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
9 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 27min
Three Years On: Is peace possible?
As the conflict reaches its third anniversary, Ukrainians reflect on their altered lives and the deep emotional toll of war. Powerful personal narratives reveal resilience amid chaos, showcasing the scars left by the invasion. From the initial fear of conflict to the complexities of seeking peace, speakers share transformative experiences and practical emergency preparedness tips. The discussion also touches on solidarity among Ukrainians and explores the broader geopolitical implications, emphasizing hope for the future despite ongoing challenges.
20 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 28min
Your Questions Answered: Trump, Putin and minerals
Listeners have their burning questions answered about the geopolitical landscape of the Ukraine war. The hosts dive into the military dynamics between Ukraine, Russia, and NATO, emphasizing the importance of U.S. support. They discuss Europe's defense funding challenges and the implications of China's growing influence. As Ukraine navigates its complex dilemmas regarding military support and diplomacy, the need for clear communication in international relations becomes crucial. Key insights into the historical context of security treaties and defense spending disparities are also highlighted.
Feb 21, 2025 • 32min
The Ukraine War: How Far Away Is A Peace Deal?
Adam Fleming, a prominent newscaster, dives into the shifting dynamics of the Ukraine war, highlighting recent US-Russia talks that surprisingly exclude Ukraine. He discusses the implications of this diplomatic turn and the emergency responses from European nations. Fleming raises crucial concerns about the fraught relationship between the US and Ukraine, especially amidst political tensions. He also examines how outdated political rhetoric shapes public sentiment and impacts future peace prospects, revealing the complexities of global perceptions around this conflict.
Feb 19, 2025 • 40min
Trump calls Zelensky a “dictator”
Andrei Kelin, Russia’s ambassador to the UK, shares insights into the tense dialogue between President Trump and President Zelensky, amid accusations of disinformation and leadership failures. The discussion delves into NATO's expansion and its implications for Russian security, alongside a critique of Ukraine's nationalist ideologies. Kelin addresses the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the complexities of military actions and the civilian toll, while challenging the UK’s support strategies and the urgent need for a reevaluation of international roles.
Feb 18, 2025 • 25min
US-Russia talks: How pleased is Putin?
Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia editor, offers a profound insight into the recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. He discusses why the Kremlin is feeling triumphant about these diplomatic exchanges and the potential ramifications for future relations. The conversation highlights the shifting narratives within Russia and the unexpected hope among citizens for improved ties with the West. Additionally, Rosenberg emphasizes the complexities surrounding Ukraine's future and the urgent need for a coordinated international response to ongoing tensions.
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.
