The Independent's World of Trouble podcast series brings together world affairs editor Sam Kiley with Sir Alex Younger, former chief of MI6, and Dr Rachel Ellehuus, director-general of The Royal United Services Institute and former Pentagon official, to explore critical security issues facing the Western world.

In an episode titled Shifting Alliances, the panel examines the strategic importance of Russian actions in Ukraine, NATO's future, and Europe's capacity to confront the Russian challenge. The discussion addresses how the global security environment has transformed in recent years, particularly regarding the threat posed by Russia and other destabilizing actors.

Sir Alex Younger emphasized that Britain must undertake significant rearmament and rebuild its reserves to address growing threats, potentially through measures such as national service. He and Dr Ellehuus highlighted how shifts in United States strategic priorities under the current administration have destabilized European security arrangements, emboldened Russian leadership, and led to increased unconventional Russian military activities across the European continent.

The podcast episode was recorded in April 2025 and is being republished following news of Sir Alex Younger's death.