Redacted News – Episode Summary:
Title: Something BIG is happening in Ukraine, new CIA coup? Massie pushes Epstein files release
Release Date: July 23, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Redacted News, hosts Clayton and Natalie Morris tackle a series of provocative and underreported issues, ranging from political upheavals in Ukraine to high-profile legal battles in the United States. The discussion delves deep into potential CIA involvement in foreign coups, the contentious release of Jeffrey Epstein's files, the censorship challenges faced by mainstream media figures, and significant legal confrontations involving influential personalities.
1. Ukraine Protests and Potential CIA-Backed Coup
The episode opens with an intense examination of the escalating protests in Ukraine against President Volodymyr Zelensky. Clayton Morris raises suspicions about the nature of these demonstrations, suggesting possible CIA involvement reminiscent of the 2014 Maidan Revolution.
- Clayton Morris [00:10]: "Are we about to see another CIA backed coup? This is all smelling very, very fishy."
The hosts discuss Zelensky's recent legislative moves, particularly his efforts to undermine Ukraine's two key anti-corruption institutions. They argue that Zelensky's actions exacerbate corruption, making Ukraine the most corrupt nation in Europe.
- Natalie Morris [05:15]: "Couldn't you just let them keep doing a shit job?"
This segment highlights the fragility of Ukraine's political landscape and questions the transparency of international media coverage on the matter.
2. Jeffrey Epstein Files Disclosure and Congressman Thomas Massie’s Efforts
Transitioning to domestic issues, Natalie addresses the House of Representatives' refusal to vote on releasing Jeffrey Epstein's files. This stalemate has prompted Congressman Thomas Massie to take a stand for transparency.
- Natalie Morris [00:33]: "Plus the House of Representatives decided they don't want to vote on Epstein disclosure. So they're just not going to come to work this week."
Massie discusses his legislative strategy to compel the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release the Epstein files, emphasizing the public's right to know and the potential political ramifications of withheld information.
- Thomas Massie [21:25]: "But Mine is a piece of binding legislation. It will have the force of law to sort of kind of cut me off at the pass."
3. Former CIA Whistleblower John Kiriakou on Ukraine and the Deep State
Former CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou joins the discussion to provide insider perspectives on the situation in Ukraine and the broader implications of a "deep state" operating without accountability.
- John Kiriakou [41:04]: "The deep state is not just real, but it is nefarious. It does things knowing that it doesn't have to answer to anybody, especially to the American people."
Kiriakou suggests that the CIA may be undermining Ukrainian leadership in alignment with its own agendas, potentially operating independently of presidential oversight.
4. Cancellation of Stephen Colbert and Implications for Free Speech
The hosts pivot to media censorship, analyzing the reported cancellation of Stephen Colbert's show. They critique the mainstream media's reaction, particularly The View's assertion that Colbert's firing is a threat to democracy.
- Whoopi Goldberg [67:02]: "If it is political, then everyone should be concerned. People on the right should be concerned. People on the left should be concerned. Because it's very clear that if it is political, this is the dismantling of our democracy."
Clayton and Natalie argue that the focus on Colbert's cancellation overlooks more pressing global issues, indicating a disconnect between media priorities and the realities faced by the public.
5. UK Employment Rights Bill and the "Banter Ban"
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the UK government's new Employment Rights Bill, colloquially termed the "Banter Ban." This legislation could hold pub owners liable for offensive remarks made by patrons, raising alarms about free speech and personal responsibility.
- Natalie Morris [54:06]: "That's total bollocks. Well, that is dangerous."
The hosts and guest John Kiriakou debate the feasibility and implications of such regulations, drawing parallels to historical censorship and societal control.
6. Candace Owens Sues the Macrones for Defamation
The episode covers the lawsuit filed by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte against American commentator Candace Owens. The Macrones accuse Owens of spreading false claims about Brigitte's gender and personal history.
- Natalie Morris [62:34]: "They're saying that the influencers relentless and unjustified smear campaign falsely accusing Brigitte of being born a man."
The hosts discuss the strategic choices behind filing the lawsuit in Delaware and the broader implications for public discourse and misinformation.
7. Jeffrey Epstein Files and President Trump's Connection
Clayton highlights recent reports from the Wall Street Journal indicating that the DOJ informed President Trump of his name appearing multiple times in Epstein's files. This revelation fuels ongoing debates about the extent of Trump's associations with Epstein and the potential legal consequences.
- Clayton Morris [85:08]: "The Wall Street Journal last week, of course, had the artist, the drawing that he had given, you know. So now this is like their follow-up, the Wall Street Journal."
Natalie urges listeners to demand full transparency and accountability from government institutions regarding these disclosures.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up by reinforcing the central themes of transparency, the fight against corruption, and the safeguarding of free speech. Clayton and Natalie encourage listeners to stay informed, engage with their representatives, and advocate for accountability in both domestic and international arenas.
- Clayton Morris [86:31]: "But it's all our responsibility to hold them accountable."
Listeners are left with a call to action to support legislative efforts like those of Congressman Massie and to remain vigilant against institutional overreach and misinformation.
Redacted News continues to provide incisive analysis and unfiltered discussions on topics often sidelined by mainstream media, empowering listeners with information that challenges the status quo.
