In this engaging discussion, historian Orlando Figes shares insights on the Crimean War and its striking parallels with today's Ukraine conflict. He highlights key battles like Sevastopol and Odessa, emphasizing the ongoing geopolitical struggles. Figes explores the historical impact of the war, the role of Russian identity, and past imperial ambitions. With a mix of historical narrative and contemporary relevance, he sheds light on the complexities of war reporting and the socio-political dynamics shaping military strategies. A thought-provoking reflection on history's echoes in modern warfare!

This episode is part two of our live event on the end of the war in Ukraine. In March 2023, the BBC’s Clive Myrie, was joined by four leading historians, Orlando Figes, Max Hastings, Anne Applebaum, and Olesya Khromeychuk, to discuss when - and how - this almost decade-long conflict could end.Part two and three of this event are available ad free, for subscribers now. And for our listeners who don’t subscribe part 2 will be available in our next episode. This conversation is part of Intelligence Squared’s live debate partnership with the Southbank Centre.We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to get ad-free access to all Intelligence Squared podcasts, including exclusive bonus content, early access to new episodes and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today for just £4.99, or the equivalent in your local currency . Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Orlando Figes, a leading historian and author on Russian history, offers deep insights into the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He explains how Putin's beliefs about Ukraine's identity stem from a complex historical narrative. Figes discusses the historical roots of the Rus and Crimea's governance changes, shedding light on their relevance today. His reflections on the evolution of Russian society in the 1980s provide a personal touch, revealing the profound impact of these events on contemporary geopolitical tensions.

Orlando Figes, a renowned historian and author focused on Russian culture and history, joins the discussion on the intricate dynamics of the Crimean War. He delves into the tragic Charge of the Light Brigade, highlighting miscommunications that led to its infamous outcome. Figes also explores the pivotal role of journalists in shaping public perception, the revolutionary contributions of Nikolai Pyrogov to military medicine, and the harsh realities of winter warfare on soldiers. The dialogue reveals the enduring impact of these events on modern Russia.

With the Russian army struggling to make gains in Eastern Ukraine and the devastating impact of the war taking its toll, many are wondering if Vladimir Putin’s war may be nearing an end point, and what a realistic end to this conflict may look like.In part one of this live event the BBC’s Clive Myrie, was joined by four leading historians, Orlando Figes, Max Hastings, Anne Applebaum, and Olesya Khromeychuk, to discuss when - and how - this almost decade-long conflict could end.Part two and three of this event are available ad free, for subscribers now. And for our listeners who don’t subscribe part 2 will be available in our next episode. This conversation took place in March 2023 and is part of Intelligence Squared’s live debate partnership with the Southbank Centre.We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to get ad-free access to all Intelligence Squared podcasts, including exclusive bonus content, early access to new episodes and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today for just £4.99, or the equivalent in your local currency. Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices