Ukraine’s largest dam in ‘critical’ condition amid wave of missile strikes & who are the Russian groups fighting for Kyiv?
Mar 22, 2024
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The podcast covers Russian airstrikes on Ukraine's largest dam, discusses Russian groups fighting for Kyiv, and interviews a Ukrainian MP about the conflict. Topics include international law, MP's role in war, societal resilience, and British support for Ukraine.
Recent Russian attacks targeting key Ukrainian infrastructure, including the Dnipro Dam and power plants, have caused significant damage and environmental concerns. The strikes have left many Ukrainians without power and raised fears of potential disasters. Ukrainian officials are working to contain the aftermath of these attacks and address the urgent need for repairs and restoration of essential services.
Pro-Kiev Russian Militia Groups in Conflict Zones
Pro-Kiev Russian militia groups, including the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Free Russia Legion, have been actively engaged in operations in the conflict zones near Belgorod and Kursk. These groups, supported by Ukrainians, have conducted raids and operations against Russian forces, adding a new dimension to the conflict. The emergence of these groups reflects a shift in resistance tactics and poses challenges for Russian authorities who view them as traitors and terrorists.
Strategic Need for Air Defense Support in Ukraine
The urgent need for air defense support in Ukraine has been emphasized due to the escalating Russian missile barrage targeting Ukrainian cities. Ukrainians are calling for air defense systems to counter these attacks and protect critical infrastructure. Without adequate air defense capabilities, the situation could tip in favor of Russian forces, highlighting the importance of timely Western assistance to address the growing military threat.
Unforeseen Political Path Leading to Parliament Membership
Unexpectedly offered to join the team of the presidential candidate, the speaker shared his transition from working in India to becoming a member of parliament. Initially invited as an expert, he later joined the party list after a phone call from the current speaker. Despite a heart attack weeks before the full-scale invasion, he remained in Kiev with his family, emphasizing duty to his people.
International Support and Prospects of Victory
Despite initial challenges in rallying support, key allies like the UK, Baltic states, and the US provided crucial military aid. Optimistic about long-term victory, he believed Russia strategically defeated due to Ukrainian resilience. Emphasizing the inability to establish occupation, he highlighted daily survival bringing victory closer, despite tragic human costs.
Today,we bring you the latest news from across Ukraine as Russian airstrikes target civilians and key infrastructure, Roland Oliphant analyses the Russian groups who fight for Kyiv and Francis Dearnley interviews Oleksandr Merezhko, a Ukrainian MP and chairperson of the foreign affairs committee.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Head of Audio Development). @djknowles22 on X.
Dominic Nicholls(Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor) @FrancisDearnley on X.
Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.
With thanks to:
Ada Wordsworth, founder of KHARPP is a grassroots organisation repairing homes and supporting communities in eastern Ukraine. @padochka on Twitter.