Ukrainecast
BBC News
The BBC’s only English language programme entirely dedicated to the war in Ukraine and its fallout, Ukrainecast is your go-to podcast which investigates the biggest issues around the conflict: Could Putin push the nuclear button? How could Donald Trump end the war in 24 hours? What is the price for peace? The podcast is hosted by Newsnight presenter Victoria Derbyshire and BBC Monitoring’s Vitaly Shevchenko. Ukrainecast covers the most important topics around the conflict and speaks to the real people who’ve lived through several years of war. It also brings you agenda-setting interviews with special guests each week such as UK foreign secretary David Cameron, former US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and pre-eminent Russia expert Fiona Hill.
GET IN TOUCH: You can join our Ukrainecastonline community here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to +443301239480 Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk
You can listen to the latest episode of Ukrainecast anytime on your smart speaker by saying “Alexa, Ask BBC Sounds for Ukrainecast."
If you enjoy Ukrainecast (and if you’re reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below. The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd The Today Podcast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p05299nl
GET IN TOUCH: You can join our Ukrainecastonline community here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to +443301239480 Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk
You can listen to the latest episode of Ukrainecast anytime on your smart speaker by saying “Alexa, Ask BBC Sounds for Ukrainecast."
If you enjoy Ukrainecast (and if you’re reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below. The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd The Today Podcast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz Newscast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p05299nl
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
May 29, 2025 • 22min
Q&A: Taurus missiles, kidnapped children, and the state of Russia’s military
Olga Ivshina, a BBC Russian journalist covering the war in Ukraine, and Mikey Kay, a former British military officer, discuss pressing issues surrounding the conflict. They dive into the weakened state of the Russian military and whether Germany will provide Taurus missiles to aid Ukraine. The conversation also highlights the ongoing crisis of Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia and the challenges of tracing their whereabouts. Innovative drone warfare strategies and the geopolitical implications of long-range missiles are also at the forefront of their discussion.
9 snips
May 27, 2025 • 25min
Ukrainians react as Trump slams Putin
An alarming increase in Russian aerial attacks is putting immense pressure on Ukraine, with significant loss of life. Donald Trump’s critique of Putin adds to the geopolitical tension, while Ukrainians share their poignant experiences. Irina, a mother in Kyiv, navigates the chaos while her husband serves on the front lines. Personal stories from soldiers highlight the emotional turmoil of adapting to military life, shedding light on the complex realities of conflict. Through these narratives, the struggle for compassion and understanding in wartime is vividly illustrated.
May 22, 2025 • 22min
Q&A: Peace deadlines, US sanctions and Russia's threat to Finland
The discussion dives into whether Trump truly grasps Putin's motivations. It examines if Western sanctions can effectively challenge Russia's economy. Concerns escalate over Russian troops nearing Finland's border, especially in light of Finland’s NATO membership. Listeners share insights on Ukraine's Air Force capabilities amidst conflict, highlighting the blend of old and new technology. The vague diplomatic landscape between Ukraine and Russia leaves many frustrated, reflecting the stark realities of international negotiations.
May 20, 2025 • 26min
What’s next after the Trump-Putin call?
Robert Fox, Defence editor at the Evening Standard, and Steve Rosenberg, BBC's Russia editor, delve into the aftermath of the Trump-Putin phone call. They discuss contrasting narratives on ceasefire negotiations, with the U.S. expressing hope while Russia remains skeptical. Rosenberg shares insights on the Russian media's take, suggesting a strategic win for Moscow. Meanwhile, Fox warns that the West must brace for a prolonged conflict, as geopolitical tensions rise and Europe prepares further sanctions against Russia.
7 snips
May 16, 2025 • 17min
The Ukraine-Russia peace talks begin
Ukraine and Russia have embarked on peace talks in Istanbul, marking their first face-to-face discussions in three years. A significant outcome is an agreement to swap 1,000 prisoners of war. The atmosphere is tense, as Kyiv pushes for direct dialogue with President Putin, while Moscow remains noncommittal. Challenges remain regarding ceasefire negotiations, with Ukraine seeking immediate cessation of hostilities and Russia favoring preliminary talks. The stakes are high as both sides navigate these complex diplomatic waters.
7 snips
May 15, 2025 • 20min
No Putin, no Trump, but talks to begin?
In the latest conversation, President Zelensky's push for peace talks in Istanbul is explored, raising questions about Russia's sincerity. The dynamics of diplomacy and the ongoing tensions highlight an uncertain path toward resolution. There’s a critical look at President Trump's stance on engaging with Putin and the mixed messages from Russian officials. As negotiations unfold, the emotional toll on Ukrainians is emphasized, reflecting the daunting challenges faced in finding common ground amidst geopolitical conflicts.
May 13, 2025 • 29min
What do we actually know about the Istanbul peace talks?
Join BBC's diplomatic correspondent James Landale and Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Commission and former Estonian Prime Minister, as they dissect the upcoming peace talks in Istanbul. They discuss the uncertainty surrounding key leaders like Putin and Zelensky, the complexities of ceasefire negotiations, and the influence of misleading narratives about the conflict. The conversation also explores the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia and the evolving nature of modern diplomacy amid global tensions.
May 12, 2025 • 18min
Will Putin meet Zelensky in Turkey?
Lyse Doucet, BBC's chief international correspondent, shares her expertise on the potential meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian President Putin in Istanbul. They debate whether this meeting could signal a significant breakthrough or become a tactical gain for Putin. The conversation delves into the shifting geopolitical landscape, the ongoing calls for a ceasefire, and the complex emotions of Ukrainians toward international peace efforts amidst continued violence.
May 8, 2025 • 29min
Q&A: Victory Day, Xi Jinping and Moscow dog-walking
Lyse Doucet, BBC's chief international correspondent, and Ben Tavener, BBC Moscow producer, dive into the significance of Russia's Victory Day celebrations amid the ongoing conflict. They discuss anticipated attendees, including Xi Jinping and potential ceasefire plans. The duo highlights the festive yet tense atmosphere in Moscow, touching on military-themed events for children that shape national pride. They also explore how pets can connect diverse communities amidst cultural divides and the challenges of international support for Ukraine.
May 6, 2025 • 25min
Victory Day: Has Putin hijacked Russian remembrance?
As Victory Day approaches, the discussion highlights its transformation under Putin's regime, shifting from solemn remembrance to militarized pride. Personal stories reveal how the day’s significance has evolved across generations amid state propaganda. Tensions rise around the potential for a ceasefire in Ukraine, while skepticism looms regarding Russia's sincerity in peace efforts. Intriguingly, insights are shared about U.S. mediation roles in global conflicts, alongside recommendations for media that authentically portrays Ukrainian life in these challenging times.
