James Meek, a contributing editor at the LRB known for his extensive reporting from Ukraine, shares grim insights from his recent trip to Kharkiv and Kupiansk. He reveals the fear gripping residents facing daily bombardments and the harsh demands of military recruitment. The conversation delves into the complexities of Ukraine's military strategy and potential shifts in U.S. policy with a changing political landscape. They also discuss the implications of long-range missile usage and the evolving Ukrainian national identity amidst the conflict.
The psychological impact of the war is severe, with families fearing conscription and hiding loved ones to avoid loss.
Corruption within the military recruitment process raises significant ethical concerns, compromising public trust and reflecting societal issues in Ukraine.
Deep dives
The Current State of Kharkiv
The visit to Kharkiv revealed that despite ongoing bombardment from Russian forces, the city maintained relative normalcy, with power, transportation services, and a semblance of order in daily life. Residents faced nightly attacks primarily from glide bombs, which allowed Russian aircraft to strike from relative safety. Surprisingly, many buildings remained intact, and services were operational, leading to the impression that the energy crisis had not yet gripped the city as anticipated. However, the presence of police checkpoints raised concerns about military recruitment, suggesting that men were being apprehended and sent directly to the front lines, highlighting the evolving dynamics of the war.
Recruitment and Societal Impact
As the war progresses, Ukraine faces a critical shortage of soldiers, prompting a shift in recruitment strategies. Initially reliant on volunteerism, the pullback in manpower has led to desperate measures, including attempting to recruit from less desirable segments of society and even the prison population. The discussions emphasize the psychological toll on families, with many hiding loved ones to avoid conscription, reflecting the intense fear of losing their only sons to the conflict. This situation starkly contrasts with Russian manpower and economic capabilities, allowing for a more extensive recruitment push, further complicating the dynamics of the war.
Corruption in the Military and Society
A scandal related to corruption within the disabled benefits assessment process revealed deep-seated issues in Ukrainian society, where bribes could determine military deferments and disability claims. The case uncovered showcases how corruption compromises the integrity of military service and affects public perception amid the ongoing war. With instances of veterans being pressured for bribes while soldiering on through injuries, the juxtaposition of heroism and societal expectations becomes painfully clear. This climate of distrust feeds disaffection among citizens, particularly those impacted by the recruitment process, contributing to a sentiment of resignation towards their circumstances.
Challenges for Post-War Ukraine
The potential for future territorial concessions as a means to broker peace is a topic of considerable debate, particularly among residents in Kharkiv. Many express a willingness to consider giving up land for stability, reflecting the dire circumstances the war has imposed. However, voices in the conversation also highlight the hope for justice and the desire for Ukraine to revert to its 1991 borders, adding layers of complexity to any possible negotiations. The discussion indicates that while some civilians desire a resolution, the political landscape remains fraught, with varying opinions on what concessions, if any, may be acceptable for the broader aim of peace.
James Meek talks to Tom about his latest report from Ukraine, where he spent time in Kharkiv and Kupiansk in the east of the country. In Kharkiv, he found a population living in fear not only of the Russian glide bombs falling daily on the city, but also of the increasingly ruthless activity of the Ukrainian military recruitment office, desperate to secure fresh troops to resist Russia's advances. James and Tom discuss the current state of the conflict, what a Trump presidency might mean for US policy and whether Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles could make any difference to the progress of the war.