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Episode details

World Service,05 Apr 2025,23 mins

Taking back Khartoum

From Our Own Correspondent

Available for over a year

Pascale Harter introduces stories from Sudan, Lebanon, Greenland and Vatican City. Millions of people fled their homes in Khartoum since RSF rebels took control of the Sudanese capital two years ago. But after years of civil war the city is now back under the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces. Barbara Plett-Usher joined a military convoy, travelling deep into a city left devastated by the conflict but found relief among remaining residents who say they are 'learning to live again'. The armed group Hezbollah is in a seriously weakened position after 13 months of conflict with Israel, during which time many of its senior leaders have been killed. Hugo Bachega visited Hezbollah's strongholds in Lebanon to weigh up how solid its support is today. Global attention has turned to Greenland this year as Donald Trump has made aggressive overtures about taking over the Danish territory. Andrew Harding visited the Arctic island's capital, Nuuk, where local people feel keen concern about the threat of new outside interference. Pope Francis is back home after a five week stay in hospital. He remains visibly frail, and amid uncertainty about the long-term future of his leadership, there’s speculation about a possible successor. David Willey considers the broader challenge facing the Vatican when it comes to an ageing Church in a greying world. Producer: Polly Hope Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Production coordinator: Katie Morrison Image: Women at a soup kitchen in Khartoum celebrate Eid 2025 Credit: Barbara Plett Usher/BBC

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