Trump in the Middle East

MONDAY, MAY 19
PROGRAM #10778 12:00 PM PT

Trump in the Middle East. 

President Trump visited the Persian Gulf on his first foreign trip, signing commercial deals—mainly weapons sales and increased military cooperation—with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the Emirates. What were the underlying purposes? What did the White House and the Arab countries gain? How did the Trump family business benefit from the official tour? What is the impact on U.S. foreign policy and the possibilities for a diplomatic solution to conflicts in the Middle East?

Guests: José López Zamorano, Reportero, Washington, DC.

The Legacy of ‘Pepe’ Mujica. As the world mourns the loss of former Uruguayan President José “Pepe” Mujica—an icon of Latin American progressivism—a contributing journalist shares a never-before-heard interview recorded in 2020. In this conversation, recorded during the height of the pandemic, Mujica reflects on modernity, the erosion of democratic systems, and the challenges of a world seemingly surrendering to authoritarianism and individualism. What lessons does “Pepe” leave behind? What is his legacy in times of crisis and political polarization?

Guest: Ana Lissardy, Uruguayan Writer and Journalist, Montevideo, Uruguay; excerpts from Lissardy’s archival interview with former Uruguayan President, José Mujica.

Climate Change and Its Impact on Motherhood. Following the commemoration of Mother’s Day, environmental justice organizations are drawing attention to the threats moms and their babies face from air pollution, extreme heat, toxic chemicals, and other environmental hazards. Experts in the field discuss the significant risks that women and children, especially in communities of color, deal with amid the growing challenges of climate change.

Guest: Liz Hurtado, National Field Manager, Moms Clean Air Force/Ecomadres, Washington, DC.

Photo: The White House/Facebook

For more information about Linea Abierta and to find previous shows visit our  Linea Abierta page.