Ukrainecast Explaining Ukraine to children: A special episode with Newsround
Nov 20, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Ricky Boleto, a BBC Newsround presenter, shares his mission to explain the war in Ukraine to young audiences. He brings touching stories from displaced children, highlighting their connection to home through cherished belongings. James Waterhouse, BBC's Ukraine correspondent, provides gripping eyewitness accounts, detailing the war's evolution and its impact on daily life. Together, they explore kids' pressing questions about safety, peace prospects, and the emotional toll of war, offering a poignant view on resilience and hope.
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Origins Lie In Longstanding Political Pull
- Ukraine moved away from Russian control which prompted Russia to try to pull it back toward Moscow's sphere.
- The 2014 Crimea seizure and Moscow's long-term pressure built into the full-scale 2022 invasion.
Invasion Began With Massive Prepositioning
- Russia massed troops then launched a multi-directional invasion in February 2022 at 5am.
- Ukraine resisted far longer than many expected, preventing a quick collapse of Kyiv.
War Impacts Vary By Region But Reach Nationwide
- Fighting concentrates in the east and southeast where Russia borders Ukraine.
- No place is absolutely safe; even western cities face airstrikes and disruptions.