Support for Ukraine's War Efforts and the Controversy Surrounding Cluster Bombs

In this episode, we delve into the ongoing discussions between US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding support for Ukraine's war efforts. The US has confirmed its intention to supply Ukraine with cluster bombs, a decision that has raised eyebrows, particularly in the UK. The UK, committed to a convention that prohibits the use of cluster bombs, opposes this move.

The controversy surrounding cluster bombs stems from the fact that they pose a significant risk to civilians due to the potential for unexploded bombs to remain in the ground for decades. However, Ukraine argues that it needs cluster bombs to clear Russian mines and defenses in its counteroffensive.

While the US is supportive of supplying cluster bombs, other NATO members, including Germany and Britain, are skeptical and oppose their use. The cluster bomb issue is expected to be a topic of discussion at the upcoming NATO summit in Vilnius, where security guarantees for Ukraine and its path to NATO membership will also be on the agenda.

The Economist's AI Early Adopters Index: Tracking the Embrace of Artificial Intelligence

In addition to the geopolitical discussions, we explore The Economist's AI Early Adopters Index, a fascinating tool that tracks which companies and industries are embracing artificial intelligence (AI). The index takes into account various factors such as patents, venture capital deals, acquisitions, job listings, and mentions of AI in earnings calls.

Unsurprisingly, Silicon Valley companies dominate the top of the list in terms of AI adoption. However, we also discover that industries such as finance, insurance, healthcare, automotive, retail, telecoms, and media are actively embracing AI.

Interestingly, the adoption of AI within industries and even within companies is not uniform. Some departments are more advanced in their use of AI than others, highlighting the varied pace of adoption and implementation.

We explore the diverse applications of AI across different industries, ranging from customer service to code writing, research and development, and sales and marketing.

While there are potential financial rewards for companies that successfully adopt AI, we also discuss the risks and challenges associated with this technology. These include copyright violations and the possibility of investments not paying off.

Tune in to this episode as we delve into the complex issues surrounding support for Ukraine's war efforts and the controversies surrounding the use of cluster bombs. We also explore the fascinating world of AI adoption and the potential rewards and challenges it presents for companies and industries.

Despite considerable opposition from allies in NATO, America has agreed to send them to Ukraine. The highly controversial munitions could speed up Ukraine’s counteroffensive, but at what cost? As excitement around AI continues to generate, our new index examines how American firms are deploying the tech (11:16). And, what to read to learn more about the juiciest corporate scandals (19:11). 

For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer

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