The boot is on the other foot: Ukraine’s surprise incursion
Aug 12, 2024
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In this discussion, Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from the frontlines of Ukraine’s surprising military incursions into Russia, marking a significant shift in the conflict. His analysis touches on the improved morale of troops and the implications for Russia's political landscape. Meanwhile, Sophie Pedder, the Paris bureau chief, reflects on the successful Paris Olympics, highlighting sustainability and lessons for future games, as well as innovations like 3D holographic displays that are set to revolutionize automotive experiences.
Ukrainian forces have advanced significantly into Russian territory, marking a dramatic shift in the ongoing conflict dynamics and military strategies.
The Paris Olympics successfully transformed the city into a pedestrian-friendly venue, offering valuable lessons for future Olympic host cities regarding cost-effectiveness and logistics.
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Ukrainian Forces Make Strategic Gains
Ukrainian troops have reportedly moved significant distances into Russian territory, marking a notable shift in the ongoing conflict. For the first time since World War II, parts of Russia are under foreign control, with Ukrainian units penetrating up to 40 kilometers inside. This aggressive advancement has led to increased military activity, prompting reactions from both Ukrainian leadership and Russian authorities, who seem caught off guard by the speed of these operations. Despite initial successes, the cost of the offensive has been heavy, with casualties and injuries impacting troop morale, especially as soldiers recount their experiences in field hospitals.
Paris Olympic Games: A Template for Future Events
The Paris Olympic Games have set a new standard by effectively transforming the city into a pedestrian-friendly sports arena, impressing both locals and international visitors. The event not only showcased the city's beauty with sports held against iconic backdrops—such as beach volleyball by the Eiffel Tower—but also fostered a sense of unity and excitement among spectators. With minimal construction involved and extensive cooperation between government levels, Paris demonstrated that hosting the Olympics could be both cost-effective and logistically feasible. This model presents valuable lessons for future hosts like Los Angeles, which will need to address its different urban landscape when preparing for the 2028 Games.
Part of Russia is under foreign control for the first time since the second world war. We ask about the strategy behind the surprise raid—which may not be the last. The Paris Olympics were, all told, a tremendous success, with some lessons for future games (11:47). And the 3-D holographic displays coming to a car dashboard near you (20:35).