Ian Garner, an expert on Russian politics, Lawrence Freedman, a war studies scholar, and Peter Ricketts, a seasoned diplomat, delve into the escalating conflict in Ukraine. They discuss the implications of the West supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine and Russia's fierce retaliation. The guests analyze public sentiment in Russia, contrasting hardline supporters with skeptics. Additionally, the potential return of Donald Trump adds another layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape. Their insights shed light on the evolving narratives and broader consequences of this enduring conflict.

Ian Garner, a historian specializing in Russian propaganda and author of 'Z Generation: Into the Heart of Russia's Fascist Youth,' joins Chris to explore the complicated dynamics between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. They dissect Trump’s apparent confidence in dealing with Putin and whether he's truly in control or just being manipulated. The discussion also highlights the historical negotiation patterns of Putin and the implications for Ukraine, along with the geopolitical nuances that NATO must address in this high-stakes game.

Dr Ian Garner, a historian and analyst of Russian culture and war propaganda, discusses how Russia uses social media to create myths about its history and identity as state propaganda. Topics include Russian cultural consciousness, the role of media in shaping perception, Russian identity influenced by propaganda, the challenges of countering Russian propaganda, interdisciplinary studies in diffusing historical narratives on social media, and the role of emotions and familial history in shaping Russian identity.