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
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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
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The Ukrainian reporter who captivated Trump
Last week, a clip of BBC Ukrainian reporter Myroslava Petsa went viral, after President Trump asked a series of questions about her personal story during a press conference at the Nato summit. Myroslava tells us what was going through her mind at that moment, and what it has been like to cover the conflict while her husband fights for Ukraine.
We also hear from Matthew Savill at RUSI about the intensification of nightly Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. Can Russia sustain this level of aerial pressure? Is Ukraine’s effort to target manufacturing hubs actually effective? And why is President Zelensky so keen to buy new Patriot missile defence systems?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Nik Sindle and Polly Hope. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Trump's moral compass, the Nato summit and war crimes
The Nato summit in The Hague did get member states to agree on ramping up their defence spending - and seemed to placate Donald Trump. But has this week changed anything for Ukraine? What happened to the prior US “two-week deadline” to agree a ceasefire - and will those sought-after Patriot missiles ever arrive in Kyiv? Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko answer all that, and discuss the knotty details of prosecuting alleged war crimes with BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson and the Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Rufus Gray, and Polly Hope. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 +44 330 123 9480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is Ukraine on Trump's Nato agenda?
As Nato leaders gather in the Hague, all eyes are on one man - President Trump. Member states have largely complied with his demand that they spend more on collective defence. But as Russia’s full-scale invasion continues, will his focus at this summit extend to Ukraine, or is he preoccupied with events in the Middle East?
For an insider perspective, we’re joined by the former US Permanent Representative to Nato, Julianne Smith. And two of our listeners from Nato’s newest members - Finland and Sweden - tell us how they feel about the threat from near neighbours, Russia. Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Nik Sindle and Polly Hope. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Middle East escalation, Russia’s threat to Nato and fibre optic drones
As oil prices rise, is escalation in the Middle East between Israel and Iran a positive development for Russia? How successful has Ukraine been in downing Russia’s fibre optic drone capacity? And is the Kremlin really intent on extending its invasion beyond Nato borders?
Lucy and Vitaly answer all that, and discuss the impact of the latest western sanctions with BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson and Matthew Savill of the Royal United Services Institute. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Polly Hope. The technical producer was James Piper. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What does the Iran-Israel conflict mean for Ukraine?
As the confrontation between Iran and Israel deepens, could Russia could reap the benefits of rising oil prices - or have the chance to act as a mediator?
And what consequences could this crisis have for Ukraine?
Also, what’s it like to join the Ukrainian armed forces? We catch up with friend of the pod Volodymyr, who recently volunteered for a drone unit and is going through basic training. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Polly Hope and the technical producers were Jonny Hall and Michael Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Russian POWs, counting casualties and DIY bomb shelters
How are Russian POWs treated in Ukrainian captivity? Is Kyiv’s claim that Russia has suffered more than 1 million casualties during the war accurate? And during WW2 Britain used flat-pack bomb shelters - could they also now work in Ukraine?
These are just some of the questions you’ve been sending in to the Ukrainecast team. Jamie and Vitaly are joined by Olga Robinson from BBC Verify and Olga Ivshina from BBC Russian to answer them.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Polly Hope. The technical producer was James Piper. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Prisoner swaps: Anastasia's story
Bringing soldiers back home is one of the few areas where Russia and Ukraine have made progress together in recent months, and another large scale prisoner swap started this week.
We talk to Anastasia - the wife of a Ukrainian soldier held captive since 2022, and released in May. But his new found freedom came against a backdrop of continuing Russian attacks on cities across Ukraine. We talk about whether we are seeing the retaliation for operation 'Spider Web'. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. It was made by Arsenii Sokolov, and Polly Hope. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer was Chris Flynn. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Laser weapons, Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ and Poland’s new president
What do the Spider Web drone attacks tell us about Ukraine’s tactics inside Russia going forward? Could the West limit Russian oil revenues by confiscating its 'shadow fleet'? And are we any closer to seeing high-precision laser weapons on the battlefield?
We answer all that and discuss what the implications could be for Ukraine after Poland elected a new conservative president, with the BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet and diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Ben Carter and Nik Sindle. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How has the ‘Spider Web’ drone attack hurt Russia?
On Sunday, more than 100 Ukrainian drones struck air bases deep inside Russia. According to some estimates, the operation dubbed ‘Spider Web’ may have successfully damaged or destroyed up to a third of Russia’s fleet of strategic bombers. So what impact might this have on its aerial capability?
We‘re joined in the studio by Major General Jonathan Shaw, former Assistant Chief of the UK’s Defence Staff. And with Ukraine’s drone industry in the spotlight, we speak to Kseniia Kalmus, a drone manufacturer who co-founded a volunteer-led workshop in Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Nik Sindle. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Taurus missiles, kidnapped children, and the state of Russia’s military
Is the Russian military weaker than at the start of the war? Will European allies expand their drone industries to aid Ukraine? And what has happened to Ukrainian children kidnapped by Russia?
We answer all that and discuss whether Germany will arm Ukraine with Taurus missiles, with Olga Ivshina from BBC Russian, and Mikey Kay, a former senior officer in the British military who hosts The Security Brief on BBC News.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Laurie Kalus, Ben Carter and Nik Sindle. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukrainians react as Trump slams Putin
Over the weekend Ukraine was targeted by almost a thousand Russian drones and dozens of missiles, including the biggest aerial attack since the beginning of the conflict.
In response, Donald Trump accused Vladimir Putin of going “absolutely crazy.” The Kremlin put that down to “emotional overload”.
With progress on peace talks stalling, and fresh US sanctions still yet to be announced, how do those in Ukraine view the situation?
We hear from two people there: Iryna is a mother who recently saw her husband join the military, and Neo is a soldier serving on the front line.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Peace deadlines, US sanctions and Russia's threat to Finland
Does Trump understand Putin’s motives? Can Western sanctions actually threaten Russia’s economy? Are Russian troops really amassing at Finland’s border - and how worried should we be about that?
Those are some of the questions you’ve sent us in over the last week and in this episode, Lucy and Vitaly are joined by James and BBC news presenter Sumi Somaskanda to try and answer them.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What’s next after the Trump-Putin call?
After a two-hour phone call on Monday, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin came to very different conclusions about what was agreed. The US said ceasefire negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv would start “immediately.” The Kremlin meanwhile, said there were no deadlines to move towards peace.
On this episode the BBC’s Russia editor Steve Rosenberg tells us about the reaction to the call in the Russian press. And - as Europe prepares to level further sanctions - Robert Fox, defence editor at the Evening Standard, tells us the West needs to prepare for a longer term conflict.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Ukraine-Russia peace talks begin
Ukraine and Russia have agreed to swap 1,000 prisoners of war each after the first face-to-face talks in three years. Kyiv also requested direct talks with President Vladimir Putin, and Moscow says it "noted" this request.
So is this a diplomatic breakthrough?
Vitaly gauges the mood from a sunny Istanbul, explains why an interpreter was required, and talks about what the next steps might be.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Jamie Coomarasamy. The producer was Ben Carter. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
No Putin, no Trump, but talks to begin?
President Zelensky has said he's sending his defence minister to peace negotiations with Russia in Istanbul - but adds that Russia is "not serious" about "real talks".
With discussions between the two countries seemingly likely to happen in some form, is this progress? Are we on the path to peace? Lucy is joined by Vitaly in Istanbul and Lyse Doucet in Abu Dhabi.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Ben Carter, Samantha Granville and Kyla Hermannsen. The technical producer was James Piper. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What do we actually know about the Istanbul peace talks?
The world is holding its breath ahead of mooted peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday. But what are the discussions likely to look like, and crucially who will attend?
With Donald Trump on a tour of the Gulf nations, the White House says it plans to send senior representatives to Turkey, while hinting that the US President could yet make a personal appearance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meanwhile, has confirmed he will travel to the capital Ankara, and doubled down on his challenge to Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to meet face-to-face.
To decipher all the briefing and counter-briefing, we’re joined in the studio by the BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale. And Victoria speaks to the Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Will Putin meet Zelensky in Turkey?
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he’s ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin "personally" in Istanbul on Thursday for talks over ending the war.
But is this meeting likely to materialise? And is this a smart move from Zelensky or a potential win for Putin?
Lucy and Vitaly are joined by chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet to chew over the significance of a potentially conflict-changing meeting.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Samantha Granville and Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Victory Day, Xi Jinping and Moscow dog-walking
Who’s attending Friday’s Victory Day parade in Russia? Could President Xi of China present his own ceasefire plan? And what’s going on with the coalition of the willing?
The BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet and BBC Moscow producer Ben Tavener are on hand to answer these questions from listeners and more.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Victory Day: Has Putin hijacked Russian remembrance?
We’re just days away from Victory Day, when Moscow is due to hold a parade on 9 May to mark the victory of the Soviet Union and allies over Nazi Germany.
Victoria and Vitaly are joined by BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson and Alexander Zhuravlyov to discuss what the day means for Russians, and how its significance has changed since Vladimir Putin came to power.
Also, security correspondent Frank Gardner is in Kyiv and tells us whether Kyiv could try and disrupt the parade in Moscow, following several days of Ukrainian attacks on Russia.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Yulia Kalantarova and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Max Deveson. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Minerals deal, security guarantees and Nato membership
After months of tense negotiations Ukraine and the US have signed a much-anticipated natural resources deal - and YOU have lots of questions about it.
Why is Ukraine going ahead with it? Can it still join NATO? What could the US offer Russia?
Lucy is joined by Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse, BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson and diplomatic correspondent James Landale to answer these and more.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
100 Days of Trump: Peacemaker or time-waster?
It’s 100 days since Donald Trump was sworn in for his second term as President of the United States. His campaign promise to end the war in Ukraine has yet to materialise, but Washington has brought both sides to the negotiation table. So is peace any closer, and should the White House be getting more credit?
We’re joined by Sam Kiley, world affairs editor at The Independent, who has just returned from the Vatican where Donald Trump and President Zelensky met on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral. And the former British ambassador to Ukraine, Judith Gough, gives her perspective on the current state of diplomatic talks.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Laurie Kalus. The technical producers were Philip Bull and Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Trump's peace plan, Crimea and the latest Kyiv attack
What if the US pulls out of peace talks? Do other Republicans agree with President Trump’s position on the war? And could Ukraine monetise its drone industry?
Jamie and Vitaly are joined by diplomatic correspondent James Landale and BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson to answer these questions and more on the conflict.
And we check in with friend of the podcast, Vitalii Pashchenko, who got caught up in Russian airstrikes on Kyiv overnight.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What happens if the US pulls out of peace talks?
After Vladimir Putin’s limited ‘Easter truce’ ended, we’re joined by the BBC’s Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, to discuss whether the Kremlin is serious about bilateral negotiations with Ukraine.
And we talk to Alexander Vindman - the former US National Security Council official, who was a star witness in Donald Trump’s first impeachment inquiry. He has a lot to say about US policy on Ukraine and what the future could look like if Washington pulls out of peace talks.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The editor is Max Deveson. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on our Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Life as a BBC bureau chief in Moscow and Kyiv
In today’s episode we do something slightly different. You’ll be familiar with some of the names and voices of the correspondents who’ve covered the Ukraine war for the last three years - James Waterhouse, Lyse Doucet, Sarah Rainsford and more - who regularly appear on this podcast.
But you’ll be less familiar with the people doing the work behind the scenes. Today, we hear from one of them. Kate Peters spent more than 30 years with BBC News and she spent a lot of time producing and running bureaus in Moscow and then Kyiv.
Kate reflects on her career, discusses the challenges of working in a war zone and talks with Jonathan Beale, a BBC defence correspondent who worked with during her time in Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Ben Carter. The editor was Max Deveson. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Viktoria's Story: Three years on
An old friend of the podcast, Viktoria Kovalenko, joins us in the studio. Viktoria has experienced the horrors of war first hand. Her husband and elder daughter were killed in front of her when they tried to escape the city of Chernihiv in 2022. Three years on she’s forging a new life with her four-year-old in the UK. She tells us how she’s adapting to life here, what she thinks about Donald Trump and how she remembers the family members she’s lost.
Plus - the BBC’s security correspondent, Frank Gardner, considers the international response to deadly missile strikes on Sumy over the weekend and how Steve Witkoff’s talks with Vladimir Putin went in Russia.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The editor was Max Deveson. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Witkoff meets Putin, Chinese soldiers and Russia’s economy
Where are we with the peace talks on the Ukraine conflict? What’s the situation on the battlefield? And how seriously should we take reports of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia?
Vitaly, Lyse and BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson joined up with presenter Leila Nathoo on BBC 5Live to answer these questions and many more.
The producers were Peter Karlsen, Julia Webster and Laurie Kalus. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Are Chinese soldiers fighting for Putin’s Russia?
President Zelensky says two Chinese citizens have been captured while fighting for Russia in the Donetsk region. But how did they end up in Ukraine and what does this mean for the future of the conflict?
General Sir Nick Carter, former chief of the UK's defence staff, is in the studio to discuss this latest development, as well as whether the world order as we know it has changed for good, and if the UK would ever consider compulsory military service.
Also, how has President Trump’s tariffs announcement been received in Ukraine? James Waterhouse sends us his thoughts from Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Laurie Kalus, Julia Webster and Peter Karlsen. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Putin's endgame, Ukrainian elections and North Koreans
Could Putin ever agree to peace? Would an election help Zelensky consolidate power? What’s happened to North Koreans fighting Ukraine?
Vitaly is joined by BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson, security correspondent Frank Gardner and Global News Podcast presenter Oliver Conway, to try and answer these questions and more.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ryan Johnston, Ben Carter and Peter Karlsen. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is Trump losing patience with Putin?
On Sunday, NBC reported that Donald Trump was ‘very angry’ with Vladimir Putin over his approach to a ceasefire in Ukraine. So is he changing his mind on the Russian President?
Vic and Vit talk to Kurt Volker, Donald Trump’s former special representative for Ukraine about the current state of negotiations, the threat of sanctions and golf diplomacy.
They also discuss how Trump’s comments were received in the Russian media.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ryan Johnston, Peter Karlsen and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Trump's next move, Black Sea ceasefire and the Arctic
What’s President Trump’s next move in the ceasefire negotiations? What would happen if Russia launched a missile from the Black Sea into Ukraine? And what is President Putin up to in the Arctic?
James is joined by BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson and diplomatic correspondent James Landale to answer these questions and more.
Today’s episode is presented by James Waterhouse. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russia and Ukraine agree Black Sea Ceasefire
The White House says Russia and Ukraine have agreed to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping in the Black Sea and stop military strikes. But could it work?
Today we talk to Martin Griffiths, former Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations. He played a key role in the Black Sea grain deal in 2022 and he gives us an insight on how to negotiate with the Russians.
And we fact check claims made by President Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, in an interview with pro-Trump journalist Tucker Carlson.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Max Deveson. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Zelensky's popularity, the UN and how Trump called Putin
What are Ukraine’s options for getting proper security guarantees? What actually happens when world leaders speak on the phone? And how are the Putin, Trump and Zelensky discussions and negotiations being viewed by ordinary Ukrainians?
Those are just a few of your questions that have landed in our inbox and today Lyse, Vitaly and Olga Robinson from BBC Verify joined presenter Matt Chorley to answer them on BBC 5 Live.
The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
Trump calls Putin
After a lengthy phone call with Donald Trump, the Kremlin says Vladimir Putin has agreed to a mutual pause on attacks on Russian and Ukrainian energy infrastructure - but stopped far short of accepting a full ceasefire.
We get instant reaction from Fiona Hill, who previously served on the National Security Council as an advisor on Russia under President Trump.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Putin, Witkoff and ceasefire plans
What’s to stop Russia from escalating the conflict? Who is Steve Witkoff? Can Trump stop Ukraine from joining Nato?
These are some of the questions you’ve been sending in - and today, Lyse, Vitaly and Matthew Savill from the Royal United Services Institute think tank, joined presenter Christian Fraser to answer them on the BBC News channel.
The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The series producer is Tim Walklate.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Putin responds to Trump’s ceasefire plan
Vladimir Putin has said the fighting must end in Ukraine, but that a ceasefire should lead to "enduring peace and remove underlying causes of this crisis."
Responding to the Trump administration’s plans to end the war, the Russian president says the idea of a ceasefire is "good and we absolutely support it but there are issues that we need to discuss."
So what should we make of his comments? Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist gives his reaction.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producer was Ben Carter. The technical producer was James Piper. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine backs ceasefire plan, but will Russia?
Ukraine says it is ready to accept a US proposal for an initial 30-day ceasefire with Russia, in a joint statement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says “the ball is now in Russia’s court", and he will take the offer to Moscow.
Sir Laurie Bristow, former UK ambassador to Moscow joins us to give his reaction and thoughts on what Russia might do next.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could Ukraine lose ground in Kursk?
Is this the week the war changes?
On the battlefield, Russian forces are reportedly trying to encircle thousands of Ukrainian soldiers in the Kursk region, where they recaptured three settlements on Sunday.
Meanwhile, talks are taking place on Tuesday between Ukrainians and US officials in Saudi Arabia, at which Kyiv is expected to push for a truce with Russia in the sea and sky.
So is this a potentially pivotal moment in the war in Ukraine? Lyse and James are joined by Karolina Hird from the Institute for the Study of War think-tank in Washington.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and James Waterhouse. The producers were Ryan Johnston, Anna Chornous and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Trump, Europe and Peace
The Ukrainecast team join the Global News Podcast to answer listener questions.
We discuss Donald Trump’s latest threat, the prospects of peace in Ukraine, and that minerals deal.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet, James Waterhouse, Vitaly Shevchenko and Jackie Leonard.
The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Can Ukraine survive without US military aid?
President Zelensky says Ukraine is "ready to work under President Trump's strong leadership" to negotiate a peace deal and is ready to sign a minerals deal.
His comments come after the US decision to pause military aid. We get reaction from Ukrainian MP Oleksandra Ustinova and ‘Neo’, a soldier currently fighting in Donetsk region.
And we speak to Mark Galeotti, Director and CEO of the consultancy firm, Mayak Intelligence.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
It was recorded on Tuesday afternoon at 3:30pm UK time. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is a truce between Ukraine and Russia possible?
President Macron has proposed a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine "in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure."
These comments follow a meeting over the weekend in which European leaders tried to deal with the fallout from President Zelensky’s disastrous trip to Washington on Friday.
Presenters Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko are joined by Matthew Savill, Director of Military Sciences at RUSI to discuss whether there is a road towards a peace deal. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Louis Griffin. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Trump and Zelensky clash in the Oval Office
There were unprecedented scenes in the White House this afternoon when President Trump, Vice President JD Vance and President Zelensky clashed in an extraordinary shouting match in front of stunned reporters.
Lyse and Vitaly are joined by former UK national security adviser Lord Ricketts to get immediate reaction, and what this all means for the future of Ukraine. The producers were Clare Williamson, Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Starmer meets Trump in Washington
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump have been meeting at the White House, with the war in Ukraine top of the agenda.
Lyse joins diplomatic correspondent James Landale, Newsnight’s Nick Watt and Newscast presenter James Cook to discuss how the visit has gone.
Starmer boosts defence spending: Will it impress Trump and help Ukraine?
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer says a "dangerous new era" is behind his decision to boost defence spending and cut the aid budget.
But will it impress President Trump ahead of Sir Keir’s visit to Washington later this week? And could this move help Ukraine?
Shashank Joshi from the Economist joins us to discuss this and answer listener questions on rare earth minerals.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Julia Webster. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Three Years On: Decision makers reflect
What was going on in the corridors of power when Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine took place?
A senior US diplomat and UK politician look back on the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion, and look ahead to what happens next.
We hear from Julianne Smith, former US permanent representative to Nato, James Heappey former UK armed forces minister and Dmytro Kuleba, former Ukrainian foreign minister.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Julia Webster, Stuart Denman and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Three Years On: Is peace possible?
Tomorrow marks the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion.
Three Ukrainians reflect on how their lives have changed in the last three years, and discuss the prospects for peace in Ukraine.
We speak to Vitalii from Lutsk, Anastasiia in Kyiv and Pavlo in Lviv.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Julia Webster and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Your Questions Answered: Trump, Putin and minerals
The Ukrainecast team answer listener questions on BBC Radio 5 Live
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet, James Waterhouse, Nick Eardley and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Ryan Johnston. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Ukraine War: How Far Away Is A Peace Deal?
The past week has seen international diplomacy turned upside down as the US began talks with Russia to end the war in Ukraine. The decision to exclude Ukraine - and Europe - from these talks led to an emergency summit in which European countries sought to establish some influence over the process.
But with the US and Ukrainian presidents embroiled in a dispute that led to President Trump calling President a “dictator”, is their relationship beyond repair? And will Ukraine have any say over the terms of a peace deal?
Newscast, Americast and Ukrainecast gathered in the studio for a special collaboration to unpack the enormous shift in international politics that’s unfolding.
Trump calls Zelensky a “dictator”
President Trump has launched a fresh attack on President Zelensky, calling him a "dictator" and saying he has done a "terrible job".
Zelensky earlier accused the US president of "living in a disinformation space" created by Russia.
Victoria and Vitaly analyse how this diplomatic row is playing out.
And Victoria speaks to Russia’s ambassador to the UK, Andrei Kelin.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Elliot Ryder. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
US-Russia talks: How pleased is Putin?
The US and Russia have been holding high-level talks in Saudi Arabia for the first time in years.
General Sir Richard Shirreff, a former Nato commander, is in the studio to give his reaction.
And Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia editor, joins us to explain why the Kremlin is “cockahoop” about the news.
Today’s episode, recorded on Tuesday afternoon, is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Julia Webster, Ryan Johnston and Stuart Denman. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could Europe send troops to Ukraine?
European leaders have met in Paris for an emergency summit on the war in Ukraine.
Leaving the meeting, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called discussions on sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine "premature" and "inappropriate". Earlier UK PM Keir Starmer said he was ready to send such troops from the UK if and when the war ends.
So could we see European boots on the ground in Ukraine? Matthew Savill, from RUSI, is in the studio to discuss whether it’s possible, and what this might look like.
We also look ahead to the meeting tomorrow between Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Saudi Arabia with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Zelensky meets Vance: What next for Ukraine?
The Ukrainian president and US vice-president have been meeting at the Munich Security Conference. Vitaly and James chew over what was discussed, and what it all means for the future of Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and James Landale. The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How are Ukrainians reacting to Trump’s peace talk plans?
What’s been the reaction in Ukraine to President Trump’s plans to end the war, following his phone calls with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky? We hear from Kyiv mum Iryna and 27 year old account manager Andrew.
And we assess what role Europe could play going forward, following a busy day of diplomacy at a Nato defence chiefs summit in Brussels.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
Trump calls Putin AND Zelensky to begin talks
In a pivotal day for the war in Ukraine, Donald Trump has agreed to ‘work together’ with Vladimir Putin to end the conflict. Immediately after the call with Putin, Trump spent an hour on the phone with Volodymyr Zelensky.
Earlier in the day, the new US defence secretary Pete Hegseth told a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels that it was unrealistic that Ukraine could return to its pre-2014 borders and he ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine.
BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner joins Victoria and Vitaly to discuss the latest developments. The producers were Ryan Johnston and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Trump: Ukraine “may be Russian some day”
Is the Trump administration gearing up for talks on Ukraine? Victoria and Vitaly are joined in the studio to discuss this by Christina Lamb of The Sunday Times.
She also talks about the posthumous release of a new book by her friend Victoria Amelina, who was killed in Kramatorsk in 2023. ‘Looking at Women Looking at War’ is released later this week.
And former Conservative MP Jack Lopresti tells us why he’s gone to serve in Ukraine’s military… and whether his children are happy about his decision.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Ryan Johnston and Stuart Denman. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What’s life like on Ukraine’s frontline?
‘I'd love to hear more about what's actually happening in the war now. Where are the lines stable, where is Russia still advancing, where have the Russians slowed?’ That’s a message we got from one of our listeners earlier in the week, and we thought we’d answer these questions and more.
We get a sense of what’s happening along the frontline in Ukraine right now with Matthew Savill, director of military sciences at RUSI, and we hear from a soldier whose day job is to drop bombs on Russians using drones.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How could Trump end the war?
What might Donald Trump’s strategy to end the war in Ukraine look like? We speak to Fred Fleitz, a national security official in Donald Trump's first administration who's close to the President's Ukraine and Russia envoy.
We ask him to decode the latest diplomatic noises out of Washington, Moscow and Kyiv, and shed light on what we can expect from Trump’s approach, as well as the prospects of success.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Nathan Gower and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
President Trump Is Back
Today, Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th US president.
He promised to unleash a blitz of executive orders, after calling for a "revolution of common sense" in Monday's inaugural address.
Victoria was joined by James Cook and Chris Mason from Newscast, Anthony Zurcher and Marianna Spring from Americast and Jonny Dymond from The Global Story to assess Trump’s first act as he became President again.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Ukrainian fighting North Koreans in Russia
A Ukrainian officer fighting in Russia’s Kursk region gives us a unique insight into what it’s like taking on North Korean soldiers.
We also hear from the editor-in-chief of the Economist, Zanny Minton Beddoes. She discusses how the new sanctions on Russian oil will hurt the country’s economy and tells us why Donald Trump won’t want to be seen as a loser.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ben Carter and Ryan Johnston. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Dmytro Kuleba on… understanding Trump and working for Zelensky
Dmytro Kuleba spent four years working as Ukraine’s foreign minister before he left his post in September 2024. In a revealing interview he talks about his time working for Volodymyr Zelensky, shares his views on the outgoing Biden administration and tells us whether incoming President Trump can really negotiate peace.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Carter, Ryan Johnston and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Recipes of resistance
Victoria and James tuck into some traditional Ukrainian Christmas dishes…
Chef Olia Hercules brings some festive food into the Ukrainecast studio and explains how food keeps her connected to her home.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Diane Richardson. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How are Ukrainians celebrating Christmas in wartime?
How do you celebrate Christmas while living under constant threat of your home being bombed, air raid sirens going off and while your friends and loved ones are fighting on the frontline?
Two people who’ve appeared regularly on Ukrainecast this year got together in a Kyiv restaurant to chat through their plans for the festive season and their hopes for the new year.
Vitali, a graduate in his 20s and Iryna, mother to baby Mira (who makes a special appearance), recorded a conversation about what it's like to celebrate the festive season in Ukraine, while the war rages on.
This episode was made by Danny Wittenberg. The producers were Anna Chornous and Diane Richardson. The technical producer was Dan Ehrlich. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Stephen Fry reads a Ukrainian Christmas story
Back in the summer, the actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry came into the Ukrainecast studio to discuss his visit to Ukraine to see how war is impacting the country's mental health.
To mark Christmas Day, he reads a short Christmas story which touches on some of the challenges Ukrainians face this winter.
‘Miracle in the Darkness’ is a short story from the book ‘Brave Tales’ by Iryna Vyhovska and Victoria Murovana. It was published by ACCA, in association with Suspilne media.
If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode you can visit BBC Action Line on www.bbc.co.uk/actionline
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Lizzy McNeill. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine kills Russian general: How will Moscow respond?
Sources in Kyiv say Ukraine killed Igor Kirillov, a senior Russian general who died in scooter blast in Moscow on Tuesday.
So how might the Kremlin respond? And what could this mean for the war in Ukraine?
Latvia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Baiba Braže and The Economist's defence editor Shashank Joshi give their reaction.
Also, can President-elect Trump restrict Ukraine’s ability to use long range missiles within Russia? Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Diane Richardson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
2025: A decisive year for Ukraine?
Could American military aid dry up once Donald Trump enters the White House in 2025? Are Russians and Ukrainians ready for a peace deal? And how might that take shape?
BBC Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford and Russia expert Mark Galeotti are joined by an assortment of experts to look ahead to what could be a pivotal year for the war in Ukraine.
Also, the BBC’s Tim Whewell is in the studio to discuss an issue that could overshadow Poland’s support for Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ben Tavener and Eleanor Dengate-Harrison. The technical producer was Philip Bull. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Bill Browder: Putin's “number one enemy”
The man behind the Magnitsky Act on Trump, hybrid warfare and fighting the Kremlin.
Sir William Browder is an American investor who made a fortune in post-Soviet Russia before falling foul of Vladimir Putin.
He’s now a fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin - and today he’s in the Ukrainecast studio to discuss why the rouble is tanking, what it’s like to draw the ire of the Russian president and whether an end to the war is near.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Frank Gardner. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Dan Ehrlich. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Can Trump negotiate with Putin?
Can Donald Trump end the war in Ukraine? Is negotiating with Russia a realistic option? What can President Biden accomplish in the final weeks of his term?
John Sullivan, former US Ambassador to Russia under President Trump, joins Ukrainecast to share his experience of working with Russians and explains why continued US support for Ukraine is in the nation’s best interest.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How serious are Putin's nuclear threats?
Your questions answered on ATACMS, land mines and the risk of escalation
Jamie and Vitaly are joined by the defence editor of the Economist, Shashank Joshi, to examine how useful ATACMS can be for Ukraine, what exactly are anti-personnel land-mines and whether we should take Russia's change to its nuclear doctrine seriously.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
1000 Days of War
Three Ukrainians on how their lives have changed and their hopes for peace.
Victoria, James and Vitaly are in the studio to reflect on 1000 days of the conflict. They’re joined by student Vitalii, teacher Olga and young mum Iryna - three friends of the podcast whose stories we’ve followed over the last few years. They also answer listener questions. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire, James Waterhouse and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Bella Saltiel, Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. 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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Biden allows Ukraine to strike Russia with American long-range missiles
US President Joe Biden has given the green light for Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by US to strike Russia.
But what could the deployment of these missiles mean for Ukraine? And why has President Biden done this now?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Ben Carter. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Jens Stoltenberg on... Trump, Putin and nuclear war
Will Donald Trump pull out of Nato? What should we make of his recent appointments? How worried should we be about the threat of nuclear war?
Jens Stoltenberg, who stood down as Nato secretary general last month is in the studio and answers all these questions… and more.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Audio credit: The Shawn Ryan show
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Mike Pompeo revisited: How could Trump end the war in 24 hours?
Hear Donald Trump’s former secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, in conversation with Ukrainecast back in May. He discusses what his old boss really thinks about Ukraine, and what another Trump presidency could mean for the war.
He also talks about whether he’d take another top job in the White House - something which, in recent days, he’s been widely tipped to get.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Trump 2.0: What does it mean for Ukraine?
Donald Trump has won the US election and will make a historic return to the White House. He’s said he’d end the war in 24 hours but…..can he?
We hear from Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse in Kyiv, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg in Sochi and Victoria in Washington DC. They discuss what Trump’s re-election actually mean for Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sarah 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Bob Woodward on... Trump, Harris and the future of democracy
America goes to the polls – but what could that mean for the future of US politics… and Ukraine?
The veteran Watergate journalist, Bob Woodward, joins us to talk about his latest book, ‘War’. He’s spent the last couple of years talking to people inside the Biden administration and shares his insights on what he learned about how they planned for and dealt with the aftermath of the full-scale invasion.
Victoria is in Washington to assess what the mood is like on election day.
And we hear from Sandra in Kyiv who’s recorded an audio diary detailing what life is like in Ukraine right now, as winter takes hold.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ben Carter. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Dodging the draft: Ukraine’s struggle for soldiers
Two men's stories of avoiding the draft.
To satisfy a growing need for soldiers, authorities in Ukraine appear to be taking ever more drastic measures, including forcibly pulling men off the street to check their credentials.
But many men in Ukraine feel the war is not for them, and decide to flee overseas rather than to stay and fight. We speak to Artem and Oleh, two young men who avoided the draft, and ask them why they left and whether they regret their decision.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Anastasiia Levchenko and Clare Williamson. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
North Koreans in Russia: How dangerous is the world right now?
Is peace with Russia possible? Could any North Korean involvement in the war mean escalation? And has the world ever been more dangerous in recent times?
In his first BBC interview since standing down as chief of the general staff, General Sir Patrick Sanders joins us to discuss why he thinks the world order is under threat and why Ukraine must prevail.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Diane Richardson. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Bellingcat's Eliot Higgins… Debunking Russian myths
What do digital trails tell us about the conflict? How did TikTok videos help identify Russian troop movements ahead of the full-scale invasion? And what’s it like to draw the ire of the Kremlin?
The Bellingcat founder Eliot Higgins also tells Victoria and Vitaly whether he’s a CIA spy and where the name of his organisation came from.
And, are North Korean troops being sent to Russia’s frontline? We have more…
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Di Richardson. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is the West out of touch with the reality of the war?
As President Zelensky conducts a whistle stop tour of Europe…. we answer your questions on whether the West is out of touch with the reality of the war and what impact elections in the US and Europe could have on support for Ukraine’s war effort.
Victoria is joined by our correspondent in Kyiv Sarah Rainsford and Cold War historian Sergey Radchenko.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Nick Sturdee. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sarah 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How can peace be achieved in Ukraine?
How could peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine pan out and are they even a possibility right now?
Conflict negotiator Oliver McTernan and former UK ambassador to Russia Sir Laurie Bristow discuss the likelihood of both countries coming to the table and what role the US presidential election could play.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Ben Mundy. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Putin's war economy: Are Russians feeling the pinch?
Russia has revealed it will boost its defence spending by a quarter to $145 billion in 2025. But is Putin’s war economy sustainable? What does all this mean for life in the country? And how could it impact the war?
The BBC’s Steve Rosenberg joins us from a Moscow supermarket, Russian citizen ‘Gleb’ explains why there are dozens of types of cola in shops, and Bloomberg’s Stephanie Baker joins Carnegie’s Alexander Gabuev to discuss whether Russians are feeling the pinch.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sarah 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
US elections: no good choices for Ukraine
Ambassador John Bolton, who served as National Security Adviser under President Donald Trump, tells Ukrainecast that another Trump presidency would leave Ukraine in a very difficult position and that if re-elected Trump would cut off US aid. He also warns against the democratic presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, insisting that neither option would be good for Ukraine’s fight against Russia.
And he gives his verdict on Russia’s President Putin who he has met on several occasions - calling him a ‘cold blooded’ individual who has had the same agenda for the last twenty-five years.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. 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 1239480
Is Trump toughening his stance on Ukraine?
Donald Trump has held a last-minute meeting with President Zelensky despite repeated criticism of the Ukrainian leader on the campaign trail, and a row which erupted with with the Republican party.
So is the former president hardening his stance on Ukraine? And how do Ukrainians feel about the forthcoming US election?
Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Americast co-presenter Anthony Zurcher and two Ukrainians based in Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Can President Zelensky sell his ‘victory plan’ to the Americans?
President Zelensky’s in the US for a diplomatic mission to try and sell President Biden his ‘victory plan’. But what’s in it? And can he persuade the Americans to back it?
Two friends of the pod, defence expert Matthew Savill and Russia expert Angela Stent, join Lyse to assess how it might go down with the President, and the two candidates hoping to succeed him, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Julie Ball. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is Ukraine facing a mental health crisis?
More than half of Ukrainians say they suffer from some kind of mental health issue as a result of the war. Volunteer paramedic, Olha Mamusheva, joins us to discuss her mental health working on the frontline. And journalist Olena Kuk explains why she helped set up ‘Svidok’ – an online war journal where people can share their feelings anonymously.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Julie Ball. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Richard Fenton-Smith.
If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode you can visit BBC Action Line on www.bbc.co.uk/actionline 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Inside the biggest prisoner exchange since the Cold War
Sasha Skochilenko spent over two years behind Russian bars before being part of the biggest prisoner exchange since the Cold War. She explains why supermarkets are effective places for protest, what helped her survive in prison and how western prisoners were put in business class on the flight home following her release.
And a friend of Ukrainecast makes a surprise appearance…
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could the West cross Putin's new red line?
The former head of the CIA, General David Petraeus, tells Ukrainecast why he thinks President Putin is bluffing after he warned the West against allowing Ukraine to use long-range weapons to target Russia. Lucy is in Washington DC where the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is meeting President Biden to discuss Ukraine. There are strong indications that they will agree to lift restrictions on Ukraine using such missiles against targets inside Russia.
And James Waterhouse gives reaction on how the news is unfolding in Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Charlotte Scarr, Claire Betzer and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Frank McWeeny. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What could Trump vs Harris mean for a Ukraine peace deal?
Your questions answered on the US election, Pokrovsk and guerrilla warfare…
With Donald Trump and Kamala Harris facing-off in their only scheduled presidential debate this week, we assess whether the election might accelerate any potential peace deal in Ukraine.
BBC security correspondent Gordon Corera joins Vitaly and Lucy to also discuss how strategically important the capture of Pokrovsk is for both sides and what evidence we have that Ukraine is waging a guerrilla war in the Russian occupied areas.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Antonio Fernandes. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ben Wallace on... How Ukraine can win
With Russia launching nearly daily attacks against Ukrainian cities in recent weeks, the UK’s former defence secretary, Sir Ben Wallace, is in the Ukrainecast studio to give his take on what the strikes signify. He also reflects on his visit to Moscow which took place just 10 days before the full-scale invasion.
And we hear from residents in Lviv and Kyiv who were hit by the attacks this week.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire, James Waterhouse and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russia strikes Poltava: "A barbaric attack"
A Russian missile strike has killed dozens of people in the Ukrainian city of Poltava. Hundreds more are reported to have been wounded in what Ukraine's Ministry of Defence has called a "barbaric attack". We have the latest updates and analysis as the story unfolds.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine's Incursion: Is this a winning strategy?
Has Kyiv’s gamble to take Kursk paid off?
Lyse and Vitaly examine whether Russian advances on the key Ukrainian town of Pokrovsk raise questions about the success of the cross-border incursion, as well as answer some of your questions.
And we hear from Ukraine's Paralympic swimmer, Yaroslav Denysenko, who shares how the Russian full-scale invasion has impacted his life and training.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Diane Richardson and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russia hammers Ukraine's infrastructure
Russia has launched another wave of strikes on Ukraine, with at least four people killed, a day after one of its biggest air attacks of the war. We assess whether the strikes are a retaliation for Ukraine’s incursion into the Kursk region which began three weeks ago.
Nicholas Connolly, correspondent for Deutsche Welle, gives us the view from Kyiv, just one of the areas targeted. He also recently visited Sudzha, the Russian border-town in the Kursk region which is held by Ukraine, and explains how Russians are responding to the incursion.
And we speak to Karolina Hird, Russia Deputy Team Lead at the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War, about what Ukraine’s next move might be.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Stephen Fry: The mental scars of Ukraine's war
Broadcaster and writer Stephen Fry has travelled to Ukraine to see how war is impacting the country’s mental health.
He joins Lyse and Vitaly in the studio to discuss his new documentary ‘Stephen Fry into Ukraine’, in which he speaks to those affected and asks whether there is sufficient government support. He also reflects on his own struggles with mental health and why Ukraine matters to him.
‘Stephen Fry into Ukraine’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FO6ZJL26eM
If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode you can visit BBC Action Line on www.bbc.co.uk/actionline
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Hatty Nash and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producers were Mike Regaard and Rohan Madison. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine's Incursion: The view from Ukraine
Ukrainian forces entered Russia two weeks ago, but just how vulnerable has their advance left them? We hear from Ostap, a Ukrainian Officer on the frontline in Pokrovsk. And English teacher, Anastasia tells us how the incursion has left Ukrainians feeling in Kharkiv. Plus, BBC Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, is on hand to help us understand what’s been happening on the Ukraine-Russia border. Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ben Mundy, Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Diane Richardson. 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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine’s Incursion: What’s life like in Kursk?
What’s life like in Kursk, following Ukraine’s cross-border offensive?
We hear from Zhenya, a Kursk resident, who gives us a rare glimpse into life in the region since the Ukrainian incursion began.
And the defence expert Matthew Savill from the Royal United Services Institute is in the studio to answer your listener questions. What’s Kursk like? How long can Ukraine feasibly hold it? And is a Russian nuclear response on the cards?
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Elliot Ryder and Hatty Nash. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine's Incursion: The view from Russia
How has the shock cross-border offensive gone down in Russia?
We hear from Nikita, whose family and friends live in Kursk, about what they’ve been witnessing and how worried they are.
BBC Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, tells us how this is going down in the Kremlin and what President Putin might down next
And Olga Robinson from BBC Verify is in the studio to help us understand the picture more clearly. Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Ivana Davidovic and Hatty Nash. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Why have Ukrainian forces entered Russia?
Does Ukraine’s cross-border offensive mark a new chapter in the conflict?
Reports suggest that Ukrainian troops are operating more than 10km inside Russian territory - the deepest cross-border advance by Kyiv since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The BBC’s Ukraine Correspondent James Waterhouse discusses what might be the reasons behind this new direction for Ukraine? And how do Ukraine’s Western allies see it?
Plus, Lucy and Vitaly talk to Michael ‘Mickey’ Bergman who helped negotiate the release of many high profile American prisoners and hostages.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A with war correspondent Luke Harding
We’re joined by war correspondent, Luke Harding, who has reported extensively from Ukraine and Russia for the Guardian. He was in Ukraine the moment Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, and has since been following developments on the ground. He gives his take on the past, present and future of the war.
We also discuss the long anticipated arrival of the American-made F-16 fighter jets, and assess what difference they will make.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was produced by Clare Williamson, with Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Biggest Prisoner Swap since the Cold War
24 prisoners who have been held in six countries have been released in the largest East-West prisoner swap since the Cold War.
The exchange involved 16 detainees from the West - including Americans Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan - and eight who are returning to Russia.
Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford has been in regular contact with some of those who have now been swapped, and gives us her reaction and security correspondent Gordon Corera explains what Russia is getting out of this and how it compares to previous exchanges.
And we hear from Evan Gershkovich’s colleague at the Wall Street Journal, Gráinne McCarthy, about what happens next for the journalist who spent 16 months in Russian custody.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Clare Williamson, with Arsenii Sokolov, Nick Sturdee 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How much do Ukrainians want a peace deal?
Is support for peace deal growing among Ukrainians?
Between President Zelensky saying Russia should attend a peace summit in November, and a recent poll suggesting that more Ukrainians would now accept some territorial concessions, we assess whether the mood is changing. Dr Patricia Lewis who leads the International Security programme at Chatham House gives her take.
Victoria and Vitaly are also joined by Vitaly Pashchenko, a student in Kyiv and Oleksii Svid, who lives in Kharkiv, who have different opinions about the possibility of peace talks and what that might entail.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Nick Sturdee and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Americans behind Russian bars
While Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was being handed a 16 year jail term last week, another Russian court was sentencing Radio Free Europe editor Alsu Kurmasheva to 6.5 years in prison. From marines to ballerinas and journalists, it’s believed that around thirty US citizens are currently incarcerated in Russian. So are they being arrested and how do the families of those detained manage, often without regular contact with their loved ones? Ukrainecast speaks to Alsu Kurmasheva’s husband Pavel Butorin, professor Angela Stent from Georgetown University and the BBCs Steve Rosenberg.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Di Richardson. The technical producer was Philip Bull. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine’s Olympians: Going for gold as war rages
Ukraine’s athletes are preparing to represent their country at the Olympics - we speak to 400m hurdler Victoriya Tkachuk about the difficulties of training in a warzone as her brother fights on the frontline.
Greco-Roman wrestler Zhan Beleniuk won Ukraine’s only gold medal in Tokyo, and will be trying to retain it in Paris. He’s also a Ukrainian MP and told us about his opposition to the limited inclusion of Russian athletes at this year’s games.
And to discuss how the Olympics finds itself stuck in the middle of a global diplomatic row, we’re joined by Simon Chadwick, professor of sport and geopolitical economy at Skema Business School in Paris.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Nathan Gower. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The President Zelensky Interview
On Friday's episode we spoke to BBC political editor Chris Mason about his exclusive interview with President Zelensky. We thought that you might like to hear the whole of that - so in this episode you can hear the Ukrainian leader's conversation in full... 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could Ukraine be losing support from the West?
At the end of a week in which fears were raised across Ukraine about the future of American and European aid towards the war effort, we ask Poland’s foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, whether the West could be growing tired of supporting Kyiv.
And what’s it like to interview President Zelensky? The BBC's political editor, Chris Mason, joins Ukrainecast to reflect on his chat with the Ukrainian leader.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is China helping Russia fight Ukraine?
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What did the Nato summit achieve?
As the dust settles on the Nato summit in Washington, we decode the diplomatic agreements and ask how much help it offers Ukraine. Matthew Savill from the London-based defence think-tank RUSI breaks down what the commitments might mean for Ukraine on the battlefield, as well as the geopolitical implications of Joe Biden’s continuing stumbles.
Kyiv has now suffered its worst week this year with 33 killed and 125 injured following the devastating set of strikes across Ukraine, including on a children’s hospital in the capital. We hear one young mother’s search for her daughter, who she feared had been buried under the rubble.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Sanjana Idnani and Nathan Gower. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Sergi Forcada Freixas.
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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could Nato survive a Trump presidency?
World leaders are gathering in Washington for the Nato summit and Ukraine is high on the agenda. The military alliance, which is marking its 75th anniversary, will also be closely watching US President Joe Biden whose recent halting debate performance has left many wondering if he’s up for the task.
Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to Nato, tells us whether he thinks the alliance could survive a Trump presidency.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Children's hospital hit: Dozens dead in strikes across Ukraine
Russia has carried out a series of deadly airstrikes across Ukraine, a day before a NATO summit opens in Washington. In the capital Kyiv, a children's hospital was hit.
In this extra episode of Ukrainecast, Victoria and Vitaly discuss how and why the attack happened, as well as its fallout.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Sanjana Idnani and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: How are global elections impacting Ukraine?
There are number of elections taking place across Europe many have seen a move to the right. At the same time the Hungarian president, Victor Orban, who holds the current presidency of the European Union is in Moscow just a few days after he was in Kyiv. To talk about what this all means for Ukraine we put your questions to the BBC’s France correspondent Andrew Harding and Armida van Rij who heads up the Europe programme at Chatham House.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Farhana Haider with Arsenii Sokolov, Bella Saltiel and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Serhiy's story: How Russia silenced a young man's voice
Serhiy Gulko made a difficult choice to finish his medical degree at Moscow State University after Russia attacked his homeland, Ukraine. Two years later, he was arrested for speaking out against the war on social media. Serhiy tells us about his experience in detention and whether ordinary Russians support the war.
And Oleg Kozlovsky, an Amnesty International Russian researcher, tells us about the extreme measures taken to repress protest in the country.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The episode was produced by Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov, Bella Saltiel and Nick Sturdee. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Lidiia's story: The 98-year-old who fled from Russian occupation in her slippers
When Lidiia’s home town in the Donbas region became a battlefield, the 98-year-old walked through the fighting to safety 10km away. Ukrainian police eventually picked her up when they saw her and asked, “Hey granny, where are you off to?”
We also hear from Denys Kazanskyi a Ukrainian journalist and author who comes from the area about attitudes to Russia since the occupation began in 2014.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Bella Saltiel, Nick Sturdee, Clare Williamson and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Trial Of Evan Gershkovich
On Wednesday, Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Russia last year goes on trial.
Russian officials have accused the Wall Street Journal reporter of collecting "secret information" from a Russian tank factory for the CIA. An allegation he denies.
The BBC’s Steve Rosenberg is in the city of Yekaterinburg where the trial is taking place.
And we also hear from Evan’s friend Polina Ivanova, and his boss at the Wall Street Journal, Deborah Ball.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. Produced by Clare Williamson with Josh Jenkins, Bella Saltiel and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: What does the Russia-North Korea deal mean for Ukraine?
On the week that Russia and North Korea signed a mutual defence pact, General Sir Richard Shirreff, NATO's former Deputy Commander for Europe, answers your questions about what this could mean for Ukraine and its allies, where we are with F16 jets and Patriot air defences, and how to deal with Russian propaganda.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Antonio Fernandes. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Putin heads to North Korea
What will Putin’s meeting with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un mean for Ukraine? Reports suggest that North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia to use in its war in Ukraine. With the two leaders meeting for the second time in under a year, this growing alliance is making some Western leaders uneasy.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and James Waterhouse with BBC Moscow producer Ben Tavener and Seoul correspondent Jean Mackenzie. It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What are Putin's ceasefire terms?
Ukraine rejects Putin’s ceasefire proposal ahead of Swiss peace talks.
It’s been a busy week for President Zelensky. At the G7 meeting in Italy, world leaders agreed on a $50bn loan to help fund Ukraine’s war effort and a ten year bi-lateral security agreement was signed between the US and Ukraine. All this before President Zelensky heads to Switzerland for a Ukrainian Peace Summit. Meanwhile, President Putin has proposed his own ceasefire plan which Ukraine has rejected.
The BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale and security correspondent Frank Gardner reflect on what has been agreed so far and what progress could be made this weekend.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Iryna and Volodymyr's story: Having a baby in wartime
Missile attacks, anxiety, power cuts and mobilisation: the challenges of childbirth and parenthood for a young couple in Kyiv.
Iryna and Volodymyr chose to have a baby following the full-scale invasion. The stress has meant that Iryna can no longer breast feed, they have lost friends and Volodymyr is about to join the army - but they are facing these challenges with bravery and resilience.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire . It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Natasha Mayo. The technical producers were Antonio Fernandes and Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: What can we expect from the Ukraine Peace Summit?
What are the prospects for any progress at next week’s peace summit in Switzerland, especially if Russia is not there? Our Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg and international editor, Jeremy Bowen give us their thoughts and also answer questions on Russia’s economy, whether Russians are worried about Western missiles and how Ukrainian journalists are covering the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire. Today’s episode was produced by Clare Williamson with Paige Neal-Holder and Bella Saltiel . The technical producer was Gabriel O Regan. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Maksym's Story: Growing up on the frontline
One young soldier’s coming of age tale from the battlefield.
One of our most asked after regular guests, the young soldier Maksym Lutsyk, returns to the podcast. He’s now 21 years old and we find out about his time on the frontline, how he listens in to secret recordings of Russian soldiers and whether he still dreams of having a beer on a beach in Tenerife…
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Bella Saltiel, Natasha Mayo and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Garreth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A with Fiona Hill: Where are the weapons Ukraine says it needs to fight Russia?
Dr Fiona Hill joins Victoria and Vitaly to answer questions sent in by Ukrainecast listeners. She’s a former US national intelligence officer and a historian who’s written a book about Putin. They tackle topics about how momentum in the war has shifted, who might succeed Putin and what difference it will make letting Ukraine fire Western made weapons into some Russian territories.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Bella Saltiel and Nick Holland. The technical producer was Frank McWeeny. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Kharkiv’s Metro School: Learning Underground
Schools in one of Ukraine’s most dangerous cities have taken evasive action to escape frequent Russian missile strikes.
In Kharkiv they’ve opened up temporary classrooms in metro stations to keep children safe from attacks.
In this episode we hear from a teacher and a fifteen-year-old student about what school life is like underground.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Nick Holland and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Arsenii and Yulia's story: Life after Azovstal
A husband and wife’s tale of imprisonment, torture and their campaign to free POWs.
Arsenii Fedosiuk, a lieutenant in Ukraine’s Azov Brigade, was one of the soldiers who fought defending the Azovstal steel works and was imprisoned, tortured and subsequently released by the Russians.
He’s in London with his wife, Yulia, as part of a campaign to put pressure on the Russian authorities to return their Prisoners of War, and came into the Ukrainecast studio.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Irena Taranyuk. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Nick Holland. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Is Ukraine still happy with President Zelensky?
Could Ukraine host fresh elections? How could the war end? Do we believe Mike Pompeo’s interpretation of how Donald Trump would end the war in 24 hours?
Victoria and Jamie are joined by General Sir Richard Barrons, former commander of the UK's Joint Forces Command, to answer these questions from you… and more.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Jamie Coomarasamy. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Mike Pompeo: How could Trump end the war in 24 hours?
Donald Trump’s former secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, tells Ukrainecast what his old boss really thinks about Ukraine, and what another Trump presidency could mean for the war.
He also talks about whether he’d take another top job in the White House.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Chris Flynn with Cordelia Hemming Arsenii Sokolov, and Charlie Henry. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russia attacks Kharkiv: The new frontline?
Russia has launched a surprise offensive into the Kharkiv region, in one of its most significant ground attacks since the start of the war. So is this the start of the much anticipated summer offensive? We hear from Olesiia, a Kharkiv resident, who fled the city with her children, and says the last few days reminds her of the beginning of the full scale invasion. And friend of the podcast, Mark Galeotti, explains why Vladimir Putin has replaced his defence minister with an economist.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Charlie Henry, Natasha Mayo and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Eurovision: How important is it to Ukraine?
What does the competition mean for Ukrainians?
Lucy is joined by Eurovision reporter Daniel Rosney, who is in the Swedish city of Malmo, which plays host to Eurovision's grand final on Saturday.
Tymofii Muzychuk, who won Eurovision in 2022 with the Kalush Orchestra, tells us what life has been like since their performance and why the song contest matters so much to his country.
And we catch up with Ukraine’s Eurovision TV commentator, Timur Miroshnychenko, who will again be covering the competition from a bunker.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producers were Hannah Montgomery and Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Why is Victory Day such a big deal in Russia?
Vladimir Putin has been sworn in as Russia's president for a new six-year term, just days before Russia’s annual Victory Day military parade on 9 May.
But why does this annual event, marking victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, matter so much to Russia now?
We speak to Alexander Goncharov a former Russian military officer, who’s now head of the World War Two veterans organisation in Moscow.
And we discuss Victory Day’s symbolism with Russia editor Steve Rosenberg and Patricia Lewis from Chatham House.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Charlie Henry and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: 800 days, what is the price for peace?
It’s 800 days since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We answer your questions on whether Russia has used chemical weapons, could Western troops ever be deployed, what the prospects are for peace, and at what cost?
To help do this Victoria and Vitaly are joined by two friends of the podcast: Samantha de Bendern, and Newsnight’s Mark Urban.
And we hear from inside the town at the epicentre of the fighting in eastern Ukraine, Chasiv Yar. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Ivana Davidovic, Nick Sturdee and Charlie Henry. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The mayor of Bakhmut: a town that no longer exists
Ukraine's longest-serving official on death, exile and Vladimir Putin...
Victoria and Vitaly speak to Oleksiy Reva, the mayor of Bakhmut, who has been in his position since 1990.
The town he runs was the focus of one of the bloodiest battles of the war so far, and is now mostly in ruin.
He discusses losing friends and colleagues, what he’d like to say to Vladimir Putin and his hopes to one day return to Bakhmut.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Elliot Ryder. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: Is the US's $61bn aid package enough?
We answer your questions on the US aid package for Ukraine: when will it be felt on the frontline and will it have an impact on the war?
To help do this Victoria and Vitaly are joined by the former head of the US Army in Europe, General Ben Hodges, who also gives his assessment on whether Ukraine can win.
And, we hear from Steve Rosenberg in Moscow who shares some news about his friend Valentina, who used to work in a newspaper kiosk.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Elliot Ryder and Miriam Quayyum. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
From the frontline: How can US aid change the war?
A soldier and civilian discuss the $61 billion military package to Ukraine…
Victoria and Vitaly hear from “Ostap”, who is fighting in the Donetsk Oblast and from friend of the podcast, Olga in the front-line city of Kherson. They share their hopes on what the US aid package could mean for their country’s fight against Russia.
But will Ukraine simply run out of weapons again? Or can this be a turning point? Ann Marie Dailey, a policy researcher at RAND think tank dissects what this all could mean for the future of the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: How many Russian soldiers have died?
BBC Russian reporter Olga Ivshina talks to Victoria and Vitaly about her investigation into Russian military deaths since the start of the war.
And Professor Michael Clarke, defence and security analyst, answers your questions about the latest from the frontline, foreign aid for Ukraine, the use of AI in combat and much more.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming, Ivana Davidovic and Elliot Ryder. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
A tale of two soldiers: Can Ukraine actually win?
Frontline fighters on the Russian threat and the prospects for peace…
Victoria and James are joined by Yaryna, who’s been serving in Ukraine’s armed forces since 2020, and a recent recruit who goes by the call-sign ‘Logan’.
They discuss the current situation on the battle field, whether a new mobilisation law is enough and the prospect of Ukraine failing to win this war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Hanna Chornous, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Q&A: How can Ukraine grow its army?
On today’s Ukrainecast we’re answering your questions on our recent David Cameron interview, Kyiv’s attempts to boost its troop numbers and the continued hold-up of the US military aid package in Congress.
To help do this, we’re joined by Patricia Lewis from Chatham House and BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Cordelia Hemming, Miranda Slade, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could Russia take Kharkiv?
Why is Russia targeting Ukraine’s second city of Kharkiv? It’s suffered extensive damage from months of Russian bombardment since the full-scale invasion and Ukrainian officials have said the city might be the target of a future Russian offensive.
We hear from a resident and speak to the city’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov.
The BBC’s Sarah Rainsford tells us what life is like in Kharkiv, and Dara Massicot from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discusses the likelihood of any future Russian takeover.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor was Alex Lewis. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The David Cameron Interview
The British Foreign Secretary, Lord David Cameron, speaks exclusively to Ukrainecast. He says he has ruled out western boots on the ground in Ukraine, but acknowledged that the "war will be lost if the allies don't step up".
Today’s episode is hosted by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Cordelia Hemming, Elliot Ryder, Arsenii Sokolov, and Rosie Strawbridge. The production crew was Lee Durant and Xavier Vanpevenaege. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Photo credit: Tolga Akmen/EPA.
Is Russia waging a “holy war”?
Last week the Russian Orthodox Church approved a document that branded the full-scale invasion of Ukraine a “holy war.”
So what role does religion play in the Ukraine war?
The BBC’s Harry Farley and Lucy Ash, the author of the upcoming book "The Baton and the Cross: Russia's church from Pagans to Putin", try to make sense of it all.
We also hear from Father Andriy Zelinskyy, chief military chaplain for the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church about how he offers spiritual guidance and comfort on the frontline.
Today’s episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Elliot Ryder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Moscow Attack: How could it Impact the War?
Top Russian officials have directly accused Ukraine and the West of being involved in the deadly Moscow concert hall attack, after it was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group.
We speak to one woman, Valentina, who lives in Russia, about how safe she feels in the country and whether she’s taking the Kremlin’s line.
And two Kremlinologists, Angela Stent from Georgetown and Hanne Notte from the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, discuss whether this could result in an escalation in fighting.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
A million without power: Ukraine's blackout
A wave of Russian strikes have hammered Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving at least five dead.
We speak to Kharkiv resident Nataliya, who joins us from a special bunker in the city, where officials say 700 000 were left with no electricity.
Also, we hear from one eyewitness who lives next door to one of the targets - Ukraine's largest dam, the DniproHES, which was hit eight times according to Ukrainian officials
And we get the latest from the BBC’s Sarah Rainsford in Kyiv where officials are calling this the largest missile and drone attack on infrastructure of the war so far, and Glen Grant, a military analyst explains the potential strategy behind these strikes.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Sam Dickinson. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Could drones change the course of the war?
There’s been a spike in drone attacks by both Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainians have recently targeted Russian oil refineries, while Russians have used drones to target the port of Odesa.
So could drones change the course of the war?
Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and drone expert Samuel Bendett unpick the strategies and technologies behind drone warfare.
And we hear from drone operator Ruda, a mother-of-two, who trains Ukrainians how to pilot drones.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Russian Election: Putin’s Predictable Landslide
President Putin has claimed a landslide victory in an election that featured no genuine competition. The last day of voting was marked by silent protests at polling stations.
But how does his expected victory matter? And what might securing a fifth term mean for the war in Ukraine? Lyse and Vitaly are joined by the BBC’s Russia editor Steve Rosenberg.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russian Elections: Your questions answered
Russia’s elections have kicked off and bizarre scenes have already begun to unfold at polling stations across the country - including live pop performances, free pancakes, a bride and groom and a life-sized cardboard cut-out of Tucker Carlson.
President Putin is considered very likely to win, despite having already served four terms - the ex-KGB spy, 71, is already Russia’s longest-serving leader since Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.
Valerie Hopkins, international correspondent for The New York Times and Francis Scarr, who monitors Russia for the BBC, answer all of your questions on this, the most unusual of elections.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Matt Hewitt. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Would Putin push the nuclear button?
How seriously should we take Putin’s nuclear weapons threats?
During his last address to the nation, the Russian president reiterated his threat of nuclear action against the West - so how worried should we be?
Dr Patricia Lewis, a nuclear physicist and arms control expert joins Boris Bondarev, a former Russian diplomat who quit following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, to give their take.
And why has the Pope caused uproar in Ukraine?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Fiona Hill: Working for Trump, Dining with Putin
With one week to go until Russia’s presidential elections, former Trump adviser and foreign affairs specialist Fiona Hill tells Ukrainecast why Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine is also about the future security of Europe.
She also gives her take on the implications of another potential Trump White House.
And, how she ate dinner with Vladimir Putin, served by the late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Ivana Davidovic and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
The Economic War: How Hard Are Sanctions Hitting Russia?
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it has been subject to thousands of sanctions from the West - but despite this, Russia’s economy is thriving.
So how is the world’s most sanctioned country getting around them? And what does this tell us about how effective sanctions are? Nataliia Shapoval, Vice President for Policy Research at Kyiv School of Economics and the BBC’s economics editor, Faisal Islam, unpack whether sanctions against Russia are having the desired impact.
Also, we hear from a London-based Russian former billionaire who had his bank accounts frozen following the invasion.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Navalny’s Funeral: Is protest dead in Putin’s Russia?
There were unprecedented scenes at Alexei Navalny’s funeral in Moscow on Friday, as thousands turned out to pay their respects to the dead opposition leader.
But will there be consequences? And can people meaningfully protest in modern-day Russia?
We hear from one woman who’s previously been arrested for protesting against the war and why she won’t stop.
And Dan Storyev from the monitoring group OVD-info English discusses the challenges facing what’s left of democracy in Russia.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. Francis Scarr provided translation. The producers were Ivana Davidovic, Cordelia Hemming and Keiligh Baker. The technical producers were Sam Dickinson and Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What’s happening on the front-line?
How significant are Russia’s recent gains on the battlefront?
Karolina Hird, from the Institute for the Study of War, explains the current situation on the “dynamic” front-line, what a good year would look like for Ukraine and why the fall of Avdiivka isn’t as strategically important for Russia as it may seem.
And we hear from one Ukrainian soldier on why he decided to sign up to fight just six months ago.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Keiligh Baker, Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Two Years On: The Global Story
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine enters its third year.
This is today's episode from The Global Story, and we thought you might want to listen to it.
A surgeon in a wheelchair, an indomitable grandmother, and a man taking care of eight cats in a bombed-out flat: just some of people the BBC’s Andrew Harding has met on repeat trips to Ukraine’s front lines. He and the BBC’s Olga Robinson, who has family in Russia and Ukraine, talk to Katya Adler about the power of individual stories, two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Two Years On: Life after the front-line
Today marks exactly two years since Russia launched it’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In this episode, Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Serhiy, a Ukrainian soldier who experienced catastrophic injuries when his vehicle was blown up by an anti-tank landmine in November 2022. Along with his wife Valeriia, he reflects on the reality of life after the front-line - and his big plans to make Ukraine a more disability-friendly country for injured veterans like himself once the war is over.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Two Years On: Your Questions Answered
Saturday marks exactly two years of this conflict. On today’s special episode, recorded in collaboration with the Global News Podcast, BBC experts from across the world answer YOUR questions on the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Oliver Conway and Vitaly Shevchenko, with the BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, in Kyiv, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg in Moscow and BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson. It was made in collaboration with the Global News Podcast team. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Two Years On: How will America help Ukraine?
In today’s Ukrainecast, the latest in our week of daily episodes to mark two years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, Vitaly speaks to Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the UN.
They discuss what America can realistically do to help bring the war to an end, if - and when - the $60bn of promised aid will actually get to Ukraine and what a Donald Trump presidency could mean for Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Keiligh Baker. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Two Years On: What can the UN do?
For this special episode, the Ukrainian Ambassador to the United Nations, Sergiy Kyslytsya, tells us what it was like sitting at the UN table as news of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine broke.
He also talks to Victoria and Vitaly about how much power the UN has, whether it can stop the war and if accusations that it’s just a ‘talking shop’ hold any weight.
They also look to the future and how peace might be achieved.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producer was Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Two Years On: Banned from challenging Putin
Russia's election commission has disqualified anti-war challenger Boris Nadezhdin from standing as a candidate in next month's presidential vote.
He joins Victoria and Vitaly to discuss why he was barred, why he won’t stop campaigning for peace and his vow to follow in the footsteps of fierce Putin critic Alexei Navalny following his death.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Oscar Winner '20 Days in Mariupol' Revisited
Last November we were joined in the studio by Ukrainian journalist and writer, Mstyslav Chernov, who made the film '20 Days in Mariupol’. It’s just won the Oscar for Best Documentary feature, so we thought it would be a good opportunity to remind you of the episode. He described what it was like to shoot the documentary from inside Mariupol, and chronicles the Russian invasion of the Ukrainian port city in 2022.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Alexei Navalny: Putin’s Rival Reported Dead
Putin’s main rival, opposition politician Alexei Navalny, is dead according to the Russian prison service. An outspoken critic of the Russian leader, Navalny, 47, was serving a 19-year sentence in a Siberian jail when his death was announced on Friday morning.
BBC correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who was herself expelled from Russia, explains what we know so far - and if the Kremlin could face any consequences. And Georgian-Russian writer Boris Akunin, a long-standing critic of Putin and personal friend of Navalny, gives his reaction to the news.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Tim Walklate and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Where's my mum? Sashko’s search
Sashko and his mum were separated after being captured by Russian soldiers in Mariupol. Now 13, Sashko hasn’t seen or heard from his mother for almost two years. Along with his grandmother, he tells Victoria and Irena their story and how they’ve not given up on their search for her.
And are Nato members pulling their weight when it comes to defence spending? Donald Trump claims he’d encourage hostile states to attack Nato countries who he says aren’t paying enough. Victoria and Irena discuss this with Professor Katarzyna Zysk, from the Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies, and put some listener questions to her. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Irena Taranyuk. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Putin's Interview With Tucker Carlson: What We Learned
In his first interview with a Western reporter since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, Russian president Vladimir Putin sat down with former Fox News host-turned-online commentator Tucker Carlson.
Over the course of a two-hour long, sometimes rambling, interview, Putin gave a 30-minute history lesson and said that ending the war is “simple” - the West just needs to stop supplying weapons to Ukraine.
BBC’s Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg and Professor Angela Stent, an expert specialising in US and European relations with Russia, at Georgetown University in Washington, help Victoria and Vitaly unpick what Putin said - and how it might further his agenda with the American public.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Crimea: Ten years under Russian control
Ten years ago this month Crimea was occupied and then annexed by Russia. We find out what it’s like to live there now. We also speak to journalist, film-maker and Russia specialist, Nick Sturdee. He’s interviewed families who have relatives currently being held prisoner in Crimea. Victoria and Vitaly also chat to Maria Tomak, head of the Crimea Platform, which is based in Ukraine and tries to raise awareness of the situation in Crimea.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How do young people feel about being called up to fight?
As Ukraine’s much discussed mobilisation bill returns to parliament, we catch up with friend of the podcast and student Vitalii Pashchenko, to find out how he and his friends feel about the conscription age being lowered from 27 to 25.
He tells us about life in Kyiv, and why his family have decided to return to Ukraine after fleeing to Poland at the start of the war.
Vitaly also speaks to Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, Andriy Kostin, and his UK counterpart, Victoria Prentis. They reveal how Ukraine is investigating war crimes and seeking justice - and how the UK is assisting in this work.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Ivana Davidovic, Cordelia Hemming and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
How has the war changed the world?
The latest series of the award-winning BBC documentary Putin vs The West delves into the first year of the war through the eyes of some of its key figures - including President Zelensky, then British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Director Tim Stirzaker explains the challenges of documenting a war when it’s very much on-going, and how the team managed to get the Russian ambassador to the UN to speak candidly on camera. And Natia Seskuria, a professor of Russian politics, breaks down the latest news from Russia, from an anti-war rock group facing deportation from Thailand to Putin’s only election rival vowing to end the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Russian defectors: How to escape the military
After the downing of the Russian plane on Wednesday, Vitaly speaks to Petro Yatsenko, the Ukrainian spokesman for the coordination for the treatment of prisoners of war. Victoria and Vitaly also discuss the successes of his team’s ‘I want to live’ hotline that helps Russian soldiers defect.
And they’re joined by author and Time correspondent, Simon Shuster, to talk about his new book ‘The Showman’. It follows President Zelensky and his team in the lead up to the full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. They discuss how the President has changed over the course of the war, and if being a comedy actor has helped him in his presidential role.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Clare Williamson and Keiligh Baker. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Extra episode: Russian plane crash
A Russian plane has been shot down near the Russian-Ukraine border. Russia claims it was carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war, who were on their way to a prisoner swap. Ukraine claims it wasn’t told to secure airspace around Belgorod for the transportation of PoWs, as has happened in previous prisoner swaps. Earlier, Ukraine had claimed the plane had been carrying Russian weapons. So, who is to blame and what was on the plane? Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Olga Robinson of BBC Verify to discuss the latest.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producer was Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Blasts in Ukraine and Russia: What do we know?
Several cities in Ukraine were hit this morning in the latest wave of Russian missile attacks, killing at least seven people and injuring dozens more. The assaults come after a series of blasts at the weekend in Russian-held Donetsk and St Petersburg.
The BBC’s Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, and BBC Monitoring’s Russia reporter, Francis Scarr, explain the significance of attacks on Russian soil, plus the importance of Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s address to the United Nations.
Victoria and Vitaly also speak to the coach of a Ukrainian football team for amputee veterans injured during the war.
Today’s episode is hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Conscription crackdown: Ukraine gets tougher
With little progress being made on either side of the front line, Ukraine is also facing a challenge when it comes to the recruitment of new soldiers. A bill to increase the number of people who would be eligible to be conscripted recently stalled in the Ukrainian parliament. Victoria and Vitaly speak to Lily, who hasn’t seen her husband for nearly two years, after he volunteered to fight at the start of the war. She’s calling on the government to put a much shorter time limit on how long soldiers can serve. And Veronika Melkozerova, from Politico Ukraine, explains how many more soldiers are needed in Ukraine and what the situation is with the Russian army.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Matt Hewitt. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Lyudmila’s story: Life in the notorious Izolyatsia Prison
Lyudmila Huseynova was living and working in the Ukrainian border town of Novoazovs’k when she was arrested in 2019. As a Ukrainian patriot who refused to accept Russian citizenship, her actions angered Russian-backed separatists in the area, and she was taken to the notorious Izolyatsia prison.
She tells Victoria and Vitaly about life in one of the world's most infamous prisons, and how she found out about the full-scale invasion of Ukraine while in captivity.
And Samantha de Bendern from Chatham House explains what’s been happening at the World Economic Forum in Davos, as President Zelensky addresses world leaders there.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Sunak visits Zelensky in Kyiv
The UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, announced the military aid package on a surprise visit to Ukraine where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. James Landale is travelling with the PM and sent us an update from on the ground.
The Economist’s Defence editor, Shashank Joshi, is back with us to help explain what the visit and the money means. And we get reaction to how this has been received in Ukraine from former defence official, Alexander Khara.
Also on today’s programme, we hear from Anastasia Taylor-Lind, a poet and photojournalist who has spent a decade documenting the war in Donbas.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Cordelia Hemming. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Bombs Over Belgorod
What’s it like living in the Russian city under attack?
We hear from a man in Belgorod, the Russian border city that Ukraine is targeting with missiles.
Twenty-five people were killed and more than 100 others hurt there on 30 December, in what was one of the deadliest attacks on Russia since the full scale invasion. Missiles continue to be fired.
Russia editor Steve Rosenberg is on to tell us how Russians are reacting, and what it means for the future of the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Chris Flynn. The producers were Cordelia Hemming, Ivana Davidovic, Ben Tavener and Clare Williamson. The technical producers were Jack Graysmark and Philip Bull. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Captured, imprisoned, tortured: Anna’s story
Anna Olsen was working as an army paramedic in Ukraine’s 36th Brigade when she was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol.
The mother-of-one experienced psychological and physical torture before she was released in a prisoner exchange, after more than six months in Russian captivity. She tells us her story.
And the BBC’s Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, explains the importance of the latest prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine - and why Middle Eastern countries have been mediating the process.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Cordelia Hemming and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Grim New Year: Russia and Ukraine Attack
An update on the major aerial assaults by both sides.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko, Olga Robinson and James Waterhouse.
The producer was Cordelia Hemming. The technical producers were Matt Hewitt and Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
What could 2024 hold for Ukraine?
As the war in Ukraine approaches its second anniversary, what does 2024 hold for the conflict?
BBC correspondents from across the world join us for a one-off special, looking at how elections in the UK, US and Russia will affect funding and the frontline.
Europe editor Katya Adler, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg, Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and US State Department correspondent Barbara Plett Usher join us to answer your questions.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Feeding Ukraine’s army over the festive season
What's it like to fight for your country over the festive season, when the rest of the world is celebrating with their family and friends?
We hear from an officer who heads an artillery reconnaissance team about what last Christmas was like - and his hopes for this holiday.
And Chef Zhenya has set up a military kitchen in Zaporizhya that makes 68,000 meals a week for a military unit. He tells us how he does it - and what he’s putting on the menu to celebrate the end of 2023.
And the BBC’s Irena Taranyuk has been busy cooking kutia, the traditional Ukrainian Christmas dish, which Victoria gets to try for the first time.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The programme was made by Clare Williamson. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Christmas special: Ukrainian bedtime stories
We revisit the bedtime story programme for children separated from loved ones because of the war in Ukraine.
We speak to Maryna, who is living in The Netherlands with her daughter, while her parents are still in Kyiv. They explain how important it is to hear family voices reading traditional Ukrainian stories.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukrainian Christmas Carols: A Ukrainecast special
It’s our final episode before Christmas and Ukrainecast has invited some of the Songs for Ukraine chorus, from London's Royal Opera House, to join us in the Radio 3 Classical Music studio.
As well as singing two traditional Ukrainian Christmas carols, we hear the stories of four members of the choir and conductor Danny Parashchak explains the importance of the songs.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. Today’s episode was made my Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Ross Saunders. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
BBC investigation: Russian soldiers treated like ‘meat’
A new investigation by BBC Eye, using just open source material and social media posts, follows the journey of a young Russian solider - from his conscription and training to his disappearance on the bloody Ukrainian front-line. Journalist Ned Davies reveals how they produced the shocking documentary.
And despite still being at war, Ukraine has started to re-build damaged cities like Bucha - often with large sums of money. BBC Radio 4 reporter Tim Whewell visited the city to meet the people behind the projects and spoke to some of those who are making allegations of corruption.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Olga Robinson. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Vladimir Putin Phone-In
President Putin has held his first televised news conference since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. Russia editor Steve Rosenberg gives his verdict on the annual show.
And after a long night of intense talks, Ukraine is one step closer to joining the European Union - although long-term Putin ally Viktor Orban, of Hungary, vetoed a €50bn aid package to Kyiv. Europe correspondent Sofia Bettiza, who was at the summit in Brussels, explains what happened.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker and the producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Zelensky's battles: At home and abroad
President Zelensky is facing a challenging time. At home, his rule is becoming increasingly autocratic says the Mayor of Kyiv, Vitaly Klitckhko, and his Commander in Chief, General Zaluzhny, has also been openly critical.
As he heads to the US to secure a much needed funding package worth $61billion, Victoria and Vitaly talk to Lara Seligman, Pentagon Correspondent for Politico, and Samantha de Bendern from the think tank Chatham House, who is in Kyiv, to shed some light on the challenges facing President Zelensky.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Missing Mariupol Defenders: When will he come home?
What’s life like for the women left behind following the capture of the Mariupol defenders?
During the siege of Mariupol, thousands of Ukrainian soldiers held out for several months inside the Azov steel works, until they were eventually instructed to surrender in May 2022.
Now prisoners of war, many have not been heard of for months.
We’re joined by two women who haven’t seen their husband and brother in over a year and a half, but still hold out hope.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is Russia breaking the rules of war?
Ukraine has again accused Russia of committing war crimes, as a viral video appears to show two unarmed Ukrainian soldiers being shot dead as they attempt to surrender. We look at whether a war crime has been committed, with Kateryna Stepanenko from the Institute for the Study of War, which has been closely monitoring the conflict since day one. And six months on from the Kakhovka Dam explosion, we explore what is happening in the region and see what archaeologists have found since the waters subsided.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. It was made by Keiligh Baker and the producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Disinformation War: How Does the BBC Spot Fake News?
Geolocation, misinformation, verification… we answer your questions on how the BBC monitors and reports on the most important events of the war in Ukraine.
Olga Robinson, an editor at BBC Monitoring and Verify specialising in Russian disinformation, and Francis Scarr, a journalist at BBC Monitoring, join Vitaly in the Ukrainecast studio and reveal all.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Keiligh Baker. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
How Will Winter Impact The War?
As Ukraine and Russia are hit by “the storm of the century,” how does winter weather affect troops on the front line? The BBC’s Security correspondent, Frank Gardner, and Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse discuss who stands to benefit from bad weather - and Russia’s biggest drone attack on Kyiv yet. And Ukrainian journalist Maria Romanenko, who fled Kyiv in March 2022, joins us from Manchester, where she hosts walking tours for newly arrived Ukrainian refugees.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and Irena Taranyuk. It was made by Keiligh Baker and the producers were Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Lucy Boast. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Why did Putin pardon a cannibal?
Last week Sonya’s girlfriend, artist Sasha Skochilenko, was convicted of spreading "false information" about the Russian army for putting anti-war stickers on grocery products.
The same day she was sentenced to seven years in a penal colony, Putin pardoned a convicted murderer. Dr Jade McGlynn, Research Fellow, The Department of War Studies at King's College, reflects on what this development means for Russian society, and whether Putin’s “peace” comments have any weight behind them.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
It was made by Keiligh Baker with Lucy Boast, Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Mariupol: Siege and occupation
What’s life like inside the Russian-occupied city?
We’re joined in the studio by Ukrainian journalist and writer, Mstyslav Chernov, who made the film '20 Days in Mariupol’. He describes what it was like to shoot the documentary from inside Mariupol, which chronicles the Russian invasion of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol in 2022.
And Zhanna Bezpiatchuk from the BBC Ukrainian service gives us an insight into everyday life there under Russian occupation today.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The Ukrainians dodging the draft
Thousands of men have fled Ukraine to avoid conscription, according to a BBC investigation. The BBC’s Kateryna Khinkulova joins us in the studio to explore why, as well as the moral dilemma facing those who attempt to escape the draft.
Sam Cranny-Evans from the London-based security think-tank, the Royal United Services Institute, examines how the war might pan out in the coming years.
And what does Lord Cameron’s visit to Kyiv tell us about British priorities?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov, Madeleine Drury and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Who Sabotaged the Nord Stream Pipeline?
A new investigation claims a Ukrainian military officer coordinated the attack on Russia's Nord Stream pipelines. But was he acting as a maverick? Or on behalf of Ukraine?
We hear from James Waterhouse in Kyiv and Newsnight’s diplomatic editor Mark Urban, and get the latest update on the "stalemate" war.
And we catch up with Olga, a teacher from Kherson, who has lived through Russian occupation, constant bombardment and floods. She tells us what life was like under Russian occupation and how that compares with life one year after her city was liberated.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov, Madeleine Drury and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The teenager who fled Kharkiv
In February, Ukrainecast collaborated with BBC Newsnight on a live show to mark the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
One of the guests was Elya, who was just 17 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
After two weeks hiding with her family in their building’s basement, a missile strike on another floor prompted her to flee. She reunites with Victoria and Vitaly to discuss what has happened to her since.
And the BBC’s Sofia Bettiza discusses Ukraine’s chances of joining the EU.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Has the counter-offensive failed?
After Ukraine’s commander-in-chief described the war as being at a stalemate, and President Zelensky’s subsequent denial that his country’s efforts are faltering, how is the counter-offensive progressing?
We’re joined by military analyst Justin Crump, Catherine Sendak from the Center for European Policy Analysis in Washington DC and hear from a soldier on the frontline.
Today’s episode is presented by James Waterhouse and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Matt Hewitt. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Ukraine’s Landmines: Your Questions Answered
How serious a threat are landmines to Ukraine?
Jasmine Dann from the Halo Trust in Mykolaiv and Paul Heslop at the UN Development Programme in Ukraine answer listener questions about the huge challenge of clearing the millions of landmines in Ukraine.
And we hear from the Economist’s Arkady Ostrovsky about his interview with the commander of Ukraine's armed forces, Valery Zaluzhny.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Antisemitic Attacks in Russia: A problem for Putin?
An antisemitic mob stormed Makhachkala airport in Dagestan over the weekend, looking for Jewish passengers arriving from Israel.
What could this violence mean for the Kremlin?
To answer this - and more - Victoria and Vitaly chat with author and journalist Oliver Bullough and Nina Khrushcheva, a professor of International Affairs at The New School in New York.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The New Wagner Mercenary Group?
Is private military group Redut taking the place of Wagner?
Since the death of Russian mercenary leader and oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, a number of groups have been vying to take the place of the Wagner mercenary group he built up. So who are they, what is the difference between them, and who are they recruiting? The BBC’s Lisa Fokht has been investigating...
And we hear from Ukrainian composer Iryna Gould delivering musical instruments to children in frontline towns. She tells us about the importance of music for young people in war zones.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Ukraine’s ‘stolen’ children: A mother's search for her son
A Ukrainian mother from Kherson whose teenage son was taken to a 'summer camp' by Russian soldiers talks about her epic journey to bring him home.
And award-winning film maker Shahida Tulaganova tells us about her new documentary, Ukraine’s Stolen Children.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Alex Collins. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
The ‘Poisoned’ Russian Reporter
An exiled journalist’s tale of pain and love of Russia…
Elena Kostyuchenko speaks to Victoria and Vitaly about reporting on the war in Ukraine, having a hit put out on her and German authorities launching an investigation into her attempted murder after she experienced a sudden - and debilitating - mysterious illness.
Also, Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg discusses what a trip to the hairdresser revealed about Russian public attitudes to the war, President Putin’s latest calendar and an update on an old friend of his.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Is a new battlefront emerging in Ukraine?
What winter and new weaponry means for the war…
Professor Michael Clarke and Russia analyst Anna Borshchevskaya discuss the importance of the eastern town of Avdiivka, President Putin’s visit to China and how a change in seasons might influence events on the battlefield.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Hanna’s story: Triplets born on day one of the war
One woman’s tale of adversity, bravery and hope.
Hanna Berezynets gave birth to triplets on February 24, 2022, the same day Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Just a few short hours after the three baby girls were safely delivered at a hospital in Chernihiv, the entire family had to flee to the medical facility’s bomb shelter.
Hanna joins Victoria to tell her story.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire. Translation was provided by Irena Taranyuk. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Keiligh Baker and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
What the Israel-Gaza conflict means for Ukraine
Could Russia use conflict in the Middle East to its advantage?
The BBC’s Frank Gardner joins Hanna Notte, a Berlin-based analyst on Russian policy in the Middle East, to discuss what’s been happening in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Today’s episode is presented by James Waterhouse and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Yulia Volovik, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Ukrainecast in Poland
Vitaly is in a Red Cross humanitarian aid centre in Przemysl, on the Polish-Ukrainian border, finding out what aid workers are doing to help Ukrainian refugees.
The BBC’s Kasia Madera, in North Macedonia, explains the up-coming Polish elections and attitudes towards the conflict in the rest of the region. Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Extra episode: One of the deadliest attacks of the war
President Zelensky says a Russian strike in the village of Hroza, in eastern Ukraine, has killed at least 51 people, including a six-year-old boy.
In this extra episode of Ukrainecast, Victoria is joined by James Waterhouse in Kyiv to find out what we know about the attack. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
What’s it like to be sentenced to death?
Former soldier Shaun Pinner was captured and imprisoned by Russian-backed forces in April 2022 while fighting in the Ukrainian military.
In that time, he says he was given electric shocks, tasered and stabbed in the leg.
He was also sentenced to death - but almost exactly one year ago, he and four other Britons were released after spending five months in a prison in eastern Ukraine.
And US Special Correspondent Katty Kay reveals why Congress ditched plans to give Kyiv another $6bn dollars, and the impact it will have on the Ukrainian front-line.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Keiligh Baker. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Evan Gershkovich: Six Months Behind Bars
It’s been six months since the Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich was detained by Russian authorities in March.
We’re joined by his friend, Eliot Brown, and his boss, Deborah Ball.
And Newsnight’s diplomatic editor, Mark Urban, is in the studio to talk about his experiences on the front-line of the conflict, where he joined the 24th Mechanised Brigade. His producer, Louis Harris-White is also on. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord TOPICS:
00:05 - Kremlin media operation 02:27 - Evan Gershkovich 14:47 - Mark Urban’s Ukraine trip
Why is Crimea so important?
Following recent the Ukrainian attack on the HQ of Russia's Black Sea fleet in Sevastopol, is Kyiv getting ready to retake the peninsula?
The BBC’s James Waterhouse and defence and security analyst Michael Clarke assess the significance of the Sevastopol strike and discuss the reported death the commander of the Black Sea Fleet.
And Maria Tomak, from the Mission of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, explains Ukraine’s plans for the future of Crimea.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Keiligh Baker, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
00:05 - Crimea teaser 01:16 - Crimea's history and identity 05:41 - Ukraine's increasing attacks on Crimea 08:29 - Russia's Black Sea fleet commander 15:49 - The future of Crimea
Natalia’s Story: Learning to Walk Again
A family of amputees learn to walk again.
We talk to Natalia Stepanenko, who was badly injured in the Kramatorsk railway attack last year. Both her and her 12 year old daughter Yana lost legs, while Natalia’s husband died in a separate attack soon after. After receiving treatment in California the family are back in Ukraine, trying to re-build their lives.
The BBC’s Orla Guerin explains what medical provisions exist for tens of thousands of Ukrainian amputees and tells us about the diplomatic spat between Ukraine and Poland.
And we get the latest on a missile attack which hit the HQ of Russia's Black Sea navy in Crimea.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
Translation was provided by Irena Taranyuk. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Alix Pickles and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
TOPICS:
00:05 - Amputee mother preview 02:05 - Crimea navy base attack 05:18 - Amputee mother 17:21 - Ukraine’s army of amputees 24:10 - News fatigue
How to report on a war
Three seasoned correspondents discuss the challenges of covering prolonged conflicts, in particular, the issue of “news fatigue”.
Chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet, international editor Jeremy Bowen and the BBC’s Quentin Sommerville talk about their experience of reporting in places like Bosnia, Afghanistan, and now, Ukraine - and how to keep you, the audience, interested and engaged…
They also discuss President Zelensky’s visit to the UN and the US and the latest developments in Ukraine’s counter-offensive.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Alix Pickles and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producers are Tim Walklate and Daniel Wittenberg. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
TOPICS:
00:05 - "News fatigue" and Ukraine 02:51 - How to cover a war 17:50 - Listener questions 18:53 - Zelensky's US visit and UNGA 23:34 - Counter-offensive update
Ukraine attacks in Crimea
Ukraine says it has damaged naval ships in the port of Sevastopol in Crimea and hit air defences. We ask Britain’s most recent defence attaché in Moscow, John Foreman whether Ukraine is stepping up its attacks on Crimea and how Russia could respond. North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un continues his state visit to Russia with a tour of an arms factory. He met President Putin on Wednesday but what did they talk about? The BBC’s Russia correspondent, Steve Rosenberg tells us how the event has been covered amidst speculation about a potential arms deal. Decoys are not a new method of fooling opponents in war and last year, mining and steel company, Metinvest started making them. Oleg Davydenko tells Ukrainecast how his company’s mock-ups are being used on the front line. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Niamh Hughes. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480 You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un to meet
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in Russia to meet president Vladimir Putin. The BBC’s Seoul Correspondent, Jean Mackenzie discusses what the two leaders want from their first get together in four years and whether the West should be worried.
Ukraine is one of the most heavily land-mined countries in the world with over 170,000 square kilometres of its territory being covered in them. The Halo Trust are helping Ukrainians remove thousands of landmines and its CEO James Cowan talks about the challenges that they’re facing and we hear from Volodymir, a Ukrainian soldier, who lost his foot on a mine during the counteroffensive.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko with Frank Gardner. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov, Josh Jenkins, Sam McLaren and Niamh Hughes. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Has Russia Moved on from Wagner?
The BBC’s Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg answers your questions on Yevgeny Prigozhin, pro-Kremlin talk shows and Kim Jong Un.
We catch up with the BBC’s Olga Malchevska who talks us through the latest attack which killed at least 17 people in Kostyantynivka.
And how McDonald’s has played a crucial role in aiding diplomacy between Washington and Kyiv.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
Is the F-16 Jet a Game-Changer?
Why has President Zelensky lobbied Western powers for the F-16? What are the challenges in getting them deployed? And could they shift the balance in the war for Ukraine’s skies?
To discuss this we’re joined by Dan ‘Two-Dogs’ Hampton, a retired US Air Force pilot who has flown 151 combat missions in the F-16.
Also, the Guardian’s Emma Graham-Harrison and the BBC’s James Waterhouse discuss the dismissal of Ukraine’s Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Sam McLaren. The technical producers were Antonio Fernandes and Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
TOPICS:
00:05 - Why might Putin meet Kim Jong Un? 03:14 - Reaction to the dismissal of Ukraine's defence minister 14:32 - Are F-16 fighter jets a game-changer? 26:59 - Draft dodgers in Ukraine's army
Ukraine’s counter-offensive: has it made progress?
Despite the reported capture of the village of Robotyne, is Ukraine making any meaningful gains in its counter-offensive?
To take stock of how it’s going, Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Riley Bailey from the Institute for the Study of War and Professor Michael Clarke, a defence and security analyst based in London.
Also, veteran war reporter for CNN, Christiane Amanpour, joins us from Kyiv to discuss the possible scenarios as to how the war could end.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Sam McLaren, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord TOPICS:
00:05 - Ukraine’s Foreign Minister tells critics to ‘shut up’ 03:20 - What is the point of Ukraine’s counter-offensive? 07:48 - How much progress is being made? 13:19 - Where might the counter-offensive end up? 18:00 - Christiane Amanpour
Back to School
What is it like in the classroom during wartime?
Two Ukrainian teachers, Lesia Yurchyshyn in Kyiv and Olga Hrihoryeva in Kherson, discuss their differing experiences of what teaching has been like since the war began, from remote learning to bomb shelter classrooms.
New York Times correspondent Valerie Hopkins joins us from St Petersburg where she’s searching cemetery-by-cemetery to find the location of Yevgeny Prigozhin’s funeral.
And the BBC’s Olga Ivshina joins Russia analyst Mark Galeotti to examine how the Wagner chief’s death is going down in Russia.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
TOPICS:
00:05 - Pro-Kremlin TV 01:48 - Prigozhin Russia reaction 05:53 - Prigozhin funeral 13:12 - Back to school in Ukraine
Prigozhin Plane Crash: What Next for Putin?
Does the Wagner chief’s reported death strengthen the Russian president?
Lyse, Vitaly and journalist Gabriel Gatehouse unpick the latest developments surrounding Wednesday's plane crash, and the presumed death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner mercenary group.
And Kremlin critic Bill Browder suggests that Prigozhin’s presumed death is “the beginning of the purge” and gives an insight of what it’s like to be a marked man in Moscow.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Sam McLaren, Josh Jenkins, Beth Rose and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
Prigozhin Presumed Dead
In an extra episode of Ukrainecast, Adam Fleming and Vitaly Shevchenko are joined by the BBC’s Frank Gardner and Lou Osborne from the monitoring group All Eyes on Wagner to discuss the news that the Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has been presumed dead following a plane crash.
The producers were Chris Flynn and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
The Midwife in the Bomb Shelter
One woman’s story of helping to deliver 136 babies in 42 days from a warzone.
Midwife Vira Tselyk tells Lucy and Vitaly about the 42 days she spent working from a bunker, helping to deliver over a hundred and thirty babies.
We also talk to Emma Mateo, who got caught in the deadly attack in Chernihiv - where a six-year-old girl is among seven people who died after a Russian missile strike on the historic city of Chernihiv in northern Ukraine.
And, the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse discusses the thousands of men avoiding the draft.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Josh Jenkins, Sam McLaren and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
TOPICS:
01:44 - The midwife in the bomb shelter 17:48 - Chernihiv attack 25:12 - The men avoiding the Ukrainian draft
Who is Winning the Drone War?
Why drones are so important in the war for both Ukraine and Russia.
How do drones work? Who makes them? And, crucially, who’s winning the drone production race?
The BBC’s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner and Dr Marina Miron from King’s College London talk us through it all.
And, Politico journalist Eva Hartog gives her fist interview after being kicked out of Russia following a decade of living and reporting from Moscow.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Paige Neal-Holder and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord.
TOPICS:
00:04 - Viktoria Kovalenko 03:23 - Drone warfare 09:45 - Listener questions 15:30 - Eva Hartog
Viktoria’s Story: Adjusting to UK Life
Eight months in the country after losing her husband and daughter.
Ukrainecast catches up with Viktoria Kovalenko, whose story we’ve followed since the early days of the war. In the most tragic of circumstances, her husband and 12-year-old daughter Veronika were killed in front of her when they tried to escape the town of Chernihiv last year.
She then spent weeks hiding in bunkers while looking after her baby daughter Varvara, who also survived the attack, and eventually found her way to Poland. Late last year she and Varvara were able to move here to the UK.
After eight months of living in the UK, how is she adjusting to life now?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
Translation was provided by Irena Taranyuk. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
If you have been affected by any of the issues mentioned in this episode, you can find help and support here https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Brutally Beaten in Chechnya
How one Russian reporter is risking her life for journalism.
We catch up with prominent investigative reporter Yelena Milashina who was severely attacked moments after flying in to the Russian republic of Chechnya.
We’re also joined by the BBC’s Sarah Rainsford who’s in Poland, where there is growing concern over the Wagner Group’s presence in neighbouring Belarus.
And the BBC’s Arsenii Sokolov has been investigating the Russian convicts released to fight with the mercenary group, who’ve been accused of new crimes, including murder.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Sam McLaren, Paige Neal-Holder, and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
TOPICS:
02:27 - Yelena Milashina 14:11 - Belarus-Poland tensions 19:35 - Wagner reoffenders
The Russian Fighting For Ukraine
Why one man says he’s turned his back on Moscow to fight with Ukraine.
We speak to "Apostle", a member of the Liberty of Russia Legion, one of the groups reportedly responsible for the cross-border raids in the Russian city of Belgorod earlier this year.
The FT’s Ukraine correspondent Christopher Miller is in the studio to discuss his new book and reflect on his time in the Pokrovsk, in Ukraine, where at least seven people lost their lives in an overnight attack by Russia.
And BBC Verify’s Olga Robinson talks about why Russians are hunting for cheap flats in the occupied city of Mariupol.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
TOPICS:
01:54 - Pokrovsk attack 06:00 - Mariupol residents 12:33 - Listener questions 16:30 - Russian fighter
Two families torn apart by war
Why going back home to Ukraine is so heart breaking.
Fergal Keane returns to Ukraine with a refugee family to be reunited with their husband and father; they last saw each other 18 months ago.
Vitaly and Victoria catch up with Olga who has returned to Kherson after six weeks in the safety and calm of her children's home in Norway. She now faces constant shelling and her life is in danger, so why has she gone back?
And James Waterhouse talks us through today’s drone attack on the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk. The producers were Clare Williamson and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Moscow Under Attack
One woman's story of life in the Russian capital.
Moscow resident Masha describes life in the Russian capital, and security correspondent Frank Gardner examines whether, as President Zelensky suggests, war is coming back to the country.
Also, we check in on how the UK’s Homes for Ukraine scheme is going. Ukrainian national Marina and her former sponsor Francis reflect on their year living together.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Aiden Aslin: Life after a Death Sentence
Aiden Aslin, the British prisoner released by Russia, discusses his time behind bars, receiving the death sentence and his plans to return to Ukraine.
Also, Africa correspondent Andrew Harding and Beverly Ochieng from BBC Monitoring in Nairobi discuss the Russia-Africa summit and the continent’s relationship with the Kremlin.
And what does Yevgeny Prigozhin’s reappearance in St Petersburg tell us about President Putin’s position of strength?
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Odesa: A Week of Missile Strikes
Why is Russia targeting the historic port city after it withdrew from the grain deal?
We hear from James Waterhouse, who has spent the weekend in Odesa and visited the landmark Transfiguration Cathedral, which was hit by strikes. And opera singer Katerina Tsymbaliuk tells us what it was like to perform in the cathedral and why her city’s residents are so resilient.
Also, Nick Sturdee has been speaking to contacts in Donbas about life in this Russian-annexed part of Eastern Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Black Sea Ports Under Attack
Will the collapse of the UN grain deal and attack on port cities in Ukraine affect food security?
James Waterhouse joins us from a grain processing plant in Poltava and we also hear from Oksana Karabin, who works for Ukraine's biggest grain exporter Kernel. Their terminal was shelled this week destroying 60 tonnes of grain.
And we return to the issue of the forced deportation of Ukrainian children by Russia. We hear from Vice correspondent Isobel Yeung and the BBC’s Kateryna Khinkulova - two journalists who’ve been investigating the story for several months.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Lyse Doucet.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
What happened on the Crimean bridge?
We find out more about the bombing of the Kerch bridge between occupied Crimea and Russia. How much damage has been done and by whom? Olga Robinson from BBC Verify talks through the evidence.
And is Vladimir Putin’s homophobia driving LGBT acceptance amongst Ukrainians? Mikhail Zygar, the Russian journalist, writer and film maker tells us why he hopes his own marriage will strike a blow for gay equality in Russia, while Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun talks about passing a law to allow same-sex partnerships in Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Lyse Doucet. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Frank McWeeny. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Should Ukraine be more grateful for Western weapons?
Should Ukraine be more grateful to the West for its military and financial support?
After the UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said "people want to see gratitude" from Kyiv, BBC security correspondent Gordon Corera and Politico’s Lara Seligman look at the big talking point from this week’s Nato summit — and assess whether Ukraine should be pleased or disappointed by the commitments made.
And we hear from Dalia Stasevska, the Ukrainian-Finnish conductor at the first night of the BBC Proms, about why Russian musicians need to be pressured into using their platforms to criticise the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Nato's Ukraine Dilemma
What to expect from this week’s Nato summit. BBC Europe editor Katya Adler and former US general John Allen discuss what Ukraine can realistically hope for (when it comes to joining the alliance) at the two day gathering in Vilnius.
Also, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg is back with the latest on the whereabouts of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and what life is like in Moscow weeks after his failed mutiny.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Graduation day
It’s nearly 500 days since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began and it seems nowhere is safe. The western city of Lviv, a haven for refugees far away from the front line, has been hit by Russian missiles killing ten civilians. We hear from Olga Pona, a local journalist, about her night of terror sheltering in a basement car park.
We catch up with student and friend of the podcast Vitalii Pashchenko on his graduation day. He tells us about his plans for the future. And as US journalist Evan Gershkovich spends his 100th day in a Russian jail, we speak to his good friend Polina Ivanova about his wellbeing and the campaign to free him.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko with Frank Gardner. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham 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 1239480
The Ukraine Dam Disaster: Four Weeks On
Assessing the damage caused by the Kherson floods.
The BBC’s Andrew Harding updates us on the environmental, social and emotional impact caused by the Kakhovka dam breach, and we catch up again with Kherson resident Olga.
Also, we find out more about the attack on independent Russian journalist Elena Milashina in Chechnya, who appeared on last week’s Ukrainecast, with the BBC’s Sarah Rainsford and Tanya Lokshina from Human Rights Watch.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Which warlord will Putin turn to next?
And is Wagner setting up a camp in Belarus?
The BBC’s international editor Jeremy Bowen has hotfooted back from a whistle-stop trip to Kyiv to update us on what President Zelensky’s military advisers are thinking.
Artyom Shraibman, from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, explains how Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko stands to benefit from harbouring some of Putin’s nuclear warheads.
And we hear from independent Russian journalist Elena Milashina on the role Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov might play as Vladimir Putin seeks to shore up his position within the Kremlin.
Today’s episode is hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Stephanie Mitcalf, Jack Taylor, Drew Hyndman and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
Putin and Prigozhin: Your Questions Answered
After a dramatic weekend, we are joined by BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner to answer your questions on the failed rebellion.
We discuss what comes next for Prigozhin and his mercenaries with Lou Osborn, from the monitoring group All Eyes on Wagner.
Also, we explore Vladimir Putin’s future with Jade McGlynn, a research fellow at King’s College London and author of ‘Russia’s War’ and ‘Memory Makers: The Politics of the Past in Putin’s Russia’.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Stephanie Mitcalf and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Extra episode: What will Putin do next?
The rebellion by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner, is over.
BBC Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford and broadcaster Gabriel Gatehouse try to make sense of what happened on Saturday with a rebellion by the mercenary Wagner group and share their thoughts on what happens next for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Today’s extra episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The episode was produced by Clare Williamson. The technical director was Ricardo McCarthy. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions a 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 1239480
Extra episode: Is Russia on the verge of a coup?
President Putin decries "betrayal" and "treason" after a dramatic challenge by the chief of the Wagner mercenary force, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
Russia editor Steve Rosenberg, Security correspondent Frank Gardner and broadcaster Gabriel Gatehouse try to make sense of a moving and murky situation in Russia.
Today’s extra episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
How far might Russia go to win in Ukraine?
With Vladimir Putin scaling up his rhetoric over use of nuclear weapons we turn our attention to Russia in this episode.
The BBC’s Russia editor Steve Rosenberg and the Washington Post’s Catherine Belton look at the chance of a nuclear attack, the state of the opposition in Russia and why the latest intervention from Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin could provide an important clue to a possible major policy shift by the Kremlin.
We also hear from Evgenia Kara-Murza about the plight of her husband Vladimir, a British-Russian diplomat sentenced to 25 years in prison by a Moscow court for high treason.
And we assess the impact of a terrorist attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant following a warning from President Zelensky that Russia is considering such an action.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Drew Hyndman and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Who’s winning the counter-offensive?
Both Ukrainian and Russian fighters have started describing the counter-offensive as hitting in ‘waves’. But what exactly does that that mean?
The BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner and Owen Matthews, a historian and former Newsweek Moscow bureau chief, return to the pod to digest the military tactics and innovations from both sides on the frontline.
Also, we take a closer look at the war’s impact on children in occupied territories - many of whom have been forcibly removed to Russia. Mykola Kuleba, Ukraine’s former ombudsman for children, tells us about the work his charity is doing to find them and bring them home. And Oksana Lebedeva describes the work done to support traumatised children in summer camps back in safer territories.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic, Drew Hyndman and Tom Smithard. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Mariupol prisoners of war on trial
As a show trial begins of Azov Brigade fighters captured in last year’s siege of Mariupol, we hear from the fiancée of one about the torturous conditions they are being held in.
Also, just how many Russian fighters have lost their lives in the war so far? BBC Russian’s Olga Ivshina has been crunching the numbers.
And the BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale joins us on a day when an African leaders’ peace mission visits Kyiv - and have to promptly take shelter from a missile attack.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers are Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Drew Hyndman and Tom Smithard. The technical producer is Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Inside Ukraine's retaken village
We hear from the BBC’s James Waterhouse who is one of the first journalists to visit a newly freed village in the eastern Donetsk region.
Also, the day after Russia celebrates its national day, missiles rain down on the home city of Ukraine’s president killing at least 11.
Sunday Times correspondent Christina Lamb and BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner assess the dramatic developments in the last week including the floods in Kherson and the start of Ukraine’s counter-offensive.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Surviving the Kakhovka floods
Tales of resilience and rescue on the banks of the Dnipro river.
We speak to Ivan, a student from Kyiv who has driven to Kherson to help deliver aid to those affected, and Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse tells us about the people he’s met who’ve been cut off by the floods amidst the shelling.
We speak to a woman from the Belgorod region, near the border with Ukraine, about what it’s like to live in a part of Russia that is very much caught up in the conflict.
Professor Mark Galeotti on what the Kremlin's attitude to Belgorod tells us about the way it's fighting the wider war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Kherson floods: thousands evacuated
We hear from Olga who has lived in Kherson throughout the war, the occupation, the constant shelling and now the floods. We talk to the BBC’s James Waterhouse in Kherson who’s watching the flood waters rise and monitoring the rescue effort. Olga Robinson from BBC Verify answers Ukrainecast listeners questions about the cause of the dam break.
Today's episode is hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and produced by Clare Williamson. The planning producer is Drew Hyndman and the technical producer is Philip Bull. The series producer is Tim Walklate and the editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
Kakhovka dam disaster
Thousands flee floods as Ukraine and Russia blame each other for dam break.
The BBC’s international editor, Jeremy Bowen, is in the studio to discuss what could have happened to the dam, why anyone would attack it, and what impact this could have on the wider conflict. Also, we get through to one man living and working in one of the flooded areas. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producers are Tim Walklate and Tom Smithard. 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 1239480
Has the counter-offensive begun?
Russia says it’s thwarted a major Ukrainian attack in the latest sign that that the counter-offensive may have started. Meanwhile, Kyiv says that "offensive actions" are under way in the east. But how significant could these developments be?
Kyiv correspondent James Waterhouse and security correspondent Frank Gardner discuss whether we’re now in a new phase of the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Life as a mum in a war zone
Yulia lives in Kyiv with her three-month-old baby and two young children who are five and eight. She describes how they shelter from Russian attacks in their bathroom and says she’s questioning whether to stay in the city where she has built her life, or leave to find somewhere safer in the west of the country.
The BBC Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse updates us on the latest overnight attacks and explores the internal political tensions growing over a locked bomb shelter, a situation that proved fatal.
And surgery is hard enough without having to do it in a war zone. UK medic Shehan Hettiaratchy and Ukrainian surgeon Andriy Formanchuk explain how exchanging expertise is saving lives.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Clare Williamson, Madeleine Drury and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Alison Gee.
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 1239480
Drones attack Moscow and Kyiv
Several buildings in Moscow have been hit in rare drone attacks. President Putin claimed the strikes were aimed at “civilian targets” and accused Kyiv of trying to frighten Russia. Kyiv was also targeted for the third night running - buildings there were set on fire and at least one person is reported to have been killed. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, Russia editor Steve Rosenberg and Anastasia Gribanova from the BBC Ukrainian Service discuss whether this signals a new phase in the war. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson and Adam Chowdhury. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Dnipro hospital destroyed in Russian attack
A missile strike on a medical centre in Dnipro has killed at least two people and injured dozens more. The BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse is there and describes the rescue operation. Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, explains why Russia has targeted healthcare facilities. And Daniele Palumbo from BBC Verify explains how his team checked the authenticity of video of the hospital.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
Produced by Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov, Tom Smithard and Madeleine Drury. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
What’s really going on in Belgorod?
Armed insurgents have crossed the border from Ukraine to launch attacks in Russia's Belgorod region. Two Russian paramilitary groups claim they were responsible for the largest cross-border incursion since Russia's full-scale invasion began. We explore the motives of the two groups with BBC Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg.
Also, how does the BBC decide which material shared on social media is accurate and which is disinformation? We’re joined by Olga Robinson from BBC Verify, who explains the tools journalists use to sift through photos, videos and documents.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. Produced by Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov, Tom Smithard, Madeleine Drury and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Spies Next Door
The CIA has released a video to try to persuade ordinary Russians to share secrets, saying their children will thank them for standing up and being heroes.
Also, the tale of Russian sleeper agents who lived undercover for years in New York - their friends and colleagues had no idea. The BBC’s Gordon Corera and producer Emma Weatherill discuss their new podcast Mother, Neighbor, Russian Spy.
Diplomatic correspondent James Landale gives us the latest on the G7 summit in Hiroshima.
And we hear from one woman who’s making military uniform and equipment tailored especially for female soldiers on the front line.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Drew Hyndman and Osman Iqbal. The interpreter was Irena Taranyuk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. 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 1239480 Audio included from British Pathé.
Ukraine repels hypersonic missile barrage
Ukraine’s air defences intercepted six hypersonic missiles fired by Russia over Kyiv, one of the most sophisticated weapons in Moscow’s arsenal. The BBC’s Frank Gardner breaks down the significance of the attack and recent arms pledges from the West.
We’re also joined by Anastasia Gribanova from the BBC’s Ukrainian Service to talk about The Superhumans Center, a specialised clinic for Ukrainians offering free prosthetics, reconstruction treatment and PTSD counselling.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. Produced by Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov, Drew Hyndman and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Extra episode: President Zelensky makes surprise visit to UK
Ukraine’s President meets UK’s PM Sunak for talks on more military support. Long range missiles, drones and training are offered. International editor Jeremy Bowen appraises Monday’s meeting.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Sam Dickinson. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Why the world needs to understand Russia
What do the Russian people really think about the war?
Former Russian diplomat, Alexander Baukov, and Russia expert, Dr Jade McGlynn, talk through how the war could end.
And we get the latest from the frontline in the Donbass with BBC defence correspondent Jonathan Beale.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Moscow’s slimmed-down Victory Day
President Putin has said the world is at a "turning point” during Russia’s Victory Day parade and blamed the West for the war in Ukraine. The annual celebrations in Moscow to commemorate victory over Nazi Germany were slimmed down amid security concerns. Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, shares his thoughts on this year’s event and his analysis of what course the fighting could take in Ukraine.
Katya Buchatska tells us about her film that documents a train journey across Ukraine - it’s now an installation in Liverpool’s cathedral ahead of the Eurovision Song contest. And Andriy Sirchenko talks about about the War Fragments Museum and how his team are preserving Ukrainian memories through art.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and James Waterhouse. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Countdown to Eurovision with Ukraine's TVORCHI
Can Ukraine get another Eurovision winner with Tvorchi? We hear from sound producer Andrii Hutsuliak and Tvorchi vocalist Jeffrey Kenny on their Eurovision experience and hopes for this year’s contest.
The BBC’s Frank Gardner and Barbara Plett-Usher bring us up to speed on this week’s Kremlin drone attacks. What happened, why is Russia blaming the US, and where could this lead?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Drew Hyndman. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Fiona Leach and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Zelensky denies ordering Kremlin drone strike on Putin
Moscow claims Kremlin drones were attempt by Kyiv to kill Putin.
Vitaly and BBC Moscow’s Will Vernon discuss what happened when two drones appeared to strike at the Kremlin. Russia called the incident ‘a planned terrorist attack’ and said it constituted ‘an assassination attempt’ on President Putin. Ukraine has denied any involvement. If true, who could be behind it?
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaliy Shevchenko and Will Vernon. The technical producer is Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Liverpool and Kyiv unite for Eurovision rave
Clubs in Kyiv and Liverpool are linking up for a simultaneous rave this weekend to celebrate Eurovision and show their solidarity. Hot Chip, DJ James Lavelle and experimental Ukrainian DJ Mingulitka will all be performing. Organisers Jez Collins and Vlad Yaremchuk explain how they have to work with the midnight curfew in Kyiv and how the ravers in both locations will be able to see each other on the dancefloor. Also, the BBC’s cyber correspondent Joe Tidy reflects on his recent visit to Ukraine where he met drone pilots in training and hackers. And BBC Ukraine’s Kateryna Khinkulova remembers a former colleague, journalist Oleksandr Bondarenko, who was killed on the front line in Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Ivana Davidovic. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480 (Music courtesy of Mingulitka)
Russian missiles kill at least 25 in Ukraine
A three-year-old girl and her mum have been killed in the latest Russian attacks, according to the mayor of Dnipro. Officials said more children were killed in an attack that hit a block of flats in the central city of Uman. James Waterhouse brings us the latest.
We also hear from a friend of Evan Gershkovich, the American journalist held in Russia on espionage charges.
And Francis Scarr from BBC Monitoring tells us about Russia’s glossy new ads to encourage men to sign up for the military, and answers a listener’s request to explain the background of Kaliningrad, a Russian enclave in the Baltic.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Chernobyl Remembered
How did Russia respond to the world’s worst nuclear accident?
As the anniversary looms, and the International Atomic Energy Agency warns of worrying military activity in Ukraine’s current nuclear reactor, Vitaly recalls the Soviet response to the world’s worst nuclear accident.
The BBC’s James Waterhouse updates us on the latest military moves in Ukraine.
And we hear from musician Brad Paisley about what it was like performing for President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Is the Ukraine war killing dolphins?
Explosions, mines and sonar could be harming endangered marine life in the Black Sea, according to scientists at a university in Poland. We speak to Ewa Węgrzyn, a professor of zoology who’s conducted the research.
The BBC’s Frank Gardner talks to us about ghost spy ships and whether Russia could be using them to monitor key infrastructure sites in the North Sea for possible sabotage.
And we hear from chef Yevhen Klopotenko, the unofficial ‘ambassador’ of Ukrainian cuisine, who delivers the final verdict on the right way to make kutia.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Counting Russia’s war dead
The BBC has been calculating the number of Russians who have died in the war and civilian recruits make up a third of their frontline losses. Olga Ivshina of BBC Russian and Mark Urban, diplomatic editor at Newsnight, explain what this means for Russian families and the course of the conflict.
And we hear from the director of the Kherson regional art museum, Alina Dotsenko, about the moment its treasures were taken away in unmarked vehicles.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Stacey Dooley joins soldiers in training
More than 10,000 Ukrainian civilians have been trained as soldiers by the British army here in the UK. Documentary maker Stacey Dooley shares the stories of one cohort who she followed through their intense five-week course.
And 21-year-old Jack Teixeira has been charged over the leak of confidential US intelligence documents. He faces up to 15 years in prison. Russia expert, Prof Mark Galeotti talks us through the latest developments, what it could mean for the war and the shadowy figures vying for power in Russia. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
What do the Pentagon leaks tell us?
Could the leak of secret Pentagon documents affect the course of the war in Ukraine? Defence expert Sam de Bendern gives her analysis of the US national security breach and we hear about another Russian dissident facing 25 years in prison for criticising the war.
The BBC Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse has been in Kharkiv to see the de-mining efforts as so-called butterfly bombs continue to injure civilians.
And we have an aural treat in the shape of YouTube project: How Does Ukraine Sound? Its producer Yevhen Synelnykov has been collecting unique sounds from cities across Ukraine, such as the sea, factories and churches, and making music from them.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Elya’s story: A refugee returns home
Elya describes how she took her eight-year-old niece out of Ukraine after a missile hit her home in Kharkiv last year. Elya was just 17 at the time. Now she’s returned to visit her parents and says: “It’s the most times I’ve seen my father cry.”
The BBC’s Francis Scarr reports on the assassination of a pro-war blogger in St Petersburg, a defection and suggestions that Ukraine may be willing to negotiate over Crimea.
And Ivan Chuvilyaev explains how the group Idite Lesom (Go By the Forest) is helping Russians afraid of mobilisation.
And finally Vitaly tells Victoria about the Ukrainian origins of the humble Easter egg.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Audio credit: The Dossier Center
Denounced in Russia
LONG: BBC Moscow’s Will Vernon gives Lyse and Vitaly the latest on the murder of a pro-war blogger in St Petersburg and a growing spate of people denouncing family, colleagues and strangers.
Vitaly speaks to Tetyana Sokolova, a midwife in a Mariupol maternity hospital that kept the wards open while the city lost water, gas and electricity.
And as Finland ends 70 years of official strategic neutrality by joining the Nato military alliance, former Finnish PM, Alexander Stubb says Putin only has himself to blame and dismisses Russian talk of counter-measures.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Russia arrests US journalist
The Wall Street Journal has vehemently denied allegations one of its reporters is a spy, after he was detained in Russia. The BBC’s Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who was herself expelled from Russia as a national security threat, tells us this is a worrying development.
Francis Dearnley of the Telegraph’s podcast Ukraine: The Latest, joins Vitaly and Frank to discuss the geopolitics of the Ukraine war and we answer your questions on the ingredients of borscht.
Today’s episode is presented by Frank Gardner and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Gathering evidence of atrocities
After witnessing and reporting on war crimes around the world, Janine di Giovani realised that journalists like her were often among the first people to arrive at the scene of atrocities. So she linked up with fellow journalist, Natalya Gamenyuk, to set up the Reckoning Project. Their aim - to teach reporters how to gather evidence and testimonies that can be used later in court.
Irena Taranyuk from the BBC Ukrainian Service answers a listener’s questions about how Ukrainian farmers are coping.
And award-winning author Mikhail Shishkin explains why he finds it painful to be Russian at the moment.
Today’s episode is presented by Frank Gardner and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Natasha Fernandes, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Ukraine: Will American support hold in 2024?
What would a Ron DeSantis presidency mean for Ukraine? The Republican governor of Florida has been giving mixed messages on Ukraine, and he could one day be president. Justin Webb, host of Americast, tells us why this matters, and Alex Roarty of the Miami Herald tells us who is he and what he stands for.
Also, as Ukraine takes on England in the latest round of Euro qualifiers, Andrew Todos, a Ukrainian British football journalist, tells us about how the beaufiful game is faring during a time of war.
Plus we answer your questions about depleted uranium, tanks, and weapon supplies.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Frank Gardner. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Natasha Fernandes and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Putin and Xi talk partnership and peace proposals
Russia claims a Chinese plan for peace could be the basis for an end to hostilities. China expert, Isabel Hilton, and Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist’s Russia editor, discuss China’s emerging role in the war, and what this might mean for Ukraine and the West.
As President Putin visits occupied Mariupol, we talk to Odesa MP Oleksiy Goncharenko about how he felt seeing the Russian leader on Ukrainian soil.
And Arkady talks through his podcast, Next Year in Moscow.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Natasha Fernandes and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Music credit: Darren Ng for the original music for Next Year in Moscow podcast.
Arrest warrant issued for Putin
The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine We also get an update from Bakhmut, the devastated city on the front line, and we speak to a woman whose husband was killed defending it last year. Through her organisation, Maemo Zhiti, Oksana now helps support other bereaved women across Ukraine. Frank Gardner, the BBC’s security correspondent, brings Victoria and Vitaly up to date on the US drone brought down over the Black Sea and whether it could lead to direct confrontation between US and Russian forces. And, as a Polish spy network is broken up, Greg Miller of the Washington Post talks through his work uncovering the spy war between Russia and the West. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Luke Radcliff with Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Learning the language
Teacher, Anna Ohoiko, joins us to give listeners - and Victoria - a lesson in the Ukrainian language.
The BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale is in Kyiv and tells us that Ukrainians are beginning to question whether to stay and fight in Bakhmut, or retreat and regroup. And he tells us about a new bar that’s opened in Kyiv as people show their determination to keep living.
And who is the Russian Volunteer Corps? BBC Russia’s Liza Fokht tries to shed some light on the Russian group fighting Putin.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Mariupol one year on
A year after Mariupol’s maternity hospital was bombed, Russia is spending huge amounts of money rebuilding the city. Vitaly speaks to residents living under Russian occupation.
Paul Adams, the BBC’s world affairs correspondent, assesses the latest barrage of missile attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
And John Mearsheimer, professor of political science at the University of Chicago, explains why he blames Nato and the West for the war in Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
The power of music
Ukrainian musicians describe their journey to sanctuary at the London Performing Academy of Music. The organisation brought more than 50 students to the UK including Nikita Vikhorev and Yuliia Humeniuk. Nikita describes his violin as his weapon.
Also, the BBC’s Tim Whewell and author Ian Garner discuss “Z” culture and fascism in today’s Russia and what the state narrative means for the next generation.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Natasha Fernandes and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
The trauma of Ukraine's children
Grief, trauma and poverty have become the norm for millions of Ukrainian children after a year of war. James Elder of Unicef has just returned from Lviv and says that the situation is going from bad to worse. And BBC Newsround’s Ricky Boleto tells us about the courage of Ukrainian children who are determined to continue their studies despite the war.
We also get an update from Frank Gardner, the BBC security correspondent, on the situation in Bakhmut and how the war in Ukraine overshadowed talks at the G20 summit of world leaders.
This episode was made by Clare Williamson with Luke Radcliff and Natasha Fernandes. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
Ukraine’s War Diaries
Lives upended by war. As the conflict enters its second year, we hear stories of some of the lives transformed by war. Maria Drovnenkova, from the BBC's Panorama, tells Victoria and Vitaliy about the Ukrainians whose video diaries captured the first year of the war. We receive an update from 20-year-old student Maksym Lutsyk, who is now serving in Ukraine’s armed forces on the frontline in the east. And Francis Scarr, from BBC Monitoring, joins us in the studio to tell us how the anniversary of the conflict was viewed in Russia last week. 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 1239480
Today’s episode is hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. This episode was made by Luke Radcliff with Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
The anniversary
Ukrainians gather for a special broadcast at the BBC Radio Theatre, hosted by Ukrainecast and Newsnight. They share their fears for families at home, feelings of guilt about escaping to safety and the need for justice.
Host Victoria Derbyshire, BBC Monitoring’s Russia editor Vitaly Shevchenko and Newsnight’s diplomatic editor Mark Urban reflect on the past year and discuss what the next 12 months could bring.
This episode was made by Ben Carter, Luke Radcliff, Clare Williamson, Natasha Fernandes, Arsenii Sokolov and Fiona Leach. The assistant editors were Louis Degenhardt and Alison Gee. Technical production by the Newsnight team and Mike Regaard. The Senior News editor is Sam Bonham.
12 Months On: Your questions answered
In this special edition of Ukrainecast, we’re giving over the entire episode to trying to answer the questions you’ve been sending us about this war - how it might develop, what could bring it to a halt, how Ukraine is weathering the invasion, how Russia is changing in light of its invasion, and - of course - what might lay in wait for President Putin.
Steve Rosenberg, Ukrainecast’s man in Moscow, Irena Taranyuk of the BBC’s Ukrainian Service, and Paul Adams, who covers the world for the BBC, join up with Vitaliy Shevchenko as part of a series of episodes marking the one-year anniversary since the start of the war in Ukraine.
This episode was produced by Josh Jenkins and Clare Williamson. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
12 Months On: President Putin’s Next Steps?
Ukrainecast comes together with Putin, the BBC Sounds and Radio 4 podcast which examines the life, times, motives and modus operandi of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. Returning to the show are three lifelong Kremlin-watchers to cast ahead and speculate on just how this war might develop.
Professor Nina Kruscheva is an historian at The New School in New York and the great grand-daughter of Nikita Kruschev, Sir Laurie Bristow was the UK’s Amabassador to Moscow from 2016-2020, and Vitaly Shevchenko is the head of the Russia section for BBC Monitoring.
Today’s episode was presented by Jonny Dymond as part of a series of episodes marking the one-year anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine. The producers were Fiona Leach and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
12 Months On: British Ambassador in Conversation
One year in to the war, President Putin addresses Russian parliament with his state of the union address. In it he points the finger at the West for the Ukraine War and says Russia will suspend its involvement in a nuclear treaty with the US.
And we get two very up-close and personal accounts of the war - the first from the British Ambassador to Ukraine, Dame Melinda Simmons, and the second from the UK news anchor, Clive Myrie.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko as part of a series of episodes marking the one-year anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
12 Months On: Vlad's Journey to England
From a Russian prison to Pizza Express.
Victoria speaks with 17-year-old Vlad, who was taken prisoner by the Russians and held for three months at the start of the war. We hear about how he and his family coped, their new life in England, and their hopes for the future.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire as part of a series of episodes marking the one-year anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliffe The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Inside a prisoner of war camp for Russians
Ukraine and Russia swap POWs in a rare act of compassion, and the BBC’s James Waterhouse gets to visit a Ukrainian facility where Russian soldiers are being held.
We also hear from Emma Vardy about her documentary on British men who have volunteered to sign up to fight with Ukrainian soldiers. She tells us about what drives them and what the families they leave behind.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
‘It’s just a casual donkey’
Kalush Orchestra on winning Eurovision, touring the world and meeting Arnold Schwarzenegger’s donkey.
The BBC’s Orla Guerin gives us a close up account of life on the frontline in Bakhmut as Russia throws everything to claim this symbolic city and how are relations between Presidents Xi and Putin after a year of war in Ukraine? China expert, Dr Yu Jie from Chatham House gives her views.
Today’s episode is presented by Adam Fleming and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Josh Jenkins. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Join us for a recording of a special episode of Ukrainecast on 24th February to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Venue: BBC Radio Theatre, London.
Tickets: www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours
The man in the woods
A Russian man determined to avoid mobilisation tells us he’s living in the forest so the authorities can’t find him and force him to fight. His wife delivers food and he has set up solar panels so he can carry on working as a software engineer from his tent. The BBC’s world affairs editor Paul Adams has been out with Ukrainian engineers who are trying to keep homes and businesses connected to electricity as Russia continues to attack power stations. And psychologist Olena Kovalchuk explains how she’s been helping Ukrainian teachers suffering from grief, anxiety and anger. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Luke Radcliff and Josh Jenkins. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480 Join us for a recording of a special episode of Ukrainecast on 24 February to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We’re linking up with Newsnight for the event. Venue: BBC Radio Theatre, London. Tickets: www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours
Extra episode: President Zelensky makes a surprise visit to the UK
Listen to his Westminster speech in full.
Victoria and Vitaly come together to talk through Zelensky's first visit to the UK since Russia invaded his country.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
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 0330 1239480.
Why do so many Russians support the war?
Unpicking history and propaganda to understand ordinary Russians and their attitude to the war with Russia expert Dr Jade McGlynn.
James Waterhouse in Kyiv brings us up to date on what’s happening in the East of Ukraine around Bakhmut and President Zelensky’s corruption clampdown and Frank Gardner appraises the progress of Russia’s so-called Spring offensive.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Josh Jenkins. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
The Ukrainian amputees who want to fight again
Hundreds of Ukrainians are waiting for prosthetic limbs after being injured in the war, according to a medic working in the US, Dr Yakov Gradinar. He works with a charity that is giving prostheses to Ukrainians who need them. He tells the incredible story of a soldier who walked almost immediately after being fitted with a new leg.
The BBC’s Russia Editor, Steve Rosenberg, gives his take on the speech President Putin made at an event to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Battle of Stalingrad.
And Gideon Rose, author of the book How Wars End, explains why he thinks it’s possible that Russia could retreat.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Khadra Salad and Josh Jenkins. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editors were Louisa Lewis and Alison Gee. The editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Gearing up for a spring offensive?
As the seasons change, attention turns to what could happen next on the battlefield. Samantha De Bendern, an associate fellow at Chatham House, is on hand to explain what a spring offensive might actually mean for both sides.
The BBC's Andrew Harding has spent the last two and a half weeks reporting on the war. He’s joined by his producer Ed Habershon to give their reflections on being on the frontline before they head back to South Africa.
And Tim Stirzaker, the director of the new BBC documentary Putin VS The West, is in the studio.
Today's episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Josh Jenkins and Clare Williamson. The technical producer Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
The spying game
The war in Ukraine has encouraged Western intelligence agencies to share their secrets with the world. The BBC’s security correspondent Gordon Corera explains what a difference a year makes and tells Victoria and Vitaly about a German man who’s been arrested, suspected of spying for Russia.
Francis Scarr from BBC Monitoring brings us Russian media reaction to the news that the West is sending tanks to Ukraine.
And our tennis correspondent Russell Fuller is in Melbourne where Novak Djokovic’s dad has been criticised after he was pictured with a pro-Putin fan.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Why is Russia censoring LGBT-themed TV series?
Russia’s new weapon in the Ukraine war: LGBT and the ‘decadent’ West. How a crackdown on political opposition is now accompanied by a crackdown on the Russian LGBT community. We hear from BBC Moscow’s Will Vernon. And Nataliya Zotova, of the BBC Russian service, talks Vic and Vitaliy through opposition politics in Russia, two years after Alexei Navalny was jailed.
Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, answers your questions about Germany and tanks. And we get up to speed on the corruption scandals gripping Ukraine.
Clips from ‘The White Lotus’ made by HBO Entertainment, Pallogram, The District, and Rip Cord Productions. And from ‘Sex and The City’, made by HBO, New Line Cinema, HBO Films, The Montecito Picture Company and Darren Star.
Soviet Sports Parade footage courtesy of British Pathe.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
‘Have you ever had to collect your kid from the battlefield?’
A mother’s quest to bring her dead son home. Anastasiya Gribanova from the BBC’s Ukrainian Service has been talking to two mothers about the lengths they had to go to find the bodies of their dead sons.
Allies fail to reach an agreement over sending German-made tanks to Ukraine. We get the latest from the meeting of Western defence officials in Ramstein and hear from historian and cold war expert Sergey Radchenko on whether Russia can be defeated.
Alexei, formerly known as Jimmy or James, tells us that life in Kherson continues to be dangerous despite being liberated in November.
And Leeds-born Ukrainian, Olga, tells listener Brent to bring his mum’s knitted hats to her community centre.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Extra episode: Ukraine's interior ministry leadership killed in helicopter crash
At least sixteen people have been killed, including Ukraine’s interior affairs minister, after a helicopter crashed beside a nursery in a suburb of Kyiv.
In this emergency episode of Ukrainecast, Vitaly Shevchenko speaks to the BBC’s Ukraine Correspondent, James Waterhouse, from the site of the deadly crash. They discuss what we know, and what we don’t know, about what caused the death of Ukraine’s highest profile casualty since the war began.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaliy Shevchenko and James Waterhouse. The producer was Luke Radcliff. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
What is the future for 20-year-old student Vitalii?
The dreams of 20-year-old student Vitalii have been put on hold. He wanted to travel abroad and become a diplomat, but now he can’t leave the country or continue his studies. Victoria and Vitaliy catch up with friend of Ukrainecast Vitalii Pashchenko.
Andrew Harding spends time with a Ukrainian tank unit working with outdated equipment, he tells us why Ukraine desperately needs more help from Western allies.
And we hear from the founder of Breaking the Chains, an animal rescue charity about their work rescuing abandoned and injured animals in Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
Bedtime stories from Ukraine
Connecting families, separated by war, with a night time message. Millions of children have been separated from their dads by the war in Ukraine but with the help of an interactive story app, the bedtime ritual can continue. We speak to Leila Popovich of Better Time Stories, and mum Alla tells us how the app helps her daughter Olivia connect with her dad in Mykoliav.
Founder of Tip of the Spear landmine removal Ryan Hendrickson tells us about the dangers of cluster bombs and what drives him to risk his life de-mining in Ukraine.
And as Russia claims to have captured Soledar in Ukraine’s Donbas region, Nataliya Vasilyeva of the Daily Telegraph talks us through the rise of Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Wagner Group, the main force behind the push for this salt mining town. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham . 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 1239480
The Battle for the City of Bakhmut
Soledar, only 10 kilometers from Bakhmut, looks set to be the first major Russian gain since the summer. The BBC’s James Waterhouse has been in Bakhmut, the city that both countries regard as totemic in the conflict. Called the ‘meat grinder’ by the head of the Wagner Group, James found a city almost uninhabitable.
But with new weapons on the way from the West, could Ukraine’s forces be about to move from defensive to offensive mode? Frank Gardner tells us they could be a game-changer.
And Alina Revcko, an English teacher who works with the British Council in a village near Kyiv, tells us about the struggle to keep teaching amidst the chaos and disruption of the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480
The Church, the Kremlin and the ceasefire that wasn’t
Russia announces a unilateral 36-hour ceasefire for Orthodox Christmas, but Ukraine calls it cynical propaganda. The BBC reporter in Moscow, Will Vernon, tells us about the influence of the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, who proposed the Christmas truce and the reaction it has had in Moscow.
Valeriia Hesse from the Open Nuclear Network joins us to answer a Ukrainecast listener’s question about Ukraine’s nuclear power plants.
And finally we clear up how to make the traditional Christmas dish of Kutia with restaurant owner Olga Tsybytovska.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Ivana Davidovic, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham. 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 1239480.
Russia blames deadly attack on mobile phones
Moscow has blamed Russian soldiers’ for a deadly attack that killed at least 89 of them in eastern Ukraine. It said their mobile phone use enabled Ukrainian forces to work out their location.
Olga Ivshina from the BBC’s Russian service brings us up to date on the deadliest attack from a single Ukrainian strike since the war began.
Documentary maker Olly Lambert spent two months embedded with Ukrainian volunteer special forces as they pushed to retake Kherson. They shared what motivated them and what it was like to swap a normal life for the front line.
And author and historian Olesya Khromeychuk talks about her brother’s death and the role of culture in the war.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Sam Bonham.
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 1239480
2022: The year war engulfed Ukraine
The Ukrainecast team looks back at 2022 and assesses what 2023 might bring. The BBC’s chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet, security correspondent Frank Gardner, Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and Olga Ivshina from the BBC Russian Service reflect on the invasion, nuclear threats, war crimes investigations and the situation in Russia. We also look ahead to 2023 to discuss how long the war could continue, what it would take for Russia and Ukraine to negotiate and the role other countries are playing. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Ivana Davidovic. Alison Gee is the assistant editor. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Viktoria’s Story: Starting a new life in the UK
Ukrainecast has been following the story of Viktoria Kovalenko, whose husband and 12-year-old daughter Veronika were killed in front of her when they tried to escape from the besieged town of Chernihiv in the early days of the war. After weeks of hiding in bunkers, Viktoria and her surviving baby daughter Varvara eventually managed to find their way to Poland. Viktoria’s dream was to get to the UK to start a new chapter for Varvara. After 191 days of waiting for a visa, they, together with Viktoria’s brother, finally arrived in England and came into the Ukrainecast studio. In an emotional meeting with Victoria Derbyshire, Viktoria talks about loss, hope and why she could never leave Ukraine permanently. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Ivana Davidovic. Alison Gee is the assistant editor. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Ukraine’s wartime Christmas
As Ukraine prepares for its first Christmas since the Russian invasion, a friend in Kyiv tells us it’s one of struggle and defiance.
It’s also Vitaly’s first Christmas with his family safely in the UK. How will they spend it?
Natalia Zarytska gives us an update on her husband Bogdan’s long road to recovery since his release from Russian detention.
And we speak to Oleksandr Pikalov, a friend of Volodymyr Zelensky since childhood, about the time he introduced the future president to his future wife.
Today’s episode is presented by Lyse Doucet and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
President Zelensky gets a warm welcome in Washington
President Zelensky is making his first overseas visit since the war began. He’s in Washington for talks with President Biden and is also due to address Congress. The BBC’s North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher gauges the level of support for Ukraine in the US and from Moscow, Steve Rosenberg explains how the Kremlin is reacting to the visit.
Also BBC disability reporter Ruth Clegg has been meeting the families of disabled Ukrainian refugees in Poland. They tell her the care they have received in Poland has changed their lives - in Ukraine many disabled people had been neglected in institutions.
And we catch up with Volodymyr Demchenko a young soldier who made films before the war. He tells Victoria about life on the front line in Bakhmut.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings, Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Identifying the Ukrainian bodies found in shallow graves
When Ukrainian troops liberated Izyum in the east of the country, they discovered hundreds of shallow graves in a wood outside the town. Months later, forensic experts are still struggling to identify the remains. The BBC’s Eastern Europe correspondent, Sarah Rainsford, has been talking to the pathologists and the families waiting for news of their lost loved ones.
We also get the latest on today’s drone attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure as President Putin visits its ally Belarus.
And Prof Michael Kimmage, a former White House adviser on Russia and Ukraine, explains the historic and strategic importance of Crimea in this war.
Today’s episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Stories from pro-Russian Ukrainians
When the Ukrainian army liberated Kherson, not all its residents celebrated. BBC investigative reporter, Tim Whewell, and Ukrainecast producer, Arsenii Sokolov, spoke to the pro-Russians who stayed.
We get a glimpse inside the mind of the Kremlin through the lens of Russian state media, as watched by BBC Monitoring’s Francis Scarr.
And entertainment reporter, Daniel Rosney, talks us through how Ukraine will be choosing its Eurovision act for 2023.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Russia’s high-tech mega-trench
Rumoured to run to 120 miles, Russia is digging a vast trench stretching the full length of Ukraine’s eastern flank. An enormous feat of engineering, but does it mean they’re digging in or desperate? The BBC’s security correspondent, Frank Gardner, tells us that this line of defence, like the Maginot Line before it, is no guarantee against a Ukrainian advance.
We also hear about the alleged use of cluster bombs. Human Rights Watch says it’s seen the tell-tale fragmentary patterns left by the explosions and spoken to people who have lost limbs.
And Owen Matthews, author of 'Overreach', explains why President Putin invaded Ukraine, and the reasons it isn't going well for him.
Plus listeners share Ukrainian songs and artwork they’ve discovered since the war began.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
What happens to Russian soldiers who refuse to fight?
A Russian soldier tells us the danger is "from our side" not from Ukraine. BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg and his team have been talking to families whose loved ones refused to keep fighting.
We hear why Georgian soldiers have travelled to Ukraine - their commander explains the historic ties between the two countries and a shared fear of President Putin’s ambitions.
And Ukraine says many thousands of its children have been taken to Russia. A legal expert at the Regional Centre for Human Rights in Kyiv, Kateryna Rashevska, has been looking into what’s happening.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 +443301239480.
The Winter Wonderland in Kyiv with bomb Shelters
In spite of the power cuts and air raid warnings, the festive spirit is alive and well in Kyiv. Ice skating, Santa’s grotto, and mulled wine are all on offer at the city’s Winter Land, a Christmassy theme park. We hear from the team bringing a smile to the faces of families in spite of the war. When the BBC’s Sarah Rainsford last visited Kharkiv, the city was under attack. Nine months on, Sarah returns, and it’s back under Ukrainian control. The Metro that was then a bomb shelter is now the home to a Christmas tree. And what should we read into the recent prisoner exchange between Washington and Moscow? We decode the diplomatic manoeuvres with former US state department official Jeremy Shapiro. Today’s episode is presented by Adam Fleming and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Comedy in Kyiv: Laughter brings light to a city at war
Kyiv may be a city of blackouts and bomb shelters, but its comedians have found a fresh lease of life. Comedy clubs have taken off since the invasion with citizens seking solace in dark humour and the company of their compatriots.
Also, the BBC’s Russia editor, Steve Rosenberg, gives his reflections on how the country is being changed by the war into something no longer recognisable to the one he knew a decade ago.
And, the criticisms of Vitaly’s Kutia recipe just keep in coming in. Will it never stop?
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Trench warfare: Fighting in the winter months
As troops grapple with freezing temperatures and missiles cause mass power cuts across Ukraine, the BBC’s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner assesses both sides’ military strategies.
Victoria and Vitaly speak to Yaryna Chornohuz, a mother who is now a soldier on the front line. She has a young daughter, but says she feels compelled to fight.
And Father Vitaliy Novak describes how he and a team of volunteers are delivering food to people across the country, some of whom are living in church basements.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and the Russia Editor for BBC Monitoring, Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Putin and Biden: Will they talk?
The BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, gives us her take on whether President Biden’s offer to talk may offer a moment for diplomacy, despite an apparent rebuff from Vladimir Putin. A former US marine who heads up the Mozart Group, an unarmed private military company, gives us a graphic depiction of saving civilians behind Russian lines in the Donbass and occupied areas. Jonny Dymond joins us to share his fresh insights into the Russian President as more episodes of Putin drop on BBC Sounds and Radio 4. And we return to the subject of celebrating a Ukrainian Christmas after a listener emailed the podcast to tell us we’d got it all wrong. Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
The Russian recruit who died before reaching the front line
A mother in Siberia tells us how her son died at a training camp in Russia - he had volunteered to fight but never made it to the front line. The BBC’s Tim Whewell spoke to her and other families in Bratsk whose young men have gone to war. Ukraine has opened a “surrender hotline” for Russian soldiers to call. Our correspondent in Dnipro, James Waterhouse, has been talking to the people who run it.
Also, we hear from volunteer Olena Budahovska about the people she’s been delivering food to in recently liberated areas of Ukraine.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Fiona Leach. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
The Kyiv surgeons operating by torchlight
We hear from Borys Todurov, a cardiac surgeon from Kyiv, whose team used head torches to operate on a 14-year-old boy after a Russian strike knocked out the hospital’s power supply.
Olena, a mother of eight from Izium, tells us how an attack near her home killed her mother and left her teenage son unable to walk. He was taken to Moscow for treatment and thought Olena was dead.
And Dr Patricia Lewis, Director of the International Security Programme at Chatham House, answers listeners’ questions about the war in winter, whether Russia is committing genocide by targeting energy infrastructure and Russia’s role at the United Nations.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Ben Andrews. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
Ukraine’s first lady: We can cope with blackouts for two or three years
Olena Zelenska says Ukrainians will endure the winter despite the cold and power cuts caused by Russian shelling. Ukraine’s first lady told the BBC’s Lyse Doucet that Ukraine is facing many challenges, but that a blackout is not the worst thing that can happen to them.
Also, one of the country’s richest businessmen, Vsevolod Kozhemyako, talks about his decision to fund a group of soldiers that has become known as the billionaire’s battalion. He’s also fighting alongside them on the battlefield.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
The newborn baby killed by a missile
A baby boy has died after a missile hit a hospital maternity ward just two days after he was born. Before the attack, Victoria interviewed the Russian ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin and asked him about the killing of civilians and war crimes committed in Ukraine.
Also, BBC correspondent James Waterhouse has been meeting the people rebuilding the country’s bombed-out infrastructure. And friend of the pod, Olga Ivshina from the BBC Russian service, tells us how Russian men have been resisting mobilisation.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The producers were Fiona Leach, Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
Maidan: Where it all began?
Gabriel Gatehouse takes us back to the anti-corruption protests of 2013 in Kyiv’s Maidan Square that told Moscow it was losing influence in Ukraine.
Viktoria Andrusha tells us why she risked her life and her freedom by informing on Russian troops as they moved into her town.
And we hear how Russia is currently reporting on the war and how the propaganda machine is presenting the recent withdrawal from Kherson.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire, Gabriel Gatehouse and Vitaliy Shevchenko.
The producers were Fiona Leach, Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Released from Russia for a reunion with my 5 year old Ukrainian daughter
Alice, the little girl whose video of life in the bunker went viral, was separated from her mum when they were evacuated by Russian troops. We heard she was safe with her grandmother in Poland and on today’s podcast, we hear the story of her Ukrainian mum, Victoria and what happened to her.
We hear the Ukrainian response to the news that a Dutch court has found three men guilty of murder for shooting down a passenger jet over eastern Ukraine in 2014, killing 298 people .
And we hear from Liza Fokht from the BBC’s Russian Service about distressing new allegations about the Wagner Group - a shadowy Russian mercenary organisation which has been active across the world.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire, Vitaliy Shevchenko and James Waterhouse.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical coordinator was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Who fired the missile into Poland?
After a fraught few hours, Nato said the missile that hit Poland - one of its members - was most likely fired by Ukraine in defence. The organisation says it was not intentional.
We hear reaction from Ukraine, the US and Russia, with analysis from the BBC’s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner and Sam de Bendern , a political analyst with Chatham House and a former adviser to Nato.
We also hear a moving account of life on the front line from a team of Ukrainian medics in the Donbas.
Today’s episode is presented by the BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, and Vitaliy Shevchenko, the head of the BBC’s Russia monitoring team.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson, Luke Radcliff and Fiona Leach. The technical coordinator was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
A missile hits Poland: How will Nato respond?
Nato is deciding how to respond after a missile hit Poland, which is one of its members, killing two people. In this emergency episode of Ukrainecast, the BBC’s chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, is joined by Vitaliy Shevhenko and Sam de Bendern , a political analyst with Chatham House and a former adviser with Nato. They discuss what we know and what Nato might do next.
We’ll be back with a full edition of Ukrainecast as usual at the end of the day.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Fiona Leach. The technical coordinator is Dave O’Neill. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
What does Kherson mean for Putin?
President Zelensky has visited the liberated city of Kherson and spoke of a “long and difficult path” ahead. The change in control of the city is seen as a major setback in Moscow, but the Kremlin still insists that Kherson is part of Russian territory.
The BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner looks at what could happen next. Also, Mark Galeotti, author of Putin’s Wars: From Chechnya to Ukraine, assesses the impact on President Putin and his leadership.
Today’s episode was presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and Victoria Derbyshire.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical coordinator is Michael Regaard. The series producer is Estelle Doyle, the assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Ukraine retakes Kherson
There’s jubilation on Kherson’s streets as people welcome Ukrainian soldiers to the city after Russia withdrew its troops. It’s a hugely significant moment as Ukraine takes back control of the strategically important city.
BBC international editor Jeremy Bowen assesses the situation on the ground and we hear from military expert Prof Gwythian Prins, a former advisor to the UN, Nato and the Ministry of Defence, on the significance of Russia’s retreat and what happens next. Also reporter Hilary Anderson tells us about piecing together the story of Irina, the woman whose image was seen around the world as she was carried, pregnant, on a stretcher from the destroyed maternity hospital in Mariupol. Her husband, Ivan, talks of his devastation over the death of his wife and their baby. Today’s episode was presented by Vitaliy Shevchenko and Victoria Derbyshire. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical director was Ben Andrews. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Kherson: Russian retreat?
Russia has ordered its military to pull out of Kherson, the only regional capital it captured after invading Ukraine in February. The BBC’s Jeremy Bowen gives us his appraisal of whether we can believe what Russia says about troop movements. The news came shortly after the announcement that the Russian-appointed official in the region, Kirill Stremousov, had been killed in a car crash. BBC investigative reporter Tim Whewell tells Vitaly about the significance of Stremousov’s death.
We hear from Anthony Zurcher, BBC’s North America reporter, about the US mid-term elections and what the ramifications might mean for the country’s support for Ukraine. And we hear from Radoslaw Sikorski, Poland’s former foreign minister, who tells Victoria and Vitaliy how the war has brought Ukraine and Poland closer together.
Today’s episode was presented by Vitaliy Shevchenko and Victoria Derbyshire.
The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The technical coordinator is Emma Crowe. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
The full horror of Mariupol - a BBC investigation
We hear from BBC Panorama reporter Hilary Anderson about her documentary on the devastating siege of Mariupol. She travelled over 3,000 miles through Ukraine and Europe hearing survivors’ stories and retrieving the wiped phone footage from witnesses to the city’s tragedy.
Also - for months Natalia was unaware of her husband's fate: a Ukrainian soldier, he was captured and made prisoner by Russian forces after the siege of Azovstal in Mariupol. But then she received a phone call. She tells Victoria and Vitaliy what happened next and how hope for a future family together gave them both the strength not to give up.
And as power cuts become more severe across the country, we get the latest from the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse on the possible full evacuation of Kyiv if there is a total loss of power.
Today’s episode was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers: Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical director: Gareth Jones. And the editor: Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
A mother’s plea to get her teenage son back
The Ukrainian school boy was beaten, detained and threatened.
Victoria and Vitaly hear from the mother of a Ukrainian school boy, beaten up and detained by Russian soldiers; and how she’s now trying to get him out the occupied area.
The BBC’s International Editor Jeremy Bowen brings us the latest on the Kherson offensive; and James, who has stayed in Kherson throughout the occupation, tells us about life in the besieged city and why he feels brave enough to speak out.
Today’s episode was produced by Arsenii Sokolov, Clare Williamson and Luke Radcliff. The technical director was Michael Regaard. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The assistant editor is Sam Bonham. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
The great-grandmother attacked in her own home
The BBC’s international editor Jeremy Bowen has been travelling around south-eastern Ukraine, to areas liberated from Russian control. He spoke to Liudmyla, a 75- year-old great-grandmother who was brutally attacked by a soldier in her own home.
As winter approaches, we also hear how hard it is to survive in some places with no running water and energy blackouts. And Alexander Kamyshin, the head of Ukraine’s national rail company, Ukrzaliznytsia, describes how he and his team have been removing mines from tracks.
Ukrainecast is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The producers are Clare Williamson, Luke Radcliff and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
What next for Ukrainian refugees?
The Ukrainian government has asked refugees not to come home before the spring – they’re worried about pressure on the energy system. But what does this mean for host countries? We discuss the implications with Sarah Nathan from the UK charity Refugees at Home and Stephanie Hegarty, the BBC’s global population correspondent.
Also, the BBC’s Tim Whewell has an update on Viktoria Kovalenko’s situation. After losing her husband and daughter to the war, she was held captive in a basement in appalling conditions. She eventually made her way out of Ukraine and has been waiting for a UK visa since April.
And BBC Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse joins us from Zaporizhzhia, one of the many cities hit by another wave of missile attacks.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Luke Radcliff and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical director, Michael Regaard. The assistant editor, Alison Gee. The senior news editor, Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
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‘Dad, you have five days to get us’
The story of a Ukrainian father who survived the siege of Mariupol, only to be arrested at a Russian filtration camp and separated from his three young children, who were exiled to Russia. Ukrainecast producer Arsenii Sokolov and Nina Nazarova from the BBC’s Russian service join Vitaly to tell us more about this shocking case. The BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner takes listener questions about the latest on the situation in Ukraine: Russia’s claims on dirty bombs, how this conflict compares to others, among others. Today’s Ukrainecast was hosted by Vitaliy Shevchenko and Frank Gardner. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Luke Radcliff and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical director, Michael Regaard. The senior news editor , Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480
Are there any Russian spies left in Europe?
Norway detains a suspected Russian spy - the latest in a long string of expulsions and arrests.
Victoria and Vitaly discuss Russian espionage with BBC security correspondent Gordon Corera. He explains how the war in Ukraine has made the job of a Russian spy in Europe harder.
Also, we hear the poignant testimony of a Ukrainian soldier who is suffering from post-traumatic stress because of the fighting he witnessed.
And as Russia doubles down on its claims that Ukraine is planning to use dirty bombs, we ask Chatham House’s Patricia Lewis how these bombs work and whether Russia’s allegations could lead the war to escalate.
Today’s Ukrainecast was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Luke Radcliff and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. And the editor Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Diary of an Occupation
How one man secretly filmed life in Kherson under Russian forces. Dmytro Bahnenko tells us why he and his family stayed there for months secretly filming everyday life under occupation. His footage and story have also been made into a BBC documentary called Occupied.
The BBC’s Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, has been talking to people in recently liberated areas. He also discusses why Russia is accusing Ukraine of planning to use a radioactive “dirty bomb,” something that the West has called “transparently false”.
And former speech writer for Vladimir Putin, Abbas Gallyamov, calls the Russian president the “victim of his own propaganda” and lifts the lid on what he was really like when he worked for him.
Today’s Ukrainecast is hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
It was made by Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical director was Mike Regaard. The assistant editors are Alison Gee and Sam Bonham. The senior news editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 0330 1239480.
Christiane Amanpour and Lyse Doucet
Why is Iran helping Russia?
Chief international anchor at CNN, Christiane Amanpour, and BBC chief international correspondent, Lyse Doucet, talk through Iran’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. And, as Zelensky reports that 30% of the country’s power stations have been destroyed by Russian missile strikes, we speak to Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, boss of Ukraine’s national energy company, about the struggles the country faces.
Today’s Ukrainecast was hosted by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
It was made by Luke Radcliff. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham. The senior news editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 0330 1239480.
Why is Russia evacuating Kherson?
Tens of thousands of civilians and Russian appointed officials are being moved out of the occupied city of Kherson, raising fears of what might happen next.
Belkis Wilke from Human Rights Watch spoke to dozens of civilians from the recently liberated town of Izyum. She tells Lucy and Vitaly how they described beatings, electric shocks, and waterboarding in the hands of Russian occupiers.
And, amidst reports that Iran is ramping up its military support to Russia by allegedly supplying it with drones, missiles and training, we discuss what may motivate it to do so with Alex Vatanka, director of Iran programme at the Middle East Institute at Washington DC.
Today’s Ukrainecast was presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.
It was made by Ivana Davidovic, Luke Radcliffe and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The series producer is Estelle Doyle and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
‘Kamikaze’ drones attack Kyiv
Russia has attacked the Ukrainian capital with drones that loiter above a target before attacking, then detonate on impact. The BBC’s defence correspondent Jonathan Beale explains to Victoria and Vitaly why Russian forces are now using these weapons.
Ukrainian author Andrei Kurkov reflects on the life and death of the Ukrainian conductor Yuriy Kerpatenko. The musician was killed by Russians occupying Kherson for refusing to take part in a concert they had organised.
Also, for several days now, the Russian city of Belgorod bordering Ukraine has been under attack. A former resident, Ksenia Mikhailik, tells us she left fearing for her daughter’s safety.
And the BBC Russian’s Maria Kiseleva explains what may have motivated the mass shooting of Russian soldiers at a training ground, also in the Belgorod region.
This episode was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliffe. The technical director was Russell Newlove. The series producer is Estelle Doyle, the assistant editor Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Russia's Kherson Evacuation
As the Russian-installed leader of the region calls on its citizens to evacuate and “save themselves”, Vitaliy and Victoria hear about life under occupation in Kherson.
They talk to Tamila Imanova, a lawyer working for Memorial, the Russian human rights organisation just awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. She explains why she agrees with the Ukrainians who insist the Russian people must bear collective responsibility for the war, but warns against the risk of Russophobia. Former NATO adviser and political risk consultant, Samantha De Bendern answers listener questions about the military position of Ukraine and its allies after a week of heavy Russian bombardment.
And we hear from Iuliia Mendel, the former press secretary to President Zelensky, about his first and only meeting with President Putin in 2019.
This episode was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The planning producers are Louise Hidalgo and Luke Radcliff and the technical director was Russell Newlove. The series producer is Estelle Doyle and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Why are Ukrainian orphans ending up in Russia?
The Ukrainian authorities says they believe thousands of the country’s orphans have been taken to Russia for adoption. The BBC Russian service’s Nina Nazarova investigates their claims and speaks to a Russian woman who shares her mixed feelings about adopting a child from Ukraine.
Vitaly and Victoria speak to Gleb Irisov, a former Russia soldier who served under Russia’s new army commander, Sergey Surovikin. He explains why Surovikin was given the nickname Armageddon.
This episode was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer, Michael Regaard. The assistant editor, Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Missile strikes across Ukraine
Putin says missiles targeting Ukraine are revenge for the attack on the bridge linking Russia to Crimea at the weekend and threatens more strikes. The capital Kyiv and cities from Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia in the east to Lviv in the west have all been hit.
Sabina, who lives in Kyiv, tells us one explosion went off just metres away from her car. Also, photographer Serhii Korovayny describes the scene he found when he reached the site of a missile strike in the capital. Ukrainian MP Lesia Vasylenko explains the emotional impact of the attacks and says Ukraine has the resolve to fight on.
And the BBC’s Will Vernon brings us reaction from Russia where state television has welcomed the attacks, but many civilians are worried about the war escalating further.
Today’s episode of Ukrainecast is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko from BBC Monitoring, Lucy Hockings from BBC World News and Frank Gardner, the BBC security correspondent.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer, Emma Crowe. The assistant editor, Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
A history of Ukraine and Russia
Historian Orlando Figes explains why the mythologising of Russia’s past is crucial to understanding Putin’s world view and aspirations for his country.
We have an update on Alice – the little girl who was separated from her mother when the Azovstal steelworks were evacuated. One her fifth birthday she got a phone call from her mum, who is being held prisoner by Russians.
Russian lawyer Mikhail Benyash says young men and their families are turning to him to try to avoid being forced to fight in Ukraine.
And President Zelensky explains what he meant when he talked about pre-emptive strikes on Russia.
Today’s episode is presented by Gabriel Gatehouse and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer, Michael Regaard. The assistant editor, Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
'There may be no tomorrow for my friends'
As Russia hits the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, Vitaly reflects on the impact the war is having on his home town – and the challenges he faces as a journalist to remain impartial, while his friends suffer and die.
This episode was presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The technical producer Dave O’Neill. The editor, Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Will Russia use nuclear weapons?
BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner answers Ukrainecast listeners’ questions about the likelihood of Moscow using nuclear weapons, as the Russian army continues to suffer losses on the battlefield.
And we hear from Vyacheslav Zadorenko who, together with Ukrainian forces, liberated his native village - and his mum - after seven months of Russian occupation.
And BBC Russian’s Olga Ivshina joins Victoria and Frank to discuss the future of Crimea and lasting divisions in Ukraine’s occupied areas.
Today’s episode is presented by Victoria Derbyshire and Frank Gardner.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer, Emma Crowe. The assistant editor, Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Russia makes claims, Ukraine makes gains
While the Russian parliament proudly voted through its disputed annexations, the Ukrainian counter-offensive has been continuing, including the symbolic recapturing of the key eastern town of Lyman.
The BBC’s defence correspondent Jonathan Beale, who’s just returned to the frontline in the Donbas, gives us his verdict on another dramatic turn of events in the country. Russian political scientist and anti-war campaigner Grigory Yudin talks to us from Moscow and explains what impact the military developments are having on public opinion there. And the BBC’s Ruth Clegg updates us on her investigation into the lives of disabled people in Ukraine after she was invited to give evidence at the United Nations in Geneva. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Ivana Davidovic, Louise Hidalgo and Luke Radcliff. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Deconstructing that Putin speech
In a defiant speech, Vladimir Putin declared four areas of Ukraine as Russian. Ukraine has responded by asking Nato to speed up giving it membership of the US-led defence alliance. Will Vernon, from the BBC Moscow bureau, sends us a dispatch from the Red Square, where a concert is being held to ‘celebrate’ the annexations. And Vitaly Sevchenko and Victoria Derbyshire are joined by Moscow based political scientist, Andrey Kortunov to unpick the events of the day and discuss what might happen next.
Also, local officials say at least 30 people have been killed and dozens more injured in a Russian rocket strike on a civilian convoy in south Ukraine in Zaporizhzhia. BBC Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse is at the scene of attack.
And BBC Ukrainian Irena Taranyuk hears from a teacher in Melitopol who chose to stay after Russian occupation and now annexation. He tells her how he plans to hide to avoid mobilisation.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer, Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer, Emma Crowe. The editor, Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Nord Stream leaks: Sabotage?
The EU believes leaks in the two Nord Stream two gas pipelines from Russia were caused deliberately. Patricia Lewis, who specialises in International Security, gives Lucy and Irena her take on the situation and explains how Europe might respond.
Moscow says four occupied areas of Ukraine have voted overwhelmingly in favour of becoming part of Russia. Ukraine and its allies have denounced the referendums as a total sham, but could people living there now be told to fight in the Russian army against Ukrainians?
Also, we hear from a warehouse worker in St Petersburg who says he can’t afford to leave Russia and would rather go to prison than be sent to fight in Ukraine.
And Olga Sekliy, a paramedic in Kharkiv, describes the shocking injuries she’s seen while rescuing people injured in the shelling.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer, Louise Hidalgo. The technical producers, Emma Crowe and Neil Churchill. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Are the Russian protests growing?
There have been protests in Russia over President Putin’s partial mobilisation plans, and an officer at a recruitment centre has been shot. The BBC’s Will Vernon in Moscow tells Lucy and Irena what people in Russia are saying to him, and Rayhan Demytrie in Tbilisi talks to some of the people crossing the border into Georgia.
At the weekend, former US marine Andy Tai Ngoc Huynh returned home - he had been fighting in Ukraine when he was captured by Russian forces. He was released as part of last week’s prisoner swap. His fiancée Joy shares her relief that he’s now back home.
And veteran journalist and author Misha Glenny tells us that Ukraine has rare earth metals worth trillions of dollars – resources that could be very valuable to Russia.
This edition of Ukrainecast was made by Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Fleeing the Call Up
Men flee conscription into the army as referendums start in Russian occupied Ukraine.
Victoria and Vitaliy take stock of an eventful week in the Ukraine war with Samantha De Bendern, a former NATO adviser and political risk consultant and former BBC Moscow correspondent, Daniel Sandford.
And Vitaliy talks to Yulia Rubanova a violinist with the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra about her early life in Mariupol, her fears for her parents who were stranded there during Russian bombardment and how incredible it felt to play with her fellow countrymen on a world tour.
Today’s episode was produced by Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
Putin issues nuclear threats
President Putin warns the West he’s not bluffing and that he is prepared to use "all the means at our disposal" if Russian territory is threatened. The nuclear threat came as he announced a “partial” mobilisation of reserve troops to Ukraine. Vitaly, Victoria and the BBC’s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner unpick how real the possibility of a nuclear war actually is.
Ukrainecast’s Ivana Davidovic talks to a recent graduate from St Petersburg, who says he wants to leave Russia to avoid being drafted into the military. And he’s not alone - Olga Ivshina from the BBC’s Russian Service says flights out of the country to visa-free destinations sold out in a day.
Also, Vladimir Osechkin, the founder of the prisoners’ rights organisation Gulagu.Net, tells us that someone recently tried to assassinate him while he was at home with his family.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Who is still friends with Putin?
On the day when most of the world’s leaders and officials are gathering in London for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, President Putin is notable by his absence. He is one of only six heads of state who was not invited.
Also, at a summit in Uzbekistan, Putin faced concerns by the Chinese President Xi Jinping and further admonishment by India’s Narendra Modi. Vitaly and the BBC’s former Russia correspondent Bridget Kendall unpick what this all means for the Russian President.
And they discuss what is happening within Russia where more people are also speaking out against the war, including one of the country’s biggest pop stars from the Soviet era, Alla Pugacheva.
Finally, one of Ukraine’s most famous ballet dancers was killed on the battlefield. The BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse was at his funeral.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
The war crimes investigator
Nigel Povoas is a British lawyer who travelled to the newly recaptured territory in Eastern Ukraine as part of an international team helping with war crimes. He tells Victoria and Vitaly why based on his experience of the war so far, he believes more evidence of atrocities will emerge.
They also talk to Volodymyr Zelensky, who is from the city of Izyum, where a mass burial site has been discovered. He describes life under Russian occupation and the risks associated with sharing the same name as the Ukrainian president.
Also, they’re joined by the BBC Russia’s Olga Ivshina. Together they discuss the significance of leaked footage showing the head of the Russian mercenary company, the Wagner group, telling prisoners they would be freed if they served six months in Ukraine.
And we hear from Pavel Filatiev, a Russian soldier who fought in Ukraine, but has now become an outspoken critic of the war.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Anastasia’s Story
Many Ukrainians are celebrating the liberation of towns in the south and east of the country from Russian occupation. But these are bittersweet days - the liberation came too late for some. Anastasia from Balakliya shares the devastating story of what happened to her mother and her friends.
Also, Vitaly, Victoria and the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse talk to Jakub Jakóbowski, an expert on China, about the upcoming meeting between Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and China’s President Xi Jinping. Are they allies of convenience? And which country is calling the shots?
The producers are Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
What will Putin do next?
Gabriel Gatehouse joins Victoria and Vitaly to discuss the reactions in Russia to the recent setbacks in Ukraine. While some are calling for the Kremlin to take more drastic action, others appear to question the war itself.
On the ground in Kharkiv, Sarah Ashton-Cirillo explains us how the city went through a complete power outage after Russian forces shelled the second biggest Ukrainian thermal power plant.
We catch up with Maksym Lutskyi, a 19 year old Ukrainian fighter, who describes the celebratory mood among fighters. And, Illia Ponomarenko from the Kyiv Independent shares his assessment of where the war will go next.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Extra episode: Ukraine Advances
Russian forces withdraw from key eastern towns.
Ukrainian officials say troops have entered Kupiansk, a vital eastern supply hub for Russian forces.
In an extra episode of Ukrainecast, Vitaly and Victoria discuss the significance of the Ukrainian gains and analyse the Russian reaction. The Ukrainian advances - if held - would be the most significant since Russia withdrew from areas around Kyiv in April.
Ukrainecast was made by Sam Bonham. The Senior News Editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Ukraine pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II
President Zelensky sends a message of condolence to Britain's Royal Family.
Ukraine has been celebrating "good news" about the recapture of several settlements from Russia in the eastern Kharkiv region and gains of more than 1,000 square km of territory in the last week, that’s according to the President. Victoria and the BBC's Katya Khinkulova speak to Justin Bronk, Senior Research Fellow and editor at the defence and security think tank RUSI about Ukraine’s counter-offensive. And as EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss the energy crisis, we hear from Svitlana Zalischuk, from Ukraine’s biggest gas company Naftogaz, about how the country is preparing to face a cold winter with reduced gas supplies. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Alix Pickles. The technical producer is Hannah Montgomery. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
'Worse than Bucha'
Journalist Konstantin Ryzhenko lived through months of fear and terror in Russian-occupied Kherson. He escaped two weeks ago and tells Vitaliy about what life is like in the city, and the role he played in providing intelligence to the Ukrainian military and resistance fighters.
Also, Victoria talks to Russian oligarch and Putin critic Mikhail Khodorkovsky – he explains why he believes force is the only thing that the Russian president understands. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
The Secret Concert
Vitaliy and Lucy Hockings talk to Gogol Bordello’s frontman Eugene Hütz about the band’s recent secret gig for Ukrainian soldiers.
Frank Gardner brings us up to date on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant inspection and the offensive in Kherson.
And Irpin resident Oleksandr describes what it is like to have your home bombed then occupied by Russian forces, and how he’s going about rebuilding.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Emma Crowe and the editor Jonathan Aspinwall. The assistant editor is Alison Gee.
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 1239480.
Americast: Mar-a-Legal Trouble
Donald Trump, some top secret documents and the FBI.
Welcome to episode one of the new-look Americast (we thought, as listeners of Ukrainecast, you might enjoy Americast).
Classified documents stored at former President's Florida home were likely concealed as part of an effort to obstruct an FBI investigation, says the US Department of Justice officials. Justin, Sarah and the Zurch chat to former FBI special agent Asha Rangappa, about how attempts to retrieve the documents went down and what could happen next.
And Marianna introduces our undercover voters…
If you like Americast, please subscribe to the podcast on BBC Sounds. Americast will be publishing every Wednesday.
Americast is made by Phil Marzouk and Alix Pickles. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Sam Bonham. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
The mysterious death of the Russian oil boss
The boss of Lukoil, a Russian oil company, died on Thursday, the latest in a string of deaths of key Russian business people. Vitaly and Victoria unpick the rumours with Russian expert and author Mark Galeotti.
We get the latest on the inspection of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant with James Waterhouse.
And Maria Korenyuk has been investigating the re-writing of history books for schools in Russian occupied areas of Ukraine. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Emma Crowe and the editor Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Gorbachev and Ukraine
He contributed to Ukraine's independence. So why do they not remember him more fondly?
Victoria and Vitaliy reflect on the Gorbachev years, the demise of the Soviet Union and what he thought about Ukrainian independence with former BBC Moscow correspondent, Bridget Kendall.
Justin Bronk a defence analyst from RUSI brings us up to speed with the Ukrainian offensive in Kherson.
And we discuss the return to school for Ukrainian children with James Elder who is a spokesperson for UNICEF currently based in Kyiv. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer is Emma Crowe and the editor Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Confessions of a Russian soldier
Russian investigative journalist Ekaterina Fomina speaks to the team about her headline-making interviews with Russian soldiers, one of which admitted committing a war crime.
Vitaly, James, and Victoria also talk about how disaster was avoided despite the electricity needed to cool reactors at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant being cut.
And, as the football season in Ukraine starts again, we speak to a player who would be playing for FC Mariupol, if not for the war.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Arsenii Sokolov, Louise Hidalgo, and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Six Months On
We mark the anniversary of Russia's war in Ukraine and follow the stories of Max, Anna, Hussain, Maksym and Viktoria, none of whom will ever be the same again.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Chris Fynn, Philip Marzouk, Arsenii Sokolov and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer and sound designer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
‘Putin’s Rasputin’
Russia has opened a murder investigation after a journalist, Darya Dugina, died in a suspected car bombing not far from Moscow. Was she the target? Or was it her father, the ultra-nationalist philosopher Alexander Dugin?
Victoria, Vitaly and Gabriel Gatehouse, who interviewed Alexander after the annexation of Crimea, profile the man said to be one of Putin’s inspirations.
They also talk about who might be behind the murder and what consequences there might be in Ukraine, where Independence Day celebrations planned for Wednesday have already been curtailed. And we hear from Brian Ennis, the father of Adam Ennis. Adam is a mechanic from Scotland. But, without first telling his parents, he’s now fighting on the frontline in Ukraine. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. With thanks to Sky Sports. 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 1239480.
Where is my husband?
Ukrainian wife desperate for news. Natalia wants to know where her husband, a civilian mechanic, is being held prisoner in Russia. He was captured in March and the Red Cross confirm that he's in a Russian jail but hasn't heard anything since; she tells Victoria and Vitaly about how she is coping. We get an update about the nuclear standoff in Zaporizhzhia and we hear from BBC video journalist, Abdujalil Abdurasulov, about the use of drones in military strikes on Ukraine’s southern front line. Today's episode was produced by Clare Williamson, Alix Pickles, Ivana Davidovic and Louise Hidalgo. Emma Crowe is the technical producer and the Assistant Editor, Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
A Voice from Crimea
What is it like living under Russian rule? We hear from Hannah (not her real name) in Crimea. She tells us how she’s coping living through the recent explosions.
And acclaimed Ukrainian author, Andriy Kurkov, explains how art has helped him process the conflict in Ukraine.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer was Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
Frontman on the frontline
From performing with Ed Sheeran to becoming an army paramedic. We hear from Taras Topolia, lead singer in the Ukrainian band Antytila, about his transformation from frontman to physician. BBC Russian’s Liza Fokht discusses what her sources in the Kremlin are saying about what Vladimir Putin is up to at the moment. Is there any hope of the war ending at the negotiating table? And the BBC’s Kyiv correspondent, James Waterhouse, takes us onto the streets of the capital to describe the mood. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer was Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
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 1239480.
UK listeners can watch 'Frontline Frontmen' on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0cs677h/frontline-frontmen.
Kept at gunpoint in a nuclear plant
As the nuclear plant in Zaporizhzhia is attacked again, we hear from workers inside about what it’s like to work in such fear as soldiers hold them at gunpoint.
Victoria and Vitaliy are joined by medical students who worked to save people in the bunkers of Kharkiv who are now in the UK studying at Cambridge University.
The BBC’s defence correspondent Jonathan Beale details his interview with leading UK military commander Jim Hockenhull and the state of play in the war.
The lawyer of detained US basketball star Brittney Griner, speaks to us about the verdict that saw her client sentenced to nine years in Russian prison for drug possession.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer was Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on +44 330 1239480 with your questions and comments.
Captured by Russia
Life inside a detention centre. We hear from Anna Vorosheva, about what it was like when she was held in a Russian detention centre in Eastern Ukraine.
Victoria, Vitaly and the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, discuss the details of the explosion at a military airfield in Crimea.
And the BBC’s Chloe Hadjimatheou talks through her investigation into Graham Philips, a British freelance journalist and YouTuber who has been sanctioned by the British government for promoting misinformation that supports Russian aggression against Ukraine.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer was Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe.
The assistant editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on +44 330 1239480 with your questions and comments.
Nuclear Power Struggle
Part of Europe’s largest nuclear power plant has been damaged by Russian rockets. Vitaly brings us up to date on his home city of Zaporizhzhia, where part of its nuclear plant has been damaged by Russian rockets, in an attack the United Nations called “suicidal”. We hear from Yeva (not her real name), who worries for the safety of her family members working on the site. And the BBC’s security correspondent, Frank Gardner, talks us through new evidence that Russia is using technology from Western companies in its military equipment.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Ivana Davidovic and Arsenii Sokolov. The planning producer was Louise Hidalgo and the technical producer was Gareth Jones. The series editor is Estelle Doyle.
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 1239480.
What about China?
BBC correspondent Andrew Harding describes how sleep has been near impossible in the Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv, which has been under almost constant Russian bombardment since the start of the war.
Together with Vitaly and Irena, he also discusses a report by Amnesty International, which accuses Ukraine of endangering the lives of its own citizens by setting up military bases in residential areas, such as in schools and hospitals.
We also hear from Jixian Wang, a Chinese vlogger based in Odessa, who explains how Chinese state media echoes Russian propaganda.
And former China correspondent for the BBC, John Sudworth describes how the war in Ukraine is playing out in Taiwan, and the ways in which the crises in the two places are linked.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producer is Arsenii Sokolov. Planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. 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 1239480.
Russia's shadow army
Vitaly, Frank and Irena are looking into the Wagner Group, Russia’s private army that is allegedly involved in the Ukraine war.
The group has been active over the past eight years in Ukraine, Syria and several African countries, and has repeatedly been accused of war crimes.
We hear from ex Wagner fighter Marat Gabidullin about his experience and why Russia is relying on a private army.
And Vitaly talks to Vladimir Osechkin, a former prisoner and now a human rights activist whose organisation, Gulagu.net, alleges that the Wagner Group and Russian security services are actively recruiting in Russian prisons for the Ukraine war.
The BBC’s Tim Whewell discusses his up-coming documentary on people living in the Ukrainian port city of Kherson under Russian occupation.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Clare Williamson, Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. Planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
Father and Son reunited
16-year-old Vladislav Buryak was held captive for 90 days by Russian proxy forces. He says he was kept in solitary confinement and witnessed other prisoners being tortured during that time.
Also, after months of Russian blockade, a Ukraine grain shipment is allowed to set sail. Vitaly and Irena are joined by the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent, James Waterhouse, who is at the port of Odesa where the mood is both celebratory and apprehensive.
And Vitaly chats to BBC Moscow correspondent Steve Rosenberg about what Russians really think of the war, whether they’re feeling the pinch of the sanctions – and how playing the piano helps him relax.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. Planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Why hasn’t Russia banned YouTube?
YouTube, which is owned by Google, is one of the rare Western social media platforms that is not banned by Russia. Neal Mohan, YouTube’s Chief Product Officer, discusses the fine line between disinformation and censorship – and explains why banning fake news channels isn’t always the best way forward.
Lucy and Vitaly are joined by the BBC's disinformation reporter Marianna Spring. Together, they speak to Sergei Buntman, from the independent Russian radio station, Ekho Moskvy. The station was taken off air on 1st March. It now operates on YouTube.
And they hear from journalist Konstantin Ryzhenko, who decided to stay in Kherson under Russian occupation, but is now a wanted man by the Russians and has to remain in hiding.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Arsenii Sokolov and Ivana Davidovic. Planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
The interview with Ukraine's First Lady
A special episode to hear Ukraine’s first lady talking to Ukrainecast’s Lucy Hockings.
President Zelensky’s wife, Olena Zelenska, spoke about trauma, dealing with the spotlight and that Vogue cover.
Vitaly and the Ukrainian Service’s Irena join Lucy to share their thoughts and impressions of the interview with Ukraine’s first lady.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The technical producer Emma Crowe. And the editor Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480
Locked away in Ukraine's orphanages
Long before Russia invaded Ukraine, the country was dealing with a problem: the abandoning of disabled people to institutions that weren’t fit for purpose. The BBC’s Dan Johnson and producer Ruth Clegg tell us about these institutions.
In the news, Russia continues to weaponise its gas supplies as a way of wielding leverage over Western nations. Dr Aura Sabadus, energy specialist at International Commodity Intelligence Service, takes us through how this is playing out.
But back in Ukraine, a 10-year-old checkers champion has been capturing hearts by raising funds for the army. We speak to her and her mother.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Phil Marzouk and Ivana Davidovic, and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
The Russian charm offensive in Africa
Russian missile strikes have hit the port of Odessa, just one day after Ukraine and Russia agreed a landmark deal to resume Ukraine's grain exports.
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is on a tour of Africa to counter accusations that the Russian invasion of Ukraine has started a global food crisis. Murithi Mutiga, Programme Director for Africa at the International Crisis Group, explains where African loyalties lie and why. Also, the BBC’s security correspondent Frank Gardner tells us that former NATO generals, have started an advisory council to help the Ukrainian army with strategy. And we hear from Afghan Ukrainian fighter Jalal about why he decided to risk his life for Ukraine and how difficult it is to fight against fellow Muslims. .
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Clare Williamson with Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 1239480.
A deal for Ukrainian grain
The deal between Ukraine and Russia should help alleviate the global food crisis. BBC Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse joins Vic and Vitaliy to discuss the deal and whether it’s a promising sign for negotiations in the wider war.
We hear from Ukrainian lorry drivers who are stuck beyond the border in Russia with no means of coming back without abandoning their vehicles and, therefore, their livelihoods.
And Nina Nazarova from the BBC Russian Service tells us all about six Ukrainian children reunited with their parents after five months apart.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Clare Williamson with Arsenii Sokolov, Phil Marzouk, Ivana Davidovic and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Russia, Iran and Turkey
As the Russian president meets leaders of Iran and Turkey, the BBC’s former Moscow and diplomatic correspondent Bridget Kendall takes us through what this tells about Putin's remaining diplomatic friends.
Vitaliy and Victoria catch up with a young soldier we first met in May who is now taking brief respite from fighting on the front lines in the east to visit injured friends in Kyiv.
And we meet some humanitarian aid workers and hear about why they continue to work day-after-day to get Ukrainians to safety.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, with Ivana Davidovic, Arsenii Sokolov and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
The Russian Millionaire Driving Medicine to Ukraine
Once the richest man in Russia under 35, mobile phone tycoon Evgeny Chichvarkin explains why he needed to sell his company and escape Putin’s Russia in 2008. Settled in London, he’s now personally delivering aid to Ukraine.
Organised crime expert Misha Glenny and the BBC Russian Service’s Anastasia Stognei explore the deep connections between Russia’s president, its wealthiest oligarchs, and the Western countries which readily accepted their money.
Plus, treason in the Ukraine camp? Why has President Zelensky suspended Ukraine’s security chief and his top prosecutor?
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg, with Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor was Alison Gee. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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 1239480.
Sexual Violence: A Weapon Of War
Running a hotline for victims of abuse. We hear from Alyona Kryvulyak...
Russian missiles have hit the city of Vinnytsia, in central Ukraine, killing at least 23 people. From the scene of the attack, the BBC’s Zhanna Bezpiatchuk gives us the latest on the situation. And we talk to Wayne Jordash, who has been investigating war crimes in Ukraine. He explains how his team collects evidence.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Arsenii Sokolov, Ivana Davidovic and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Defending those who refuse to fight
The BBC Russian’s Olga Ivshina explains how her and her team have been able to estimate the number of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine and buried in Russia by sending volunteers to visit cemeteries.
Also, we hear from Mikhail Benyash, a Russian human rights lawyer who has been advising Russian soldiers who don’t want to fight in Ukraine.
The BBC’s Security correspondent, Frank Gardner explains why he believes Russia is currently militarily winning the war.
And the team discusses the toll the war has also taken on the Russian people. The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers Alix Pickles, Arsenii Sokolov and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. 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 0330 1239480.
Jailed for Speaking Out
Under laws that Russia brought in following the beginning of the invasion in Ukraine, a Moscow-based councillor has become the first person to be jailed for speaking out.
The BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse joins Victoria for presenting duties, and they take stock of the current situation in Ukraine.
A young soldier from Mariupol tells us how he survived horrific injuries, being taken captive by Russian soldiers, and how he was freed in a prisoner exchange.
Also, investigative reporter for the BBC Russian Service Andrey Zakharov tells us what it’s like to be designated a foreign agent by the Kremlin and be tailed by Russian agents.
And, we get an update on Viktoriia: the woman who is trying to get a visa to come to the UK after fleeing Chernihiv.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Osman Iqbal, Arsenii Sokolov and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Taira’s story
Fearless paramedic, Yuliia “Taira” Paievska, who filmed the horrors of Mariupol and was then held captive for 3 months by Russian proxy forces. She describes how she was physically and psychologically tortured.
Lyse and Irena discuss why a Ukrainian croissant is named after Boris Johnson – and the wider reactions to the UK’s Prime Minister resignation with Yuriy Sak, adviser to Ukraine's Minister of Defence.
And we find out why drones are playing such an important role in the war in Ukraine, with Anatoliy Tiagur, a drone operator for the army and BBC defence correspondent Jonathan Beale.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Osman Iqbal and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. And the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480
The Snake Island medic
A Ukrainian medic, Olexander, based on Snake Island was captured on the first day of the war. Almost five months later, his mother and fiancée break their silence to make a plea for information on his wellbeing.
The sole survivor of a Russian shooting, who lived by playing dead, has been speaking to Fergal Keane about what happened.
And the BBC’s Olga Ivshina explains how Russia has been sending so-called volunteers to fight in Ukraine - and why for so many of them, this will be a one-way ticket.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Phil Marzouk, Arsenii Sokolov and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. And the assistant editor is Alison Gee.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Russia seizes key city
Russia has claimed control of the key eastern city Lysychansk and the region around it. The Kremlin said this was one of its main aims. So, what happens next?
Lyse, Vitaly and Irena check in with Maksym, a Ukrainian soldier fighting on the front line. Also, Pavlo Shulga, who works with Ukraine Trust Chain, tells us about his latest trip to the area around Lysychansk where he was attacked as he delivered food and helped evacuate people.
As world leaders meet in Switzerland for the Ukraine Recovery Conference, Timothy Ash talks us through the astronomical cost of rebuilding Ukraine, and who will pay for it.
Today’s podcast was produced by Alison Gee with Osman Iqbal, Ivana Davidovic, Phil Marzouk and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 (0) 330 1239480.
The missing mayor
Russian forces have detained the mayor of Kherson, Ihor Kolykhayev, after he refused to work with them. The BBC’s Tim Whewell spoke to him a few days before his abduction.
Meanwhile, the BBC Russian service’s Liza Fokt explains to Victoria and Vitaly, how in another occupied city, Severodonestsk, some people do welcome the Russian forces.
And Roman, who helped evacuate dozens of people from Mariupol, tells us why he’s now going back, despite the risk of being arrested once he gets there.
The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Ivana Davidovic and Osman Iqbal. The planning producer, Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer, Michael Reegard. And the editor, Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Ukraine's IT army
A quarter of a million people now participate in regular cyber attacks against Russia. We hear from one of the volunteers, Oleksandr Naumenko. And also from US-Russian cybersecurity expert Dmitri Alperovitch.
BBC Ukrainian service reporter Olga Malchevska recalls a recent visit to her home town of Kyiv and the trauma of seeing in person her bombed childhood apartment.
As Western leaders gather in Madrid for a NATO summit, Sam de Bendern, former NATO Ukraine officer, tells us why they will eventually have to stop sitting on the fence when it comes to the war in Ukraine.
And we get an update from Pavel Shulga, who travelled to the region of Lysychansk to deliver humanitarian aid and evacuate women and children from battle zones. We hear why he’s already back on the road.
Today’s podcast was produced by Estelle Doyle with Ivana Davidovic, Osman Iqbal and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Cassie Galpin. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The shopping mall
Russian missile strike hits a shopping centre in central-eastern Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky says that more than 1,000 people were inside. Vadym Yudenko lives in the city and tells us what he saw. Diplomatic Editor, James Landale updates us on the G7 meeting in Germany where leaders have pledged their continuing support for Ukraine. And we hear from the BBC’s Joel Gunter who has just returned from Saltivka, in Kharkiv, where he met residents still living in their bombed-out apartments. Host Vitaly is joined by Kateryna Khinkulova from BBC World Service. Today’s podcast was produced by Clare Williamson, Ivana Davidovic, Osman Iqbal and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Frank Mcweeny. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The Resistance
A former Soviet soldier describes how he’s now helping resistance groups in the Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine by advising them how to mount an insurgency.
UNICEF’s Pete Manfield describes how the war in Ukraine is taking its toll in Somalia, and BBC Africa correspondent Catherine Byaruhanga explains why some Africans are taking a pro-Russian stance.
Also, a listener in Russia explains how he’s using bank notes to protest against the war.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Natalie Ktena and Osman Iqbal. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Alison Gee. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The forgotten POW
Imane Saaudun, the sister of captured Moroccan fighter Brahim Saaudun tells us why she feels her own country has betrayed her brother.
A Russian exclave sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania called Kaliningrad has become the latest focus in the Ukraine war. Victoria and Vitaly find out why from the BBC’s European editor, Katya Adler.
Sarah Ashton-Cirillo is an American war reporter based in Kharkiv. She talks to us about her fight for credibility as a trans woman and life on the front line.
And former DJ turned BBC fixer, Vlad Fisun gives us the lowdown on Ukrainian music.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal, Arsenii Sokolov and Clare Williamson. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Rescue mission
Vitaly and the BBC’s Katya Khinkulova speak to Pavel Shulga, who’s about to travel to Severodonetsk to evacuate women and children from battle zones.
Frank Gardner tells us what’s happening on the ground and tells us about the diplomatic developments.
And we catch up with Olga Drover, who lives in Troon in Scotland, who we heard from last in March, when she had lost contact with her parents in Mariupol when it came under attack. They’re now reunited.
Today’s episode was made by Clare Williamson and Chris Flynn. The planning editor is Louise Hidalgo and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The Lavrov interview
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the face of President Putin’s Russia, insists that his country didn’t invade Ukraine in a rare interview with the BBC. Victoria and Vitaly unpick the interview with Patricia Lewis, Director of the International Security Programme at Chatham House. She also tells us about the significance of Ukraine getting a step closer to European Union membership. Is this purely symbolic? And we hear from Joy, the fiancée of a US former marine, reported missing in Ukraine. Today’s episode was produced by Alix Pickles, Osman Iqbal and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Emma Crowe and the editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The 19-year-old soldier
Victoria and Vitaly speak to 19-year-old Maksym Lutskyi, a Ukrainian soldier who is preparing to return to the front line after being wounded and losing his commander who died saving his life.
Andrey Stavnitser, one of the richest businessmen in Ukraine, and co-owner of the major shipping terminals near Odessa, describes the impact the blockade is having on the country’s economy. He also explains why he asked the army to shell his own home after it became occupied by Russians.
And we hear from Kees Haiziinga, a farmer from central Ukraine, who says he is worried he’ll only be able to get a fraction of his harvest out.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Arsenii Sokolov. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Viktoria's story
Viktoria Kovalenko tells us about the day her husband Petro and 12-year-old daughter Veronika were killed when the road they were travelling on to find safety was bombed.
She explains to Victoria and Vitaly how taking care of her one-year-old baby is the only thing that keeps her sane. And how she's now been waiting for nearly 50 days for a visa to the UK.
They also speak to Derek Edwards from https://homesforukraine.org, an organisation he set up to help Ukrainians, including Viktoria, seek refuge in the UK. With him, is 17 year old Anna Merchuk, who talks about resettling in England and her hopes for the future.
And we talk through the latest in the conflict as new research from Amnesty International shows Russia has killed hundreds of civilians using indiscriminate shelling and widely-banned cluster munitions.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Ivana Davidovic, Chris Flynn and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The planning producer is Louise Hidalgo. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Life in a Russian prison
The Kremlin defends the death sentences for three captured soldiers. Fergal and Vitaliy are joined by BBC Russian Service’s Olga Ivshina to understand more about what is happening in Ukraine.
They speak to former US Army medic, Brennan Phillips, and the Mayor of Melitopol, Ivan Fedorov, who was kidnapped and imprisoned by Russian soldiers.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Alix Pickles and Natalie Ktena. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Sentenced to death
Three men are convicted by a Russian proxy court in eastern Ukraine.
We speak to Tim Whewell, a BBC reporter who has been investigating the fate of more than a million Ukrainian refugees who have ended up in Russia. Have they been rescued? Or illegally deported?
And we check-in with Natalia, whose husband fought during the siege of the Azovstal steelworks.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
The woman in a red coat
Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Zhanna Bezpiatchuk from the BBC Ukrainian service, who travelled to Irpin to investigate allegations of war crimes. There she heard accounts of violence against civilians, of shootings and summary executions - including the killing of a young woman in a red coat. Her body remained in the street for four weeks - lying where she had been trampled not once, but over and over again, under the wheels of Russian armoured vehicles. A food shopping list was found in her coat pocket.
UNICEF’s James Elder explains how over one hundred days of war have ‘wrought devastating consequences for children at a scale not seen since World War II’. The agency says 70% of Ukrainian children are displaced by fighting.
And, Mykola Bielieskov, from the National Institute for Strategic Studies in Kyiv, explains why he believes the long-range rocket artillery promised by the US and the UK won’t be enough to stabilise the front line, even less to push the Russian troops back.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
‘Dead Cities’
Why some Ukrainians choose to flee whilst others stay.
Thousands of Ukrainians, from the heavily bombed East, don’t want to leave - it turns out that some don’t believe that Russia is bombing them.
We hear from a listener who has not had contact with her father in Severodonetsk, described by President Zelensky as a 'Dead City', since May 22nd.
And the Kyiv residents raising money to repair their bombed apartment block.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Clare Williamson with Osman Iqbal and Philip Marzouk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1239480.
Missiles Return to Kyiv
Russia targets Ukraine’s capital with missiles for the first time in weeks. Vitaly and Frank talk to Nataliia, who recently returned to Kyiv with her young son – they were woken up by the blasts.
Also, the UK says it will send its first long-range missiles to Ukraine. And Col Bob Seddon, who was once in charge of bomb disposal for the British army, tells us how he’s helping Ukrainians deal with mines.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Clare Williamson with Osman Iqbal and Philip Marzouk. The assistant editor was Alison Gee. The technical producer was Emma Crowe.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 123 9480 – and start your message with the word Ukrainecast.
100 Days
One hundred days on from February 24th, a date that will be remembered for decades, we take you through the story of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
In this special episode, we listen back to some of the key moments from hours of testimony and analysis on the war.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe and the exec producer, Estelle Doyle. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
For 100 days Ukrainecast has been made by Daniel Wittenberg, Osman Iqbal, Chris Flynn, Alix Pickles, Sam Bonham, Natalie Ktena, Alison Gee, Clare Forde, Michele Thiel, Miranda Slade and Clare Williamson.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
A boost to Kyiv’s firepower
Ukraine gets long-sought US long-range missile systems. BBC Security Correspondent Frank Gardner explains why Kyiv hopes this will be a gamechanger. Maria Chashka, a Deputy Commander of a battalion in Kharkiv, confirms she believes this will help her country win the war.
The acting war time mayor of Severodonetsk, Oleksandr Stryuk, tells Victoria and Vitaly about the recent strike on a chemical plant in his city, which has already seen over 90% of its population leave for a safer place.
And, as Ukraine and Scotland face each other in a World Cup play-off, we hear from Tetiana Lukianenko a refugee from Kyiv, now based in Aberfeldy, Scotland. She says she will cheer whoever wins.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Rouble Rumblings
What does Europe’s partial oil ban mean for Russia’s economy? After the EU agreed a compromise plan to stop its members importing Russian oil by sea, economist Timothy Ash tells Victoria who might be most hurt by the sanctions.
And BBC reporter Chloe Hajimatheou uncovers increasingly sophisticated disinformation tactics being deployed and spread globally.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Daniel Wittenberg. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
War Crimes: Opposing Perspectives
Russia’s UK ambassador calls footage a “fabrication”. In a tense BBC News interview, Andrei Kelin claims allegations of war crimes in the town of Bucha are false despite physical evidence, satellite imagery and eyewitness accounts. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s chief prosecutor tells us she’s investigating thousands of cases.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Chris Flynn and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Russian Soldiers Resign
Stories from the front line.
The BBC's Fergal Keane and Olga Ivshina hear from Russian soldiers who have risked their lives on the front line of the war. Why have some of them refused to return?
The BBC's Jeremy Bowen speaks to us from a Donbas town which is within artillery range of Russian troops.
And Rustik, Fergal’s fixer in Bucha, discusses his first experience of conflict and how his country is changing.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Osman Iqbal and Natalie Ktena. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Both Sergey and Marina are voiced by actors.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
The Battle for the Donbas
Vitaly and Victoria hear from 19 year old Maksym Lutskyi, a soldier fighting in the Donbas where the Ukrainian army is under increasing pressure. He’s aware Russian forces might encircle him any time soon, but says he will fight on regardless.
Also, a listener based in Moscow explains how he’s been trying to bring Russians with opposite views of the conflict together and engage in a meaningful dialogue.
And another listener sends us a picture of a literal Ukraine-cast…
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Alix Pickles, Osman Iqbal and Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Sam Bonham. You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
Zaporizhzhia under attack
Vitaly's home town is struck
Two areas of the southern city of Zaporizhzhia have been struck by Russian missiles, leaving one person dead and three others wounded. Whilst Russian forces are centering their offensive on Eastern Ukraine, Russian forces are now in control of much of the big Zaporizhzhia region in Ukraine’s South. We hear from Kostyantyn, a factory worker from Zaporizhya who describes waking up to the sound of explosions during the night.
Also, we speak to the mayor of Meritopol Ivan Federov who was abducted and held by Russian forces for five days before being freed in a prisoner swap.
And we answer listener questions on conscription and President Putin’s ambitions as well as getting the latest from Davos.
Vitaly and Lewis are joined by Kateryna Khinkulova from BBC World Service who is from Kyiv.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal, Louise Hidalgo and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Sam Bonham.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
The 4-year-old girl all alone
Security correspondent Frank Gardner joins Victoria and Vitaliy to give us the latest updates from the eastern front and how European nations are responding to the continuing war.
We hear the story of Alice: the four-year-old girl who escaped Azovstal but lost her mother in the process. Those looking after her say her mother has been taken to Russia.
Also, we catch up with the Russian TV news editor, Marina Ovsyannikova, who protested the war live on air back in March becoming a symbol Russian anti-war sentiment and an exile in the process.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Phil Marzouk, Osman Iqbal and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
Convicted War Criminal
Russian soldier jailed for life. The tank commander has been convicted for killing a civilian at the first war crimes trial since the invasion. The BBC World Service’s Svyatoslav Khomenko has been in court in Kyiv every day of the trial and brings us up to date on the sentencing. Vitaly discusses the heavy shelling in the Luhansk region with the Governor of Luhansk, Serhiy Gaidai.
And Victoria and Vitaly talk about nuclear safety with Petro Kotin, who is in charge of all five of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants including one in Zaporizhzhia, occupied by Russian troops. Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk, Chris Flynn and Clare Williamson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
You can email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments or send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 1234 220.
Rebuilding Bucha
Fergal Keane joins Vitaliy to talk to a member of Bucha’s city council who tells us more accounts of atrocities in his city and how it can rebuild.
Friend of the podcast Olga Malchevska reports from Kharkiv: the eastern border city in which Ukrainian forces pushed out Russian troops.
Vitaliy and Fergal answer your questions before Vitaliy tells us about his upcoming documentary on a women’s football team in Mariupol.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Phil Marzouk and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
"The Global Food Crisis"
UN says the war could lead to long-term famines. Victoria and Vitaliy hear about what's going on by speaking to Sergey, a farmer from southern Ukraine, and the UN’s Pierre Vauthier.
And, after weeks of worry, we check-in with Nataliya, who tells us that her husband, who was fighting at the Mariupol steelworks, is alive and is now being held in Russian-controlled territory.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Phil Marzouk and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
The War Crimes Trial
The BBC World Service's Svyatoslav Khomenko tells us what's he observed at the court of the first war crimes trial of the Ukraine conflict.
Also, Victoria and Vitaly speak with Olga Ivshina from the BBC Russian Service, who has been investigating forced mobilisation in the Eastern Ukraine region of Donbas. People living there told her men had been grabbed in the streets, whilst out shopping or on public transport. Many haven’t been seen since.
And leading international lawyer Philippe Sands weighs in on whether Biden and Zelensky are right to describe what is happening in Ukraine as a genocide.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Steelworks Survivors
After two months of fighting, hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers have been evacuated by Russian forces from Mariupol's Azovstal steelworks.
Victoria, Vitaly and Lyse Doucet speak to Yuriy Sak, an advisor to the Ukrainian defence minister, about what this means for Russia’s war strategy.
They also speak to the BBC’s specialist disinformation reporter, Marianna Spring, about the pregnant woman who was photographed fleeing from Mariupol’s maternity hospital during a Russian airstrike and her fight to prove that she wasn’t an actress taking part in staged images.
We also hear from Vladimir about the field hospital he’s set up with his friends at the war’s Eastern front.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
The Children’s Camp
Victoria and Vitaly speak to Sarah Rainsford who tells us about a facility in Bucha that was once a children’s summer camp but has now become a crime scene after the torture and execution of five men there.
We hear from NGO worker Oksana who, until recently, was living under Russian occupation in Kherson. She tells us about her colleagues who’ve been abducted.
And NATO Ukraine officer and associate fellow at Chatham House Sam de Bendern talks through the pushback in Kharkiv and the implications of Finland and Sweden joining NATO.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Captured and in Court
As a Russian soldier is put on trial in Ukraine for war crimes, Victoria and Vitaliy discuss whether he can receive a fair hearing in a Kyiv courtroom.
They speak to Natalia, whose husband is fighting at the steel plant in Mariupol. She says she hasn’t heard from him in nearly a week and fears for his life.
Finally we speak to the Ukrainian winner of the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest Jamala. Her winning song was inspired by her great-grandmother’s experiences in World War Two and now she feels the history she sang about is repeating itself.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Osman Iqbal and Natalie Ktena. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk or send us a message or voice note on WhatsApp, our number is +44 0330 1234 220.
Killed on camera
Russian soldiers have been seen shooting dead unarmed civilians.
Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Newsnight’s Lewis Goodall. They hear from a soldier, Volodomyr Demchenko who explains why he is fighting, his worries for his country, and his causes for optimism.
We also hear why Finland is intending to join Nato, with Oksana Antonenko, a correspondent from the BBC Russian Service.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Alix Pickles and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Get in touch! Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk or send us a message or voice note on WhatsApp, our number is +44 0330 1234 220.
What are Russians thinking?
Why are so many of them avoiding “disturbing information” about Ukraine?
Victoria and Vitaly are joined by Lyse Doucet, who is in Dnipro, where rows of graves are being dug in anticipation of more people being killed in the war.
Grigory Yudin, from the Moscow School of Social and Economic Sciences, tells us more about public opinion in Russia and about what it’s like to publicly speak out against the war while living there.
And Ukraine are through to the final of the Eurovision Song Contest. We speak to the country's commentator, Timur Miroshnychenko, who was broadcasting for the semi-final from a temporary studio in a bomb shelter.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Shot in front of his son
Victoria, Vitaly and Frank Gardner speak to Olga Malchevska, and hear her interviews with victims of suspected war crimes.
15-year-old Yuriy describes how his father was killed in front of him and a bullet missed his own head by inches.
Also, Serhiy Dibrov, deputy editor of the Odesa newspaper, Dumskaya, is on the podcast after bombing in the city.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Putin's parade
Putin tells his troops they are fighting for their motherland.
Former Russian MP Sergei Markov and advisor to Vladimir Putin gives the Kremlin’s point of view on the day his country celebrates victory at the end of the Second World War, against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
They analyse his claims, as well as President Putin’s speech, with the help of Liza Fokht from the BBC Russia service.
Katarzyna Zysk, professor of international relations and contemporary history at the Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies explains why Russia’s military force wasn’t on full show.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Preparing for that parade
Why is May 9 so important to Putin?
Victoria, Fergal and Vitaliy are joined by Dr. Ammon Cheskin who explains what Victory Day in Russia is really like and whether Putin will use it to declare mass mobilisation.
Also, Andrew Harding joins us from the frontline in Donbas where he is meeting people quietly expressing their Russian identity.
And Ukrainecast listener Emma wrestles with different views on the war in her own home, as she houses a Ukrainian man fleeing the war.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Natalie Ktena and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Disabled orphaned abandoned
Victoria and Vitaliy speak to executive director of Disability Rights International Eric Rosenthal about their investigation into how Ukraine’s disabled children have been abandoned by their carers in institutions that don’t know how to look after them.
A 21-year-old man from Donetsk tells us how he left his home, his friends, his life in order to avoid forced conscription into the Russian forces by Russian-backed separatists in the Donbas region.
Ukrainecast listener, commercial airline pilot and social media star Captain Denys tells us how his livelihood was swiftly lost as Russian’s entered Ukrainian airspace and of his new life in a remote Ukrainian village.
And we get the latest updates from the eastern front as a crucial bridge in Dnipro is destroyed as the Russian military attempts to disrupt Ukrainian army supply routes.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal, Miranda Sawyer and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
The Cost of Oil
The EU plans a total ban on Russian oil imports by the end of the year, among other new proposed sanctions designed to make Russia pay a high price for aggression. Victoria and Vitaly speak to the economist Timothy Ash about how reliant Europe’s energy supply is on Russia and how much longer President Putin can afford his war bill. We also hear from the BBC Ukrainian Service’s Anastasia Gribanova, who’s in Lviv, where Russian missiles have hit targets in an attempt to disrupt the railway network in western Ukraine. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to +44 0330 1234 220.
Escape from Mariupol
As the first evacuees arrive in Zaporizhzhia after weeks sheltering from bombs in the Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant, Newsnight’s Lewis Goodall and Vitaliy Shevchenko speak to James Elder from Unicef as he tells us about greeting these people and their stories. We also speak to the BBC’s Abduljalil Abdurasulov, who's spent time in the trenches with Ukrainian armed forces in the southern city of Mykolaiv while civilians there endure daily Russian attacks.
And we run through the latest developments, including Boris Johnson addressing the Ukrainian parliament making him ever more popular with their people and ever more unpopular with the Russian state.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Deported to Russia
We hear about the captured Ukrainians with the BBC's Yogita Limaye and Ukraine analyst, Mattia Nelles.
And, the day after the UN secretary general met with the Ukrainian president, the BBC’s special correspondent Fergal Keane, and Vitaly chat to former Nato Ukraine officer, Sam de Bendern, about the prospect of peace in the region. Today's Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Alix Pickles and Natalie Ktena. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Putin's Enemy
We speak to Bill Browder... Lyse Doucet, the BBC's chief international correspondent, and Vitaliy Shevchenko, find out how he became an enemy of the Russian state. We learn about how a monument to Russian-Ukrainian friendship was torn down by officials in Kyiv, about UN general-secretary Antonio Guterres’ trip to Ukraine and about how Ukrainian forces are attempting to retake Kherson. Finally, we catch up with Maksim Kilderov, the artist from Nova Kakhovka who we spoke to in late March, and Johnny Doyle, the man who raised funds to get Maxim to safety in western Ukraine. Today's Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Lauren Stanley, Osman Iqbal, Ben Cooper and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
The trauma of war
As fighting continues in the bombarded city of Mariupol we hear from Olha, Katarina and Maria: three women who tell us their stories after escaping.
We hear from a young refugee with autism, and his sister who runs an organisation helping autistic Ukrainian children. Trauma, stress and an unknown future have thrown carers and children into unknown territory.
We also hear an update from Transnistria, the Russian-backed disputed territory in Moldova that was the site of multiple explosions. The United Nations’ Lars Johan Lönnback explains what this could mean.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle and Phil Marzouk, with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Can the UN end the war?
The United Nations boss travels to Moscow to discuss peace with Putin.
Victoria Derbyshire and Vitaly Shevchenko are joined by Lyse Doucet, BBC Chief International Correspondent, who presents Ukrainecast for the first time.
They discuss the prospect of a diplomatic solution to the conflict as the United Nations' Secretary General Antonio Guterres visits Moscow for talks with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and President Putin.
We hear from a woman in close contact with fighters in the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol, who says water and food is running low.
Also on the podcast, BBC defence correspondent Jonathan Beale talks about reporting from the Donbas.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
A tale of two Ukraines
Vitaly and Victoria speak to Oleksandr Sosnovskyi, from the south-eastern city of Zaporizhzhia, as the city prepares in case of a Russian offensive.
We also catch up with Vitalii Pashchenko, a 19-year-old student, who says some lecturers have remained to teach as bombs go off around them.
There’s also a roundup of the latest developments after the highest-level trip to Ukraine by US officials since the invasion began.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Gareth Jones. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
'A horror story'
The UN Human Rights Office has today described the war in Ukraine as a ‘horror story of violations against civilians’, in which respect for international law has been ‘tossed aside’. Matilda Bogner, who runs the UN's Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, tells us about the war crimes they've documented.
We're also joined by the Marianna Spring, the BBC's disinformation reporter, who tells us the real story of the Ukrainian soldier who became famous when a clip of him defying orders from a Russian warship to surrender, and swearing at them, went viral.
And a daughter tells us how she undertook an extraordinary journey into the besieged city of Mariupol to rescue her parents.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Cassie Galpin. The Editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Putin "Liberates" Mariupol
The Russian President orders troops to seal off the port city.
Victoria speaks to defence expert, Justin Crump, about the situation in the city of Mariupol.
She also talks to a woman who had an emergency C-section in the basement of a hospital as the fighting was intensifying outside.
Anastasia Platonova from the BBC Russian Service – currently based in the Latvian capital, Riga – has been speaking to the mothers of Russian sailors who’ve gone missing.
And the BBC's Lewis Goodall returns to Poland to see how Ukrainian refugees are faring since his last visit.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Ben Cooper. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
No surrender
A Ukrainian marine commander in Mariupol has made what he described as his troops' "last address to the world" as they try to resist Russian forces in the city.
Victoria Derbyshire, James Landale, and Olga Malchevska speak to Olena Nikulina, whose cousin Maks is among the soldiers still there.
Also on the podcast, The Economist correspondent Oliver Carroll, who’s been speaking to a commander in the city.
And the BBC’s religion editor Aleem Maqbool discusses the Russian Orthodox Church's role in the conflict.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Putin’s Perspective
We speak to a Russian politician...
Yevgeny Popov, Deputy of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, speaks to Frank Gardner and Victoria Derbyshire, and says that Russia felt “bullied” into invading Ukraine. He’s challenged on his belief that Nato is the aggressor, and his claims are analysed with the help of Sam de Bendern, a former Nato Ukraine political officer.
Today's Ukrainecast was made by Alix Pickles and Chris Flynn. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
A Listener to the Rescue
Travelling 2000 miles from Poland to the UK...
When Ukrainecast listener, Richard O’Doherty, emailed us offering to drive Vitaly's mum and aunt from Poland to the UK, we did not know what to expect. But on the Easter weekend, Alla and Irena arrived into Reading, greeted by Vitaly and members of his family. And, having followed their story since the invasion began, Victoria joined them at Vitaly's house the morning after, to talk through this momentous journey and what it means for everyone involved.
This special episode of Ukrainecast was made by Emma Crowe. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Zelensky on the BBC
The Ukrainian president accuses Europe of paying for Russian oil with blood money. The Ukrainians claim to have hit Russia's flagship warship. And Finland eyes up a place in Nato.
On today's Ukrainecast Vitaly and Fergal also hear how Ukrainian Railways are playing a critical role in the war effort, after having to reinvent themselves to evacuate refugees and move supplies around the country.
And we have an eyewitness account from a young woman who fled from the Donbas region last week.
Today's episode was made by Phil Marzouk and Osman Iqbal. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The assistant editors were Alison Gee and Sam Bonham.
The fugitive
Ukraine says it has arrested one of President Putin’s allies and is interested in a prisoner swap. Viktor Medvedchuk had been under house arrest in Kyiv but escaped when the Russian invasion began. James Landale joins Victoria to discuss whether a swap is likely.
There's also an update from Hussain who fled from Kherson. He’s been helping other people escape from the same city - we speak to one of them. And a Belgian doctor explains how he helped transport 80 orphans across Ukraine to a safer place.
Today's episode was made by Phil Marzouk and Chris Flynn. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The assistant editors were Alison Gee and Sam Bonham.
The Mayor of Bucha
Reflections on the horrors inflicted on the people of his city...
After weeks of reports of Russian atrocities in the region surrounding Kyiv, the mayor of Bucha speaks to us and asks: “Why did they do this to us?”
You may remember Sasha Makoviy, the mother who wrote pertinent information and contact details on the back of her two-year-old daughter in case the worst happened. We hear the latest.
And we also speak to director of the Maidan museum in Kyiv who is striving to ensure the country’s artefacts are kept safe.
Today's episode was made by Chris Flynn and Phil Marzouk. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The assistant editors were Sam Bonham and Alison Gee.
Russia's New Commander
The man involved in Syria and Chechnya is now reported to be in charge of operations in Ukraine. Victoria, Vitaly and Frank are joined by Reuters' former Moscow correspondent, Oliver Bullough, to discuss General Aleksander Dvornikov’s past and what this means for the war.
They also speak to Oleksandra Matviichuk, a human rights worker in Kyiv who’s just found out that her dad is alive after more than a month of no contact.
And, two very different diplomatic visits are on the agenda - Boris Johnson’s trip to Kyiv and the Austrian Chancellor’s visit to Moscow, making him the first Western leader to go there since the war started.
Today's episode was made by Alison Gee with Osman Iqbal and Chris Flynn. The technical director was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
The Station
We reflect on the horrific missile strike on a crowded train station in Kramatorsk. The station in eastern Ukraine is a major evacuation point and the attack has killed at least 50 people.
Also, why does Putin need a victory by the 9th of May? Since 1945 ‘Victory Day’ has been a national celebration in Russia, marking Nazi surrender in the Second World War. Sam de Bendern, a political risks consultant and former NATO Ukraine officer, explains how Putin is feeling the pressure to celebrate a significant ‘victory’ in Ukraine on that day. But with the invasion not going to plan, what does Russia now consider ‘success’ to be? And what happens when Putin gets desperate?
And we catch up with Olga Malchevska from the BBC Ukrainian Service, whose family has now fled Ukraine. But with her nephew still hiding whenever he hears a plane, the psychological impact of war is something that is not easily shaken.
Today's episode was made by Estelle Doyle with Natalie Ktena, Osman Iqbal and Phil Marzouk. The studio director was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Cold-calling Russia
As footage emerges that appears to show war crimes being committed by Ukrainian soldiers we speak to one of the BBC’s team of journalists working to establish if the material is authentic.
We hear from a man who’s made the decision to go home to Kyiv after having fled when war broke.
A Lithuanian man explains how he’s trying to tell Russian people what’s really happening in Ukraine, by cold-calling and talking to them.
Victoria Derbyshire, Vitaly Shevchenko, and Frank Gardner present this episode, and answer questions that have been sent in.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Phil Marzouk. The studio director was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Road block 15
A woman from Mariupol describes the humiliation her mother and father faced as they travelled through checkpoints out of the city.
Also, Irena Taranyuk from the BBC’s Ukrainian service tells Vitaly and Lewis how she’s been accused of not being pro-Ukrainian enough.
And on the day that Putin’s daughters are sanctioned, we dig into the secrecy around his family with journalist Farida Rustamova who dared to ask the Russian president about it.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Osman Iqbal. The studio director was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Verifying Violence
As scenes of civilian corpses strewn on the streets are repeated across Ukraine, Victoria, Vitaly and Lewis take stock of a watershed in how we are seeing the war.
Kay Devlin from BBC Monitoring’s anti-disinformation unit talks us through the clues and sources they look for when verifying whether what we’re viewing is valid.
We hear the first-hand account of Halyna Tovkach, who was shot, and her husband and neighbours killed, while they tried to flee the town of Bucha by car.
And the BBC Russian Service’s legendary presenter, Seva Novgorodsev, who played a key role promoting democracy in Russia, tells us how much of his work he feels has been undone by Vladimir Putin’s rhetoric.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Osman Iqbal, Phil Marzouk and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Horror in Bucha
Unarmed civilians massacred near Kyiv. As images of bodies in the streets of towns near the capital lead to an outpouring of condemnation around the world, Human Rights Watch tells us about their investigation into the alleged atrocities.
We hear from Tatyana, who was travelling in a convoy of vehicles escaping the city when two fleeing residents stepped out of their car and were shot dead, while their six-year-old remained in the car.
Meanwhile, Vitaly’s dad, Alexander Shevchenko, has made it to the UK. He joins us in the studio to share his story and swap perspectives on the war with his 22-year-old student, Elizaveta, who has chosen to stay in Ukraine.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Ben Cooper, Phil Marzouk and Osman Iqbal. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Bodies on the Highway
Grim signs of potential war crimes on the road to Kyiv. The BBC’s Jeremy Bowen joins us from near Ukraine’s capital, where he has seen the burnt remains of civilians, shot dead as they tried to flee Russian soldiers.
We also discuss reports of a Ukrainian attack on an oil depot in Russia and the latest plan to evacuate residents of occupied Mariupol.
Fergal Keane discusses the trauma many in Ukraine will be left with, long after the fighting stops, and introduces us to Valeriy, who was first evacuated from the Chernobyl nuclear plant disaster in 1986, and now for a second time as a result of the war.
And we talk about Vladimir Putin’s ploy to demand oil and gas payments in roubles with political risk and geopolitics expert Dr Otilia Dhand.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Chris Flynn, Phil Marzouk and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Russia's Threat to Stop Gas Supplies
Putin says the West must pay for their energy with Russian currency...
Newscast’s Adam Fleming and the BBC’s Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, sit in for Victoria and Gabriel, alongside Vitaly. They talk energy supplies, security intel and the latest from Mariupol. They also catch up with Anastasiya Gribanova from the BBC's Ukrainian Service, who's in Lviv. She explains why she'd like to take her pro-Russian relatives to see the destruction caused by the war with their own eyes.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, Alix Pickles and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Peace Talk Problems
Russia plays down hopes of a breakthrough...
Victoria, Vitaly and the BBC’s Diplomatic Correspondent, James Landale, talk through the latest in Ukraine.
Julia Friedlander, Senior Fellow and Director of Economic Statecraft at the Atlantic Council, talks about the dangers of imposing tougher economic sanctions on Russia.
And we catch up with 19-year-old student, Vitalii, about life in Lutsk, the city where thousands of Ukrainian refugees are waiting to see what will happen next.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Emma Forde, Alix Pickles and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham and the editor was Jonathan Aspinwall
Peace Talk Promises
Russia has promised to reduce attacks around Ukraine’s capital at face-to-face talks in Turkey. Victoria, Vitaly and Newsnight’s Lewis Goodall ask if that’s a hopeful sign or just empty words.
After reports about the poisoning of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and two Ukrainian peace negotiators, we speak to Max Colchester, one of the journalists who uncovered the news, and former Soviet intelligence officer, Dr Boris Volodarsky, a spy expert who himself was poisoned in 2005.
And we get an update on the situation in Russian-occupied Mariupol, where the mayor has pleaded for all remaining residents to be evacuated, with Ukrainian MP Dmytro Gurin, who is from the besieged port city.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk, Emma Forde and Miranda Slade. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Hussain: Escape from Kherson
Hussain, who we’ve been following since the start of the war in Ukraine, tells us how he finally managed to get his family out of a Russian-controlled area to freedom.
The Russian billionaire, Roman Abramovich and two Ukrainian peace negotiators have had symptoms of suspected poisoning, according to people close to them.
Also, Victoria, Vitaly and Frank Gardner talk to a Ukrainian pilot who flies MiG-29 fighter jets and goes by the name Moonfish.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Alison Gee, Phil Marzouk, Emma Forde and Miranda Slade. The technical director is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Women and Children
As Ukraine recaptures some of its towns, Victoria, Vitaly and Gabriel give an on-the-ground update and explain why Vladimir Putin has been talking about JK Rowling.
Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun speaks to us from Kyiv to discuss the first official investigation into rape allegations of a Ukrainian woman by a Russian soldier.
And Unicef spokesperson James Elder joins us from Lviv where air raid sirens continue to signal the horrors facing Ukrainian children.
But first... we have some good news from Hussain as he sends us a voice note from the road to Odessa: he has finally fled Kherson.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk, Nat Ktena and Michele Theil. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
What next?
One month since war broke out... Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaly reflect on the first weeks of a devastating conflict they never expected to happen. We explore where the war might go and how long for.
We also look back over the past month with the voices of some of the people affected who have given us their testimony, including updates about Vitaly’s own family.
And the BBC’s specialist disinformation reporter, Marianna Spring, tells us how online propaganda was used to try and justify Russia’s bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk with Daniel Wittenberg and Alix Pickles. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Ukrainecast + Global News Podcast (Part 2)
We answer more of your questions about Ukraine...
Nearly a month since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we are collaborating with the Global News Podcast again. Jackie Leonard (from the GNP), alongside Gabriel Gatehouse and Vitaliy Shevchenko (from UC), guide us through questions about civilian life in the country, military tactics, and the international response to the invasion. BBC Chief International correspondent, Lyse Doucet, joins us from Kyiv to talk through what’s happening on the ground there, and BBC Security Correspondent, Frank Gardner, tells us the latest on the physical and information war. This episode was made by Chris Flynn. The studio director was Ash Taylor. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Cyber Threat
Even as Russia’s advance into Ukraine leaves cities in ruins, many Ukrainians feel they have no choice but to fight on. We speak to Maxim, a street artist from Nova Kakhovka in the Russian-controlled region of Kherson, who’s been graffitiing enemy tanks.
After President Biden warned that Russia has the capability to launch cyber attacks in response to sanctions, the Oxford Internet Institute’s Mariarosaria Taddeo joins Gabriel, Vitaly and Victoria to explain why the digital risk goes beyond Ukraine.
We also catch up with Anna to hear how she and her family are feeling after fleeing Kharkiv and whether they might make it to Canada.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk, Chris Flynn and Michele Theil. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Roman's story
As hundreds of thousands of civilians flee Mariupol as it lies in ruins, the world looks on in shock as the Russian advance into Ukraine continues.
We hear from Roman Kruglyakov, a resident of Mariupol who fled to a nearby village at the beginning of the war. He tells us how he’s been travelling to and from the city in his car to get family members and whoever he can out of the city, detailing the horrific conditions that those left behind have to live with.
As president Zelensky makes a speech to Israel’s Knesset, he draws comparisons between Russia now and the actions of the Nazis in the Holocaust, BBC security correspondent Frank Garner tells us about the escalation in Russian aggression and the warning their destruction of Mariupol sends to other Ukrainian cities.
But as the devastation continues we hear more stories of those who got out, including the little girl who was filmed singing Let It Go from Frozen in a Kyiv bunker. She and her family have found safety in Poland where she took to a much larger stage in support of Ukraine…
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn, Michele Theil and Phil Marzouk. The studio director was Emma Crowe. The editor was Jonathan Aspinwall.
Families at War
Eight years after Crimea was annexed, Vladimir Putin has given a speech to a packed stadium in Moscow, praising Russia’s soldiers in Ukraine.
Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaly speak to the BBC Ukrainian Service’s Anastasia Gribanova. War has caused the breakdown of her relationship with her pro-Russian parents in eastern Ukraine and with her cousin who’s fighting for the other side. She's in Lviv, which was targeted for the first time today and is also where Vitaly’s mum and aunt have just arrived.
And the BBC’s World Affairs Editor, John Simpson, gives us a special insight into the one of the latest rounds of diplomatic calls – this time between President Putin and Turkey's leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan – and what it suggests about Putin’s state of mind.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Natalie Ktena, Alix Pickles, and Phil Marzouk. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
'War criminal'
Ukraine has accused Russian forces of bombing a theatre filled with sheltering civilians in the city of Mariupol. Gabriel and Vitaly speak to Dmytro Gurin, a Ukrainian MP from Mariupol, to find out what happened.
They’re also joined by Bridget Kendall, former BBC Moscow correspondent and diplomatic correspondent, to understand how we got to the point where Joe Biden is calling Vladimir Putin a war criminal.
And we get an update on Vitaliy’s mum, who we last heard was attempting to leave his home town of Zaporizhzhia, and new information from Hussain and his family in Kherson.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle, with Chris Flynn, Phil Marzouk, and Michele Theil. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Sam Bonham.
Zelensky’s plea to Congress
Shortly after Ukraine’s president’s historic address to the US Congress, Gabriel And Victoria talk to Nina Khruscheva, Professor of International Affairs at the New School in New York – and the granddaughter of former Soviet ruler Nikita Khrushchev - for her insight into Russia’s exit strategy.
20,000 people have been evacuated from the city of Mariupol, which has been under siege for the last two weeks. Residents are without water, food, and electricity, and the authorities claim there have been over 2,500 deaths in the city since the conflict began. We hear from Roman Skliarov, who is from Mariupol and has seen many leaving the city in an effort to secure their safety, while Vitaly gives us an update on his family and the situation in Kyiv.
And Anthony Zurcher, from Americast, joins us to describe the US reaction to President Zelensky’s address to Congress and whether he will get the sanctions and weapons he has asked for.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle, with Emma Forde, Alix Pickles, Chris Flynn, and Michele Theil. The studio director is Hannah Montgomery. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Curfew in Kyiv
More Russian strikes have hit residential buildings in Kyiv. As tower blocks burn, Mayor Vitaly Klitschko has announced a 35-hour curfew, warning of “a difficult and dangerous moment”. Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaly get the latest on the ground and hear from surgeon Dr Andrey Vysotskyi, who has hardly stopped working since we last spoke to him.
Meanwhile, with a Russian journalist facing a fine for interrupting a live TV news bulletin to protest against the war, the BBC Russian Service’s Liza Fokht tells us about her decision to leave Moscow for Latvia.
And we hear from the BBC’s Eastern Europe Correspondent, Sarah Rainsford, on what she’s learned from sheltering with residents in eastern Ukraine while covering the conflict.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk, Alix Pickles and Emma Forde. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Mariupol
A new attack at the border of Poland sparks fears of further escalation by Russian forces, as Vitaly updates us on what’s happened over the weekend. Meanwhile, footage from Mariupol shows the effects of being under siege for the past ten days, with Ukrainian authorities claiming over 2,500 deaths in the city. As many flee, the remaining residents are unable to be contacted due to regular power outages. Victoria speaks to a Ukrainian MP who grew up in Mariupol, and whose parents are still in the city, about what it’s like in that part of Ukraine, while Gabriel speaks to a woman from Scotland who has been unable to get in touch with her parents in Mariupol in the last ten days. And we hear from Sergey Radchenko an expert in international relations and Russian security policy about the ongoing peace talks, and what we’re seeing from both sides of the conflict.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle, with Emma Forde, Phil Marzouk, Chris Flynn, and Michele Theil. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Approaching Kyiv
The BBC’s Fergal Keane presents today’s episode of Ukrainecast from Lviv in western Ukraine – thousands of refugees are flowing through the city as they try to leave the country.
He’s joined by the BBC's Abdujalil Abdurasulov, who’s in Kyiv as Russian forces continue to slowly advance, and Kevin Connolly, former Moscow BBC correspondent. They discuss Russia’s strategy to take Kyiv and who Putin’s allies are.
The Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who’s living in exile, also explains why she feels her country’s future is so closely connected to the fate of Ukraine.
Today’s Newscast was made by Alison Gee with Alix Pickles. The studio directors were Sharmini Ashton-Griffiths and Wayne Moses. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Escalation warning
"There's no safe place in Ukraine anymore." Ukraine’s western cities of Lutsk and Ivano-Frankivsk have been hit. There are scenes of destruction too in Dnipro, a strategic centre, as Russian forces widen their attacks across the country.
Military expert Justin Bronk talks Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaly through Russia’s progress. We also hear from a 19-year-old student in Lutsk who thought he was safe after fleeing the capital but overnight was woken up for the first time by the sound of war.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Phil Marzouk, Michele Theil and Daniel Wittenberg. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
The Info War
Fact vs. propaganda...
Vic, Gabriel and Vitaliy discuss the peace talks in Turkey, the aftermath of the bombing in Mariupol, and why every bit of info coming out of the conflict needs to be treated with scepticism. The White House have expressed concerns that Russia might use chemical weapons to speed up the invasion of Ukraine. But where does their intelligence come from? Chemical weapons expert, Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, weighs up the evidence... And we catch up with Anna, who made it out of Kharkiv with her family. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Alix Pickles, Ben Cooper and Michele Theil. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Sam Bonham.
Hospital attacked
A maternity ward and children’s ward at a hospital in Mariupol have been destroyed in a Russian air strike, according to officials there. At the moment we don’t know how many people have died.
Russia editor at BBC Monitoring Vitaly Shevchenko and Abdujalil Abdurasulov, who’s a video journalist with the BBC in Kyiv, join Victoria and Gabriel to discuss which cities are being targeted.
Also, BBC World News’ Kasia Madera tell us some of the personal stories she’s been hearing from people fleeing Ukraine. More than two million have now left the country, and Prof Peter Gatrell from the University of Manchester explains how this compares to other conflicts. This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk, Emma Forde and Alison Gee. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Ukrainecast + Global News Podcast
We link up with the BBC World Service...
On the 13th day of the Russian invasion into Ukraine we collaborate with the Global News Podcast to answer your questions. Jackie Leonard (from the GNP), alongside Gabriel Gatehouse and Vitaliy Shevchenko (from UC), guide us through questions about the historical context of the war, the nuclear threat, and the information war.
BBC Chief International correspondent, Lyse Doucet, joins us from Kyiv, to explain what could happen if Ukraine doesn't manage to hold the capital. And BBC Diplomatic Correspondent, James Landale, comes on to explain what impact the Western sanctions are having on Russia. This episode of Ukrainecast x Global News Podcast was made by Phil Marzouk. The studio director was Gareth Jones. The assistant editor was Sam Bonham.
Escaping Ukraine
In the north of Ukraine, a convoy of Russian vehicles appears to be stalling as it attempts to advance on the capital Kyiv. Russian military expert at the Norwegian Institute for Defence Studies Dr Katarzyna Zysk tells Victoria and Gabriel why that may be and how it is impacting Russia’s strategy.
Last Thursday, we spoke to Hussein, a Pakistani man who lives in Kherson in the south with his wife and three-year-old daughter. He tells us how the occupation of the city is affecting local people as food supplies run low and many, including himself, consider attempting to leave.
Russia editor at BBC monitoring Vitaly Shevchenko joins us to explain his thoughts on the use of the letter Z by Russians to show their support for the invasion and we hear an update on Anna: the 25-year-old girl from Kharkiv who spoke to us last Wednesday from the bathroom in which she was sheltering.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Emma Forde, Alix Pickles and Phil Marzouk. The studio director is Ash Taylor. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
10 days that changed the world
Victoria catches up with Fergal Keane, who is in Lviv in the West of Ukraine, where thousands of refugees are at the station trying to get out of the country.
Despite a planned ceasefire in two southern cities, Fergal explains why evacuations had to be halted because of continued Russian shelling.
They are joined by Kevin Connolly, former BBC correspondent in Moscow and Patricia Lewis, Director of the International Security programme at Chatham House. Together they discuss comparisons with the Cold War, the ongoing nuclear threat and if a no-fly zone could ever work.
And we’ve had an update from Max, who has sent us pictures of the destruction of his home in Kyiv.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle and Alix Pickles. The studio director was Jonny Baker. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
'A new Chechnya'
Europe’s biggest nuclear powerplant is hit by shelling, but a nuclear disaster is avoided. We hear from BBC Monitoring’s Vitaly Shevchenko, whose mother’s balcony in Zaporizhzhia looks out on the facility.
Meanwhile in Kyiv, after a difficult night of air strikes, Max sends us a voice memo about his plans to leave the capital with his family.
Also, Victoria speaks to Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet, who is reminded of the destruction she saw in Allepo. And BBC international correspondent Andrew Harding describes how he saw similar tactics being used by Russian military while covering the Chechen wars.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn and Natalie Ktena. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Ports under siege
Russian forces have taken control of the key port city of Kherson. And at another port, Mariupol, people are now trapped by intense bombardments. Victoria speaks to a Kherson resident about what it’s like suddenly living under Russian rule.
Jonah Fisher, who until recently was the BBC’s Kyiv correspondent, charts the rise of Volodymyr Zelensky from Paddington Bear actor to wartime president, and we hear from his former spokeswoman, Julia Mendel.
And what’s the mood like in Moscow? Liza Fokht from the BBC Russian Service is back to explain the information gap between social media and state TV, and how the closure of IKEA and H&M is hitting home.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Natalie Ktena, Phil Marzouk and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Cities under fire
Ukraine’s key cities of Kherson, Kharkiv and Mariupol have come under intense attack. Victoria and Vitaly speak to a young woman in Kharkiv, Anna, who’s afraid her home could be bombed.
Journalist and author Gavin Esler says some anti-war critics in Russia have been arrested, and explains which other countries are worried about being targeted.
Today’s Ukrainecast was made by Phil Marzouk and Natalie Ktena. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Alison Gee. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
The convoy advances
As violence looks set to escalate in Kyiv, Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaliy talk through how the conflict is unfolding across Ukraine.
Dr Andrey Vysotskyi from Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv describes how two children were brought in with injuries today sustained in an air strike which killed their mum, while children with cancer are being cared for in the basement.
Newsnight’s diplomatic editor Mark Urban joins us to explain what the convoy approaching Kyiv tells us about Putin's latest military strategy.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Chris Flynn, Molly Grace Lynch and Natalie Ktena. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
What is Putin thinking?
As fighting continues in Ukraine, Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse look at how the crisis is being reflected in Russia. They’re joined by Angus Roxburgh, who spent three years as a consultant to the Kremlin, to discuss whether the people closest to Putin will stay loyal to him though this conflict. And the BBC’s Liza Fokht in Moscow has been asking Russians what they think about the invasion. Back in Ukraine, we catch up with Max, whose son and wife were injured when a missile hit their home in Kyiv last week.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Natalie Ktena, Phil Marzouk and Alix Pickles. The studio director is Emma Crowe. The assistant editor is Alison Gee and the editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
Nuclear Reaction
Putin moves Russia's nuclear forces to "special alert”, in response to what he described as “aggression” from Nato countries. Meanwhile as fighting continues in the streets across Ukraine’s biggest cities, President Zelensky says his delegation will meet with Russia at the Belarus border for talks.
Is President Putin using his nuclear arsenal as a conflict deterrent or as a threat to the West? Victoria and Gabriel are joined by the director of the International Security Programme at Chatham House, Dr Patricia Lewis.
And as hundreds of thousands flee Ukraine, we hear from Newsnight’s Lewis Goodall from the border in Poland, where he’s been speaking to families trying to make their way to safety.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Daniel Wittenberg with Phil Marzouk and Caitlin Hanrahan. The studio manager was Stephen Bailey. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
The Resistance
Ukrainians, from Kyiv to the UK, answer calls to defend their country. The capital has come under attack, but the residents and their president remain defiant, and Russian forces have so far failed to break through their resistance.
Maxim Karaush was at home with family when their apartment building in Kyiv was hit by a missile. He tells Victoria and Gabriel why, after his wife and son were injured and his home destroyed, he asked to speak to us.
We aim to explain a fast-moving conflict and answer your questions about the war. Vitaly is with us again too, and he's been following a group of Ukrainian men in England as they prepare to return to fight for their homeland.
This episode of Ukrainecast was made by Estelle Doyle with Daniel Wittenberg and Phil Marzouk. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
The Battle for Kyiv
Ukraine government gives out guns as Russian forces approach... Victoria, Gabriel and Vitaliy talk through how the conflict has unfolded.
Olga Malchevska, from the BBC Ukrainian Service in London, tells of how her family home was targeted, and Newsnight’s diplomatic editor Mark Urban joins us to explain what's going on with Putin's military strategy. Today's Ukrainecast was produced by Estelle Doyle, Natalie Ktena, Tim Walklate, Phil Marzouk, Sally Abrahams and Molly Lynch. Emma Crowe was the technical producer. Sam Bonham was the assistant editor and Jonathan Aspinwall was the editor.
Russia attacks
... and Ukraine vows to fight back.
Victoria Derbyshire and Gabriel Gatehouse reflect on this historic day... How did we get here? How did it all happen? And where could it be going?
We also speak to Vitaliy Shevchenko, the Russia editor at BBC Monitoring, and Askold Krushelnycky, a journalist in Ukraine.
Today's Ukrainecast was produced by Danny Wittenberg and Natalie Ktena. Emma Crowe was the technical producer. Sam Bonham was the assistant editor and Jonathan Aspinwall was the editor.
Fler poddar
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En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.