Ukraine: The Latest

Mark Galeotti, a renowned expert on Russia, joins Stephanie Baker, an economics journalist with extensive experience in Moscow, and Keir Giles, a government advisor from Chatham House. They delve into the complexities of Putin's grip on power, exploring the historical roots of Russia's militaristic culture. The trio emphasizes the urgent need for Europe to reassess its defense strategies against Russian aggression, and they discuss the implications of economic sanctions on both sides. Their insights shed light on how the West can effectively respond to this ongoing crisis.

Svitlana Morenets, a staff writer at The Spectator and a Ukrainian journalist, shares poignant insights from the battlefield in Donetsk. She highlights the resilience of soldiers amid constant drone and missile exchanges with Russia. The discussion also delves into the political landscape in Kyiv, with tensions surrounding draft evasion and governance under President Zelensky. Morenets emphasizes the urgent need for military support and the complexities faced by volunteers in this ongoing conflict. Her on-the-ground perspective adds a deeply human dimension to the war's challenges.

Joining the discussion are Verity Bowman, a Foreign Correspondent at The Telegraph, and Hamish De Bretton Gordon, a Former Tank Commander and Chemical Weapons Expert. They dive into Ukraine's drone strikes targeting Russian units responsible for civilian attacks and Denmark’s commitment to provide military training. The conversation shifts to the challenges of a potential Russian spring offensive, highlighting Ukraine's strategic advancements and NATO's evolving role in the conflict, all while reflecting on the grim realities faced by civilians amidst the chaos.

Dominic Nicholls, Associate Editor of Defence at The Telegraph, and Roland Oliphant, Senior Foreign Correspondent, delve into the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. They dissect President Trump's controversial claim that Zelensky initiated the war and scrutinize the Kremlin's diplomatic tactics. The conversation sheds light on Ukraine's significant drone strike on Russia's Kursk region and the evolving strategies of both Ukrainian and Russian forces. Additionally, they explore the implications of diplomatic narratives and the true accountability in this ongoing tragedy.

In this discussion, James Rothwell, the Berlin Correspondent, explores the fallout from Russia's cluster munition strike in Sumy, deemed a war crime. He reflects on global reactions, particularly Donald Trump’s comments downplaying the tragedy. The conversation shifts to Germany's pivotal decision to supply Taurus missiles to Ukraine, analyzing how this could alter the balance of European defense. Rothwell emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and the shifting dynamics in military support as the conflict escalates.

Featuring Jade McGlynn from King's College, who highlights the spirited resistance in occupied territories, and Melissa Lawford from The Telegraph, analyzing the fallout of fluctuating oil prices on Russia. The discussion reveals plans for British troop deployment in Ukraine over the next five years. They also explore the impact of severe winter weather on military strategies and the resilience of the Ukrainian people amidst propaganda and hardship in occupied regions. Insights into the economic turmoil facing Russia add depth to the conversation.

James Crisp, Europe Editor at The Telegraph, and Iona Cleave, Foreign Reporter at The Telegraph, dive into the escalating military dynamics in Eastern Europe. They discuss Japan's increased support for Ukraine and analyze the Baltic states' new defense line against potential Russian aggression. The discussion highlights the implications of NATO's strategies and Hungary's shifting diplomatic stance amid U.S.-Russia relations. Their insights shed light on the challenges of maintaining security and readiness along NATO's eastern flank.

Hamish de Bretton Gordon, a former tank commander and chemical weapons expert, shares insights on the escalating conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the onset of Russia's spring offensive and the strategic drone tactics employed by Moscow. The conversation delves into allegations of Chinese soldiers in Ukraine, with China denying involvement, while exploring the implications for global geopolitics. Additionally, Hamish highlights the risks posed by chemical weapons and the importance of military preparedness for Ukrainian forces.

Ukrainian forces have captured two Chinese fighters, adding a new layer to the conflict and raising concerns about foreign involvement. Innovative Ukrainian drones are now capable of infecting Russian systems with malware, showcasing the tech escalation in warfare. The podcast also investigates a potential Russian connection to a knife attack in Germany, linking it to rising anti-migrant sentiments and political shifts. Plus, discover how a factory's pivot from street lamps to military robotics reflects the resilience and adaptation of Ukraine's manufacturing sector.

John W. Boerstler, Executive Vice President at IPSOS and former Chief Veterans Experience Officer, shares insights into the drastic fall in oil prices affecting the Russian economy. He discusses the intricate role of Kirill Dmitriev, a key Russian envoy, in international relations. Boerstler reflects on establishing Ukraine's Ministry of Veterans Affairs, emphasizing the need for veteran support amid conflict. The conversation also explores the shifting American perspectives on NATO and the significance of ongoing support for Ukraine's reconstruction efforts.