Francis Dearnley offers incisive political analysis as Roland Oliphant shares gripping firsthand accounts from Ukraine. Lucy Ash sheds light on the Russian Orthodox Church's pivotal role in the conflict, revealing how it intertwines with Putin's regime. The discussion also touches on the recent use of a 'dragon drone' against Russian tanks, showcasing Ukraine's military resilience. Their reflections raise critical questions about the fate of kidnapped Ukrainian children, with calls for urgent dialogue on this pressing issue.

In this insightful conversation, Lucy Ash, a renowned British journalist and author of "The Baton and the Cross," discusses the intricate connection between the Russian Orthodox Church and the state. She delves into the Church's historical evolution, from its roots in medieval Russia through the challenges of the Bolshevik Revolution and Stalinist era. Ash highlights how current politics, under Putin, exploit religious authority to bolster nationalism, shape attitudes towards women's rights, and influence LGBTQ+ issues, all while reflecting on Putin's complex relationship with faith.

BBC journalist Harry Farley and Lucy Ash, author of 'The Baton and the Cross', discuss Russia's 'holy war' in Ukraine. Father Andriy Zelinskyy shares his experiences as a military chaplain. They explore the intertwining of religion and conflict, divisions within the Orthodox Church, and the importance of faith on the frontline.