In Russia, the rules of power are being rewritten. For decades, Vladimir Putin governed through a network of loyal elites — oligarchs, bureaucrats, security chiefs — each rewarded for their obedience and connections. But since the invasion of Ukraine, that system has begun to fracture. The old elite are being sidelined, and a new cast is emerging: relatives, ideologues, and battlefield loyalists who tie their futures to the war. Moscow-based journalist Kate de Pury has covered Putin’s Russia for Reuters – and more recently as the bureau chief for Associated Press. Today, she tells us how the war is reshaping the Russian ruling class, and what it reveals about where Putin’s Russia is headed. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Moscow-based journalist Kate de Pury Photo: Russian Presidential Press Service via APSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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17:37
Your BYD car is watching you
A sleek Chinese-made ute is suddenly one of the most popular vehicles on Australian roads. It’s cheap, fast and packed with tech. But behind its rise are questions security agencies are struggling to grapple with.Because the cars we drive today are no longer just cars; they’re also data collection tools. And in a tense geopolitical climate – the lines between convenience and surveillance are blurring.Today, senior fellow at the Lowy Institute and contributor to Australian Foreign Affairs, Richard McGregor on the BYD Shark, China’s quietly tightening technological grip on Australian infrastructure and what it means for national security. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Guest: Senior fellow at the Lowy Institute and contributor to Australian Foreign Affairs, Richard McGregor Photo: AAP Image/Steve MarkhamSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Sussan Ley's media blitz
This week, we had Sussan Ley on 7am. But we weren’t alone. Sussan Ley was everywhere, speaking with everyone – about scrapping net zero, and inevitably, about her leadership. So, did the media blitz work? And what has chaos in the Coalition meant for the government while the press gallery has been looking the other way? Today, Network Ten’s political editor Ashleigh Raper on the week in Canberra: Australia’s failed bid to host COP, the last ditch effort to pass new environment laws – and what 2026 would look like if Sussan Ley loses her job. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Network Ten’s political editor Ashleigh RaperSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Donald Trump’s reversal on the Epstein files
This week, we saw something almost unprecedented in American politics: a unified Congress, as all but one person voted to have the Epstein files released. These documents have plagued Donald Trump since he campaigned to release them while running for his second term as president, then backtracked once he won – sparking a mass revolt from his otherwise loyal MAGA base. After months of trying to block their publication, and after increasing pressure from within his own party, Trump changed course, encouraging Republicans to vote for their release and signing the bill, in what has been the most spectacular reversal of his presidency. Today, US Political correspondent for Reuters Bo Erickson, on the Republican revolt – and just how damaging the files could be for President Trump. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: US Political correspondent for Reuters Bo Erickson Photo: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY/Sipa USASee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Sussan Ley on ditching net zero
Sussan Ley describes herself as a moderate – a Liberal leader who wants to keep her party in the centre. But last week, after months of internal pressure, she led the Liberal Party to formally abandon its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050, a target first adopted under Scott Morrison, arguing that dropping it is the only way to deliver cheaper power bills. The decision has pleased conservatives inside her party – but it’s also raised questions about what Ley herself really believes on climate, and the future direction of the Liberal Party. Today, Sussan Ley on why the Coalition walked away from net zero – and whether she can hold her party together. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley Photo: SuppliedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.