Joanna Kakissis

NPR's Ukraine bureau chief discusses Russia's gains in Ukraine and Zelenskyy's declining popularity. AI companies accused of replicating celebrity voices without permission. The Washington Post explores how cockroaches conquered the world. Guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.

Join Joanna Kakissis, NPR's international correspondent based in Kyiv, as she shares on-the-ground insights into the rising tensions in Ukraine with the looming threat of a Russian invasion. She discusses how ordinary Ukrainians cope with daily life amid fears of war, revealing the psychological toll of constant alerts. Kakissis also dives into Ukraine's growing shift towards the West and the historical roots of this alignment, while exploring the courageous resilience of the Ukrainian people facing geopolitical uncertainties.

Joanna Kakissis, an NPR reporter specializing in the lives of asylum seekers, shares harrowing tales of those bravely navigating perilous journeys during the pandemic. She highlights the story of a teenage girl fleeing Eritrea, facing immense challenges in Sudan and Libya. Kakissis also delves into the plight of Lebanese refugees and the dangers they encounter crossing the Mediterranean. These narratives expose how over 60 countries exploit COVID-19 to evade their responsibilities, leading to tragic outcomes for those seeking safety.