Ukraine: The Latest

In this discussion, Ambassador Michael Carpenter, former senior director for Europe at the U.S. National Security Council, dives into Putin's alarming mobilization of 160,000 Russian troops and its potential effects on the ceasefire prospects. Carpenter reflects on the Biden administration's strategies—what they got right and the missteps in U.S. foreign policy towards Ukraine. The conversation also tackles the complex dynamics of military aid, European support, and the broader geopolitical implications of the ongoing conflict.

Tensions rise as Trump publicly criticizes both Putin and Zelensky, raising questions about his motivations. The podcast highlights impactful stories of Ukrainian women who endured horrific treatment in Russian prisons, showcasing their resilience. Military strategies in the Donbas and Russia's ongoing tactics are examined in detail. Moreover, Europe's shifting defense dynamics reflect on future U.S. relations within NATO. As ceasefire talks stall, the episode dives into complex geopolitical narratives and the urgent need for accountability in the wake of war atrocities.

Dr. Jade McGlynn, a war studies expert at King's College London, discusses the ongoing resistance in occupied territories, highlighting daring sabotage operations against Russian forces. Historian Dr. Thomas Clausen offers insights into the lessons of history, particularly the Napoleonic era, in relation to ceasefires and peace negotiations. The conversation also delves into Trump's controversial mineral deal proposal, raising concerns about Ukraine’s sovereignty and the geopolitical implications for global energy dynamics.

Maksym Demydenko, a contributor to the Ukraine War Archive, shares insights on the monumental effort to document the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the recent strike on a Russian airbase that led to the loss of 96 cruise missiles, highlighting the critical geopolitical implications. The conversation also emphasizes the urgent need for European citizens to stockpile food in light of rising tensions. Demydenko stresses the importance of preserving accurate historical records amidst widespread disinformation, showcasing the Archive's vital role in accountability.

Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a chemical weapons expert and former tank commander, delves into the complexities of the Black Sea ceasefire deal, revealing Ukraine and Russia's divergent interpretations. He discusses the implications of a recent security breach involving sensitive military discussions and the challenges Europe faces in supporting Ukraine amid shifting US policies. The conversation also emphasizes the critical need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities, highlighting the geopolitical stakes in the ongoing conflict.

A journalist found themselves in a secret chat group with Trump’s war cabinet, exposing a major security breach. Ukrainian soldiers share their frontline experiences and reactions to shifting U.S. military support and a temporary aid suspension. The risks of informal communications are examined, shedding light on national security implications. Personal stories of resilience highlight the emotional toll of war, particularly focusing on women affected by the conflict. Insights on recent military strategies reveal how political decisions profoundly impact those at the front lines.

Pablo de Greiff, a Colombian academic and human rights activist, provides crucial insights on war crimes in Ukraine as the Commissioner for the UN's inquiry. He discusses recent improvements in Ukraine's military strategies, including the effective use of HIMARS missiles that led to the destruction of Russian helicopters. The conversation also dives into the alarming reports of systematic human rights violations against civilians, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability amidst the ongoing US-Russia talks.

James Rothwell, the Berlin Correspondent for The Telegraph, shares insights on the escalating Ukraine-Russia conflict. He discusses Ukraine's accusations of a Russian false flag attack on energy infrastructure while analyzing Germany's defense reforms. The conversation highlights the political tensions surrounding Friedrich Merz’s proposed military changes and the complexities of balancing defense needs with public infrastructure demands. Rothwell also touches on broader espionage issues linked to the conflict and the urgency for modernization within the Bundeswehr.

In this discussion, Benjamin Tallis, Director of the Democratic Strategy Initiative and expert in European defense, dives into the aftermath of a dramatic drone strike that rocked a Russian airbase. He highlights the evolving defense strategies in Europe, emphasizing the necessity for unity and increased military spending. The conversation also touches on a significant call between Presidents Trump and Zelensky, and the challenges NATO faces in adapting to modern warfare amid political shifts. The implications for national readiness and technology in defense are thoroughly examined.

Day 1,120.Today, we discuss the Russian bombardments on Ukraine that began within hours of the "immediate ceasefire” on energy and infrastructure allegedly agreed between Trump and Putin, the European reaction to the call between the two presidents, and the latest military battlefield updates, including in Kursk and a new incursion launched into Belgorod.Contributors:Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.With thanks to Svitlana Morenets. @SvMorenets on X.Content Referenced:Follow our sister podcast Battle Lines, which covers wider global affairs:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/battle-lines/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/battle-lines/id1712903296 https://open.spotify.com/show/7gPBO0qnZI1YBi25zaVT1cNOW AVAILABLE IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them, or click the links below.Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestLearn more about the tech: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/02/24/ukraine-the-latest-podcast-russian-ukrainian-ai-translation/Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.