The podcast discusses Putin's nuclear threats over Ukraine, Europe's defense if US withdraws, and the urgency to equip Zelensky for victory. Also covered are updates on military situation in Ukraine, challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, Putin's aggressive posturing, Europe's re-armament efforts, and a touching dedication to a listener battling cancer.

Michael Bonert, an engineer and researcher at the RAND Corporation, provides crucial insights into the war, while Oleh Synyehubov, Governor of Kharkiv Oblast, shares the harsh realities of life on the frontline. They delve into the strategic role of F-16 fighter jets amid intensified Russian bombardments and discuss the assassination of a key Russian missile scientist by Ukrainian forces. The conversation also highlights the resilience of Kharkiv's residents and the urgent need for global support to bolster defenses and humanitarian efforts.

James Crisp, Europe Editor at The Telegraph, reports live from Budapest, shedding light on a proposed Trump peace plan involving an 800-mile buffer zone. Michael Bohnert from the RAND Corporation discusses Europe's potential military aid to Ukraine amid escalating tensions. Evgenia Gubkina, a Ukrainian architect, highlights the devastating impact of the war on Ukraine's architectural heritage, focusing on the destruction of significant sites like the Derzhprom building. The conversation intertwines geopolitics with cultural resilience, emphasizing the need for urgent support.

Join Francis Dearnley, Assistant Comment Editor, Dominic Nicholls, Associate Editor for Defence, and Michael Bohnert, Engineer at RAND Corporation, as they dive into a striking Ukrainian attack on a Russian missile depot that resonated like a mini earthquake. They discuss Moscow's espionage war in the Arctic and the implications of Ukraine’s innovative military strategies. The conversation highlights the escalating munitions race, the challenges of international technology sharing, and the shifting geopolitical landscape amidst ongoing conflict.

Dominic Nicholls, an Associate Editor focusing on Defence, and Hamish de-Bretton Gordon, a former Tank Commander, delve into the intricate battlefield tactics of the Kursk operation. They discuss Ukraine's strategic advancements, the psychological impact of troop movements, and the implications for military dynamics. The guests also analyze Russian nuclear threats, suggesting bluster may underpin them. Michael Bohnert adds insights on the logistics challenges both armies face. The conversation underscores the pivotal role of Western support in strengthening Ukraine's defense efforts.