Lina Sinjab, BBC’s Middle East correspondent, shares on-the-ground insights from Damascus following the fall of the Assad regime. Mina Al-Lami, BBC Monitoring’s chief Jihadist media specialist, discusses the transformation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's leadership and its efforts to gain legitimacy. Steve Rosenberg, BBC’s Russia editor, analyzes the implications of Bashar al-Assad seeking asylum in Moscow, affecting Putin's standing. Together, they explore the challenges and hopes of Syrians navigating this chaotic political landscape.

Steve Rosenberg, the BBC's Russia Editor, shares his captivating experiences from over two decades in Moscow. He discusses the challenges of impartial reporting under Putin's regime and the precarious environment for journalists today. Rosenberg also recollects touching moments, like playing piano for Gorbachev and his friendships with locals, emphasizing the importance of human connections amidst political turmoil. His personal anecdotes and reflections on integrity in journalism provide a unique lens on life in contemporary Russia.

James Landale, BBC Diplomatic Correspondent, reports from the G20 summit, discussing the implications of U.S. long-range missile authorization for Ukraine. Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia Editor, shares the Kremlin's fierce reaction to these developments and the escalating tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They also explore the challenges posed by sanctions on the Russian populace and the political consequences for Putin's regime. Additionally, insights into Keir Starmer's historic meeting with Xi Jinping highlight the complexities of UK-China relations amidst geopolitical shifts.

Katya Adler, a savvy journalist focused on Russian geopolitics, joins seasoned Russia editor Steve Rosenberg to discuss a troubling trend of citizens reporting anti-war views post-Ukraine invasion. They delve into the historical context of denunciations, drawing chilling parallels to the Soviet era. Personal stories highlight the culture of fear and repression, exemplified by individuals facing harsh consequences for dissent. The conversation also touches on resilient voices like 87-year-old Dimitri, who continues to fight for free speech against immense societal pressure.

Alex Forsyth, a political correspondent, and Dharshini David, a chief economic correspondent, join Steve Rosenberg, a Russia editor, to dissect the current turmoil stemming from Ukraine's advances into Russian territory. They delve into the economic impact of rising inflation in the UK, scrutinizing the Scottish government's spending cuts. Steve provides on-the-ground insights from Moscow, where a facade of normal life collides with the sobering reality of conflict, revealing the Kremlin’s struggle amid increasing public awareness of Ukraine's military successes.

Nikita shares gripping insights from Kursk, revealing how his family copes with the ongoing crisis. BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg analyzes the Kremlin's reactions and speculates on President Putin's next moves. Olga Robinson from BBC Verify unpacks the chaotic information landscape, helping listeners grasp the complex reality. The discussion touches on the emotional toll on locals, contrasting narratives around the conflict, and the pervasive atmosphere of fear and surveillance in Russia. This conversation sheds light on the human impact behind the headlines.

BBC Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg and Belarusian journalist Gennadiy Kot delve into Alexander Lukashenko's 30-year rule in Belarus, his alliance with Putin, brutal crackdown on dissent, and the future of Belarus amidst geopolitical challenges.

Discussion on Putin's landslide victory in the Russian election, legitimacy, and high voter turnout. Analysis of his future actions and unapologetic leadership style post-election. Exploration of silent protests as a form of opposition in Russia. Insight into orchestrated elections in occupied Ukraine, highlighting deception and control tactics.

Podcast discusses the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, analyzing military strategy shifts, Russian perceptions, and economic sanctions. It also explores the impact of living under the threat of war in Ukraine and the challenges faced in the battle for support and survival.

Laura Kuenssberg, Steve Rosenberg, and Bill Browder discuss the delayed Russia report, highlighting UK government's underestimation of the Russian threat. They delve into Russian interference in UK democracy, connections between Conservative donors and Putin, wealthy Russians manipulating money flow, and Russian influence on UK lawmakers. The podcast also covers the Portland protests, election dynamics, and the cultural significance of Afro beats music.