Battleground

In a now annual Battleground tradition, for a special Christmas treat we've recorded a special festive episode discussing the standout history books of the year, and the wider stories that surround them. Patrick, Saul and Roger are joined by friends of the podcast - publicist and historical novelist Richard Foreman and book critic, writer and journalist Antonia Senior. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.com Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Volodymyr Dehtiarov, Public Affairs Officer for Ukraine's Khartia Corps, shares frontline insights as Ukrainian forces mount a counteroffensive in Kupyansk. He discusses their tactical successes, including encircling Russian troops and using drones for urban clearing while prioritizing civilian safety. Dehtiarov reveals the impact of these victories on Ukraine's negotiation leverage and emphasizes unit discipline amidst ongoing challenges. The conversation also touches on recruitment efforts and lessons for Western militaries from their operational strategies.

Hosts dive into the life of Charles de Gaulle, a pivotal figure in 20th century history. They explore his controversial choices, including his decision to flee to Britain and rally the Free French forces. The discussion on his famous June 18 broadcast highlights his role in instilling hope during WWII. De Gaulle's legacy looms over France, with significant impacts on the Fifth Republic and Franco-German relations. Ultimately, the analysis reveals a complex character—flawed yet vital to France's narrative. Was he a hero or villain? The debate continues!

Boldi Gyori, a Hungarian war reporter based in Ukraine, shares gripping firsthand accounts from the frontlines in Donetsk. He details the risks faced by electricity repair crews working under constant threat of drone attacks. Gyori discusses claims of deliberate targeting by Russian forces and offers insights into the morale of troops, suggesting that while gains are slow, hope remains. Additionally, he highlights the challenges faced by veterans struggling with PTSD and calls for broader support solutions.

The discussion centers on Air Marshal Sir Arthur Harris, a polarizing figure known as 'Butcher Harris' for his controversial tactics. The hosts explore his upbringing, early beliefs in air power, and shift to area bombing during WWII. They analyze the impact of major raids and the mixed feelings of his crews about his leadership. Critics highlight his stubbornness and the moral implications of bombing campaigns, including the Dresden debate. Ultimately, the hosts argue for his legacy as a hero, citing strategic gains and the preservation of Allied lives.

Askold Krushelnycky, a seasoned journalist and Ukraine correspondent, joins the hosts to unravel the complexities surrounding the ongoing war and Ukraine's corruption scandal. He shares insights on how these scandals impact President Zelensky's reputation amid Russian propaganda. Discussions also highlight the chilling motivations behind U.S. peace efforts, suggesting personal financial interests may outweigh national security concerns. The bold drone strikes on Russia's shadow fleet are examined as a significant tactical maneuver in the conflict.

The discussion delves into the complex legacy of Erwin Rommel, exploring his reputation as a 'good German' amidst Nazi atrocities. The hosts challenge the myth of his 'war without hate' and assess his military prowess against his moral choices. They debate whether Rommel was aware of the regime's crimes and analyze his connections to Hitler and the resistance. Ultimately, they examine how postwar narratives shaped his image as a hero or villain, prompting listeners to weigh in on his legacy.

Dive into the dramatic collapse of a controversial peace plan for Ukraine, shifting from 28 points to just 19. Discover how pro-Russian influences shaped the original proposal and the backlash from both Europe and Ukraine. Explore the leaked diplomatic calls that revealed policy failures and the economic struggles plaguing Russia amid the conflict. Plus, uncover updates on Ukraine's defensive strategies and ongoing frontlines, while discussing the implications of controversial weapon tactics and recruitment practices in Russian forces.

In this discussion, political analyst Robert Kelly, known for his expertise on Korean security, explores the lasting impacts of the 1953 Armistice. He highlights how the absence of a formal peace treaty perpetuates North Korea's extreme militarization and its nuclear arsenal's role as a deterrent. The conversation dives into the political dynamics within South Korea regarding unification, and North Korea's implications in the Ukraine conflict. Kelly also shares insights from his firsthand visit to Pyongyang, revealing the stark realities faced by its citizens.

Former NATO Secretary General, Lord Robertson of Port Ellen joins Saul, David, and Patrick Bishop for an authoritative briefing from the House of Lords. The former Secretary General also provides a stinging critique of the 28-point peace plan floated by the Trump administration, labelling the demands—which included territorial cession—a "Russian plan". Robertson also firmly refutes the narrative of a missed opportunity to bring Russia into NATO, dismissing it as "Putin propaganda," and highlights the Russian leader's early deception by pointing to his own signature on the 2002 Rome Declaration guaranteeing European territorial integrity. Robertson offers an assessment of NATO’s resilience, arguing the alliance is a "real bargain" for the US that is unlikely to be abandoned, but stresses the urgent need for Europeans to increase their defence spending. He concludes with the high stakes of the conflict: "If Russia stops fighting, there will be peace. If Ukraine stops fighting, there will be no Ukraine." If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.com Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices