and fuel shortages, CIA Director John Ratcliffe quietly arrived in Cuba for rare high-level talks with senior regime officials. Later in the show—A former U.S. intelligence operative accused of defecting to Iran is suddenly back in the spotlight, as the FBI launches a renewed push to finally bring her to justice for exposing classified American secrets. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: After months of grinding Russian advances, Ukraine may finally be starting to shift the momentum on the battlefield, thanks to a major change in how Kyiv is using its growing drone arsenal. New reports suggest Ukrainian mid-range drone strikes are increasingly targeting the logistics, fuel routes, and supply networks keeping Russia’s offensives alive. President Trump wraps up his high-stakes visit to Beijing and heads back to Washington. We’ll break down the latest developments from his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, including renewed

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Just days after reports revealed the UAE secretly struck Iran during the war, new reporting now claims Saudi Arabia quietly launched retaliatory attacks of its own inside Iranian territory. Later in the show—a massive corruption investigation is getting dangerously close to Ukrainian President Zelensky, as his former chief of staff is arrested for alleged graft. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: New U.S. intelligence suggests Chinese companies may be quietly working to funnel weapons to Iran through third-party countries, raising fresh concerns about covert military support for Tehran behind the scenes. President Trump arrives in Beijing for high-stakes meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as both sides attempt to stabilize relations amid mounting tensions over trade, Taiwan, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Reports continue to indicate the war with Iran has pushed Israel and the United Arab Emirates into an unprecedented

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: New intelligence assessments reportedly show Iran’s military may be far more intact than publicly advertised, with Tehran regaining access to most of its missile infrastructure along the Strait of Hormuz despite months of claims that its military had been decimated. According to federal prosecutors, a California mayor allegedly worked directly with Chinese government handlers as part of a broader CCP influence campaign operating inside the United States, raising fresh concerns about Beijing’s political influence efforts on American soil. To listen to the show

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Iran is accused of sending IRGC commandos onto Kuwaiti territory during the fragile Gulf ceasefire, raising fears the region’s shadow war is still escalating behind the scenes. The war with Iran is reportedly accelerating U.S.-Ukraine defense cooperation, with Washington and Kyiv now pursuing a landmark drone and air defense agreement as modern warfare rapidly evolves. Frustrations between Kyiv and the Trump administration appear to be boiling over, as President Volodymyr Zelensky increasingly distances Ukraine from what was once its most important ally. And

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: New reporting says the United Arab Emirates has joined the fight against Iran, launching direct strikes on Iranian territory as the Gulf conflict quietly widened behind the scenes. Later in the show — reports suggest Pakistan may have quietly helped Iran shield military aircraft from possible U.S. strikes, even while publicly attempting to broker diplomacy between Tehran and Washington. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Iran’s months-long internet blackout is exposing growing cracks inside the regime itself, as politically connected elites reportedly receive privileged online access through controversial “white SIM cards” while millions of ordinary citizens remain digitally cut off from the outside world. North Korea reportedly adopts a chilling new constitutional provision requiring automatic nuclear retaliation if Kim Jong Un is assassinated, raising fresh concerns about a potential “nuclear dead man’s switch” inside the isolated regime. An international maritime operation delivers a major blow to global drug

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—U.S. surveillance flights around Cuba are suddenly surging, with advanced American spy planes and reconnaissance drones appearing just miles from the island’s coastline, raising new questions about what exactly Washington may be preparing for behind the scenes. Later in the show—President Trump rejects Iran’s latest peace proposal as “totally unacceptable,” after Tehran reportedly demanded sanctions relief, frozen assets, and continued control over the Strait of Hormuz, casting fresh doubt over the future of negotiations. To listen to the show ad-free, become a

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—after weeks of rumors and silence, Iran is finally revealing new details about the condition of its injured Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, even as U.S. intelligence reportedly paints a far more troubling picture behind the scenes as negotiations over ending the war continue. Later in the show—Russia’s once-massive Victory Day parade appears to be shrinking alongside its military fortunes in Ukraine, with this year’s event reportedly becoming the shortest in modern Russian history. Plus—a staggering new estimate suggests more than 350,000 Russian

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: First up — American destroyers come under missile and drone attack in the Strait of Hormuz, triggering U.S. retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets even as President Trump insists the ceasefire remains fully intact. Jonathan Schanzer of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies joins us to break down the latest escalation and what it could mean for the fragile standoff with Tehran. Later in the show — President Trump prepares for a critical summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing, with major disputes over trade,

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—American destroyers come under missile and drone attack in the Strait of Hormuz, triggering U.S. retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets—even as the White House insists the ceasefire remains fully intact. Later in the show—There’s growing concern over a deadly hantavirus outbreak tied to a luxury expedition cruise ship, as health officials across several countries race to track exposed passengers now scattered around the globe. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com. Please

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up — officially, Project Freedom was paused to give negotiations with Iran a chance. Unofficially? New reporting suggests key Gulf allies may have pushed back hard against the operation behind closed doors, raising questions about fractures inside the coalition confronting Tehran. Later in the show — the IDF says it killed a top Hezbollah Radwan commander in a precision strike on Beirut, marking Israel’s first attack on the Lebanese capital in weeks. Also later in the show — Ukraine launches a massive

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up — new intelligence suggests the man accused of attempting to assassinate President Trump at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner may have been motivated by the war with Iran, raising fresh concerns about how overseas conflicts are fueling political extremism here at home. Later in the show — China openly challenges Washington’s sanctions regime, reportedly ordering Chinese companies to ignore U.S. restrictions on Iranian oil as Beijing doubles down on support for Tehran amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. To listen

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: New reporting suggests Russia may be facing a growing manpower problem inside its military ranks, as desertions rise and the Kremlin increasingly relies on pressure, incentives, and unconventional recruiting methods to sustain the war in Ukraine. American forces open fire on an Iranian-linked vessel accused of attempting to bypass the U.S. naval blockade, raising tensions in the Gulf even as negotiations with Tehran continue behind the scenes. Ukraine accuses Russia of violating a ceasefire proposed by Kyiv just hours after it took effect,

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—new details are emerging about President Trump’s decision to pause “Project Freedom,” as reports suggest the United States and Iran may be closing in on a framework agreement to end the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and begin broader negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program. Later in the show—new satellite imagery assessments indicate Iran’s retaliatory strikes on American military positions across the Gulf caused far more damage than previously understood, including hits on key air defense systems, command facilities, and critical infrastructure.

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—President Trump pauses “Project Freedom,” the U.S. effort to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as talks with Iran show signs of progress—while the blockade remains firmly in place. I’ll have the details. Later in the show—new U.S. intelligence suggests recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear program may not have done as much damage as advertised, with Tehran’s timeline to a potential weapon largely unchanged. Plus—a fired Russian deputy minister reportedly flees to the United States to avoid fraud charges, raising fresh

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—the United States begins to make headway in the Strait of Hormuz, successfully opening a narrow, protected corridor for commercial ships despite Iranian attacks. But with Tehran continuing to test the limits, the question is how long that fragile pathway can remain open. Later in the show—Russia and Ukraine both signal a temporary ceasefire ahead of Victory Day, but conflicting timelines and mixed messaging are already casting doubt on whether any pause in the fighting will actually take hold. To listen to

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—ceasefire or not, the shooting has already started. U.S. forces engaged Iranian boats and came under missile and drone fire just hours into Project Freedom—the U.S. effort to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Later in the show—new intelligence suggests Vladimir Putin isn’t just worried about external threats, but the possibility of betrayal from within his own ranks. Plus, North Korea pushes back against accusations it’s behind the majority of global crypto theft, calling the claims politically motivated. And in today’s

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—United States launches “Project Freedom” to break the standoff in the Strait of Hormuz, escorting commercial ships through one of the world’s most critical chokepoints. Iran is warning U.S. forces could be targeted—putting the fragile ceasefire on a knife’s edge. Later in the show—Russia appears to be losing ground for the first time since 2024, as its slow, grinding offensive in Ukraine begins to stall. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—Vladimir Putin is surrounding his personal residence with nearly 30 air defense systems—protection typically reserved for major military targets. Is this the reality of wartime leadership, or a sign that paranoia is starting to creep in? Later in the show—Donald Trump reviews a sweeping 14-point Iranian proposal to end the war, as the White House moves forward with plans to withdraw 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany over the next year. And in today’s Back of the Brief—the UN’s nuclear watchdog warns Iran’s

In this PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker sits down with Mike Slater to break down the shocking shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner—and the serious questions it’s raising about security at one of the most high-profile gatherings in Washington. What really happened inside the ballroom that night? How did an attacker get that close in a room packed with journalists, politicians, and high-ranking officials? And more importantly—what does this incident reveal about the current state of United States Secret Service readiness? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: A stunning security breach at one of Washington's most high-profile events is now under intense scrutiny, raising serious questions about how a gunman got so close to key political figures. We get firsthand insight from Steve Yates, who attended the dinner last weekend. Russia’s economy is showing signs of strain, and now even voices close to the Kremlin are beginning to sound the alarm. We break it down with Reuben Johnson, Director of the Asia Research Centre at the Casimir Pulaski Foundation. To

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—Iran is reportedly exploring unconventional ways to strike U.S. forces, including using mine-carrying dolphins to target U.S. warships in the Strait of Hormuz. But as tensions rise, Tehran is also signaling a possible return to negotiations, while Washington weighs its next steps. Later in the show—After nearly eleven weeks, the longest shutdown in Department of Homeland Security history has finally come to an end. But the fight over immigration enforcement that caused it is far from over. To listen to the show ad-free,

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—new signs Iran’s economy is entering what some analysts are calling a “death spiral,” as soaring inflation, mass unemployment, and a collapsing currency pile pressure on the regime amid war and blockade. Later in the show—Trump and Putin float a temporary cease-fire in Ukraine, even as Kyiv launches a long-range strike deep inside Russian territory, raising fresh doubts about whether any pause in fighting can hold. Plus—as war intensifies in Mali, analysts are warning jihadist groups could be on the verge of

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—new signs the U.S. could escalate in Iran, as President Trump reviews fresh military strike options and considers deploying a hypersonic weapon for the first time. Later in the show—authorities across Europe are investigating a wave of attacks targeting Jewish communities, with growing suspicion the activity may be linked back to Iran. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: The White House says the blockade of Iran’s ports is here to stay, even as it quietly explores a potential cash-for-uranium deal tied to Tehran’s nuclear stockpile. A diplomatic clash between Ukraine and Israel, as Kyiv accuses Jerusalem of helping move grain it claims was stolen by Russia. Kim Jong Un praises North Korean soldiers who reportedly blew themselves up in Russia to avoid capture, offering a chilling glimpse into battlefield tactics. And in today’s Back of the Brief—you can’t make this up.

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—a striking warning out of Moscow, as a senior political figure suggests Russia’s worsening economic situation could spark the kind of instability that once led to the 1917 revolution. Later in the show—Washington ramps up pressure on Iran, targeting its shadow banking networks and the Chinese refineries helping sustain its oil exports. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—new reporting from Reuters and The New York Times is shedding light on Iran’s wartime power structure, where generals—not clerics—are now driving the country’s most critical decisions, reshaping how Tehran approaches both the conflict and negotiations. Later in the show—Iran’s foreign minister meets with Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, as Moscow signals continued support for Tehran and a deepening alignment between the two countries. Plus—a surprise move from the United Arab Emirates, announcing it will leave OPEC in a decision that could

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—Iran is facing a major new pressure point, as a U.S. blockade leaves its oil piling up with nowhere to go. That mounting pressure could force shutdowns that risk long-term damage to the backbone of the country’s economy. Later in the show—Mexican forces capture a key Jalisco New Generation Cartel figure, a man once seen as a potential successor to notorious cartel boss Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, in a major blow to one of the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations. To listen to

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—we’re learning more about the security gaps that allowed a gunman to get dangerously close to President Trump, as new details raise serious concerns about how the breach happened. Later in the show—the ripple effects of the Iran conflict are reaching China, where rising energy costs are beginning to put pressure on an already fragile economy. Plus—Hamas is preparing to choose its first leader since Yahya Sinwar, a decision that could shape the future of postwar Gaza. And in today’s Back of

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Behind-the-scenes diplomacy with Iran continues as Tehran floats a new proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—but the deal could come at the cost of critical U.S. leverage on the nuclear issue. Israel quietly deployed its Iron Dome and troops to the United Arab Emirates during the Iran war, marking a major and previously undisclosed shift in regional defense cooperation. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: Gunfire erupts inside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where President Trump was in attendance—forcing Secret Service agents to form a human shield as an armed suspect runs toward the ballroom. We’ll break down what we know about the suspect and his manifesto. President Trump calls off talks with Iran at the last minute, signaling just how far apart both capitals remain, as Washington ramps up pressure with new sanctions targeting the regime’s oil lifeline—and the Chinese refineries keeping it alive. The European Union

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: First up—a rocky week in the Iran conflict, with failed negotiations, rising aggression in the Strait of Hormuz, and a fragile ceasefire still holding—for now. Former White House National Security Council official Richard Goldberg joins us to break down what’s happening behind the scenes. Later in the show—a new warning that the U.S. is burning through critical munitions faster than they can be replaced, raising serious questions about military readiness if another conflict erupts. Open Source Intelligence Analyst Ryan McBeth joins us for

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—after days of uncertainty, the United States and Iran are heading back to the negotiating table. New talks are set for this weekend in Pakistan—but with deep divisions still in place, the path to a deal remains far from clear. Later in the show—a U.S. soldier allegedly used inside knowledge of the operation to remove Nicolás Maduro to place bets on Polymarket—walking away with hundreds of thousands of dollars in profits. Now he’s facing federal charges. To listen to the show ad-free, become

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: A new warning from the White House on Iranian mine-laying in the Strait of Hormuz, as officials say clearing them could take far longer than expected. U.S.-brokered talks between Israel and Lebanon wrap in Washington, even as Hezbollah continues to trade fire with Israeli troops. The U.S. accuses China of running “industrial-scale” operations to steal advanced American AI technology. And in today’s Back of the Brief—Republicans take a first step toward funding ICE on their own, aiming to break the longest partial government

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—a new analysis warns the U.S. may be running dangerously low on key munitions after weeks of fighting with Iran, raising fresh concerns about America’s readiness if the conflict reignites—or if a larger war breaks out. Later in the show—a glamorous California socialite is accused of secretly running a global arms network for Iran, brokering massive weapons deals while living a jet-set lifestyle inside the United States. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Iran’s posture hardens rapidly—refusing talks and escalating in the Strait of Hormuz—as new analysis points to a deeper divide within the regime’s hardline leadership. Moscow releases a list of European firms tied to Ukraine’s drone program, raising concerns they could become targets in Russia’s expanding conflict footprint. Japan continues its break from post-war pacifism, opening the door to expanded arms sales amid growing security threats from China. And in today’s Back of the Brief—the Pentagon unveils a record $1.5 trillion budget request, prioritizing

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Iran appears to change its strategy in the Strait of Hormuz, attacking and seizing commercial ships in a sharp escalation just as Donald Trump unilaterally extends the ceasefire to allow time for negotiations. The Trump administration blocks nearly $500 million in cash bound for Iraq, using control over Baghdad’s oil revenues to pressure leaders to crack down on Iran-backed militias targeting Americans. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—the fighting may be paused, but inside Iran the regime is tightening its grip. Thousands have been detained in recent weeks, and in a disturbing escalation, authorities are now targeting the graves of protestors in an apparent effort to erase their memory. Later in the show—the UAE announces it has dismantled an Iran-linked terror cell accused of plotting coordinated sabotage attacks, raising new concerns about Tehran’s reach across the region. Plus—new warnings from European intelligence officials that China’s cyber-espionage capabilities are now

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: The U.S. boards a sanctioned oil tanker deep in the Indian Ocean, marking the first time Washington has enforced its Iran blockade far beyond the Middle East—and signaling the crackdown has gone global. I’ll break down what happened and what it means. Two Americans are killed in Mexico following a counternarcotics mission, as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum says she was not aware U.S. officials were operating there—raising new questions about coordination and risk. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: U.S. negotiators head toward talks with Iran, but growing signs of internal division in Tehran raise a critical question: are the officials at the table actually in control? Israel reveals it has uncovered an Iranian terror network targeting Israeli officials and assets abroad, offering new insight into Tehran’s global reach. Ukraine continues its campaign against Russia’s energy sector, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy saying strikes wiped out more than $2.3 billion in oil revenues in March alone. And in today’s Back of the Brief—the

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Uncertainty surrounds planned U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan, as Tehran sends mixed signals on whether it will even show up—while new details emerge about the seized Iranian cargo ship and what it may have been carrying. A French peacekeeper is killed in a targeted ambush in southern Lebanon, raising new questions about Hezbollah’s actions even as a ceasefire remains in place. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Confusion and escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran declares the critical waterway open—only to reverse course hours later and fire on commercial ships, raising new concerns about global shipping and energy markets. In a historic move, U.S. officials travel to Cuba, signaling a potential diplomatic opening even as Washington ramps up pressure on Havana. Maduro is gone, and now the purge is underway, as former allies of Venezuela’s regime are pushed out or detained while a new power structure takes hold.

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: U.S. escalates its pressure campaign on Iran, expanding a global blockade targeting the regime’s economic lifeline. Ambassador Robert Joseph joins us to explain whether this strategy could force Tehran back to the negotiating table—or risk further escalation. Inside Russia, new signs of strain are emerging after years of sanctions and war, from a slowing economy to growing frustration over government crackdowns. Konstantin Samoilov, Russian expat and host of the InsideRussia YouTube channel, breaks down what’s really happening on the ground. To listen to

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, President Trump says a deal is close, and oil markets are already responding. But with pressure on Tehran still firmly in place and key details unresolved, it’s not yet clear whether this marks a real turning point—or just another phase in a very fragile standoff. Later in the show—a mysterious letter from Cuba meant for President Trump is intercepted in Miami, revealing a quiet attempt by the Castro family to bypass Washington’s official

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Iran’s economy is under mounting pressure, as war damage and a U.S. blockade combine to drain hundreds of millions of dollars from the regime every single day. I’ll have the details. Israel and Lebanon agree to a ten-day ceasefire, offering a brief pause in fighting as negotiations continue behind the scenes. Economic warning signs emerge in Russia, as Vladimir Putin publicly scolds top officials over a slowing and shrinking economy. And in today’s Back of the Brief—Hamas rejects a U.S.-backed ceasefire plan, refusing

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Washington tightens the economic noose on Iran, expanding its naval blockade worldwide while cutting off key oil waivers—moves that could choke Tehran’s economy and raise the risk of a confrontation at sea. In a move the U.S. hasn’t seen since World War II, the Pentagon is in talks with General Motors and Ford about shifting production to weapons and military hardware. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: An apparent IED attack in central Tehran leaves three injured, including a member of the regime’s Basij paramilitary force—raising new questions about whether unrest may be brewing inside Iran amid an ongoing information blackout. New reporting claims Iran used a Chinese spy satellite to help target U.S. bases in the Middle East, an allegation Beijing is now flatly denying as tensions continue to rise between the major powers. Europe begins laying the groundwork for a NATO backup plan, preparing for the possibility that

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: U.S. Sends More Troops Despite “Endgame” Talk — Even as the White House signals the war with Iran may be nearing its conclusion, the Pentagon is surging thousands of additional troops into the region. We break down what this buildup really means—and how it’s designed to pressure Tehran at the negotiating table while preparing for escalation if talks collapse. North Korea’s Nuclear Program Speeds Up — New warnings from the International Atomic Energy Agency suggest Pyongyang is expanding its uranium enrichment capabilities, potentially

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: New reporting suggests internal infighting within Iran’s leadership may have helped derail recent negotiations with the United States. Disagreements between diplomats and hardliners appear to have exposed deeper divisions inside Tehran at a time when the regime is already under increasing pressure. Despite weeks of strikes, a new U.S. intelligence assessment says Iran still has thousands of missiles and the ability to bring hidden launchers back online, underscoring the durability of its military threat. Israeli and Lebanese officials have begun rare direct talks

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: The United States launches a full-scale blockade of Iranian ports, targeting the one thing Tehran can’t afford to lose—its oil revenue. We break down why this move could hit Iran’s economy hard and fast, and what it means for the broader conflict. An update on Haiti, where international stabilization forces are now on the ground—but gang violence continues to grip the country, raising questions about whether outside intervention can restore order. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: New details are emerging from high-stakes U.S.-Iran talks, revealing exactly where—and why—the negotiations broke down, with a major dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program at the center of the collapse. The U.S. pushes forward with a blockade on Iran, but key allies push back, with Britain refusing to assist until after the war—highlighting growing divisions among Western partners. Gulf allies are running low on air defense systems after weeks of fighting and may be looking beyond the United States for weapons, signaling potential cracks

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—the U.S. begins a high-risk operation in the Strait of Hormuz, working to track down and destroy hidden naval mines. We’ll break down the dangers—and how this complex mission is being carried out. Later in the show—after sixteen years in power, Hungary’s Viktor Orbán concedes defeat, as a pro-EU challenger wins in a major political upset. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: President Trump suspends traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after marathon negotiations with Iran collapse in Pakistan, raising the risk of further escalation in the conflict. New U.S. intelligence suggests China may have already armed Iran with anti-aircraft missiles, potentially putting American pilots at risk. Plus, an Easter ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia quickly falls apart, with both sides reporting thousands of violations. And in today’s Back of the Brief—Artemis II safely returns to Earth, marking a major milestone in NASA’s effort to

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran is already showing signs of strain, with tensions lingering in the Strait of Hormuz and growing friction over Israel’s ongoing war against Hezbollah. Retired Army Colonel Wesley Martin joins us to break down what’s happening—and what could come next. After launching some of the most intense strikes yet on Hezbollah, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signals a possible shift, opening the door to talks with Lebanon. David Daoud, senior fellow at the Foundation for

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—A ceasefire is holding between the United States and Iran—but the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut down. With shipping traffic still disrupted, negotiators are heading into peace talks under mounting pressure, as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalate once again. Later in the show—A brief Orthodox Easter ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine is set to take hold, but few believe it will last. Still, behind the scenes, one senior Ukrainian official now says a peace deal may be closer than expected. I’ll

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First—Prime Minister Netanyahu moves toward diplomacy, announcing direct talks with Lebanon as Washington reportedly pushes Israel to ease off attacks on Hezbollah. Later in the show—a massive cyber breach in China, with hackers reportedly stealing sensitive military data, including missile schematics, from a state-run supercomputer. Plus—Spain moves to reopen its embassy in Tehran, as President Trump blasts NATO allies over their stance on the Iran conflict. And in today’s Back of the Brief—Artemis II begins its return to Earth tonight, entering the final

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: U.S. and Iranian officials prepare for their first face-to-face talks since the war began, but Tehran’s opening demands highlight just how far apart the two sides remain heading into negotiations in Pakistan. British officials reveal a covert Russian submarine operation targeting critical undersea cables and pipelines, raising fresh concerns about Moscow’s hybrid warfare strategy against the West. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: The Strait of Hormuz is supposed to be open, but ships aren’t moving, Iran is still in control, and the reality on the water looks very different from the headlines. Iran-linked hackers target U.S. oil, gas, and water systems, triggering a federal warning and raising fresh concerns about vulnerabilities inside America’s critical infrastructure. Israel ramps up its campaign in Lebanon with its most intense strikes yet, making clear Hezbollah is not part of the current ceasefire. And in today’s Back of the Brief—the

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: New details emerge on how President Donald Trump’s last-minute ceasefire with Iran came together—and why attacks continued across the region even after the deal was announced. An American journalist is freed after being kidnapped by an Iran-backed militia in Iraq, as we learn more about the deal that secured her release and the risks facing U.S. citizens in the region. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: President Donald Trump steps back from the brink, delaying strikes on Iran just hours before a major escalation, as a last-minute diplomatic push attempts to hold. Ukraine claims Russia is helping Iran sharpen its attacks with satellite intelligence and cyber support. Russia and China block a United Nations effort to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. And in today’s Back of the Brief—the CIA reportedly uses a cutting-edge, classified system to locate a downed U.S. airman in Iran by detecting the electromagnetic signature of

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: U.S. forces launch strikes on Kharg Island, targeting Iran’s most critical economic hub just hours before President Trump’s deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—raising the stakes as diplomacy begins to slip away. An update on the Artemis II mission, as astronauts return from a historic journey to the far side of the moon, capturing images and data from a region no human has ever fully observed. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Israel delivers another major blow to Iran’s leadership, killing the head of IRGC intelligence along with a top Quds Force commander in a targeted strike inside Tehran. What this means for the regime—and what could come next. Even as Iran maintains its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, shipping traffic is rising, suggesting quiet deals may be keeping oil flowing through one of the world’s most critical chokepoints. Meanwhile, Ukraine presses ahead with strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, despite growing pressure to ease

In this episode of PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran appear to have collapsed, as Tehran rejects a proposal that could have reopened the Strait of Hormuz, raising the risk of further escalation and prolonged disruption to global energy markets. Later in the show—the FBI sounds the alarm on a suspected China-linked cyber intrusion, now being labeled a “major incident” with potentially serious national security implications. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: After a tense, multi-day search behind enemy lines, U.S. forces successfully rescue the second crew member of a downed F-15E Strike Eagle, denying Tehran what could have been a major propaganda victory and showcasing a complex, high-risk recovery operation. Fears are growing that Russia is testing a familiar destabilization strategy in Estonia, as pro-Kremlin actors push the idea of a separatist “Narva People’s Republic” inside a NATO member state. New reports suggest Kyiv may be opening another front against Russia, launching drone strikes

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: First up—after a month of fighting, the war with Iran may be entering its most decisive stretch, with the endgame still very much in question. Behnam Ben Taleblu from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies joins us to break it all down. Later in the show—Japan takes a major step away from its postwar defense posture, deploying long-range missiles that can reach the Chinese mainland. Gordon Chang stops by for more on that. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—A U.S. fighter jet has been shot down over Iran, triggering a dangerous search-and-rescue mission deep inside hostile territory. While details are still coming in, officials say one crew member has been rescued, but another remains missing. Later in the show—A major shakeup inside the Pentagon, as the Army’s top general is removed in the middle of the war with Iran. The Pentagon confirmed the rare move, but offered few details, leaving key questions unanswered. To listen to the show ad-free, become a

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—the war with Iran is exposing a growing rift inside NATO, as President Trump pressures allies to step up—or risk a major break in the alliance itself. Later in the show—U.S. commandos join Ecuadorian forces in a mission targeting alleged narco-terrorists along the country’s coast. Plus—the Trump administration lifts sanctions on Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodríguez, signaling a shift in U.S. policy. And in today’s Back of the Brief—another shakeup in Washington, as President Trump removes Attorney General Pam Bondi from her

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—a new Pentagon plan presented to President Trump could put American troops on the ground inside Iran to seize its uranium stockpile, in what could become one of the most complex and risky military operations ever attempted. Later in the show—NASA launches Artemis II, sending astronauts on a historic deep space mission that will travel farther than any crew in modern history. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: After 11,000 strikes in just 30 days, the war with Iran may be entering its “completion phase”—but the hardest part could still be ahead as the fight shifts toward economic pressure and long-term endurance. China and Pakistan roll out a new plan to end the war in Iran, tying a ceasefire directly to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing global energy markets. Iran escalates its cyber campaign, targeting government officials and corporate employees in a more personal form of psychological warfare. And

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—the war with Iran could be expanding, as new reporting suggests the United Arab Emirates is preparing to join the fight and help force open the Strait of Hormuz. Later in the show—North Korean hackers slip malicious code into software used by thousands of U.S. companies, in what could become a major crypto heist. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: New reporting reveals who the White House has been secretly engaging with in Iran, as President Trump confirms contact with a powerful regime insider—raising serious questions about whether he’s a credible partner… or just another problem. Russia’s expected oil windfall from the Iran conflict takes a major hit, as Ukrainian drone strikes cripple key export infrastructure and threaten a critical revenue stream for Moscow. The Kremlin tightens control at home, moving to isolate Russia from the global internet—potentially cutting millions off from outside

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—new reporting reveals President Donald Trump is willing to end the war with Iran without reopening the Strait of Hormuz—raising serious questions about what “victory” actually looks like and who’s left to deal with the fallout. Later in the show—Israel suspends a battalion after its troops detained a CNN crew in the West Bank, as the Israel Defense Forces faces scrutiny over the incident and conduct on the ground. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First—The war in Ukraine and the war with Iran may be starting to overlap in a new way. New claims suggest Russia is helping Iran target U.S. assets in the Middle East, while Ukraine works to help defend U.S. allies against that same threat. The question is: just how far does Moscow’s support for the mullahs go? Later in the show—Beijing is making an early play ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, inviting Taiwan's opposition leader for a visit in an effort to shape

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—President Trump says a deal with Iran is "probably" close, while also threatening to obliterate the regime’s oil and power infrastructure if an agreement is not reached quickly. Iran, meanwhile, is pushing back—dismissing U.S. proposals as "illogical" and warning it won’t negotiate under pressure. Later in the show—Israel's fight in southern Lebanon appears to be entering an even more permanent phase, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering expanded operations to stop Hezbollah's continued rocket fire. At the same time, Iran's open defiance inside

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—new reporting reveals the Pentagon is preparing for weeks of possible ground operations inside Iran, as U.S. troops continue to surge into the region. We’ll break down what these plans could involve—and what it means for the next phase of the war. Later in the show—U.S. forces take a significant blow, as an Iranian strike wounds a dozen American troops and damages key aircraft at a Saudi air base. Plus—the Houthis enter the fight, launching their first attack on Israel since the

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: The war with Iran reaches the one-month mark, as U.S. and Israeli airstrikes continue and tensions center on the increasingly volatile Strait of Hormuz. We’re joined by Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation to break down where things stand and what could come next. After months of grinding stalemate, Ukraine seizes the momentum in the south, reclaiming more territory than Russia for the first time in years. George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War joins us to assess what’s driving

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—Iran’s leadership is reportedly openly debating whether to formally pursue a nuclear weapon, something the regime has long denied even considering. The shift comes after weeks of U.S. and Israeli strikes, and as hardliners tighten their grip on power. The question now is whether this is just empty saber-rattling, a negotiating tactic, or the beginning of a real change in strategy. I’ll break it down. Later in the show—Ukraine’s strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure are starting to add up, knocking out roughly 40

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—new reporting reveals the Pentagon is preparing options for what officials describe as a potential “final blow” against Iran, including a massive bombing campaign and even the possibility of U.S. ground forces. Later in the show—Iran may be monetizing the chaos in the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran moves to charge ships for safe passage through the world’s most critical oil chokepoint. Plus—Russia is working to overcome a major battlefield weakness, accelerating plans for its own satellite network after being cut off

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—earlier this week, President Trump announced a mysterious “present” from Iran… and now we’re learning what it actually was, and what it signals about the current state of the conflict. Later in the show—Britain authorizes the seizure of Russian-linked tankers, marking a major escalation in the effort to crack down on Moscow’s shadow fleet and its war funding. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: First up—Tehran moves quickly to replace a top official killed in recent strikes, installing a hardline security figure and revealing a deeper shift in who’s really calling the shots inside Iran. Later in the show—Russia’s latest drone barrage spills into NATO territory, as Estonia and Latvia report airspace violations during a major attack on Ukraine. Plus—the U.S. quietly ramps up fuel shipments to Cuba’s private sector, signaling a new strategy to undercut the regime from within. And in today’s Back of the Brief—Shahed-style

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up—thousands of elite U.S. troops are now moving into the Middle East, as the White House expands its military options against Iran, even as it signals a possible diplomatic off-ramp. Later in the show—Israel strikes a key smuggling route in the Caspian Sea, targeting a growing weapons pipeline between Russia and Iran. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—the Strait of Hormuz is effectively shut down, with hundreds of oil tankers sitting idle as tensions with Iran disrupt one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes. Reopening the strait may prove far more difficult than Washington suggests, with military, logistical, and strategic challenges complicating any effort to restore flow. Later in the show—Gulf nations are now weighing direct military action against Iran as repeated attacks raise the risk of a broader regional war. Plus—Israel signals a potential expansion of its

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—the White House moves to release Iranian oil onto global markets, a decision that could send billions to Tehran at a moment of maximum pressure, raising serious questions about the strategy behind it. Later in the show—as the fight with Iran intensifies, the U.S. is now battling on another front, launching strikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq and widening the scope of the conflict. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President’s Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com.

In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief: First up—Iran’s new Supreme Leader remains out of sight, with no public appearances or verified statements, raising serious questions about who is actually in control. Reports suggest the regime may be relying on artificial intelligence and propaganda to project authority amid growing instability. Later in the show—the Houthis have gone unusually quiet, as Saudi Arabia works behind the scenes to keep the Iran conflict from expanding further. Plus—Ukraine launches a major drone strike on Russia’s largest oil export terminal, threatening to disrupt already

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: Just hours after issuing a 48-hour ultimatum, President Trump announces a temporary pause on planned strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure, citing “productive” talks with regime officials. But Tehran is denying any negotiations are taking place, raising serious questions about who—if anyone—the U.S. is actually speaking with behind the scenes. Counter-terror police in London are investigating an arson attack targeting ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity. An Iranian-linked group has claimed responsibility, adding a new layer of concern about Tehran’s potential reach beyond the

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Iran fires long-range missiles for the first time, revealing it can now strike far beyond the Middle East, and President Trump issues a stark ultimatum that could push the war into a dangerous new phase. I’ll have the latest from the war in Iran. Russia is once again increasing military pressure along Ukraine’s eastern front, setting conditions for what could become its next major offensive of the war. A swarm of unidentified drones repeatedly breached the airspace of a U.S. Air Force base

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: First up — the war with Iran enters a dangerous new phase, as both sides begin targeting critical energy infrastructure, raising the risk to global supply. We’re joined by Janatan Sayeh from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to break down what this shift means and where the conflict could head next. Later in the show — China finds itself deeply exposed as the war threatens its energy lifeline, with Beijing relying on Iran for the vast majority of its oil imports. Casey

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First—a risky new option is now under discussion at the White House: seizing Iran’s primary oil export hub to break its grip on the Strait of Hormuz. We’ll walk through what’s being discussed—and the potential consequences. Later in the show—Ukraine is now exporting its battlefield experience against Iranian drones to the Middle East, deploying military specialists across five countries to help defend against Tehran’s attacks. We’ll break down what this means for the broader conflict—and how Ukraine is trying to turn their unique

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: A potential shift from Europe and Japan on securing the Strait of Hormuz—but as allies stop short of specifics, U.S. air power, including A-10 Warthogs, is already striking Iranian assets to reopen the waterway. A bizarre and troubling turn in the cartel war, with a California-born figure now leading Mexico’s most dangerous drug empire, complicating any effort to take him down. A new U.S. intelligence assessment is raising eyebrows, suggesting China may not be preparing to invade Taiwan—at least not on the timeline

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: First up — the war with Iran enters a dangerous new phase, as strikes on critical energy infrastructure send oil prices climbing and raise the risk of a broader global supply shock. We’ll break down what’s happening and what the U.S. is doing to keep markets under control. Later in the show — former senior Trump intelligence official Joe Kent is now under FBI investigation for alleged leaks, just days after stepping down in protest over the Iran war. We’ll take a closer