Republicans criticise Trump's plan to withdraw troops

This episode of the Global News Podcast covers multiple international developments, beginning with growing Republican criticism of President Donald Trump's plan to withdraw over 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, a move seen as undermining NATO and emboldening Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Senior Republican lawmakers, including Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker and House counterpart Mike Rogers, issued a strong rebuke, warning the decision sends a dangerous signal and demands congressional oversight. The geopolitical fallout extends beyond Germany, with tensions rising with allies like Spain and Italy, and concerns about broader NATO cohesion. In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer signals openness to restricting pro-Palestinian marches following the stabbing of two Jewish men in London, sparking debate over free speech versus public order. Meanwhile, the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah remains under strain, with continued Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon and humanitarian concerns. In Afghanistan, FIFA’s decision to allow Afghan women’s footballers to compete internationally without Taliban approval brings hope to players living abroad and those still in the country. The episode also highlights the ongoing crisis in Mali, where an Al-Qaeda-linked group, JNIM, has launched coordinated attacks with Tuareg separatists, threatening the capital Bamako and exposing weaknesses in both Malian and Russian-backed forces. Finally, the podcast honors the legacy of Italian Paralympic champion Alex Zanardi, who died at 59, celebrating his resilience after a devastating crash that led to the loss of both legs, yet he went on to win multiple Paralympic golds and inspire millions.