Ukrainecast Q&A: Big protests, brief talks and pressure on Zelensky
Jul 24, 2025
Steve Rosenberg, BBC's Russia editor, and Vitaly Shevchenko, BBC Monitoring's Russia specialist, discuss the recent surge in protests across Ukraine following controversial anti-corruption measures by President Zelensky. They analyze the implications for Zelensky's international standing and the EU's concerns over democratic reforms. The conversation also touches on the stalled peace talks in Istanbul, revealing a persistent stalemate despite diplomatic efforts. Additionally, the perspectives on potential meetings between global leaders, including Trump and Putin, add intrigue to the unfolding situation.
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Istanbul Talks Yield Little Progress
- The latest Istanbul peace talks were brief, repetitive, and unproductive.
- Both sides restated old positions with no advancement towards ceasefire or resolution.
Zelensky's Controversial Reform Unsettles Ukraine
- President Zelensky's reform on anti-corruption agencies shifted power to a loyal prosecutor, alarming many Ukrainians.
- This move risks undermining Ukraine's transparent democratic reforms and Western support amassed over a decade.
Protests Highlight Ukraine's Democratic Spirit
- Protests against Zelensky's changes spanned Ukraine, signaling widespread discontent.
- While Kremlin tries discrediting protesters, these demonstrations ironically showcase democratic demand Russia represses at home.