Foreign correspondent Mary Ilyushina from The Washington Post and journalist Luke Harding from The Guardian discuss Ukraine's daring counteroffensive against Russia. They analyze the implications of drone strikes on Moscow, reflecting shifting perceptions in Russia. The guests dive into Ukraine's strategic maneuvers and the critical role of Western support. They also explore the psychological dimension of warfare, balancing national morale against the risks of failure, painting a vivid picture of the ongoing conflict's high stakes.

Mary Ilyushina, a Russia correspondent for The Washington Post, offers deep insights into the Ukraine conflict as Ukraine's counteroffensive gains momentum. Recent territorial successes put Russia on the defensive, questioning Putin's leadership amid growing internal discontent. Ilyushina discusses the complexities of local sentiments and the urgency for Ukraine to maintain Western support. The conversation also highlights Russia's recruitment challenges and the evolving military strategies that may shape the future of the conflict.

Mary Ilyushina, a Washington Post reporter specializing in Russia and Ukraine, dives into the murky waters of Putin's regime. She discusses the legitimacy crisis behind Russia's draft and the protests erupting in response. Ilyushina sheds light on the contentious referendums in occupied Ukrainian territories and why they're mere illusions of democracy. The geopolitical impacts of these actions, including the dangerous situation at the Zaporizhia nuclear power station, are explored. Lastly, she critiques the global responses to Russia's aggression and the struggle of Western sanctions.