Ukraine: The Latest

Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a former tank commander and expert in chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons, provides sharp insights into the evolving conflict in Ukraine. He discusses Putin's claims of achieving war goals, the implications of increased military support from the UK, and the ongoing chaos faced by civilians. De Bretton-Gordon also examines the disturbing conditions in Kherson and the resilience of those affected by the war, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian efforts amidst rising tensions.

James Kilner and Daniel Hardaker, foreign correspondents for The Telegraph, delve into the fallout from the assassination of Russian General Kirilov. They discuss Ukraine's new laser weapon system capable of targeting aircraft, highlighting its strategic implications. The conversation also covers ecological damage along the Black Sea, health concerns surrounding opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza's family, and shifting geopolitical alliances, including North Korea's involvement with Russian forces and growing tensions in the South Caucasus.

Hamish De Bretton-Gordon, a former British Army Tank Commander and chemical weapons expert, discusses the shocking assassination of Russian general Igor Kirilov, responsible for nuclear and chemical warfare. He analyzes the implications for the Russian military, which has reportedly lost 8,000 armored vehicles. The conversation also dives into the inspiring resilience of Kharkiv's residents, highlighting a charity's transformation of a metro station into a school for children coping with war. The discourse reflects on the challenges of education amidst conflict and the aspirations of Ukrainian youth.

Adélie Pojzman-Pontay, a journalist and narrative podcast producer at The Telegraph, discusses the shocking involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukraine conflict. She delves into the heavy casualties faced by these forces during a frontal assault in Kursk. The conversation highlights the uneasy coordination between North Korean and Russian militaries and the intense combat dynamics in the region. Adélie also reflects on the personal and collaborative challenges in reporting amidst the ongoing war, especially after the tragic loss of her colleague, David Knowles.

Michael Bonert, an engineer and researcher at the RAND Corporation, provides crucial insights into the war, while Oleh Synyehubov, Governor of Kharkiv Oblast, shares the harsh realities of life on the frontline. They delve into the strategic role of F-16 fighter jets amid intensified Russian bombardments and discuss the assassination of a key Russian missile scientist by Ukrainian forces. The conversation also highlights the resilience of Kharkiv's residents and the urgent need for global support to bolster defenses and humanitarian efforts.

James Kilner, Moscow Desk correspondent for The Telegraph, and Hayley Dixon, Special correspondent for The Telegraph, delve into Russia's shifting war strategies and economic troubles. They discuss a significant decline in Russian air strikes and the innovative—notorious—use of honey traps by the Kremlin in espionage, highlighting a wild case involving a spy ring. The duo also unpacks the dire implications of civilian-targeting drone warfare and the evolving tactics of Russian intelligence, showcasing the unique blend of old methods and modern technology.

Day 1,022.Today, Kyiv says it has enough money and weapons to resist Russia until mid-2025, and an interview with a rising star in President Zelensky's party.Contributors:Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Hamish de Bretton Gordon (Former Tank Commander). @HamishDBG on X.Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.With special thanks to our guest Dmytro Natalukha @DmytroNatalukha on X.Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Con Coughlin, Defence and Foreign Affairs Editor at The Telegraph, discusses the ramifications of Russia's military losses in Ukraine and the precarious state of the Assad regime in Syria. Nathaniel A. Raymond, Executive Director at the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab, unveils a shocking report on the systematic kidnapping of Ukrainian children for adoption by Russia, highlighting violations of international law. The conversation sheds light on the chilling comparison of these abductions to historical atrocities, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability.

Jacob Heilbrunn, Editor of The National Interest and author of 'America Last', discusses the allure of authoritarian leaders to the political right. He explores the implications of Assad's fall on Russia's power and Ukraine's fortunes. The meeting between Zelensky and Trump at Notre-Dame signifies potential shifts in peace negotiations. Heilbrunn delves into conservatives' historical isolationism and their complex relationship with dictatorship, shedding light on how these dynamics shape current geopolitical landscapes.

Ukrainian forces have launched a fresh assault in Kursk, capturing Russian soldiers amid ongoing military operations. The atmosphere in the Donbas reflects both tension and resilience as officials engage with U.S. political teams. The podcast highlights the shift from artillery to drone warfare, showcasing evolving tactics in the conflict. Additionally, it addresses the humanitarian crisis and its emotional toll on families, emphasizing how life in Ukraine is being reshaped by militarization, including changes in civilian roles and the food delivery sector.