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
Feb 17, 2025 • 25min
Could Europe send troops to Ukraine?
In this insightful discussion, Matthew Savill, Director of Military Sciences at RUSI, sheds light on the feasibility of deploying European troops to Ukraine. He explores the mixed reactions from European leaders about military intervention and the urgency for a cohesive strategy to confront Russian aggression. The conversation also delves into the psychological impacts of uncertainty on NATO alliances and the strategic implications of upcoming diplomatic meetings between U.S. and Russian officials. Savill offers a nuanced perspective on military support and diplomatic challenges faced by Ukraine.
5 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 13min
Zelensky meets Vance: What next for Ukraine?
The meeting between Ukraine's president and the U.S. vice president at the Munich Security Conference is a focal point, revealing strategies for peace. The discussion hints at a shift in U.S.-Ukrainian relations, yet highlights the challenges in achieving clarity on outcomes. Tensions between U.S. and European support for Ukraine raise concerns about unity in the Western alliance. Historical parallels to WWII emphasize the complexities of current global tensions and the evolving diplomatic landscape surrounding NATO and territorial disputes.
Feb 13, 2025 • 19min
How are Ukrainians reacting to Trump’s peace talk plans?
Ukrainians express mixed emotions about Trump's peace proposals with Putin and Zelensky, highlighting concerns over trust and the future. The discussion dives into NATO's role and the potential impact of shifting U.S. support, prompting questions about European unity in response. Personal accounts reveal the human toll of territorial loss and the financial strains of continued military aid. Throughout, there’s a palpable fear of Ukraine being objectified in negotiations with authoritarian regimes, emphasizing the resilience of its people amid changing geopolitics.
6 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 17min
Trump calls Putin AND Zelensky to begin talks
Tensions escalate as Donald Trump opens lines with both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, navigating complex peace talks. Experts debate the unrealistic expectations for Ukraine's borders, while the future of NATO membership remains uncertain. The shifting dynamics of the conflict highlight Western support variances and battlefield realities. Conversations reveal the fragile balance between hope for peace and the stark challenges Ukraine faces, raising questions about potential territorial compromises amid geopolitical strife.
5 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 28min
Trump: Ukraine “may be Russian some day”
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.
Feb 4, 2025 • 29min
What’s life like on Ukraine’s frontline?
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.
14 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 24min
How could Trump end the war?
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.
Jan 21, 2025 • 22min
What does Donald Trump’s return mean for Ukraine?
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
13 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 43min
President Trump Is Back
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.
Jan 14, 2025 • 24min
The Ukrainian fighting North Koreans in Russia
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.
