Ukraine: The Latest

Russia's drone airfield 'in flames' & French fighter jets unleashed

Feb 6, 2025

The discussion highlights the significance of the Kursk offensive, revealing Russian espionage involving bombings of Ukrainian recruitment offices. There's talk of election preparations in Ukraine as the war continues. Military strategies are evolving, with international support increasing, particularly with the arrival of French fighter jets. Personal stories from demining operations emphasize resilience and the emotional toll of war. The healing power of music is explored through a poignant documentary about a soldier-artist, showcasing the intersection of art and conflict.

42:34

Creator website

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Ukraine's strategic strikes against Russian airfields reflect its resolve to counter drone capabilities amid challenges on the frontline.

The ongoing political maneuvering in Ukraine highlights the complexities of leadership dynamics and voter sentiment during wartime elections.

Deep dives

Strategic Developments in the Kursk Offensive

The six-month mark of the Kursk offensive highlights the challenges faced by Russian forces, with expectations set by President Putin not materializing. Observers note that if Russian troops remain entrenched by May 9th, significant casualties could occur, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict. Furthermore, Ukraine's strategic strikes against Russian airfields, such as the Primorsko-Aktarsk airfield, are aimed at crippling Russia's drone capabilities, indicating Ukraine's intent to counter Russian advances effectively. Despite this, the frontline remains largely static, showing little movement, which raises questions about the overall operational capability of both forces.

Intro

2min

Ukraine's Military Developments and Support Dynamics

17min

Demining with Purpose: A Journey of Resilience

14min

Navigating the Hazards: The Role of an Ordnance Identificator

3min

Reflections on War and Personal Loss Amidst Promotions

2min

Anticipation for Upcoming Rammstein Meeting and U.S. Defense Strategy

2min

The Healing Power of Music in War

4min

Day 1,079.

Today, we mark the six month anniversary of the Kursk offensive, talk about how Russian spies may be involved in bombings at Ukrainian army recruitment offices, and discuss how politicians in Ukraine have been quietly pushing the profiles looking ahead to elections at the end of the war. We're also on the ground in Ukraine at the demining headquarters of Irpin.

Contributors:

Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Narrative Podcast Producer). @adeliepjz on X.

Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.

Content Referenced:

On French fighter jets delivered to Ukraine:

Le Monde: Can France's Mirage 2000-5 jets help the Ukrainian army?

Le Monde: By sending Mirage fighters, France steps up support for Kyiv

Kyiv Independent: First French Mirage fighter jets reportedly arrive in Ukraine — here's what they can do

On the ‘unofficial’ presidential campaign underway in Ukraine:

Le Monde: Unofficial presidential campaign gets underway in Ukraine

Politico: Ukraine freaks out as US and Russia push for elections

Kyiv Independent: Ukraine won't hold elections until Russia's war is over, Ukraine's envoy to US says