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.

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.