Episode 5 of The Diplomat unfolds with Eidra and Stuart embroiled in a heated debate over the looming specter of war with Russia. Eidra's attention is abruptly diverted by a message that propels the stakes even higher: the POTUS desires an audience at Chevening House to devise a counterstrategy against Russia, in the company of the British Prime Minister. Stuart, voicing his dissent, argues for a more methodical approach, advocating that the strategy be thoroughly vetted among secretaries before ascending the hierarchy, "fully baked and ready for consumption."
As Stuart orchestrates a call to Karen, he and Eidra meticulously weave their words, ultimately convincing her to postpone the presidential visit. Meanwhile, the mystery surrounding Ambassador Hajjar's toxicology report lingers, casting a shadow over proceedings. Kate, preparing for her journey to Chevening House, discovers her luggage impeccably packed, a subtle detail that underscores her readiness for the unknown. Amidst discussions of the political landscape and the intimate encounter shared with Hal the previous night, Kate jests, suggesting Hal too should be packed, poised for a swift departure upon their return.
The journey to Chevening House, colloquially known as "the foreign secretary's hidden fortress," is abruptly halted as Kate's convoy is detained. The estate undergoes a meticulous sweep, ensuring Kate's safety amidst the aftermath of the Iranian ambassador's incident. During this unforeseen pause, Stuart meticulously briefs Kate on the three-pronged agenda that awaits them: Hug, Pivot, and Bear.
1. Hug: A grandiose display of the unbreakable bond between the US and the UK, a public embrace that speaks louder than words.
2. Pivot: A strategic shift from Iran, acknowledging Russia's hand in the explosion, yet navigating this revelation with tact, avoiding an apology to a regime that chants their nation's downfall.
3. Bear: The formidable foe, Russia, the subject that lingers at the heart of their discourse.
Upon arrival at Chevening House, they are warmly greeted by Austin, accompanied by a cadre of foreign policy advisors—Hope, Kemper-Waite, and a captivating figure, Cecilia Dennison, who initially deceives as the foreign secretary's spouse, only to reveal herself as his beloved sister. Cecilia gracefully introduces herself to Hal, inviting him on a tour of the sprawling estate, where they forge a connection amidst the afternoon's tranquility.
The meeting, beset by delays, finally commences, with the foreign secretary proposing a bold reshuffling of the agenda. Iran takes precedence, as they grapple with the urgency to publicly clear Iran's name, all while cautiously leaving the door open to implicate Russia. The conversation turns tense as Kate delves into the Hajjar incident, eliciting staunch opposition from Austin, his gestures betraying his discontent.
As they took a well-deserved respite, Austin discreetly summoned Kate aside to address her inadvertent remark. When confronted about the first item on the agenda, Austin revealed that the UK's intention was to sever ties with their long-standing ally, emphasizing a desire to avoid any perception that "the British military is incapable of action without American backing or green light." This revelation startled Kate, prompting her to elaborate on the UK's diplomatic isolation and the dire consequences that might unfold if the Russia incident spiraled out of control.
As the gathering reconvened, a sudden announcement halted proceedings: the Prime Minister, unexpectedly in the vicinity, desired a briefing on the meeting's progress. He arrived in grand style, at the wheel of a sleek convertible sports car, commanding attention. Kate and Austin swiftly apprised him of their preparations for the following day, noting that their discussions remained incomplete. The PM, keen on enhancing his public image, urged a shift in focus, directing their agenda primarily towards Russia.
With the Prime Minister now an active participant, the meeting's tenor shifted dramatically. He was resolute in his push for immediate retaliation against Russia, his stance unwavering despite the Foreign Secretary's meticulous arguments against such a course of action. Kate intervened, advocating for a constructive response strategy rather than mere accusations. Recognizing the need for deliberation, the PM suspended the meeting for twenty minutes, tasking the delegates with devising a comprehensive list of options for a substantial response to Russia.
Upon resuming, Kate and Austin presented an array of diplomatic avenues to address Russia, each met with the PM's dismissal. He argued that Russia's aggression in Ukraine persisted despite sanctions, oil embargoes, and even the SWIFT ban, highlighting the urgency for a more decisive approach.
Lunchtime arrived, but it was a solitary affair for the PM, who left his counterparts with a stern directive: to devise a strategy while maintaining a mindset of "hunger for success and unwavering focus." Meanwhile, Kate and Austin engaged in a video conference with Eidra, delving into the intricate timeline surrounding the Iranian ambassador's demise. Their goal: to arm themselves with a clear narrative, ensuring they were prepared for any inquiries from the Metropolitan Police during their inevitable interrogation.
As the meeting reconvenes, Austin's attention is abruptly diverted by a call from Eidra, her voice urgent through the line. She imparts two pieces of weighty information, each more startling than the last. First, the toxicology report has revealed that the ambassador's demise was a tragic heart attack, casting a pall over the proceedings. Second, and even more shockingly, Kate has taken the initiative to contact the Department of Defense, boldly inquiring about a list of Russian targets deemed suitable for bombing.
With adrenaline pumping through his veins, Austin dashes into the meeting room, his footsteps echoing against the walls in a desperate attempt to intercept Kate before she can reveal her bold proposal. Yet, it seems fate has other plans as she beats him to the punch, presenting the Prime Minister with a daring suggestion—to authorize the bombing of one of those Russian targets, her words resonating with a mix of conviction and resolve. The episode culminates in a tense moment, where Austin's efforts to halt the conversation collide with Kate's unwavering determination, leaving the room and its occupants reeling from the implications of her bold move.
