Antony Goldman, who compiles Private Eye's international letters, joins Dr Grim, the publication's human rights correspondent, and Jane Mackenzie, covering the impact of COVID-19 on education. They reveal how Russia has practiced for its war on Ukraine through conflicts in Eastern Europe. The trio discusses historical ties and manipulations by Russia in Moldova and Georgia. Jane highlights the government's flawed Covid-catch-up program for schools, criticizing the funding issues that left many students without adequate support.
Russia's military strategies in Ukraine reflect patterns from previous conflicts like Syria, revealing a consistent approach to exerting influence and control.
The UK's revised government tutoring program aims to enhance accessibility for schools affected by COVID-19 disruptions, though concerns about contract competition persist.
Deep dives
Impact of Russian Influence in Neighboring Countries
The discussion centers on how Russia's invasion of Ukraine has intensified its influence in various countries, particularly those bordering Russia. Correspondents highlight that nations such as Moldova, Georgia, and Kazakhstan face Russian manipulation, both militarily and diplomatically. The ongoing coverage reveals a pattern where Russia leverages ethnic ties and historical claims to justify its actions in these regions, often portraying local governments as oppressive towards Russian-speaking populations. Such narratives not only impact local politics but also contribute to rising tensions, as seen in Kazakhstan, where anti-Russian demonstrations occurred amidst fears of Moscow's increased aggression.
Use of Disinformation and Military Strategy
A critical aspect of the conversation involves Russia's deployment of disinformation tactics and military strategies that have roots in previous conflicts. Analysts point out that the Russian military's tactics in Ukraine mirror those used in Syria, such as aerial bombardments targeting civilian areas to suppress opposition. The Wagner Group, a private military contractor linked to the Russian government, plays a significant role in these operations abroad, exercising brutal control in places like the Central African Republic and Mali. This methodology not only aims to extend Russian influence but also serves as a testing ground for military strategies used in larger conflicts, raising concerns about human rights violations and regional stability.
Russia's Growing Ties with African Nations
Russia's increasing presence in Africa has garnered attention, as the country seeks to forge strategic alliances with states like Eritrea. Analysts suggest that Russia's approach is characterized by establishing leader-to-leader relationships, offering military support and arms to regimes lacking public legitimacy. This strategy not only gains Russia favorable votes in international scenarios but also helps secure vital resources, including ports along the Red Sea. The sharp rise in arms sales to Africa underlines Russia's ambitions to create a network of influence that can distract Western powers and enhance its global stature.
Challenges and Changes in the Education Recovery Program
The conversation transitions to the UK's government tutoring program designed for students affected by COVID-related disruptions, revealing critical flaws in its execution. Previous funding structures favored private tutoring firms, leading to high costs and low participation rates among schools, particularly in northern regions. Recent updates indicate a shift in approach, allowing schools to decide how to allocate tutoring funds according to their specific needs, which may improve accessibility and effectiveness. While this change is seen as a positive step, concerns remain that the same tutoring firms may still compete for contracts, potentially reviving earlier challenges in the education recovery strategy.
Episode 70. Antony Goldman and human rights correspondent Dr Grim reveal how Russia has spent decades practising for its war on Ukraine in other bits of the world. Plus a rare Good News Special: Eye hack Jane Mackenzie reveals what’s been going on in the government’s troubled Covid-catch-up programme for schools.
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