James Waterhouse, BBC Ukraine correspondent reporting from Kyiv, unveils the implications of Donald Trump's return to the White House for Ukraine amidst ongoing war. He discusses Trump's audacious claim to end the conflict in just 24 hours and the uncertainty surrounding U.S. military aid. Waterhouse highlights the anxiety among Ukrainians regarding political dynamics and alliances, as well as the complex issue of negotiating neutrality while preserving sovereignty. The podcast paints a vivid picture of hope and apprehension amid a turbulent geopolitical landscape.
Trump's re-election raises concerns in Ukraine about potential reductions in American military support affecting their ongoing conflict with Russia.
Ukrainian soldiers express a mix of sadness and apprehension regarding Trump's unpredictable foreign policy and its implications for their national sovereignty.
Deep dives
Implications of Trump's Victory for Ukraine
The recent victory of Donald Trump in the US election raises significant questions regarding future American support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Concerns linger that Trump's administration may prioritize a quick resolution to the war at the expense of Ukraine's sovereignty, especially given his claim that he can end the war within 24 hours. Many fear that if US military assistance is curtailed, Ukraine may have to rely more heavily on other allies for support, potentially jeopardizing its defensive capabilities. This uncertainty creates a tense atmosphere in Ukraine, where the populace grapples with the unknown ramifications of a second Trump presidency.
Ukrainian Soldiers' Reactions
Ukrainian soldiers are processing their feelings in response to Trump's election, expressing both sadness and apprehension about the implications for their ongoing struggle. Some believe that Trump's potential withdrawal of American support could force Ukraine into unfavorable negotiations with Russia, which they distrust to uphold any agreements. Conversations with soldiers highlight a pervasive fear that any concessions made might lead to further territorial losses. While a minority holds out hope that Trump's unpredictability might result in increased support for Ukraine, the prevailing sentiment is one of concern and caution.
Strategic Concerns and Global Dynamics
The episode underscores a broader geopolitical landscape, especially with growing tensions involving North Korea and its military ties to Russia in the conflict. This alliance complicates strategic considerations for Ukraine, as both Russia and North Korea strengthen their positions while Ukraine navigates fluctuating Western support. As Trump prepares to assume office, the uncertainty surrounding his foreign policy approach raises anxiety levels among Ukrainians, who worry about potential isolationist trends. The podcast emphasizes that the stakes are high, not just for Ukraine, but for the overall balance of power in Europe and beyond, as the West must grapple with this evolving threat from an increasingly aggressive Russia.
Donald Trump has won the US election and will make a historic return to the White House. He’s said he’d end the war in 24 hours but…..can he?
We hear from Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse in Kyiv, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg in Sochi and Victoria in Washington DC. They discuss what Trump’s re-election actually mean for Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sarah Wadeson.
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
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode