European correspondent Christian Smith

In this episode of RNZ's All Programmes, host Emil Lewis checks in with European correspondent Christian Smith to discuss shifting geopolitical dynamics in Europe, particularly focusing on the deteriorating transatlantic relationship amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Smith highlights Donald Trump's recent inflammatory rhetoric targeting the UK and other allies over their stance on the war, including a controversial post suggesting countries should either buy fuel from the US or seize it from the Strait of Hormuz. This has sparked backlash across Europe, with Italy, France, and Spain restricting US military access to their airspace and bases—marking a significant cooling in US-Europe relations. Despite this, the UK continues to play a quiet but active role through air base support and drone defense operations, even as Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintains the UK is not directly involved. The episode also examines the political fallout, including Starmer's strategic positioning against opposition parties' pro-war stances, and the economic toll of the war on fuel supplies, with the UK facing a critical jet fuel shortage. A major point of tension is King Charles's upcoming visit to the US to celebrate its 250th independence, which has drawn criticism for its timing and diplomatic sensitivity amid rising US-Europe friction. Finally, Smith discusses a new EU initiative to establish 'return hubs' in African countries for deporting rejected asylum seekers—a move reminiscent of the now-defunct UK Rwanda scheme—sparking debate over human rights and migration policy across Europe.