Charles Maynes

Join Charles Maynes, NPR's Moscow Bureau Chief, and Greg Myre, National Security Correspondent reporting from Ukraine, as they dive deep into the gripping complexities of the Ukraine conflict and the current state of U.S. national security. They discuss the contrasting realities of life in Ukraine versus the political maneuverings in D.C. amid Trump’s surveillance tactics. The pair also dissect recent intelligence community shake-ups and the frustrating stalemate in diplomatic efforts between Ukraine and Russia, revealing an intricate web of global tensions.

Rob Schmitz, NPR’s correspondent in Berlin, and Charles Maynes, NPR's Russia correspondent, delve into the global reactions to Trump's re-election. They discuss how Germany and China issue carefully measured responses, while Russia's Kremlin remains notably silent. The conversation highlights concerns over NATO's reliability and potential compromises regarding Ukraine. Schmitz sheds light on Europe’s worries about democracy, while Maynes reveals Putin's hesitance to engage, underlining the complicated dynamics between the U.S. and its international allies.

In this discussion, Charles Maynes, an NPR correspondent based in Moscow, sheds light on Russia's disillusionment with U.S. foreign policy under Trump, revealing initial hopes for cooperation that fell flat. Meanwhile, Jennifer Pack, the China correspondent, expertly explains how China is framing U.S. actions as a validation of its critiques, highlighting the inseparability of trade and security in contemporary geopolitics. The duo also explores the shifting dynamics of the Russia-China partnership amid growing global tensions.

In this insightful discussion, Charles Maynes, NPR's Moscow correspondent, shares his on-the-ground insights about U.S. talks in Moscow and Putin's strategic framing of the conflict. Terri Schultz reports on the European reaction to the absence of the U.S. Secretary of State at a key NATO meeting, raising concerns about U.S. commitment. Former NATO ambassador Julianne Smith analyzes the implications of this absence and suggests potential U.S. leverage like sanctions to influence Russia's stance on negotiations. The complexities of achieving a peace deal are vividly unraveled.

Charles Maynes, NPR's Russia correspondent, delves into Vladimir Putin's tumultuous year in 2023. He discusses the shocking rebellion led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and its aftermath, including the mysterious death of Prigozhin. Maynes reveals how Putin is maneuvering for a fifth presidential campaign despite political repression and growing dissent. He highlights the mounting unrest among families of soldiers, challenging propaganda narratives. As the U.S. navigates its own political landscape, the stakes for Ukraine and Putin's future are higher than ever.