Battleground

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.

Roger Moorhouse, a historian focused on 20th-century Europe and author of Breslau's history, joins to share gripping insights on the Siege of Breslau. They discuss the desperate circumstances faced by defenders and civilians during this brutal conflict. Moorhouse highlights the intense clash between Nazi fanaticism and the advancing Red Army, revealing the immense human toll. The aftermath of the siege is explored, including the transitions to Polish control, forced migrations, and the architectural restoration in modern Wrocław.

Boldizsar Gyori, a seasoned Hungarian war reporter, shares gripping firsthand accounts from the Ukrainian frontlines. The conversation dives into the fallout from Donald Trump's failed peace overture to Vladimir Putin, which was met with rejection and increased Russian hostility. Gyori reveals the resilience of Ukrainian soldiers in Kursk, adapting to new Western artillery while facing dire challenges. The discussion also touches on the broader geopolitical ramifications of U.S. foreign policy and Western military support in this ongoing conflict.

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul is joined by Roger Moorhouse to take a deep dive into a host of fascinating listeners questions on the second world war.These include a look into Switzerland's stance during the war, why the allies sent back soviet prisoners to Stalin, and a look into whether Japan would have surrendered if there were no atomic bombs.If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.comProducer: James HodgsonX (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices