The Explanation

The latest batch of documents linked to the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has been released by the US Department of Justice. There are millions of files for journalists to go through, and coverage has focused on what they reveal and how responsibly they can be reported, particularly when powerful figures are named. Journalists Tina Brown and Jim Pickard talk about how the material is being handled and the pressures on newsrooms.
NASA has postponed its planned Artemis II mission to the Moon at the last minute after a technical issue during rehearsals. For space journalists, major launches are among the biggest stories of the year, but delays are common and difficult to plan for. BBC Science Editor Rebecca Morelle and astrophysicist Professor Chris Lintott reflect on the challenges of covering space missions when plans change.
This programme was edited on 05/02/2026.
Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
Content Producer: Emily Channon
Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites
Technical Coordinator: Ozgur Cevik
Sound: Allyson Purcell-Davis

The release by the Department of Justice of a new tranche of Epstein files has put more political pressure on President Trump.

On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian look at the ongoing pressure on Donald Trump’s administration over the handling of the release of more Epstein files. They also discuss the announcement of a new trade deal with India – and President Trump’s calls to Republicans to nationalise the vote.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan
Editor: Anna Holford
Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the dangers facing the Iranian clerical regime, explores whether peace talks on the war in Ukraine can succeed, and analyses who is actually governing Venezuela.
Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

Minneapolis unrest deepens as protests spread after Alex Pretti killing. Donald Trump signals plans to de-escalate as protests and political tensions mount.

On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Fin Gómez and Bernd Debusmann look at how Donald Trump’s administration is handling the unrest in Minneapolis.

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]

Senior producer: Oksana Kundirenko
Editor: Silvia Costeloe
Executive producer: Anna Holford

John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the relationship between the EU and the United States after the row over Greenland, explores how the UK is trying to improve ties with China, and looks at the challenges facing the first female head of the Anglican Church.
Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski