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Ukrainecast

Life as a BBC bureau chief in Moscow and Kyiv

Apr 17, 2025
Kate Peters, a seasoned BBC News producer with over 30 years of experience, shares her insights on working in Moscow and Kyiv during tumultuous times. She reflects on her journey through pivotal moments in Russian history, including the Perestroika and the rise of Putin. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of journalism in conflict zones, particularly during Ukraine's crisis. Peters also highlights the unique resilience of the Ukrainian people while recounting a heartwarming Christmas story that showcases the spirit of camaraderie among soldiers.
28:09

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Kate Peters discusses the challenges of reporting in conflict zones, highlighting the diminished space for independent journalism under Putin's regime in Russia.
  • Reflections on Ukrainian resilience emphasize the spirit and determination of its people, contrasting their courage with the oppressive atmosphere in Russia.

Deep dives

War Correspondent Insights

The podcast features insights from Kate Peters, a veteran journalist who has spent over 30 years with BBC News, particularly in Moscow and Kyiv. Peters reflects on her journey into journalism, describing how she became captivated by the Soviet Union during the transformative mid-1980s, amidst Perestroika and Glasnost. She emphasizes the challenges faced while reporting on conflicts, such as the initial Russian invasion of Crimea in 2014, where troops appeared without insignia and the world responded with minimal intervention. These experiences shaped her understanding of the media's role during crises and the importance of on-the-ground reporting.

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