Ukraine: The Latest

F-16 fighter jet in 'world first' shootdown & war-born superbug may spark next pandemic

Jan 8, 2025

Dominic Nicholls, Associate Editor of Defence at The Telegraph, provides keen insights into Ukraine's military offensive, particularly the evolving dynamics in Kursk and the strategic use of drones. Arthur Scott Geddes, Deputy Global Health Editor, discusses the war's toll on Ukraine's healthcare system, focusing on rising antimicrobial resistance and mental health issues. Meanwhile, Michael Bohnert analyzes how emerging AI-powered drones are reshaping warfare, raising ethical questions about their potential misuse. A thought-provoking convergence of military and health challenges!

58:38

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Episode guests

Michael Bohnert

Arthur Scott Geddes

Dominic Nicholls

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The tactical landscape in Ukraine is shifting dramatically as Russian forces adapt their strategies to employ larger assault groups for territorial gains.

Drones are reshaping warfare in Ukraine, leading to an escalation in civilian casualties, while countermeasures remain crucial for operational success and safety.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has exacerbated antimicrobial resistance, creating significant public health challenges amid a strained healthcare system and ongoing conflict.

Deep dives

Ukrainian Battlefield Developments

The situation in the Donbass region, particularly in Turetsk, is critical, with Russian forces intensifying their assaults, suggesting a possible capture of the town soon. Reports indicate that Russian tactics have shifted to larger assault groups, indicating a strategy of overwhelming force in key areas. This ongoing pressure correlates with anticipated political events, including the inauguration of Donald Trump, which may influence Russian military action. Overall, these small territorial gains are part of a broader Russian strategy to secure more ground in a numbered tactical landscape.

Intro

2min

Tensions in Turetsk and Global Shifts

17min

Strategic Dynamics of the Kursk Conflict

23min

The Unseen Effects of Sanctions on Russia's Infrastructure

2min

Antimicrobial Resistance and Mental Health in Ukraine

9min

Emerging Threats: The Rise of AI-Powered Drones in Warfare

3min

Ukraine's Territorial Integrity and Warfare Health

5min

Day 1,050.

Today, as the new Ukrainian offensive in Kursk continues, we discuss the evolving picture in that region, look at the latest developments in unmanned aerial and land warfare, and fears superbugs spawned in war could spark the next pandemic.

Contributors:

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

Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.

Arthur Scott Geddes (Deputy Global Health Editor). @ascottgeddes on X.

Michael Bohnert (RAND Analyst). @mbohnert on X.

Content Referenced:

Trump's Ukraine envoy postpones Kyiv trip until after inauguration (Reuters):

https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trumps-ukraine-envoy-postpones-kyiv-trip-until-after-inauguration-2025-01-06/

'Putin doesn't want negotiations' - our interview with Zelensky's 'power broker' Andriy Yermak:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CneThrXUHSI

Ukraine needs more help to beat ‘superbugs’, says chief doctor (Arthur in The Telegraph):

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/science-and-disease/ukraine-needs-more-help-to-beat-superbugs-says-chief-doctor/