700 ICE agents to leave Minnesota - Global News Podcast Recap

Podcast: Global News Podcast

Published: 2026-02-05

Duration: 31 minutes

Guests: Helena Humphrey, Georgia Cole, Pavel Podvig, Rose Gottemoeller, Sarah Rainsford, Ambarasan Ethirajan, Ione Wells, Paul Davidson

Summary

The episode highlights President Trump's decision to withdraw 700 ICE agents from Minnesota and the expiration of the last nuclear weapons treaty between the US and Russia. It also covers unique global stories like Saudi Arabia's camel passports and British PM Keir Starmer's scrutiny over ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

What Happened

President Trump has ordered the withdrawal of 700 ICE agents from Minnesota, leaving approximately 2,000 agents in the state. In an NBC interview, he acknowledged the ineffectiveness of mass raids, suggesting a 'softer touch' moving forward, yet reaffirmed the need for tough enforcement measures. The discussion also touched on the shooting of two American citizens during confrontations with ICE agents in Minnesota.

The expiration of the New START treaty marks the first time in decades that the US and Russia are without a nuclear arms control framework. President Vladimir Putin proposed a one-year extension, but President Trump did not respond. Meanwhile, China is increasing its nuclear arsenal, projected to reach 1,500 warheads by 2035, prompting the US to reconsider its nuclear strategy.

The episode covered the story of a Ukrainian war widow who moved her husband's grave to prevent it from being seized by Russian forces as tensions remain high in the eastern Donbas region. This personal narrative underscores the ongoing struggles and human impact of the conflict in Ukraine.

In Saudi Arabia, the government has introduced camel passports to manage and protect the country's culturally significant herds. This initiative reflects the importance of camels in the cultural and economic life of the Gulf region.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing scrutiny over his former ambassador Peter Mandelson's connections to Jeffrey Epstein. This has sparked discussions about the implications for Starmer's leadership and the broader political landscape in the UK.

Colombia's largest drug cartel, the Clandel Golfo, has suspended peace talks with the government following President Gustavo Petro's agreement with Donald Trump to target the cartel's leader. This development raises questions about the future of peace efforts in Colombia.

The episode also shared a unique fact about Olympic curling stones, all originating from a remote Scottish island. This detail highlights the niche yet fascinating aspects of global sporting events.

Key Insights