Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia editor at BBC Monitoring, delves into Donald Trump's provocative remarks, labeling Ukrainian President Zelensky a 'dictator.' They explore the complicated dynamics of U.S.-Ukraine relations amidst ongoing conflict. The discussion highlights alarming glacier loss due to climate change and its impact on freshwater resources. Additionally, Shevchenko touches on New Zealand's controversial tourism campaign and innovative pain management techniques emerging in Ukraine, showcasing the intersection of politics and progress.

Jaffer Umerov, a BBC journalist from Crimea, discusses the impact of Russification on Crimean Tatar identity. Jen Monaghan analyzes the Kremlin’s narratives and media strategies in Ukraine. Vitaly Shevchenko gives first-hand insights into life in occupied regions like Kherson and Zaporizhia. The trio dives into the complexities of identity erasure, personal experiences under occupation, and the fight against oppressive propaganda. They highlight resilience amid crisis and the growing humanitarian issues faced by locals.

The boss of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, is presumed dead after a plane crash north of Moscow killed all on board.Ukrainecast’s Vitaly Shevchenko and security correspondent, Frank Gardner, join Adam to go through what we know. Lou Osborn from the monitoring group All Eyes on Wagner also shares her expertise.And, India has made history by landing a spacecraft near the south pole of the Moon for the first time. Journalist and author of the book The Future of Geography: How Power and Politics in Space Will Change Our World Tim Marshall explains where it puts them in the 21st century space race.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhereToday's Newscast was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Chris Flynn with Miranda Slade and Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.01:18 - Prigozhin presumed dead in plane crash 16:36 - India’s historic moon mission

Olga Ivshina, a BBC Russian journalist covering the Ukrainian conflict, and Vitaly Shevchenko, a presenter on Ukrainecast, explore the harrowing battle for Bakhmut. They discuss the city's transformation from a cultural hub to a war zone and the strategic importance it held for Russia. The guests reveal the controversial recruitment of prisoners by mercenaries and the staggering human cost of the battle, with the town's population dwindling from 70,000 to just over 500. Personal stories highlight the resilience of those still hoping to rebuild their lives.

Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia Editor for BBC Monitoring, and Francis Scarr, a Russia expert, dive into Ukraine's surprising military advancements into Russian territory. They discuss how this bold move could shift the war dynamics in Ukraine’s favor. The guests analyze Putin's response, branding the attack a provocation, and the resulting evacuations in Russia. They also explore the impact of these developments on civilian lives and regional stability, highlighting shifts in military strategy and the implications for future peace negotiations.