Vladar's Risk: Vladar is at risk of encirclement by Russian forces, but its potential fall may not change the war's dynamics significantly. Ongoing diplomatic tensions and civilian casualties mark the current state of the conflict in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian city of Vladar is facing serious threats as Russian forces are attempting to encircle it. Despite the risk, the fall of Vladar may not significantly alter the dynamics of the conflict, as it lacks crucial logistical importance. The fighting in the Donbas continues, with both sides engaging in intense skirmishes. Ukraine's defenses have been holding, even as they face attacks from multiple fronts, which complicates their ability to respond effectively. The situation remains tense, with significant casualties reported among civilians from recent bombings. Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions at the United Nations are heated, reflecting the escalating tensions and the dire situation on the ground. As Ukraine continues to receive NATO support, the resolve of its people remains strong amidst ongoing challenges on the battlefield.
Strategic Importance: Vuladar holds strategic significance in the conflict, with Russian forces mounting intensive offensives, leading to Ukrainian retreats amidst concerns over losing territory.
Vuladar is a strategically important area in the ongoing conflict, as it marks the point where the Eastern Front meets the Southern Front. Despite facing numerous challenges, Ukrainian forces are struggling against Russian offensives. The Russians are increasing their attacks, leading to Ukrainian retreats in the area. Current intelligence suggests that Russian troops are gaining momentum with logistical advantages. While this situation creates concerns, particularly about the loss of terrain, military commanders consider the relative costs of defending versus the potential for strategic gains. Even if the Russians are sustaining heavy losses, their ability to concentrate forces in crucial sectors suggests they remain focused on key objectives, and this could impact the long-term dynamics of the war.
Sanctions Evasion: Reporting shows how sanctions against Russia are being flouted through exports of luxury cars using neighboring countries as a loophole. Despite awareness of these actions, there is significant inaction from governments and companies, raising concerns about ongoing support for Russia's military capabilities.
Recent reporting reveals a significant issue with sanctions against Russia regarding the import of luxury cars. Although exports to Russia plummeted post-invasion, neighboring countries like Azerbaijan and Georgia reported a rise in these exports. This raises concerns about how goods, including those crucial for military operations, are still finding their way into Russia despite sanctions. It seems many people are aware of the loopholes, as individuals register these cars as their own and then drive them into Russia, signaling a larger problem where countries and companies recognize the ongoing trade but avoid taking action. This situation illustrates a troubling indifference where governments and businesses fail to enforce sanctions effectively, allowing for the continued influx of Western components that could bolster Russian military capabilities. It's a clear indication that without proper oversight, sanctions can easily be undermined, and the consequences may extend far beyond luxury cars.
Commitment Needed: NATO countries have the economic strength to support Ukraine, but it requires political commitment. Zelensky's UN speeches focus on compelling Russia to negotiate and highlight threats to Ukrainian nuclear plants, stressing the need for united international efforts against aggression.
NATO nations collectively have a significantly larger economy than Russia, yet the challenge lies not in capacity, but in political resolve. There's a need for stronger commitment from European countries to support Ukraine, particularly through financial plans that allow for future planning and stability. President Zelensky emphasizes the urgency of compelling Russia to negotiate peace, as its military threats extend even to nuclear facilities in Ukraine. His address at the UN aims to rally international support and highlight the severe risks posed by Russian aggression, noting specific dangers to Ukrainian nuclear power plants as a major concern. Thus, a thorough analysis of past decisions around apathy towards this issue is crucial, as future actions depend on recognizing and addressing such indifference within the global community.
Geopolitical Narratives: World leaders are using historical grievances to shape narratives in the Ukraine war, with Britain condemning Russia's imperialism while Serbia criticizes the West's past actions. This reveals a complex geopolitical struggle for influence and support among nations.
Diplomatic tensions are rising as world leaders engage in rhetoric over the war in Ukraine. David Lammy, the British Foreign Secretary, condemned Russia’s actions, likening them to imperialism and stressing the importance of historical context. In contrast, Serbia's President Vucic sharply criticized Western nations for their past actions in Kosovo, claiming they violated international law. This exchange highlights the ongoing struggle for support from nations in the Global South, as both sides use historical grievances to bolster their narratives. The situation reflects a broader battle for influence, where countries align based on ideologies of imperialism versus sovereignty, with each side attempting to appeal to the sentiments of nations with similar historical experiences.
Diplomatic Tensions: Serbia's leaders express criticism of NATO as the region leans towards Moscow. Diplomatic tensions rise with Zelensky aiming to solidify U.S. support amid an ongoing war. The UN's passive role raises questions about its effectiveness in these geopolitical shifts.
Serbia's leadership shows a clear stance against NATO and the West, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Leaders from Southeast Europe seem torn between supporting the West or leaning towards Moscow, indicating shifting public perceptions based on the war's progress. The UN remains silent on these tensions, while Ukrainian President Zelensky seeks to strengthen ties with the U.S. amidst these diplomatic challenges. His upcoming meetings in Washington are critical, particularly regarding his unmentioned victory plan. Overall, the situation highlights the intricate diplomatic balance in the region as various leaders choose their allegiances during uncertain times.
Zelensky's Strategy: President Zelensky's plan focuses on moving from war to diplomacy, requiring unity among allies, yet he faces skepticism about victory and the need for a more peaceful approach.
President Zelensky's new plan aims to transition from wartime to diplomacy, involving negotiations that require strong support from Ukraine's allies, particularly the U.S. Key elements include territorial gains, advanced weapon requests, economic aid for rebuilding, and security guarantees. However, there is internal and external division regarding the ultimate goal of victory over Russia, causing uncertainty. Some in the U.S. question whether long-range strike capabilities would change the war's dynamics. As Zelensky promotes a Plan for Victory, he risks alienating potential supporters who prefer a focus on peace. Amid shifting rhetoric towards a just peace, there is speculation that the conflict may reach a stalemate akin to situations seen in Korea or Cyprus. Therefore, balancing these expectations is crucial for garnering broader support for Ukraine's interests.
War Strategy: Western allies lack a unified strategy to end the conflict, leading to differing opinions on military tactics and potential outcomes. Past agreements have faltered, making future resolutions complex and uncertain.
A clear plan for how to achieve victory in the ongoing conflict is lacking among Western allies, leading to differing opinions and potential rifts. Some advocate for pushing Russia back to Moscow, while others see a more realistic outcome as Russians retaining control over parts of Ukraine. Past attempts at peace, like the Minsk agreements, have failed, raising concerns about repeating history. There's also disagreement among officials regarding military strategies, such as long-range strikes in Crimea, further complicating decision-making. Ultimately, an untidy compromise may be necessary, but the situation remains complex and uncertain, with expectations for U.S. support evolving within Ukraine.
Culture Meets Politics: Discussions blend geopolitics with culture, highlighting U.S. attitudes toward Crimea and a quirky restaurant in Albania honoring PM Georgia Maloney, showcasing art's intersection with politics and the rich diversity of Albanian cuisine.
Recent discussions have highlighted the complex geopolitical situation regarding Crimea, hinting at U.S. recognition of it as part of Ukraine. This comes alongside an entertaining story about a new restaurant in Albania dedicated to Italy's Prime Minister Georgia Maloney, decorated with her images. The restaurant owner admires Maloney and believes art and politics can create beauty together. While reflecting on Albanian cuisine, which blends Mediterranean flavors, fun ideas like opening a themed restaurant for a podcast host were floated. Overall, both the serious geopolitical discourse and the light-hearted restaurant story show the intertwining of politics, culture, and community conversations, bringing different flavors of insight into public discussions.
Overcoming Challenges: Embrace challenges in life as opportunities for growth. Stay positive, seek support, and learn from setbacks to build resilience and strength for future obstacles.
Life is full of ups and downs, and learning to navigate through challenges is essential. It's important to stay positive and find ways to cope with difficulties. Rather than giving up, we should seek support from friends or family and focus on the lessons we can learn from our experiences. Understanding that setbacks are a part of growth can empower us to overcome future hurdles and build resilience. Taking small steps toward our goals can make a big difference in our journey. Remember, every challenge faced contributes to personal strength and character development, so embrace those moments and keep pushing forward.
Donbas city “now being flanked” by Russian forces
Ukraine: The Latest
700 Episodes
Recent Episodes from Ukraine: The Latest
Chaotic fighting in the Donbas & Norway's attitudes to its neighbour
Day 959.
Today, we report on chaotic fighting in the Donbas town of Torestsk as Russia continues its grinding offensive there, Vladimir Putin announces a surprise summit with Iran’s president Masoud Pezeshkian in a move that could further enmesh the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and hear from Oslo about why the Norwegian government is cutting aid to Ukraine despite fears Russia may Test Nato in the Arctic.
Contributors:
Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.
James Kilner (Russia Correspondent). @jkjourno on X.
Jørn Sund-Henriksen (Co Host of Ukrainapodden). @J_SundHenriksen on X.
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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'Surge' in executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war suggests it is ‘Russian policy’, prosecutor general says
Day 958.
Today, after yet more long-range Ukrainian strikes against Russian targets, we hear that as executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian troops have allegedly surged this year, a top Kyiv official warns it could indicate a shift in Moscow’s policy.
Contributors:
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
RolandOliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.
With thanks to Liz Cookman (Ukraine Correspondent). @liz_cookman on X.
Articles referenced:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/10/06/steep-rise-in-russian-executions-of-ukrainian-prisoners/
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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David's Final Episodes: World War II - Hitler, Stalin & Ukraine
In today's special episode David Knowles speaks to historian, author and podcaster James Holland (@James1940 on X) about the Eastern Front in the Second World War.
This was recorded and edited by David shortly before his sudden passing.
The Second World War was catastrophic for Ukraine: millions died in the fighting and occupations, the battles that crossed the country were brutal and grinding, the country’s Jews were exterminated in the ‘Holocaust of bullets’, and the eventual Soviet victory ensured decades of further domination and control from Moscow.
This episode aims to give a broad account of the period and explore some of the key issues and stories.
James Holland: https://griffonmerlin.com/
'We Have Ways of Making You Talk' Podcast:
https://www.goalhangerpodcasts.com/we-have-ways-of-making-you-talk
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New ‘dragon drone’ destroys Russian tank with molten thermite
Day 955.
Today, we discuss the Pentagon’s verbal contortions as it explains where and when the US will shoot down Iranian missiles - plot spoiler: Israel now, Ukraine never - and speak to the author of a new book explaining how the Russian Orthodox Church became a vital force in Putin’s existential war against Ukraine.
Contributors:
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
RolandOliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.
With thanks to Lucy Ash (Foreign affairs broadcaster and author). @LucyAAsh on X.
Full video of David's funeral:
Lucy Ash's book, 'The Baton and the Cross: Russia's Church from Pagans to Putin':
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Baton-Cross-Russias-Church-Pagans/dp/1837731837
Articles Referenced: Exclusive Boris Johnson interview (The Telegraph): https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2024/10/03/boris-johnson-exclusive-interview-putin-trump-lockdown-echr/
1.5 million Ukrainian children at risk of being deported to Russia, ombudsman says (Kyiv Independent): https://kyivindependent.com/1-5-million-ukrainian-children-at-risk-of-being-deported-by-russia-ombudsman-says
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Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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America's developing attitudes to Ukraine & excerpts from David Knowles's funeral in London
Day 954.
Today, in a special episode, we discuss battlefield updates, hear from our correspondent in Washington on America's developing attitudes to Ukraine, and remember David Knowles on the day of his funeral with speeches and readings from his family and colleagues.
Contributors:
Gareth Corfield (Transport Correspondent). @GazTheJourno on X.
Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.
With words and readings from Dominic Nicholls, Francis Dearnley and David's father Peter Knowles, speaking at David's funeral today in London.
Full video of David's funeral:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/10/03/david-knowles-funeral-telegraph-journalist-ukraine-podcast/
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
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Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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Russia claims Ukrainian stronghold of Vuhledar 'has fallen' & join us for David Knowles's funeral
Day 953.
Today, as Kyiv denies they'll make any territorial compromises in the search for peace, we hear the story from Georgia where upcoming elections could well point the country in an orbit away from Russia.
Contributors:
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Kateryna Shenheliia-Hanapolska (Freelance Journalist). @eshenheliia on X.
Hamish de Bretton Gordon (Former Tank Commander). @HamishDBG on X.
Stream Link for David's Funeral:
His funeral will be live streamed here at 11.15 (BST) on Thursday 3 October:
https://youtube.com/live/cMqwb1Rc0Qk
Content Referenced:
KHARRP - helping people in the eastern territories of Ukraine rebuild their lives
Ada Wordsworth's Newsletter, with reference to David:
https://kharpp.substack.com/p/the-end-of-summer
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
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Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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Geolocated footage reveals new battles in Kherson & will Ukraine get its own national cemetery?
Day 952.
Today, we consider the precarious situation in the Ukrainian city of Kherson, hear the latest on the political tribulations in Europe and beyond, and reflect on calls for Ukraine to have its own national cemetery.
Contributors:
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
James Crisp (Europe Editor). @JamesCrisp6 on X.
Steam Link for David's Funeral:
His funeral will be live streamed here at 11.15 (BST) on Thursday 3 October:
https://youtube.com/live/cMqwb1Rc0Qk
Content Referenced:
How I was chased out of Russia by new drone teams sent to recapture Kursk (The Telegraph):
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/10/01/kursk-ukraine-russia-putin-kiev-drones-sudzha/
Drone Pilots Circle like Vultures Over Kherson’s Most Vulnerable (Tochnyi):
Ukraine faces its darkest hour (Financial Times):
https://www.ft.com/content/2bb20587-9680-40f0-ac2d-5e7312486c75
The Telegraph's Battle Lines podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/battle-lines/id1712903296
Ukraine’s artillery is helping boost Scranton’s economy (Washington Post):
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/09/29/ukraine-war-scranton-defense-manufacturing/
Why doesn’t Ukraine have a national military cemetery? (Kyiv Independent):
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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Drone strikes destroy Russian depot 'only hours' after key Iranian missile delivery
Day 951
Today, we report how the latest Ukrainian strikes inside Russia can be seen from space and discuss a bipartisan congressional paper that says the US should fundamentally revisit the post-Cold War status quo in its relations with Russia.
Contributors:
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
With thanks to former British Defence Attaché to Russia and Ukraine, John Foreman CBE. @John_ForemanCBE on X.
Articles Referenced:
Exclusive: Russia has secret war drones project in China, intel sources say (Reuters):
Bipartisan report urges rethink of America’s Russia strategy (The Hill)
https://thehill.com/policy/international/4904188-us-russia-relations-helsinki-report/
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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Pentagon announces ‘massive’ military aid package & reviewing Russian rockets with former NASA Astronaut Terry Virts
Day 948.
Today, further to updates from the war zone, we look at the new military aid package announced by the US for Kyiv, discuss the upcoming meeting between President Zelensky and Donald Trump, and review Russian rockets and the battle for space with a former commander of the International Space Station.
Contributors:
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
With thanks to Terry Virts, former US Air Force F-16 pilot, NASA astronaut, test pilot, and currently a Senior Fellow at the National Center for Energy Analytics, an energy think tank. @AstroTerry on X.
Content Referenced:
U.S. Intelligence Stresses Risks in Allowing Long-Range Strikes by Ukraine (New York Times):
Children lost to the war (Ukrainian Government):
https://childrenofwar.gov.ua/en/
Ukraine Focus NGO, delivering Ambulances to Ukraine:
For more information, visit:
For Francis's episode on his journey with Ukraine Focus, see:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHOEYMfizow
Students can subscribe to our coverage for free:
We’re giving university students worldwide unlimited access to The Telegraph completely free of charge. Just enter your student email address at telegraph.co.uk/studentsub to enjoy 12 months’ free access to our website and app. Better still, you’ll get another 12 months each time you re-validate your email address.
Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatest
Email: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk
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Exclusive interview with former Counselor of US State Department Eliot A. Cohen & Phillips O'Brien, Professor of Strategic Studies at St Andrews
Day 947.
Today, following the usual military and political updates in this major week, we talk to two of the most high profile analysts of the war about their new report into how rectifying systematic failures in Western analysis and intelligence is vital for preventing future conflict.
Contributors:
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.
Eliot A. Cohen (Former Counsellor of the United States Department of State). @EliotACohen on X.
Phillips O'Brien (Professor of Strategic Studies at the University of St Andrews). @PhillipsPOBrien on X.
Report Referenced:
'The Russia-Ukraine War: A Study in Analytic Failure' (by Phillips O'Brien & Eliot Cohen)
https://www.csis.org/analysis/russia-ukraine-war-study-analytic-failure
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