Battleground

Artem Chapeye, a Ukrainian writer and former pacifist, shares his journey from non-violence to military service amid Russia's invasion. He discusses the transformation of Ukraine's army and the stark realities faced by volunteers. Artem reflects on societal inequalities and morale as well as the complexities of handling Russian POWs with restraint. He critiques Western political responses while expressing skepticism about peace talks that sacrifice territory. Most poignantly, Artem reveals his deeply personal reasons for continuing the fight for Ukraine's survival.

Dive into the complicated legacy of Tony Blair, as two hosts debate if he was a hero or villain. They explore his controversial decisions from successful military interventions in Kosovo and Sierra Leone to the chaotic aftermath of the Iraq War. Discover how Blair’s alignment with the U.S. shaped his policies and the disastrous consequences that followed. With arguments weighing moral intentions against real-world outcomes, the discussion prompts you to consider: was Blair a noble champion or a reckless instigator?

Richard Foreman, a publicist and historical novelist, shares intriguing insights on Helen Carr's 'Septed Isle' and debates the medieval narrative of the Black Death. Antonia Senior, an expert in espionage history, praises Tim Weiner's 'The Mission', unraveling the CIA's post-Cold War complexities. Together, they engage in discussions about military biographies, including Max Hastings' D-Day analysis and Richard Overy's controversial views on the bombing of Japan. The panel also reflects on 1970s terrorism, culminating in a vote for 'Wolfpack' as Book of the Year.

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.