Ukraine: The Latest

Hamish De Bretton-Gordon, a former British Army Tank Commander and chemical weapons expert, provides military analysis on the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Fiona Hill, former deputy assistant to the U.S. president, shares insights on the intricacies of U.S. military support and the escalating electronic warfare. The conversation delves into significant military developments, including the assassination of a Russian commander and the rise of autonomous AI drones. They also discuss the diplomatic tensions surrounding upcoming peace talks, emphasizing the high stakes involved.

In this discussion, Mykola Bielieskov, a strategic analyst at Come Back Alive, shares insights on Ukraine's tactical drone strikes targeting Russian industrial facilities and the humanitarian implications of ongoing offensives. James Kilner, a former Russia correspondent, delves into the evolving diplomatic landscape, highlighting potential peace talks in Istanbul. James Rothwell, reporting from Poland, provides context on upcoming presidential elections and their significance. The episode also touches on Russia's alarming military recruitment rates and economic struggles, adding depth to the current conflict narrative.

Joe Barnes, Brussels correspondent for The Telegraph, discusses the alarming mobilization of 50,000 Russian troops indicating an impending offensive. Hanno Pevkur, Estonia's Minister of Defence, addresses the challenges of Russian airspace violations and the complexities of navigating Moscow's shadow fleet. Roland Oliphant shares insights from Armenia about the geopolitical pressures faced by smaller former Soviet states, presenting a vivid picture of the changing dynamics in the region as tensions escalate.

Jack Watling, a Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, shares his insights on the intensifying drone and missile warfare in Ukraine and why the situation demands urgent air defense improvements. Giles Gear, Audio Executive Editor at The Telegraph, reflects on the evolution of the podcast and the importance of military supply chains. They discuss the geopolitical implications of long-range missile strategies and a notable remark from Donald Trump about Putin's mindset, shedding light on the complex dynamics of modern warfare.

Sofi Oksanen, a Finnish-Estonian author, and Tatyana Tymoshenta, a therapist for rape survivors in Ukraine, delve into the harrowing intersections of gender and warfare. Oksanen highlights how historical misogyny influences current conflicts, while Tymoshenta shares insights on the psychological trauma faced by survivors. They discuss the use of sexual violence as a weapon, the economic incentives driving participation in warfare, and the urgent need for accountability and healing in the aftermath of violence against women.

Jade McGlynn, a War Studies expert at King's College, and Vadym Granovskiy, a Ukrainian coffee shop owner and charity creator, share their insights on resilience in Ukraine. They discuss the impactful role of drone warfare and resistance activities in occupied areas. Vadym highlights his initiative to boost the morale of soldiers with quality coffee, blending culture and survival. The conversation wraps up with a fun segment about Ukrainian coffee's significance and a unique recipe, illustrating how even amid conflict, community and culture thrive.

Dom Nicholls, Associate Editor for Defence at The Telegraph, analyzes the recent Ukrainian drone attacks and the assassination of Chechen officers in occupied territories. Serhiy Prytula, founder of a prominent charity in Ukraine, discusses the humanitarian challenges evolving amidst the conflict. Poppy Wood highlights the struggles faced by Ukrainian refugee children in UK schools, emphasizing their need for tailored support and understanding. The conversation reveals the intricate dynamics of war, education, and resilience within Ukrainian society.

Brock Bierman, Founder and CEO of Ukraine Focus, shares insights on delivering ambulances to the front lines in Ukraine. Bob Dean, head of the Security Unit at the Netherlands Institute of International Relations, discusses the EU's role in Ukraine-Russia peace negotiations. They delve into the impact of recent military clashes, the shifting political landscape affecting aid to Ukraine, and the crucial humanitarian efforts underway. Their conversation highlights the resilience of those aiding Ukrainians, as well as the complex dynamics surrounding Ukraine's EU aspirations.

Iona Cleave, a Foreign breaking news reporter at The Telegraph, discusses the chilling impact of Russia's new ‘Frankenstein’ missile and its tactical use against Ukraine. Kenza Rharmaoui, a senior researcher at Truth Hounds, highlights ongoing investigations into war crimes, including targeted strikes on hotels housing journalists. Swedish Lieutenant General Karl Johan Erdström underscores the heightened threat from Russia, especially near Finland. Together, they unpack the complex dynamics of current negotiations and the challenges of safeguarding independent journalism in this tumultuous landscape.

Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania's former Minister of Foreign Affairs and a key player in the Ukraine conflict, shares insights on the recent phone call between Presidents Putin and Trump. He discusses the strategic implications of their dialogue amid stalled peace talks. The conversation reveals skepticism around diplomacy with Russia and highlights the severe escalation in attacks on Ukraine. Landsbergis also emphasizes the urgency for Europe to bolster its military options and navigate complex political dynamics in response to rising tensions.