This Is Not A Drill with Gavin Esler

Ukraine-Russia update: Has Zelenskyy’s Kursk gamble paid off?

Nov 6, 2024

Jimmy Rushton, an independent foreign policy and security analyst based in Ukraine, shares insights on the significant challenges facing Ukraine as it braces for winter. He discusses Zelenskyy's bold Kursk offensive against Russian forces, the rising influence of North Korea in the conflict, and the pressing need for Western support to strengthen Ukraine's defense. Rushton explores the complexities of military strategies and highlights the implications of Russia's growing militarization, emphasizing the delicate balance of power in the region.

45:39

Episode guests

Jimmy Rushton

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Zelenskyy’s decision to attack Kursk reflects a bold strategy amidst strained Ukrainian resources, yet raises concerns about its effectiveness against reinforced Russian offensives.

The arrival of North Korean troops to support Russia complicates the war dynamics, prompting Western allies to rethink their military support strategies for Ukraine.

Deep dives

Ukraine's Struggling Frontlines

Ukraine faces significant challenges in maintaining its defenses against determined Russian counteroffensives, particularly in regions like Kursk and the eastern front. Reports indicate that while Ukraine still controls parts of Kursk, Russia's recent military actions have resulted in territorial gains, causing concern over the sustainability of Ukraine's defensive strategies. The fighting has been described as increasingly brutal, with both sides experiencing heavy losses, revealing that major military conclusions regarding territory can often remain vague. The dynamic nature of the conflict underscores the ongoing struggle for resources and manpower, raising questions about the viability of Ukraine's current military operations.

Intro

5min

The Kursk Offensive and Its Implications

24min

The Militarization of Russia and Perpetual Conflict

4min

The Necessity of Western Support for Ukraine's Victory

2min

Military Strategies and Escalation in the Ukraine-Russia Conflict

2min

Strategic Implications of Military Actions in Sevastopol

3min

President Zelenskyy’s attack into the Russian-occupied Kursk region of Ukraine was audacious and unexpected. But with Ukrainian resources stretched thin after three years of fighting – and with thousands of North Korean troops arriving in Russia to reinvigorate Putin’s war effort – is it working? Will the alliance between Putin and fellow dictator Kim Jong-Un make a dire conflict worse? And with the result of the US election uncertain, will Western allies finally provide the support Ukraine needs to defeat Russia?

Oz Katerji talks to independent foreign policy and security analyst Jimmy Rushton in Kyiv about reporting from the front lines and the prospects for Ukraine, and wider Europe, as the full-scale war approaches the end of its third year.

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Written and presented by Oz Katerji. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Executive Producer Martin Bojtos. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production.

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