Dara Massicot, an expert on the Russian military, discusses how Russia's treatment of its soldiers is affecting the war in Ukraine. The podcast covers topics such as Russia's perception of the conflict, their military objectives, potential missile launches, recruitment strategies, and understanding an adversary's military power.

Dara Massicot, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a leading expert on the Russian military, joins Max and Maria to discuss the evolving battlefield in Ukraine. They examine the Biden administration's decision to supply weapons and the implications for U.S. military readiness. The conversation highlights the manpower challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, including the introduction of North Korean troops, and explores the complex interplay of Russian military operations across Ukraine and Syria. Massicot also dives into future strategies as the conflict approaches 2025.

Michael Kofman, an expert on Russian military affairs, and Dara Massicot from the Carnegie Endowment delve into Ukraine's recent incursion into Kursk. They assess Ukrainian territorial gains and the complexities of urban warfare dynamics. The discussion highlights logistical challenges and the implications of Russian POWs' unexpected surrender behaviors. They analyze how these factors could shift the conflict's landscape, emphasizing the evolving nature of military operations as objectives become more fluid.

The podcast features Ihor Terekhov, Kharkiv's mayor, and Dara Massicot discussing Russia's targeting of Kharkiv, the city's resilience amidst bombardment, rebuilding efforts, urgency for air defense, and Russia's disturbing double tap attacks tactic. They analyze Russia's potential military strategy in the region.

Analysis of Russia's advancing goals in Ukraine, challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, and the delayed U.S. aid package. The discussion delves into the evolving battlefield dynamics, Russia's territorial ambitions, and the crucial decisions shaping the conflict's trajectory. With insights on Moscow's military tactics, evolving goals, and the implications on regional stability, the podcast highlights the complexities in capturing key territories and the ongoing power dynamics between Russia and Ukraine.