Battleground

This week on Battleground Ukraine, Saul David and Roger Moorhouse dissect the dramatic unraveling of the Trump administration's proposed 7-point peace plan. With a controversial Easter truce riddled with violations, and a deal that many see as a betrayal of Ukraine, the stakes couldn't be higher. Together they examine the plan's key points, ask if this is a win for Putin, a strategic manoeuvre by Trump, or a devastating blow to Ukraine's sovereignty?If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - battlegroundukraine@gmail.comProducer: James HodgsonX: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the historic handshake between American and Soviet soldiers at the Elbe River in 1945, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against Nazi Germany. Discover the emotional weight of this encounter and its foreshadowing of Cold War tensions. Dive into the strategic decisions shaping the race for Berlin and the divergent plans for post-war Germany, reflecting the conflicting ambitions of Churchill and Stalin. This episode unpacks the dramatic political implications that emerged as the Allies negotiated their future in a divided Europe.

Boldiszar Gyori, a Hungarian war reporter, shares gripping firsthand insights from the front lines of Ukraine. He discusses the groundbreaking shift of women entering coal mining, a first since WWII, as they step up to fill roles left by the draft. This transition challenges gender norms and brings emotional strain to families. Gyori also elaborates on the complexities of military tactics and the evolving landscape of mine clearance in war-torn regions, revealing how the conflict is reshaping society.

Discover the strategic significance of Hitler's Berghof, a pivotal site for Nazi decision-making. Unpack the daring RAF bombing raid aimed at this mountain retreat, as airmen share their experiences and challenges. Delve into the moral implications of precision bombings and their civilian impacts. Explore the evolution of the Royal Air Force during the war and how these events reshaped British society. Finally, uncover the controversial legacy of the Eagle's Nest and its transformation into a tourism hub, with echoes of history still resonating today.

Arnaud De Decker, a Belgian war reporter and author, shares his experiences from his recent travels in Georgia and Armenia. He highlights the growing tensions in Tbilisi, where locals are grappling with an influx of Russian refugees. De Decker also sheds light on former Ukrainian deserters training for combat and their emotional struggles as they seek a second chance. Their stories reveal the complexities of war, identity, and the fight for survival in a shifting geopolitical landscape.

Arnaud de Decker, a Belgian war reporter with recent insights from Georgia and Armenia, shares gripping accounts of Russian soldiers who deserted the front lines. He discusses the surprising involvement of Chinese fighters in the conflict, prompting serious questions about China's role. Decker highlights the harsh realities faced by deserters who long for a life away from war, emphasizing their struggles and desires for a better future. His narratives reveal the deep psychological toll of combat and the complexities of seeking safety in a turbulent world.

The podcast delves into the pivotal Battle of Okinawa and its strategic implications in World War II. Listeners learn about the brutal 82-day struggle, the heavy casualties, and the humanitarian crisis faced by civilians. The discussion reveals the controversies surrounding the use of atomic bombs and explores racial dynamics in military decisions. Personal accounts and emotional reflections from American troops highlight the complexity of their experiences and the weight of their actions amidst the backdrop of a fierce and devastating conflict.

Askold Krushelnycky, a Ukrainian-American journalist, offers keen insights on the shifting dynamics between Trump and Putin amid the Ukraine conflict. He discusses Trump’s recent remarks that suggest a potential pivot in U.S. policy towards Russia. The podcast dives into the complicated emotions in Ukraine regarding American support and the ongoing military tensions. Additionally, Krushelnycky highlights the resilience of Ukrainians seeking self-reliance while analyzing how global diasporas influence geopolitical stability.

In this first of a two-part special, Saul David is joined by Roger Moorhouse to dissect the first phase of the Battle of Okinawa. They explore the island's crucial role in the Pacific theater, the immense scale of the fighting, and the unique challenges faced by both Allied and Japanese forces.From the initial landings to the fierce defence of the inland, and a dive into the strategic rationale behind the invasion of Japanese territory, this episode looks at a battle that shaped the final months of World War II.If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - battlegroundukraine@gmail.comProducer: James HodgsonX: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tensions rise with a fragile ceasefire in the Black Sea, but skepticism remains about Russia's commitment to peace. Zelensky is increasingly wary of U.S. support, raising questions about trust and concessions. The prospect of European military intervention looms amidst potential U.S. disengagement from negotiations. Historical parallels draw connections between Ukrainian resistance and geopolitical stability in Asia. Meanwhile, voices in Canada call for an independent nuclear arsenal, reflecting broader anxieties about international relations and defense policies.