The Explanation
Jun 19, 2026
Caitríona Perry is joined by White House reporter Bernd Buzman and CBS News political director Fin Gomez to unpack the memorandum of understanding with Iran, signed with a flourish by President Trump before G7 leaders at Versailles. With a 60-day clock now running toward bigger talks, they ask what America has actually gained — given the Strait of Hormuz was open and petrol cheaper before Operation Epic Fury began.
The team digs into the unresolved nuclear question, the daunting task of diluting Iran's enriched uranium on a timeline that took the Obama administration 20 months, and the politics driving it all: JD Vance positioning himself as the face of the deal, midterm pressures and an uneasy MAGA base.
They also weigh a renewed push on Ukraine, rumours swirling around Cuba, and a strikingly public rift between Trump and Netanyahu. Could the flashpoint in Lebanon yet unravel the whole Iran deal?
The President's Path: The US-Saudi nuclear deal
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss what we know about the US-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal, the implications for the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, and the fact that Israel could now make or break the agreement.
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]
The President's Path: Trump accuses China of US election 'meddling'
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann give their immediate reaction straight after Trump's primetime address, discussing the president's claims of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, the political response, and what the speech could mean for the upcoming midterm elections.
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]
