Ukrainecast

Luke Harding, a seasoned war correspondent for the Guardian, shares insights from his extensive coverage of Ukraine since the invasion. He discusses the significant arrival of F-16 fighter jets and their potential impact on morale and strategy. Harding explores the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty. He also reveals the grim realities and dangers faced by journalists in Russia, highlighting the risks of reporting under oppressive regimes.

Evan Gershkovich, a journalist recently freed after 16 months in Russian custody, shares his harrowing experience alongside fellow returnees Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan. Sarah Rainsford offers insight into the emotional toll on families, while Gordon Corera discusses the geopolitical implications of the largest East-West prisoner swap since the Cold War. The speakers reflect on the high stakes of such exchanges and the persistent hope for others still detained amid ongoing conflict.

Dr. Patricia Lewis, a security expert from Chatham House, analyzes the shifting attitudes of Ukrainians towards peace negotiations. Vitaly Pashchenko, a Kyiv student, shares the perspectives of his generation on potential compromises, while Oleksii Svid from Kharkiv highlights the tension between military resolve and the desire for peace. The conversation dives into the emotional turmoil of territorial concessions, the aspirations for a stable future, and the implications of international dynamics on Ukraine’s quest for peace.

In this discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, currently facing a harsh 16-year sentence in Russia, joins Alsu Kurmasheva, an editor at Radio Free Europe sentenced to 6.5 years. They dive into the grim reality of American detainees in Russian prisons and the emotional toll on their families. They highlight the dire state of press freedom and the precarious environment journalists face in Russia. Personal stories reveal the resilience of loved ones and the complexities of international law, illuminating the urgent need for advocacy and awareness.

Ukraine's Olympians, Victoriya Tkachuk and Zhan Beleniuk, share their challenges training for the Olympics amidst conflict. They discuss the emotional toll, political tensions, and determination to compete. The podcast also explores the controversy of Russian athletes' participation and the impact of the war on Ukrainian athletes.

President Zelensky discusses Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin's ruthless traits, UK's support, the need for unity in conflict, and reflections on leadership during wartime.

Poland's foreign minister discusses concerns about Western aid for Ukraine. BBC's political editor reflects on interviewing President Zelensky. Topics include Zelensky's commitment, response to Trump, unfulfilled promises, diplomacy in ending the war, support for Ukraine, and emotional impact of the conflict.

Last week at the Nato summit, leaders called China a ‘decisive enabler’ of the war in Ukraine - a statement that Beijing denies.So what is China’s role in this conflict?We’re joined by historian Rana Mitter and Spectator journalist Cindy Yu to try and make sense of it all.Today’s episode is presented by James Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith. 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

Matthew Savill from RUSI analyzes the Nato summit outcomes for Ukraine. Discussion on Biden's missteps, Kyiv's recent tragedies, and a mother's search for her daughter. Insights on Zelensky's impact, intel diplomacy, and military aid for Ukraine. Tragic hospital attacks and stories of survival amidst chaos.

Former US Ambassador to Nato, Kurt Volker, discusses the potential consequences of a Trump presidency on NATO. Topics include Trump's views on NATO, Ukraine's call for support, and managing Ukrainian expectations ahead of the NATO summit.