Ukraine: The Latest

Jade McGlynn, a War Studies expert, discusses Ukrainian resistance in occupied areas and the internal pressures facing Putin. Memphis Barker shares gripping frontline stories from Donetsk, revealing the harsh realities of war. Former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and MP Tom Tugendhat reflect on key military decisions at the Black Sea Security Forum, emphasizing the UK’s strategic role in supporting Ukraine and the significant troop losses Russia has faced. The podcast dives deep into the implications of these developments on both the conflict and geopolitics.

Ugo Poletti, Founder of the Odessa Journal, shares insights from his experience in Odessa, where he highlights the stark realities of ongoing Russian aggression against civilians. He discusses the Russian narrative on sanctions and their military adaptations, including using unconventional transportation methods. The podcast also delves into Finland's treaty withdrawal regarding landmines, the evolving identity of Ukrainian communities, and the resilience displayed by locals amid conflict, providing a vivid picture of the struggles and hopes in the region.

Hamish De Bretton-Gordon, a former British Army Tank Commander, and James Kilner, a Foreign Correspondent for The Telegraph, dive into the grim aftermath of a deadly Russian airstrike on Kyiv, revealing a chilling increase in civilian casualties. They discuss geopolitical tensions as North Korea sends troops to assist Russia in rebuilding Kursk. The conversation also highlights the significance of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum amid waning Western interest and critiques the Kremlin's misleading media narratives surrounding the war.

Lord Ashcroft, international businessman and philanthropist, and Kira Rudik, Ukrainian MP and liberal party leader, share urgent insights following a devastating attack on Kyiv that claimed at least 16 lives. They discuss Russia's demands for Ukraine to dismantle its Western weaponry amidst escalating geopolitical tensions, notably the Israel-Iran crisis. The guests reflect on the significance of the Black Sea Security Forum, the resilience of Ukrainians, and the crucial need for sustained international support to combat 'war fatigue' and bolster Ukraine's independence.

Ben Farmer, Africa correspondent for The Telegraph, brings unique insights into Russia's recruitment efforts in Africa and the implications for the war in Ukraine. The discussion covers a recent missile and drone attack on Kremenchuk, highlighting the devastating effects on civilian life. Farmer reveals how desperate financial circumstances lead African individuals into military service, intertwined with Russia's deceptive practices. The conversation also explores a notable intelligence operation in Kaliningrad that resulted in $5 million in damages, shedding light on the intricate tactics at play.

In this discussion, guest Olia Hercules, a bestselling Ukrainian cookery writer known for 'Strong Roots,' shares her family's century-long journey of resilience amid conflict. They discuss the recent explosions in Crimea and the implications of Israel's actions regarding Ukraine's drone supply. Olia highlights a charity in Kharkiv transforming surplus vegetables into flavored salts, showcasing community strength. The conversation weaves through the preservation of culinary heritage and the importance of storytelling in understanding the trauma and hope amidst war.

Oleksandra Matviichuk, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights lawyer and head of Ukraine's Center for Civil Liberties, discusses the mounting documentation of war crimes in Ukraine, emphasizing the plight of displaced children. Charles Moore, biographer of Margaret Thatcher, reflects on the Iron Lady's views on Russia. They also analyze the significant milestone of over one million Russian casualties, contrasting it with Russia's narrative. Additionally, concerns about nuclear threats from the U.S. add urgency to the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Joe Barnes, Brussels Correspondent for The Telegraph, sheds light on EU sanctions and their impact on the ongoing conflict. Yulia Marushevska, Head of the Reforms Support Office in Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, discusses critical reforms in military procurement aligned with NATO standards. The podcast delves into recent airstrikes in Kharkiv, Ukraine's resilience, and the urgent need for advanced Western military technology. They also highlight the challenges of mobilizing youth for military service and the broader implications for Ukraine's defense strategy.

Day 1,203.Today, as Ukraine fends off yet another overnight aerial bombardment, the first prisoners of war to return since the latest rounds of peace talks arrive in Ukraine. Meanwhile in London, we hear about NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte’s punchy speech at Chatham House yesterday. Finally, we talk with former Swedish Defence minister Peter Hulqvist.Contributors:Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to former Swedish Defence minister Peter Hulqvist.SIGN UP TO THE NEW ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST’ WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:https://secure.telegraph.co.uk/customer/secure/newsletter/ukraine/  Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It’s free for everyone, including non-subscribers.Content Referenced:Spend more or get ready to speak Russian, Nato chief warns UK, The Telegraphhttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/09/russia-ukraine-zelensky-putin-nato-war-latest-news/Families of missing Ukrainians gather as prisoner exchange begins, BBChttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20q4wgx5xxoFamilies of Ukraine's missing fear peace will not bring them home, BBChttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9wg2jelpynoParis’ Hotel Lutetia Is Haunted by History, The Smithsonian Magazinehttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/paris-hotel-lutetia-haunted-history-180971629/#:~:text=The%20exhibit%20would%20be%20called,between%20April%20and%20August%201945.The Postcard by Anne Berest review – an autofictional tale of family survival, The Guardianhttps://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/oct/04/the-postcard-by-anne-berest-review-an-autofictional-tale-of-family-survivalNOW 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. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Memphis Barker, Senior foreign correspondent for The Telegraph, shares insights from Ukraine, diving into the latest military confrontations and a daring raid by Ukrainian special forces on Russian fighter jets. James Rothwell, the Berlin correspondent, analyzes the implications of a recent meeting between the German Chancellor and Donald Trump on international relations. Vladislav Zubok, a Cold War historian, discusses reinterpretations of the Cold War, emphasizing lessons for today's geopolitical landscape and the complexity of current conflicts.