Delve into the chaos of Ukraine's defense as President Zelensky rises to the occasion, showcasing leadership amid threats and challenges. Discover the intelligence failures that caught Russia off guard, revealing the stark contrast between expectations and reality. Explore how modern communication and intelligence sharing empowered Ukrainian resistance against a larger foe. The discussion also highlights the broader implications for international relations and military strategy, painting a vivid picture of a conflict marked by miscalculations.
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Zelensky's Resolve
Volodymyr Zelensky, in the hours after the Russian invasion, declared his resolve to stay in Kyiv.
He rallied his citizens and military to defend their independence, signaling his commitment.
insights INSIGHT
Zelensky's Transformation
Zelensky's transformation from a leader who initially doubted the invasion to one of defiance was crucial.
His decision to stay, despite advice to flee and assassination threats, boosted Ukrainian morale.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Assassination Attempts
Zelensky's security was threatened by Chechen and Wagner assassins in Kyiv.
His bodyguards moved him to a bunker, highlighting the real danger he faced.
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A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland
Ariel Font Prades
Patrick Radden Keefe
The book delves into the bitter conflict in Northern Ireland and its aftermath, focusing on the lives of key figures such as Dolours Price, Brendan Hughes, Gerry Adams, and Jean McConville's children. It explores the civil rights movement, the Provisional IRA's bombing campaign, the 1981 hunger strike, the peace process, and the post-conflict struggle to understand crimes like McConville's murder. The narrative also incorporates the Belfast Project, a secret oral history endeavor that collected stories from former IRA members. The book is a panoramic history that captures the complexities and tragic consequences of the Troubles[1][2][5].
What did the West know about Russia’s invasion before it happened? How did Ukraine prepare for a war they weren’t sure would come? And why did Moscow underestimate its opponent so disastrously?
Western intelligence agencies warned that Russia was preparing to invade Ukraine - but even they were surprised by how badly Moscow’s strategy would unravel. From supply chain breakdowns to failed attempts at a decapitation strike on Kyiv, the war’s first days exposed deep weaknesses in Russia’s military machine.
Listen as Gordon and David conclude their series on the Russia-Ukraine War and reveal the hidden intelligence failures and military miscalculations that shaped the war’s opening moments.
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Order a signed edition of David's latest book, The Seventh Floor, via this link.
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