Ukrainecast A Moscow car bomb and Putin’s telethon
Dec 23, 2025
James Waterhouse, BBC Ukraine correspondent, and Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia editor, discuss the assassination of a Russian general by car bomb and the implications for Ukraine's intelligence capabilities. They delve into Putin's recent year-end press conference, where he claimed no future wars if respected, dismissing concerns of conflict with Europe. The duo also explores the latest European funding deal for Kyiv, the psychological impact of attacks on the Russian public, and ongoing peace talks, revealing fractures in European unity.
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Public Resignation After Moscow Attacks
- Moscow residents have moved from shock to tired resignation after repeated attacks on high-ranking officials.
- Steve Rosenberg observed a growing sense that people no longer expect the violence to stop soon.
Quick Blame Signals Political Narrative
- Russian authorities quickly suggested Ukraine's involvement in the assassination within hours of the blast.
- Vitaly Shevchenko noted this rapid attribution signals Moscow's readiness to highlight external threats.
SBU's Overseas Operations Noted
- James Waterhouse described the SBU's growing capability for targeted overseas strikes.
- He noted Ukraine uses such operations for psychological impact as well as tactical effect.