The podcast features Ihor Terekhov, Kharkiv's mayor, and Dara Massicot discussing Russia's targeting of Kharkiv, the city's resilience amidst bombardment, rebuilding efforts, urgency for air defense, and Russia's disturbing double tap attacks tactic. They analyze Russia's potential military strategy in the region.
Kharkiv faces relentless attacks causing significant damage and fatalities, with ongoing concern about potential Russian capture.
Residents of Kharkiv display resilience amidst attacks, with businesses operating and efforts to fortify defenses.
Deep dives
Current Situation in Kharkiv
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second city, has faced relentless attacks in recent weeks, with bombs, missiles, and drones causing significant destruction and numerous fatalities. The city's energy infrastructure was targeted, leading to prolonged periods without power. Russian attacks on Kharkiv occur almost daily, reflecting a broader strategy towards Ukraine.
Challenges and Resilience in Kharkiv
Despite the ongoing attacks, residents of Kharkiv display a mix of normalcy and resilience, with businesses operating, people going about their daily routines, and some individuals even becoming accustomed to the constant threats. The city's air defenses are strained, with a lack of adequate protection against guided bombs and missiles.
Prospects and Concerns for Kharkiv
The possibility of Russia capturing or significantly damaging Kharkiv remains a concern, given its proximity to the Russian border and the intensity of attacks. Reports suggest potential plans for a new offensive targeting Kharkiv, reflecting the city's strategic importance in the ongoing conflict. Efforts to fortify defenses and mobilize support demonstrate Ukraine's determination to protect Kharkiv from further devastation.
Why is Russia targeting Ukraine’s second city of Kharkiv? It’s suffered extensive damage from months of Russian bombardment since the full-scale invasion and Ukrainian officials have said the city might be the target of a future Russian offensive.
We hear from a resident and speak to the city’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov.
The BBC’s Sarah Rainsford tells us what life is like in Kharkiv, and Dara Massicot from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discusses the likelihood of any future Russian takeover.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor was Alex Lewis. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
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