Inside the Hunt for Hidden Nuclear Weapons | Eliana Johns

Inside the Hunt for Hidden Nuclear Weapons | Eliana Johns

Author: Global Dispatches May 12, 2025 Duration: 22:49

Eliana Johns hunts for nuclear weapons. She's a senior research associate at the Federation of American Scientists, where her team uses open-source intelligence — or OSINT — to uncover secrets about countries' nuclear capabilities and intentions. In fact, much of what we know today about China's nuclear arsenal comes from her colleagues' work, which used commercial satellite imagery to reveal that China is undertaking a massive nuclear buildup — at a pace far exceeding publicly available estimates from U.S. intelligence agencies.

In our conversation, Johns explains where OSINT has worked best and why greater transparency around nuclear weapons is essential for a more stable and peaceful world.

We recorded this live at the Carnegie International Nuclear Policy Conference


For years, Global Dispatches--World News That Matters has carved out a unique space, going beyond the headlines to explore the forces and figures shaping our world. This isn't about rapid-fire soundbites; it's a series of substantive conversations with the people directly involved-diplomats negotiating treaties, reporters on the ground in conflict zones, and scholars analyzing long-term trends in global development and international relations. The discussions delve into the "why" behind the news, providing context that is often missing from daily reporting. Recognized by The Guardian as a podcast designed to make you smarter, it serves an audience that feels underserved by superficial summaries. Each episode is built on the premise that complex events deserve nuanced explanation. By listening, you gain access to a clearer, more informed perspective on pivotal issues, from geopolitical shifts to humanitarian crises. The podcast’s longevity as an independent program speaks to its consistent quality and dedicated following. Tune in for a deeper, more thoughtful analysis of the stories that truly matter, presented through the voices of those who know them best.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Global Dispatches -- World News That Matters
Podcast Episodes
Let the Race for UN Secretary General Begin! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:21
On Tuesday and Wednesday this week, the four candidates for UN Secretary-General made their case at the UN General Assembly. Across twelve hours spanning two days, they took questions from UN member states and civil soci…
How the Iran War Is Already Fueling a Global Food Crisis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:30
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is causing a surge in food prices around the world — particularly in places already in the midst of a humanitarian crisis. And it's about to get worse. This is the planting season for…
How China Views the Iran War [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:17
As I am recording this on Friday, April 10, JD Vance is en route to Islamabad, Pakistan, for negotiations over a ceasefire announced on April 7. This ceasefire is shaky at best. It is clear that there was never a common…
The Case Against Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:25
One year ago, in 2025, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was extradited to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity and murder for orchestrating a campaign of extrajudicial killings against people h…
Is Cuba Next? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:37
For the first time in nearly 70 years, it looks like there may be major political changes afoot in Cuba — driven by the United States. The Trump administration has been ratcheting up pressure on the island, including by…