Former Conservative MP Jack Lopresti, now serving in the Ukrainian military, shares his motivations for joining the fight against Russian aggression. He reflects on his family's support and the challenges of war. The conversation dives into the shifting U.S. foreign policy on Ukraine and the significance of the conflict for global security. Additionally, the episode pays tribute to Ukrainian author Victoria Amelina, emphasizing her legacy and the ongoing struggle for justice amid the war.

In this engaging discussion, Matthew Saville, Director of Military Sciences at RUSI, provides key insights into Ukraine's current military landscape. He highlights the heavy toll on Russian forces despite minor advances and the strategic significance of areas like Pokrovsk. A Ukrainian soldier shares his experiences of life on the frontlines, emphasizing the impact of drone technology in modern warfare. The conversation also touches on the importance of international support and the resource potential that could shape future dynamics in the conflict.

Fred Fleitz, a national security official from Donald Trump’s administration, shares insights on U.S.-Russia relations and potential strategies to end the war in Ukraine. He decodes Trump's approach, emphasizing dialogue and critique of current U.S. policies. The discussion highlights the complexities of negotiating peace with Putin and the impact of military aid. Moreover, it touches on the tragic consequences of the war, including personal loss experienced by families in Ukraine, illustrating the human cost of ongoing conflict.

President Trump has spent his first 24 hours back in the White House - having once claimed he would end the war in that time.There’s no sign yet, but can Donald Trump provide peace? What did he say at his inauguration? And what can we learn from his first full day in the job?Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire, Vitaly Shevchenko and James Waterhouse. The producers were Nathan Gower and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sara Wadeson. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

In this engaging discussion, journalist Anthony Zurcher, along with newscast presenters Chris Mason and James Cook, delve into Donald Trump’s return as the 47th president. They dissect his inaugural speech, highlighting its implications for ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine. The group explores Trump's mixed messages on immigration and his self-proclaimed peacemaker role, while also examining social media reactions. The conversation touches on the impact of inflation and populism on power dynamics, reflecting on how these shifts might influence global politics.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, the Editor-in-chief of The Economist, shares her insights on the economic consequences of sanctions on Russia. She discusses a Ukrainian officer's experience fighting North Korean troops in the Kursk region, revealing the complexities of war and the moral dilemmas involved. The conversation also explores the implications of a potential second Trump presidency on U.S. support for Ukraine and peace negotiations, along with the vulnerabilities facing the Russian economy amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Dmytro Kuleba, the former Ukrainian foreign minister, reflects on his pivotal role during the war with Russia under President Zelensky. He discusses the complex diplomacy amidst conflict and shares his insights on the potential for peace negotiations should Trump return to power. Kuleba emphasizes the importance of showcasing military strength and strategic adaptability in the face of shifting U.S. leadership. His experiences highlight the resilience of Ukraine and the complicated dynamics of international relations today.

Olia Hercules, a London-based Ukrainian chef and food writer, brings festive flavors and heartfelt stories from her homeland. She discusses the cultural significance of traditional Ukrainian Christmas dishes, explaining how meals connect her to her roots. Olia emphasizes the resilience showcased through iconic foods like borscht and kutya, illustrating their roles in times of conflict. Listeners will feel the warmth of nostalgia as Olia shares culinary tips and personal anecdotes, highlighting how food serves as a comforting reminder of heritage and hope.

Amid the backdrop of war, a young student and a mother share their heartfelt experiences of celebrating Christmas in Ukraine. They discuss the emotional challenges of maintaining festive traditions while dealing with air raid sirens and the absence of loved ones. Culinary stories blend cultural heritage with modern twists, illustrating how food plays a vital role in celebrations. Their reflections on family gatherings evoke resilience and hope for the future, showcasing the spirit of unity in the face of adversity.

Stephen Fry, an acclaimed actor and broadcaster, shares insights from his recent visit to Ukraine, discussing the impact of war on mental health. He reads the heartfelt Christmas story ‘Miracle in the Darkness,’ which highlights the resilience of children amid power outages. The tale captures a young girl and her brother embracing creativity during tough times, turning darkness into light. Fry also delves into the complexities of wellness culture, contrasting it with the real struggles faced by Ukrainians this winter.