Podcasts about Crimea

International Law: Does Russia enjoy sovereign immunity against claims that it expropriated Ukrainian assets in Crimea? - Argued: Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:5:52 EDT

Darrell Castle discusses President Trump’s 28 point proposed peace plan along with a few words about the other war, the one in the Middle East. Transcription / Notes: PEACE IN UKRAINE Hello, this is Darrell Castle with today's Castle Report. This is Friday the 5th day of December in the year of our Lord 2025. Although the title of this Castle Report is peace, my beat is war today and as usual there is no shortage of war to talk about. Specifically, I will be discussing President Trump's 28 point proposed peace plan along with a few words about the other war, the one in the Middle East. Yes, President Trump is proposing peace in Ukraine. Perhaps he wants to turn his attention to other wars and potential wars or maybe he feels bad about campaigning that he could end the Ukraine war in 24 hours with just a few phone calls. I will be telling you what I propose the U.S. do in Ukraine and the Middle East but before we get to that listen to this important information. I am currently in the last month of my 46-year legal career which ends with the end of December. I still find it hard to say the word retirement but I guess that's what is happening to me. The profession of law has been great for me over the years. I worked hard to respect the profession and it returned the affection, but it doesn't give its favors, one has to earn them. The law allowed me the opportunity to earn a good life and I am very grateful for that. No top-down collectivized system told me what my life would be, instead I was free to chart my own course and achieve all that my ability could achieve. Having said all that, this is a very stressful and very busy month for me so this will be the last Castle Report for this year. I will join you again on the first Friday in January God willing. I plan to continue telling you each week what is wrong with the world and what I think the solutions should be. The President of the United States has proposed a 28-point plan to end the Ukraine war so let's take a look at that plan and compare it to what my version of a peace plan would look like. President Trump promised he would end the war 24 hours after he was elected. That was a little unrealistic as time has confirmed, but nevertheless it could have ended rather quickly. War means intervention by the United States and the best antidote to intervention is obviously non-intervention. No threats, no sanctions no weapons, no intelligence, no coordination, no missiles fired deep into Russia, and no need for elaborate peace plans. The real fix is much simpler than all that, just come home and mind your own business which is $38 trillion of debt. The President must know that intervention by the U.S. started the whole thing and this plan, though well meaning, is just more of that intervention. The U.S. has had its hands in this mess from the get-go and any plan has to consider that. The Orange Revolution in the early 2000s began it and the Maidan Revolution in 2014 completed the process from which conflict the U.S. apparently thought would result in a NATO military presence on the very border of Russia. Unless we come to understand the origin of this conflict it's hard to see how we can help resolve it. The two so-called revolutions that I mentioned were attempts to manipulate Ukraine into a hostile relationship with Russia from which Ukraine had no possibility of victory even with U.S. and NATO help. Looking back at the 2014 coup we see two U.S. senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham actually present in the capital of Ukraine demanding publicly that the people of that country overthrow their duly elected government and replace it with one more favorably inclined toward the U.S. Victoria Nuland, the State Department spokesperson for many presidents, including Joe Biden, was caught on one of those open mic telephone calls planning who would run the post-coup government. She took cookies to the protesters and bragged that we achieved it all with only $5 billion. So, as a result of this intervention, the U.S. is left trying to manage a problem that it created in the first place. Hundreds of thousands of dead and hundreds of billions of U.S. money expended and apparently all for nothing. No, actually it was not a war for nothing, so what was it for. A recent report tells us at least the main purpose. While the U.S. is $38 trillion in debt and Europe is trying to manage its decline under the weight of spiraling crime, collapsing birth rates and demographic destruction some in Europe and the U.S. are doing quite well. The global arms industry without which the bloody struggles in Ukraine and the Middle East would not be possible are enjoying record profits. The world's biggest weapons manufacturers posted an all-time record $679 billion in revenue in 2024. The globalists and neo-cons or whatever you choose to call them live to fuel these companies and make them happy. A report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reports what we already knew and that is that while the middle classes and poor are decaying rapidly, arms makers are thriving as never before. The U.S. companies lead the world of course with 39 companies making $334 billion. European companies are working hard to keep up the 26 largest enjoyed a 13 Percent increase in sales. Sweden's powerful Saab led the way with a 24 percent jump in profits. One other company, a Czech based company, though smaller than Saab was given the lead in feeding the Ukraine meat grinder and its revenue increased 200 percent. Israel didn't want to lose out so its companies which send weapons to conflicts all over the world increased profits by 16 percent. The SIPRI Report concludes that the arms giants are “capitalizing” on high demand. Therefore, they and the politicians they bribe have zero incentive to make peace. In World War two the situation was different because literally everyone including the President of the U.S. had sons or other relatives in the conflict but now the cannon fodder role is left for others. Russia's situation has seemed dire politically and economically at times, but not for Russian arms makers. Combined, their increase in 2024 was 23 percent. One might reasonably conclude that this whole war thing taken in its entirety is a conspiracy to destroy as many people as possible in order to make record profits. The people of the West may fear walking the streets of their cities but they never have to fear for the health of their “defense firms” because they are on the job. For the first time ever, several Middle East companies have cracked the top 100. The deal is so sweet everyone gets in on it. These companies anxiously search the world for rare earth metals to keep the killing going as long as possible. Could that have anything to do with all the talk and deal making about the Chinese controlling the rare earth market. Back in the Middle East Dubai's Edge Group made $4.7 billion much of it through drone and missile technology which they sell worldwide. For the first time Turkey's defense sector took in $31 billion combined. So, when we discuss peace and whether this or that plan will work we have to keep in mind that war is by far the most profitable racket on earth and the global elites who pontificate about climate change and moral values are the same ones who profit from the bloodshed. We should at least mention Just a few of the points in the President's 28-point plan. 1. Ukraine's sovereignty will be confirmed. 2. A full and comprehensive non-aggression agreement will be concluded between Russia, Ukraine, and Europe and all “ambiguities” of the past 30 years are hereby resolved. 5. Ukraine will receive “reliable” security guarantees. 7. Ukraine agrees to enshrine in its constitution that it will not join Nato and Nato agrees to include language in its charter that it will not accept Ukraine as a member. 8. Nato agrees to not deploy troops in Ukraine. 10. The U.S. will receive “compensation” for its guarantee. If Ukraine invades Russia it will lose the guarantee. If Russia invades Ukraine there will be a decisive, coordinated military response and all sanctions will be reimposed. If Ukraine, without cause, launches a missile at Moscow, the security guarantee will be dissolved. 11, Ukraine retains the right to EU membership. 12. A global package for the reconstruction of Ukraine will be prepared. The World Bank will develop the funds for this effort. 13. Russia will be reintegrated into the global economy. Sanctions will be gradually lifted. 17. The U.S. and Russia will reimpose arms control treaties including Start-1. 21. Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk will be recognized, including by the U.S., as Russian. 24. A humanitarian committee will be established to resolve humanitarian issues including exchange of all prisoners and bodies. 25. Ukraine will hold elections 100 days after the treaty is signed. 28. After the agreement is signed a ceasefire will immediately go into effect and all parties will withdraw to agreed upon lines. So, one thing that comes immediately to mind is that there are a lot of ambiguous terms in the agreement that will have to be defined and resolved. Right now, nobody seems to like it. Warhawk, Lindsey Graham hates it so it has that going for it. Zelensky hates it because there are a few Ukrainian people still alive and there are more profits to be made if he could just persuade Trump to give him more money. Russia seems at least willing to talk about implementation so despite the fact that it is perhaps not the best solution it is a solution so I pray that it works. Finally, folks, I pray that the U.S. will not bend to the will of Netanyahu and Zelensky, and their lobbyists in the U.S.. Come home close down much of the wasteful foreign “defense” spending. Mind our own business, reduce the deficit and defend America and its people. That's my peace plan. At Least that' the way I see it, Until January 2nd or thereabouts folks, This is Darrell Castle, Thanks for listening.

863,405 views Streamed live on Nov 24, 2025 #inukraine #russiaukraine #tcc#arestovych #rustle #zelensky #umerov #war⛑️ Help for children of the Donetsk region. SYNERGY OF LIFE Charitable Foundation

Silicon Bites Ep272 | News Update - Day 1,377 - 2025-12-01 | Two things went boom, but not in Crimea. Not Sevastopol. We're 30–40 nautical miles off Turkey's coast, in supposedly “safe” waters, watching two aging oil tankers from Russia's sanctions-busting shadow fleet burn in the dark. Beautiful, in a sinister kind of way. Ukraine does not deny it. Sea Baby naval drones. Precision hits. A deliberate punch to the Kremlin's oil lifeline. But a moral dilemma for Western states that are nominally pro-Ukraine but get squeamish when it treats this like the existential conflict that it is and takes actions it must. Ukraine embraces tough, challenging, dirty, and morally messy problems, and owns the decision and their impacts. The hypocritical and squeamish west labels this escalation. It's not, but our view on this reality exudes weakness and hypocrisy, as well as a shirking of duty. ----------SOURCES: Kyiv Independent – “‘Successful' Ukrainian naval drone strike disables 2 Russian shadow fleet tankers, source says” (Nov. 29, 2025)Kyiv Post – “SBU Drones Hit Sanctioned Oil Tankers Off Black Sea Coast” (Nov. 29, 2025)Reuters – “Ukrainian naval drones strike two Russian oil tankers in Black Sea” (Nov. 30, 2025)Associated Press – “Ukraine's Sea Baby drones hit Russian oil tankers in Black Sea off Turkish coast” & “Turkey condemns Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil tankers off Black Sea coast” (Nov. 29–30, 2025) RBC-Ukraine / UNN – coverage of Turkish Foreign Ministry and Transport Ministry reactions to the Kairos and Virat strikes Lloyd's List – Oleh Dunda & Ian Ralby, “Shadow ports: how cutting off Russia's access to maritime trade could help sanctions have real impact” (Nov. 27, 2025) gCaptain – “Two Sanctioned Tankers Catch Fire in Black Sea After Suspected Mine Strikes” (Nov. 28, 2025)Kyiv Post – analysis on Ukraine's campaign against Russian energy infrastructure and Zelensky's comments on striking energy facilitiesNaval News / H. I. Sutton – “Vital Russian Supply Lines in Black Sea Cut by Ukrainian Drones” (Mar. 10, 2024) Kyiv Independent, Kyiv Post, RBC-Ukraine, NV – reporting on earlier explosions involving the shadow-fleet tanker Vilamoura in the Mediterranean (June–July 2025) (Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine)----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasWe need to scale up our support for Ukraine, and these events are designed to have a major impact. Your support in making it happen is greatly appreciated. All events will be recorded professionally and published for free on the Silicon Curtain channel. Where possible, we will also live-stream events.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

Today's topics:1)  Trump 28 Point Peace Plan For Ending Ukraine -Russia War:  A mysterious new plan was presented in Kiev to Ukraine President Zelensky by US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll.  It demanded surrendering Donbas Region of Ukraine along with the Crimea to Russia, and blocking Ukraine from joining NATO .  Can Ukraine agree to these terms? 2) Trump Calls China's President XI?:  On Monday, Trump called President Xi.  It is not clear who requested the phone call.  He supposedly talked about the Ukraine war, and proposed US sanctions on countries importing Russian oil---like China.  But was that the main reason for the call?  What do you think? 3)  Is Brazil's Former President Bolsenaro  Going To Jail?  Bolsenaro was recently sentenced to 27 yrs in prison for organizing a 'coup d'etat' to take over the democratic system of Brazil.  But his son Edwardo has called from large protests to oppose any jail time.  What will happen next? 4) Operation 'Iron Wall' in the West Bank':  In 2025,  Israeli military engaged in massive attacks and even depopulation of  'refugee camps' in the occupied West Bank.  Over 40,000 Palestinians have been displaced there, forced to flee to other parts of the West Bank.  Why is Israel attacking these West Bank refugee camps now, which were established in 1948?  Support the show

Trump continues to pursue his perverse ambition to win the Nobel Peace Prize—now proffering "peace" plans for Ukraine and Gaza that would actually reward war crimes, and therefore portend wider war. In both cases these new "peace" plans are merely sanitized recapitulations of earlier proposals—for the surrender of the Donbas and Crimea to Russia, and for Israeli annexation of the Occupied Palestinian Territories and "transfer" of their indigenous inhabitants. Meanwhile, the actual winner of this year's Peace Prize, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, is obsequiously pandering to Trump, and playing along with his bellicose designs on her country. In Episode 306 of the CounterVortex podcast, Bill Weinberg cuts through the Orwellian war-is-peace propaganda. Listen on SoundCloud or via Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/countervortex Production by Chris Rywalt We ask listeners to donate just $1 per weekly podcast via Patreon -- or $2 for our new special offer! We now have 61 subscribers. If you appreciate our work, please become Number 62!

DE CASTRO: “Trump no bromea; podría golpear militarmente a Venezuela. Rusia y China no intervendrán"Juan Antonio de Castro, exfuncionario de Naciones Unidas, afirma que Vladimir Putin da un giro inesperado al mostrarse dispuesto a aceptar el plan reducido de 28 puntos como base para una negociación entre Rusia, Ucrania y Estados Unidos. De Castro subraya que, pese a ese gesto, el Kremlin mantiene líneas rojas inamovibles: Crimea y el Donbás seguirán siendo rusos, y Putin no puede retroceder en esos territorios sin perder legitimidad ante su país tras miles de soldados muertos. Señala que la única vía posible pasa por fórmulas híbridas o acuerdos temporales, porque la realidad militar ya favorece a Rusia en esa región.De Castro advierte que Europa está en una encrucijada crítica y que sus decisiones pueden tener consecuencias “muy malas” si no actúa con realismo. Insiste en que la Unión Europea no tiene capacidad para sostener el conflicto sin Estados Unidos, y critica la incoherencia de depender de Washington mientras intenta apartarlo del liderazgo negociador. También cuestiona las declaraciones de la alta representante de la UE, Kaja Kallas, a quien acusa de lanzar mensajes “vacíos” e impropios de la diplomacia al exigir a Rusia reducir su presupuesto militar. Para De Castro, Europa corre el riesgo de quedar fuera de la mesa, sin peso ni influencia real en la resolución del conflicto.Además, el exfuncionario de la ONU considera muy serias las advertencias de Trump sobre Venezuela y asegura que el expresidente estadounidense es “capaz” de lanzar ataques selectivos contra enclaves vinculados al narcotráfico para presionar a Nicolás Maduro, igual que hizo en su momento con Irán. De Castro sostiene que el tablero geopolítico ya es tripolar, con Estados Unidos, Rusia y China consolidando esferas de influencia propias. También recuerda que en conflictos como el de Irán o Ucrania, la propaganda opera desde ambos lados y que es esencial escuchar todas las narrativas para comprender la complejidad y el riesgo del momento actual.#decastro #trump #venezuela #invasion #rusia #china #intervenciónmilitar #maduro #eeuu #geopolitica #negociostv Si quieres entrar en la Academia de Negocios TV, este es el enlace:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwd8Byi93KbnsYmCcKLExvQ/join Síguenos en directo ➡️ https://bit.ly/2Ts9V3pSuscríbete a nuestro canal: https://bit.ly/3jsMzp2Suscríbete a nuestro segundo canal, másnegocios: https://n9.cl/4dca4Visita Negocios TV https://bit.ly/2Ts9V3pMás vídeos de Negocios TV: https://youtube.com/@NegociosTVSíguenos en Telegram: https://t.me/negociostvSíguenos en Instagram: https://bit.ly/3oytWndTwitter: https://bit.ly/3jz6LptFacebook: https://bit.ly/3e3kIuy

El presidente ruso ha dicho hoy que no piensa cesar las hostilidades en Ucrania hasta que se reconozcan sus demandas territoriales en el Donbas y en Crimea.Uno de los detenidos por haber saboteado supuestamente el gasoducto Nordstream en el Mar Báltico comparecerá mañana ante un tribunal, se lo vamos a contar. Estaremos en Francia donde el presidente Emmanuel Macron ha desvelado los detalles de cómo será el nuevo servicio militar voluntario. Sabremos como está siendo la visita del papa León XIV a Turquía y de Tommy Robinson, que se ha convertido en el líder más visible de a extrema derecha en Reino Unido. También hablaremos del golpe de estado en Guinea Bissau, del incendio en Hong Kong que deja más de 80 muertos y cientos de desaparecidos.Y estaremos con Johanna Cilano, investigadora de Amnistia internacional sobre un informe que denuncia violencia institucional contra las mujeres en Cuba.Escuchar audio

Russia went from a tsarist empire and the totalitarian USSR to the freedom of the 1990s, complete with hopes of becoming a European democracy. Unfortunately, multiple missteps and reckless foreign policy endeavors have resulted in Russia becoming a security threat to Europe and its own neighbors. Two Chechen wars, the invasion of Georgia, and annexation of Crimea paved the way for Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. How did it end up this way? Were there signs? What is the current state of Russian society?

“El gran escollo es definir las fronteras; Rusia podría exigir territorios no ocupados hoy". ViñalsEn esta entrevista con José María Viñals, director del Máster en Relaciones Internacionales del IEB, analiza la situación actual de las negociaciones de paz entre Rusia y Ucrania. Con el desplazamiento de Steve Witkoff a Moscú y Daniel Driskol a Kiev, se mantiene un perfil bajo, mientras se discuten cuestiones críticas como las fronteras, la soberanía y la presencia de tropas extranjeras. El plazo de Acción de Gracias no se cumple, y se enfatiza la dificultad de alcanzar acuerdos rápidos debido a intereses estratégicos divergentes.Se destacan tres posibles escenarios: resolución del conflicto por agotamiento, acuerdo en una mesa de negociación, o escalada militar. La Unión Europea exige garantías de seguridad robustas y la implicación de Estados Unidos, similar al artículo 5 de la OTAN, mientras que Rusia rechaza la presencia de tropas aliadas en territorio ucraniano. La negociación también aborda la futura integración de Ucrania en la Unión Europea y su relación con la OTAN.El análisis resalta la complejidad de implementar un acuerdo de paz sostenible, incluyendo la cesión de territorios en el Donbass y Crimea, y la necesidad de un equipo jurídico especializado en derecho internacional. La incertidumbre persiste sobre la disposición de Ucrania y Rusia a aceptar compromisos sobre soberanía, seguridad y tropas aliadas, manteniendo la guerra en un estado de negociación prolongada.#frontera #rusia #ucrania #guerraucrania #zelensky #putin #trump #witkoff #entrevista #otan #nato #negociostv Si quieres entrar en la Academia de Negocios TV, este es el enlace:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwd8Byi93KbnsYmCcKLExvQ/join Síguenos en directo ➡️ https://bit.ly/2Ts9V3pSuscríbete a nuestro canal: https://bit.ly/3jsMzp2Suscríbete a nuestro segundo canal, másnegocios: https://n9.cl/4dca4Visita Negocios TV https://bit.ly/2Ts9V3pMás vídeos de Negocios TV: https://youtube.com/@NegociosTVSíguenos en Telegram: https://t.me/negociostvSíguenos en Instagram: https://bit.ly/3oytWndTwitter: https://bit.ly/3jz6LptFacebook: https://bit.ly/3e3kIuy

Sean Noble and Chris Clements are back with a Thanksgiving week episode breaking down Zoran Mamdani, Mark Kelly's Pentagon trouble, and the latest “peace framework” in Ukraine – plus why all of it matters for Arizona, America, and the future of the Democratic Party. They start light with a quick recap of Sean's first-ever Formula 1 race on the Las Vegas Strip and Chris' old Long Beach Grand Prix pit-pass stories, then pivot hard into New York politics and Mamdani's cozy photo op with President Trump at the White House. They talk about how a self-described socialist is being treated as the future of the Democratic Party, Trump's overly chummy tone, and why Mamdani's rent-freeze ideas are the exact reason New York has a housing and affordability crisis – including tens of thousands of units sitting empty under rent control.  From there, they turn to Arizona's own Senator Mark Kelly. The Pentagon has launched an investigation after Kelly and other Democrats recorded a video telling U.S. service members they can and must refuse “illegal orders.” Sean and Chris unpack why that message is dangerous when there are no illegal orders on the table, how it collides with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and why Trump's furious “traitors, punishable by death” response actually elevates Kelly into martyr and fundraising territory. They dig into Kelly's record, his time out of state, his lack of solutions for Arizona, and his national ambitions heading into 2028 – and why they see him as a more dangerous Democrat than someone like Gavin Newsom. The guys also hit Ruben Gallego's vulgar “drive time” video response to Trump, and what it says about the current state of political discourse. In the back half, Sean and Chris react to reports of a new 19-point peace framework for Ukraine – and Russia's rejection of it. They break down why demands around Donbas, Crimea and NATO are likely non-starters for Putin, how demographics and sheer manpower give Russia an ugly advantage in a war of attrition, and why continued support from China, Iran and even North Korea complicates any hope for a near-term deal. They close with a heartfelt Thanksgiving reflection on America as a nation founded on faith, freedom and free enterprise – from the pilgrims fleeing religious persecution to our modern debates – and why gratitude, family and faith still matter in the middle of all the chaos. Follow Light Beer Dark Money on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lightbeerdarkmoney/ Follow Light Beer Dark Money on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LBDMshow Follow Light Beer Dark Money on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/light-beer-dark-money/ Link to the Light Beer Dark Money Blog: https://lightbeerdarkmoney.com/hypocrisy-and-the-aoc-oh-sandy/

What’s Trending: A judge has dismissed the indictments against James Comey and Letitia James by saying that he appointment of Lindsey Halligan as interim US Attorney for the Southern District of Virginia as invalid. The Muslim Brotherhood is back in the news as President Trump wants to designate it a foreign terrorist organization. Qatar is a home country for a lot of the members of the Muslim Brotherhood while they show like they are a semi-western nation. Can the US help Ukraine and Russia come to a peace agreement? The current plan involves Ukraine will give up some of their land like Crimea to the Russians. // Big Local: A shooting in Kent has the Kent police asking for tips after a late-night shooting resulted in one death at the Lincoln Park and Ride lot. A man was hospitalized after a brick was thrown into his car as he was driving on I-7-5 in Tacoma. A Bellevue man has created an AI bot to help his children understand what their grandfather was like as the grandfather had passed before they were born. // You Pick The News: A man in Seattle near the Duwamish Waterway was killed by a scissor lift that he as operating fell on top of him. An 80-year old man was beaten after a confrontation by teens graffiti tagging the Ballard Bridge in Seattle  

Send us a text This episode pulls back the curtain on a NATO headquarters usually seen only through press releases. Marine officer and Foreign Area Officer Andres Caceres explains how honest analysis on Afghanistan, ISIS's rise, and Russia's moves toward Crimea collided with a staff culture that valued appearances over results—and what happened when he refused to go along.  Andres contrasts early command lessons—where clear standards cut alcohol incidents to zero in Japan—with a Joint Operations Center focused on tracking numbers instead of real effects. He outlines overlooked signs of the Afghan Army's fragility, how Maliki's repression helped ISIS reemerge, why Mosul fell so quickly, and the pre-Crimea indicators many ignored. His point is stark: when institutions avoid hard truths, surprise becomes inevitable.  The conversation's second half tackles the personal cost of speaking up. After asking for a fair reassignment aligned with his FAO role, Andres faced a complaint, a limited investigation, and pressure to accept punishment without full access to evidence. He describes selective witness lists, a suspended clearance, a late allegation that swayed a board, and a later letter admitting coercion. We also discuss altered medical records, downgraded PTSD diagnoses, and why due process must be real, not rhetorical.  For those focused on NATO accountability, leadership, and whistleblower protections, this episode offers practical reforms—from enforcing perjury penalties at boards to safeguarding medical documentation—and a reminder that integrity still matters.  If this resonates, subscribe, share, and leave a review with the one reform you'd prioritize. Your ideas help push this conversation into the rooms where it needs to be heard. The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

PREVIEW — John Hardie — Unlikely non-negotiable points in the Ukraine 24/19-point plan. Hardie identifies two critical points Ukraine is unlikely to relinquish during peace negotiations, despite challenging battlefield conditions. These include ceding large swathes of Ukrainian territory and permitting Russia to dictate the size of Ukraine's military. Hardie contends that Russians will be unable to impose such extreme demands, noting that territorial concessions would present domestic political obstacles for Zelenskyy to manage. 1924 CRIMEA

In this Nash Holos exclusive interview from 2014, Pawlina speaks with Mirko Petriw, Vancouver-based author of two spy thrillers set in Ukraine and president of the Ukrainian-Canadian Congress Vancouver branch.Recorded during the Maidan Uprising, in the tense weeks leading up to Russia's annexation of Crimea, this conversation delves into the intersection of energy politics, propaganda, and democratic struggle in Ukraine.Listeners will hear about:• Ukraine's shale gas ambitions and what they could have meant for energy independence • How Russia and Gazprom sought to block Ukraine's EU association and undermine shale gas development • The propaganda battles around fracking and environmental fears, echoing debates in the West • The political crackdown on protesters, including restrictive laws and state-directed violence against demonstrators • The broader struggle for sovereignty, democracy, and Ukraine's future direction Petriw's insights reveal how hopes for energy independence collided with Russian influence, Gazprom's pressure, and authoritarian tactics during one of Ukraine's most pivotal moments.This interview originally aired on the Vancouver edition of Nash Holos on AM1320 CHMB on January 18, 2014. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pace o Resa? Titolavano più o meno così i giornali e i portali di mezzo mondo all'indomani delle indiscrezioni sui contenuti del piano in 28 punti messo sul tavolo da Donald Trump per porre fine al conflitto tra Russia e Ucraina. Un accordo che prevede in particolare che l'Ucraina ceda il controllo delle regioni di Donetsk e Lugansk, comprese le aree non ancora occupate dai russi, e rinunci alla Crimea, che dimezzi il proprio esercito e rinunci alle armi a lungo raggio e soprattutto alle ambizioni di adesione alla Nato e questo in cambio a garanzie di sicurezza da parte americana.Un piano di pace che a Kiev è risuonato un po' come un ultimatum e a cui fa da sfondo un'altra cruciale domanda: continuare la guerra a costo di ulteriori perdite umane o accettare un accordo controverso, che cede territori ma offre accordi di sicurezza e sostegno economico? E in tutto questo che ruolo può o potrebbe/dovrebbe giocare l'Europa? Ne parliamo conDavide Maria De Luca, collaboratore RSI da KievEleonora Tafuro, analista dell'Osservatorio Russia, Caucaso e Asia centrale dell'Istituto per gli studi di politica internazionaleAntonio Missiroli, docente di Sicurezza europea a Sciences Po Parigi, già assistente del Segretario generale della NATO 

5/8  Michael McFaul's book Autocrats Versus Democrats argues that Putinism is driven by anti-Western ideology, making Putin a risk-taker, and McFaul believes the US erred by lacking a robust response and failing to provide arms after the 2014 Crimea invasion, stressing that helping Ukraine win is essential to inspire Russian democrats. He asserts that the appeal of autocracy is growing globally and advises that the US must align democracies against autocrats while advocating for human rights, citing the need to support imprisoned publisher Jimmy Lai. Long-term strategy requires the US and its allies to unite, as they are collectively stronger economically and militarily than autocracies, and McFaulstrongly recommends attracting international talent by reversing restrictive immigration policies, calling it a great strength the US is currently losing. 1913

CONTINUED 6/8 Michael McFaul's book Autocrats Versus Democrats argues that Putinism is driven by anti-Western ideology, making Putin a risk-taker, and McFaul believes the US erred by lacking a robust response and failing to provide arms after the 2014 Crimea invasion, stressing that helping Ukraine win is essential to inspire Russian democrats. 1917

CONTINUED 7/8 Michael McFaul's book Autocrats Versus Democrats argues that Putinism is driven by anti-Western ideology, making Putin a risk-taker, and McFaul believes the US erred by lacking a robust response and failing to provide arms after the 2014 Crimea invasion, stressing that helping Ukraine win is essential to inspire Russian democrats.... 1920

CONTINUED 8/8 Michael McFaul's book Autocrats Versus Democrats argues that Putinism is driven by anti-Western ideology, making Putin a risk-taker, and McFaul believes the US erred by lacking a robust response and failing to provide arms after the 2014 Crimea invasion, stressing that helping Ukraine win is essential to inspire Russian democrats.... 1917

SHOW 11-21-25 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT UKRAINE FIRST HOUR 9-915 HEADLINE: Las Vegas Shifts Focus with Formula 1 and Lower-End Tourism; California Politics Hit by Indictments GUEST: Jeff Bliss Jeff Bliss reports that the Formula 1 race on the Las Vegas city circuit is attracting major spectacle and high-end tourism, though the city is also attempting recovery by catering to lower-income demographics, evidenced by positive activity at the Excalibur Casino, while facing major competition from a new Indian casino near Bakersfield, California, operated by the Tahone tribe and twice the size of Caesars Palace. In California, Governor Gavin Newsom's former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, and four others were indicted on 23 counts of fraud. Additionally, an investigation into the Palisades fire revealed that state workers ordered the LA Fire Department to back off a previously burned area that rekindled, allegedly to protect endangered plants. 915-930 HEADLINE: Industrial Policy and Tariffs Lack Coherence; Removal of Food Tariffs Implies Inflationary EffectGUEST: Veronique De Rugy Veronique De Rugy discusses US industrial policy, noting the trade deficit has increased despite tariffs, and the administration's decision to remove tariffs on food items—goods not produced domestically—is seen as an implicit admission that tariffs contribute to the "affordability crisis" because tariffs are a tax primarily borne by American consumers. The goals behind tariffs have shifted from fighting China to raising revenue, and the largest tariff exemption is for computer parts, indicating an understanding that tariffs could contradict other goals like energy abundance. De Rugyargues that US economic power stems from innovation and a willingness to invest, making industrial policy involving tariffs and seeking foreign investment largely unnecessary and potentially harmful. 930-945 HEADLINE: Mixed US Economic Signals: Strong GDP Contrasts Low Consumer Sentiment; AI Adoption Increases GUEST: Gene Marks Gene Marks discusses the US economy, noting that third-quarter GDP growth is estimated near 4%, contrasting sharply with record-low consumer sentiment in a "tale of two economies" where salaried workers receiving pay raises of 5–7% are outpacing 3% inflation and continuing to spend, while hourly workers struggle. Despite job growth in construction, leading indicators like the architectural billings index show contraction for 11 months. In technology, 88% of major companies are adopting artificial intelligence, though scaling remains limited, with AI already replacing low-level programmers and enhancing customer service. Agentic AI, capable of performing complex tasks, is predicted to impact fields like accounting and marketing by 2027–2028. However, Marks argues that most current major corporate layoffs stem from typical corporate bloat and mismanagement rather than AI, at least not yet. 945-10 SECOND HOUR 10-1015 HEADLINE: Lancaster County Economy Booms Despite Low Consumer Confidence; Local Entrepreneurs ThriveGUEST: Jim McTague Jim McTague reports that the economy in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is strong, suggesting it mirrors the greater US economy despite reports of low consumer confidence, observing robust traffic at tourist destinations like Kitchen Kettle Village, a shopping locale established in 1954, with spending largely supported by well-off boomers. Local entrepreneurs are experiencing great success—a dealer selling eclectic electric lamps in Park City Mall is already earning $4,500 per week at the start of the holiday season, and high volume at Costco, where the Amish are major buyers, further indicates available disposable income. McTague concludes that the real economy on Main Street is strong and likely headed for a blockbuster Christmas season. 1015-1030 HEADLINE: Climate Change Threatens Iconic Italian Cheeses; Southern Drought Reduces Milk Production Quality GUEST: Lorenzo Fiori Lorenzo Fiori reports that climate change is threatening Italian food production, particularly cheese, due to drought and heat waves in the south, especially the Puglia region, where stressed cows are reducing milk production and impacting specialty cheeses like mozzarella and burrata. Milk cannot be shipped from the north because local water and hay are essential to the unique flavor of southern cheese. Fiori emphasizes that Italian food is a famous brand precisely because it belongs to its territory, criticizing pre-prepared sauces found in Brussels as inauthentic carbonara, which must be made fresh. In Milan, Christmas preparations are underway, with shop windows decorated festively and street lights scheduled to be switched on December 7th. 1030-1045 HEADLINE: Private Space Advances (Blue Origin, Rocket Lab) Challenge NASA SLS, EU Space Law CriticizedGUEST: Bob Zimmerman Bob Zimmerman reports that Blue Origin's New Glenn orbital rocket successfully completed its second launch, including landing the first stage and demonstrating reuse capability comparable to Falcon 9. New Glenn, larger than Falcon 9, is scheduled for upgrades with more powerful BE4 and BE3U engines, making it nearly comparable to NASA's costly and expendable SLS rocket. Rocket Lab set a new annual launch record with 15 successful orbital launches, surpassing Russia's frequency, and has conducted suborbital HASTE launches for military testing. India is upgrading its largest LVM rocket's upper stage for multiple restarts, essential for its space station and crewed missions. The US State Department opposes a proposed European Union space law seeking to impose EU regulations on companies from other nations, potentially discrediting the EU if passed. Finally, NASA has hired startup Catalyst to attempt a daring robotic rescue of the decaying Swift telescope. 1045-1100 THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 HEADLINE: McFaul: Autocrats Are on the Rise; US Must Unite Allies and Attract Global Talent to CompeteGUEST: Michael McFaul Michael McFaul's book Autocrats Versus Democrats argues that Putinism is driven by anti-Western ideology, making Putin a risk-taker, and McFaul believes the US erred by lacking a robust response and failing to provide arms after the 2014 Crimea invasion, stressing that helping Ukraine win is essential to inspire Russian democrats. He asserts that the appeal of autocracy is growing globally and advises that the US must align democracies against autocrats while advocating for human rights, citing the need to support imprisoned publisher Jimmy Lai. Long-term strategy requires the US and its allies to unite, as they are collectively stronger economically and militarily than autocracies, and McFaulstrongly recommends attracting international talent by reversing restrictive immigration policies, calling it a great strength the US is currently losing. 1115-1130 1130-1145 1145-1200 FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 HEADLINE: US-Saudi Nuclear Deal Raises Proliferation Concerns; Military Micro-Reactors Retreat from Front Lines GUEST: Henry Sokolski Henry Sokolski states that Saudi Crown Prince MBS's goal is to obtain a bomb option, and while the new US-Saudi agreement does not include assistance with nuclear fuel production, a reactor still provides the necessary "cover" used by countries like Iran. MBS has made clear he will acquire a bomb if Iran does, regardless of the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Sokolski also discusses the US military's Janus program for small reactors, initially conceived for vulnerable front-line bases but pushed back to remote areas like Alaska and the lower 48 due to concerns about drones and vulnerability. Finally, the US may be moving toward nuclear socialism—government ownership of commercial reactors, potentially funded by Japan—to encourage commercialization even without secured market contracts. 1215-1230 1230-1245 HEADLINE: Scenario: Russia Attacks NATO Member Estonia; Europe's "Kantian Dreams" and Lack of Readiness Prevent Article 5 Response GUEST: Jakub Grygiel Jakub Grygiel analyzes the German book If Russia Wins, which outlines a scenario where Russia attacks NATO member Estonia around 2028 following a stalled conflict in Ukraine, capturing Narva and an island before halting its advance and creating confusion within NATO. Europeans, living in "Kantian dreams of eternal peace," prioritize a quick end to the conflict and fear escalation, and the scenario posits that the US President decides a World War III over a "tiny piece of land" is not worthwhile, leading Estonia to forego invoking NATO's Article 5 out of fear of alliance rejection. Grygielnotes that decades of demilitarization leave Europe unprepared for war, highlighting that US reinforcements could take 45 days to move and societies lack the political will to fund necessary rearmament.

Ukraine Envoy Keith Kellogg Quits After Plan for US Peace Leaked. Anatol Lieven discusses a leaked Ukraine peace plan involving potential US legal recognition of Russian annexation of Donbass and Crimea, which would pave the way for lifting US sanctions. The plan requires Ukraine to yield the remaining Donbass slice and accept limits on its army size, although Ukraine is not required to formally agree. Guest: Anatol Lieven. 1824

SHOW 11-20-2025 CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT PEACE IN EUROPE.. FIRST HOUR 9-915 Ukraine Envoy Keith Kellogg Quits After Plan for US Peace Leaked. Anatol Lieven discusses a leaked Ukraine peace plan involving potential US legal recognition of Russian annexation of Donbass and Crimea, which would pave the way for lifting US sanctions. The plan requires Ukraine to yield the remaining Donbass slice and accept limits on its army size, although Ukraine is not required to formally agree. Guest: Anatol Lieven. 915-930 continued 930-945 Professor George Is Right: Principle Sustains American Conservatism. Peter Berkowitz reviews Professor Robert George's assertion that American conservatism's core principle is the profound, inherent, and equal dignity of each human family member. George insisted that the movement must unequivocally reject white supremacists and anti-Semites, a rebuke directed at the Heritage Foundation president's defense of Tucker Carlson. This mirrors William F. Buckley's efforts to purge extremism from conservatism. Guest: Peter Berkowitz. 945-1000 US Adds 119,000 Jobs in September, but Unemployment Hits Four-Year Peak. Chris Regal discusses consumer liquidity challenges alongside the early impacts of AI on the workforce. AI is currently displacing white-collar jobs like consulting, but physical displacement via robotics is coming. He notes concerns about an AI investment bubble but affirms confidence in major companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Guest: Chris Regal. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 Upcoming Election in Honduras. Mary Anastasia O'Grady discusses Honduran fears that the current left-wing party, allied with Venezuela and Cuba, will attempt to steal the upcoming election. This follows a playbook where elected leaders consolidate power by seizing control of institutions like the military and courts to avoid subsequent fair elections. The OAS and US State Department have issued warnings against election theft. Guest: Mary Anastasia O'Grady. 1015-1030 Russia's Slowing Wartime Economy Pushes Kremlin to Increase Taxes and Fees. Michael Bernstam analyzes Russia's economic stagnation due to war expenditure and shortages, leading the Kremlin to raise taxes, including the VAT, to close the budget gap. Sanctions are biting deep, forcing Russia to offer huge discounts—up to $38 per barrel—to its primary oil customers: India, China, and Turkey. Guest: Michael Bernstam. 1030-1045 Launch of Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket. Eric Berger describes the successful second launch and booster landing of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket as thrilling and a huge step forward. New Glenn is the world's third largest rocket and is crucial for Amazon's LEO constellation and NASA's Artemis moon program. Berger also supports Jared Isaacman's nomination to lead NASA. Guest: Eric Berger. 1045-1100 THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 Autocrats Versus Democrats: China, Russia, America, and the New Global Disorder. Michael McFaul analyzes the Cold War, noting that the Cuban Missile Crisis taught the need for crisis management mechanisms with adversaries. He argues that the US was too complacent, first when engaging China after Tiananmen Square without stressing values, and later when failing to invest politically and economically to consolidate democracy in post-Soviet Russia. Guest: Michael McFaul. 1115-1130 1130-1145 1145-1200 FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 The New World Report. Professor Evan Ellis discusses increased US attention to the Americas, citing the Monroe Doctrine and the risks of intervention in Venezuela. He emphasizes that narco-terror is a complex criminal economy troubling the region. The conversation also highlights rightward political movements and citizen frustration with insecurity and violence in Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Guest: Professor Evan Ellis. 1215-1230 1230-1245 1245-100 AM

In this extremely enraged episode of Follow the Money, we ask the only question that actually matters in Trump's second crime spree through history: who is getting rich off of Trump chaos and the world's misery? Russian mafia expert Olga Lautman of Trump Tyranny Tracker and Andrea Chalupa of Gaslit Nation together trace a financial pipeline of blood money that runs from the Kremlin, through Qatar, through crypto, straight into Trump World and its favorite oligarch bagmen.  While Ukrainian kids are protesting, begging the world not to look away as Russia bombs their playgrounds and kindergartens, Trump's MAGA lackeys, like Matt Gaetz protege Rep. Anna Luna, are in Florida huddling with Putin's money man and messenger, Kirill Dmitriev, sketching out yet another fake "peace plan" that is nothing but a genocide plan for Ukraine and a launchpad for a larger war with Europe. In a blatant crime of access journalism that would make Michael Wolff jealous, Axios published Kremlin/MAGA disinformation by calling it a "peace proposal." In reality, it's a Kremlin bribe: sell off Ukraine's land, launder the theft through "diplomacy," and cash out in crypto for Trump and his longtime real estate buddy-turned-Kremlin fixer Steve Witkoff, and their sons.  Their plan is for Ukraine to give up Donbas and Crimea, which suffers under Soviet-style repression, disarm Ukraine' military, and expect the world to recognize stolen land as Russian. In exchange, Trump, Witkoff, and their sons would allegedly get crypto via Qatar and a chance to turn genocide into an investment opportunity. All of this is happening while Russia openly kidnaps Ukrainian children, erases their identities, and feeds them into a military pipeline of Putin's forever war, while half of Europe anxiously prepares for war with Moscow.  Follow the money, and you see the gaslighting of Trump once again being bribed to call the Kremlin's foreign policy his own.  Be sure to follow us on our new YouTube channel to help us get the word out about Follow the Money! https://www.youtube.com/@FollowTheMoneyTrail Want to hear bonus shows and listen to Gaslit Nation ad-free? Join our community of listeners for live events like our Monday 4pm ET salons over Zoom, bonus shows, exclusive Q&A sessions, our group chat, and more! Sign up at Patreon.com/Gaslit! Show Notes: Trump Tyranny Tracker: https://trumptyrannytracker.substack.com/ Putin ally suggests Seychelles meeting with Erik Prince more than chance encounter over a beer https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/putin-ally-seychelles-meeting-erik-prince-chance-encounter/story?id=55408942 The Story Behind Jared Kushner's Curious Acceptance Into Harvard https://www.propublica.org/article/the-story-behind-jared-kushners-curious-acceptance-into-harvard Kushner got emails about WikiLeaks, Russia in 2016, lawmakers say https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/16/jared-kushner-wikileaks-emails-245197 Trump's Mideast Envoy Steve Witkoff & Sons Blur Peace & Profit, from Real Estate to Crypto Deals https://www.democracynow.org/2025/10/3/debra_kamin_steve_witkoff_real_estate Trump and special envoy Witkoff stand to reap rewards from official business https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/30/trump-steve-witkoff-envoy George Nader arrested on child pornography charges: Nader, a well-connected Middle East fixer, accused of having sexually explicit pictures of children on his mobile phone. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/6/4/george-nader-arrested-on-child-pornography-charges Former Trump lobbyist from Lake Norman charged with distribution of child porn https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/former-trump-lobbyist-lake-norman-193651678.html Maryland delegate for Trump charged with child pornography and possession of illegal gun and explosives https://www.cnn.com/2016/05/19/politics/trump-delegate-child-porn-gun-explosives Former Trump Commerce Department official and Turning Point USA ex-employee sentenced to 5.5 years in prison for child pornography possession https://www.businessinsider.com/former-trump-commerce-official-pleads-guilty-child-porn-charge-2022-10 Former GOP Hill aide pleads guilty in child porn case Ruben Verastigui, 27, faces 12 years or more in prison under a deal with prosecutors. https://www.politico.com/news/2021/07/09/former-hill-aide-pleads-guilty-child-porn-498937

In this week's episode of One Decision, hosts Kate McCann and Sir Ben Wallce, former UK Defence Secretary, sit down for a conversation with Andriy Zagorodnyuk, former Ukraine Minister of Defence. Zagorodnyuk reveals how Russia is revolutionizing warfare with rapid weapons innovation and how Ukraine is adjusting to these changes to stay in the fight. They discuss Vladimir Putin's motives for continued aggression, including his vision for Crimea and how Ukraine's defense technology has changed the landscape of modern warfare. They also question whether NATO is prepared for a Russian attack and explore the ramifications of the war on the West and its allies. Episode produced by Situation Room Studios. Original music composed and produced by Leo Sidran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stati Uniti e Russia starebbero lavorando a un piano articolato in 28 punti per porre fine alla guerra in Ucraina. Lo rivelano alcuni media statunitensi, citando fonti anonime interne all'amministrazione Trump. Il testo sottoposto a Volodymyr Zelensky prevederebbe cessioni territoriali (Crimea e l'intero Donbass in particolare) e un dimezzamento dell'esercito ucraino. Ne parliamo con Vittorio Emanuele Parsi, Direttore ASERI Università Cattolica, Antonella Scott, firma del Sole 24Ore, e con Beda Romano, corrispondente del Sole 24Ore a Bruxelles.

Ukraine Conflict: French Arms Deal, Sabotage, and the Perilous Battle for Pokrovsk. Guest: John Hardie. John Hardie reported that Ukraine signed a letter of intent with France to obtain 100 Rafale warplanes over 10 years, along with air defense systems. While this partnership is encouraging, Hardy expressed concern that Ukraine is excessively over-diversifying its future air fleet (including F-16, Grippen, Mirage, and Rafale) which complicates long-term sustainment and maintenance. Simultaneously, alarming reports surfaced that sabotage was blamed for an explosion on a major railway line in Poland used to supply Ukraine, fitting a pattern of suspected Russian covert operations against European infrastructure. On the battlefield, fighting continues in Pokrovsk (Picro). Hardy warned that if Ukrainian forces prioritize a politically motivated hold, they risk the encirclement and destruction of troops in nearby areas. Poor weather, such as fog, plays a significant role in the conflict, as Russians often time assaults during these conditions to impede Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance and FPV drones.1855 CRIMEA

You're listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for November 17, 2025. 0:30 We dive into President Trump’s newly floated idea of a $2,000 “tariff dividend” for Americans earning under $100,000—and the heated debate it’s sparked. We break down the real numbers behind U.S. tariff revenues, the crushing weight of a $38 trillion national debt, and why handing out checks may feel good politically but won’t fix decades of fiscal irresponsibility. We explore who this proposal is aimed at, the working-class voters both parties are fighting to win back, and whether this is genuine relief or just another election-year strategy. 9:30 Plus, we cover the Top 3 Things You Need to Know. The Federal Aviation Administration lifted all restrictions on flights, airlines and airports over the weekend that were put in place during the Government Lockdown. Interim Director of FEMA David Richardson resigned Monday morning. Democrat Senator John Fetterman released a picture of himself on social media over the weekend, showing the bruising and scarring on his face after he took a fall on Friday. 12:30 Get Prodovite Plus from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 13:30 We break down President Trump’s call for a full, no-holds-barred congressional vote to release every remaining Epstein file—and why the timing matters. We discuss Democrats’ attempts to weaponize selectively released emails, the media’s eagerness to push a narrative, and why even those emails ultimately undercut the left’s accusations rather than support them. The hosts explore Trump’s reasoning for demanding total transparency, including his belief that dragging out the Epstein saga has become yet another political distraction—“Russia hoax 3.0”—aimed at diverting voters from Democratic failures on the border, inflation, and public safety. 16:30 American Mamas respond to a listener’s question: “Why are you enforcing your beauty standards on Black women and forcing them to straighten their hair?” The discussion centers on recent comments from former First Lady Michelle Obama, who suggested at a public event that Black women often straighten their hair to conform to white beauty standards. The Mamas question whether hair maintenance is a racial issue or something all women deal with. And they point out that Michelle Obama has the right and platform to wear her hair however she wants, noting that she's been highly praised by media and public audiences. If you'd like to ask our American Mamas a question, go to our website, AmericanGroundRadio.com/mamas and click on the Ask the Mamas button. 23:00 Under Trump, the U.S. didn’t enter any new wars—unlike past administrations that oversaw conflicts in Iraq, Libya, and beyond. Trump’s foreign-policy wins, from the historic Abraham Accords to renewed regional cooperation in the Middle East, even citing Kazakhstan’s recent involvement as a sign of growing diplomatic momentum. 24:00 We sit down with three special guests from Ukraine—Alla Yatsentsuk, her son Daniello, and advocate Katya Pavlich—to share a firsthand account of Russia’s forced deportation of Ukrainian children. Alla recounts the terrifying moment Russian forces occupied her city and ordered children, including her 12-year-old son, to attend a so-called “rest camp” in Crimea. When the children weren’t returned, Alla learned the truth: the Russians had no intention of sending them home. With the help of the organization Save Ukraine, Alla embarked on a months-long, near-impossible journey to retrieve her child—navigating destroyed infrastructure, occupied territory, and deliberate obstruction from Russian forces. Daniello was one of the fortunate ones. Thousands of Ukrainian children are still missing, with fewer than 2,000 returned out of nearly 20,000 known abductions. Katya, representing Razom for Ukraine, explains how her organization is working to support hospitals, strengthen civil society, combat Russian disinformation, and advocate for abducted children on the world stage. She emphasizes a shared American and Ukrainian value: children are never bargaining chips. Visit razomforukraine.org to learn more. 32:00 Get TrimROX from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 32:30 We break down fresh speculation surrounding Senator Ted Cruz and the possibility of a 2028 presidential run. Known for being anything but subtle, Cruz is doing little to quiet the rumors—allowing buzz about his intentions to build. We discuss Cruz’s political instincts, noting he has long kept one eye on his future ambitions. But whether he should run is another question. With JD Vance widely seen as the strongest Republican contender for 2028, we weigh whether Cruz would strengthen or divide the party. 36:00 Plus, Republican states stand by Biblical, pro-life values after the Dobbs decision, and that's a Bright Spot. We break down a new report from Americans United for Life ranking the most—and least—pro-life states in the country. With the Dobbs decision returning the issue to the states, the AUL assessment goes beyond abortion to examine each state's protections for life from conception to natural death, including bioethics, end-of-life care, conscience protections, and the legal status of the unborn. Their findings reveal a stark divide: the top 10 pro-life states—led by Arkansas, Louisiana, and Indiana—are overwhelmingly Republican, while the 10 least protective states, from Oregon to New Mexico, are all governed by Democrats. Stephen and Lewis argue this split highlights the deepest cultural divide in America today. 40:00 We unpack the escalating feud between Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and President Trump—a clash that finally erupted publicly over the weekend. Greene’s new slogan, “America First, America Only,” and her attacks on Trump over Israel policy and the Epstein files sparked a forceful response from the former president, who labeled her a “lightweight,” a “traitor,” and even a RINO. Right now Republuicans could be winning everything, but we're attacking one another instead. We've gotta say, "Whoa." 41:30 And we finish off with Michelle and Vaughn Pohl, a couple who decided who nearly doubled the size of their family when they decided to adopt four children in need. When the family's car broke down, and Secret Santa stepped in to help the family showing that the Christmas Spirit is alive and well. Follow us: americangroundradio.com Facebook: facebook.com / AmericanGroundRadio Instagram: instagram.com/americangroundradioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Khrushchev, Crimea, and Putin's Perception of Ukraine as "Soviet Florida". Professor Eugene Finkel discusses Khrushchev's 1954 transfer of Crimea to Ukraine, undertaken for purely economic and practical reasons, though it remains a point of contention today. During the Soviet "golden period," Ukraine became vital, providing coal, industrial manufacturing, and ballistic missiles. Vladimir Putin's image of Ukraine was formed during this time, seeing it as an unquestioned extension of Russia. Due to forced Russification and its popularity as the "Soviet Florida," Putin saw Ukraine as part of Russia, a perception that was not up for debate. Guest: Professor Eugene Finkel. 1855 CRIMEA

Putin's Revisionist History and the 2014 Invasion of Crimea and Donbas. Professor Eugene Finkel analyzes how, isolated during the pandemic, Vladimir Putin wrote a historical essay in 2021 based on myths, asserting that Ukraine has always been Russia and must be fully subordinated. This vision clarified his expansionist goals. The 2014 Euromaidan uprising, which deposed the pro-Russian president, convinced Putin he had to act. He seized Crimea and fostered uprisings in Donbas using Russian infiltrators. Though many locals spoke Russian, most considered themselves Ukrainians wanting independence, not Russian rule. Guest: Professor Eugene Finkel. 1855

Volodymyr Zelenskyy: A Native Russian Speaker and the Evolution of Ukrainian National Identity. Professor Eugene Finkel notes that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has an unusual background: Jewish, a native Russian speaker, and a successful media entrepreneur and comedian. His election symbolizes Ukraine's evolving identity, moving from an ethnic definition to a national commitment to the state, regardless of language. Zelenskyy won as an outsider, hoping his background would enable him to negotiate a peaceful resolution regarding Donbas and Crimea directly with Vladimir Putin, bringing optimism to the new generation. Guest: Professor Eugene Finkel. 1855

2025-11-17 | Silicon Wafers 058 | DAILY UPDATES | We're going straight to the heart of Putin's war machine: fuel. Overnight on 15 November 2025, Ukrainian drones hit one of Russia's biggest oil refineries in Ryazan, around 200 kilometres south-east of Moscow – and, as Kyiv's generals quietly noted, that wasn't the only target. This was part of a coordinated strike package that also hit a Nebo-U radar system in occupied Crimea, a military train near Tokmak, and Russian troop concentrations near the front. (The Kyiv Independent)You may think it's “just another drone attack.” But it's also one more turn of the screw in a campaign that is slowly transforming Russia into a petro-state that can't reliably refine its own petrol. Stikes like the one on Ryazan matters because they are reshaping both the Russian economy and the strategic map of the war.Ukraine's General Staff put out a terse statement on 15 November, saying: “Ukrainian forces struck an oil refinery in the Russian city of Ryazan and hit several other military targets.” (The Kyiv Independent) Those “other targets” included:- A Nebo-U long-range radar station in occupied Crimea,- A military train near Tokmak in occupied Zaporizhzhia,- And a concentration of Russian personnel near Vovchansk in Kharkiv region. (Ukrinform)----------SOURCES: Kyiv Independent – “Ukraine strikes Ryazan oil refinery, hits multiple other Russian military targets, General Staff says” (15 Nov 2025)Ukrinform – “Ukraine's Defense Forces strike Ryazan Oil Refinery, military train, several clusters of Russian personnel” (15 Nov 2025)Kyiv Post – “Ukraine Strikes Deep: Ryazan Oil Refinery Ablaze, Nebo-U Radar Destroyed, Echelon Hit” (15 Nov 2025)The Guardian – “Ukraine war briefing: Drones hit Russia's Ryazan oil refinery” (16 Nov 2025)Reuters – “Ukrainian drones hit big Russian oil refinery at Ryazan, sources say” (24 Jan 2025)----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

2025-11-14 | Silicon Wafers 055 | Flamingo Over Novorossiysk: Ukraine's Long-Range Energy War. In the early hours of November 14, Russia's biggest Black Sea oil hub, Novorossiysk, went dark in a way that brings a thrill to pro-Ukraine activists on social media. Giant fireballs, and mobile phone footage of Russian's exclaiming and swearing in the entertaining we have become familiar with. But is the strike of strategic importance, and does it tell us anything about how Ukraine's deep strike capabilities are changing? Drones over the water, fire at the Sheskharis terminal, and something Moscow really hates to see, which is tankers not loading oil.The next night, hundreds of kilometres to the north, explosions roll across the Russian city of Oryol. Local Telegram channels film glowing debris raining into courtyards. And for the first time, Ukraine officially says it's using its new home-grown deep-strike weapon: the Flamingo cruise missile. Tonight, we're going to connect those two things — the burning oil terminal and the cute-sounding missile with a 3,000-kilometre reach — and ask: How is Ukraine's second front of the war unfolding — not the territorial war, but the one against Russian energy, logistics, and the regime's balance sheet?----------SOURCES: Kyiv Post – “Novorossiysk Oil Shipments Suspended After Ukraine Drone Strike Sets Key Terminal Ablaze” (Nov. 14, 2025)Kyiv Post – “Explosions Rock Russia's Oryol – Ukraine's Use of ‘Flamingo' Long-Range Missiles Confirmed” (Nov. 13, 2025)Kyiv Post – “ANALYSIS: Ukraine's Bombardment of Russia – Not Just Oil Refineries, Warships Any More” by Stefan Korshak (Nov. 5, 2025)The Kyiv Independent – “Ukraine confirms use of Flamingo missiles in strikes on Crimea, Zaporizhzhia, targets inside Russia” (Nov. 13, 2025)Reuters – “Storms, drone attacks and record oil exports pile pressure on Russian port of Novorossiisk” (Oct. 15, 2025)Reuters – coverage on Novorossiysk oil export suspension after attack (Nov. 14, 2025) AP News – “Ukraine's long-range strikes cut Russia's oil refining capacity by 20%, Zelenskyy says” (late Oct. 2025)Chatham House – “Ukraine's best defence against Putin's energy war is more attacks on Russia's oil refining sector” (2025)Foundation for Defense of Democracies – “Ukraine conducts strikes on Russian targets using domestically produced missiles and drones” (Nov. 2025)The Guardian – “Ukraine war briefing: Flamingo flies into battle, Zelenskyy defers to commanders over Pokrovsk” (Nov. 14, 2025) ----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

This episode features the inspiring story of Chris and Diana Twiggs, and their son Brendan Twiggs, who have relentlessly dedicated their time to relief work in Ukraine over the past few years, and perhaps more importantly built friendships of solidarity. Diana Twiggs, a practicing physician, started volunteering with International Medical Relief, providing essential medical care and support in urgent regions.Through Diana's initiative, Chris and Brendan have joined the cause. Chris, well known in the running community as the National Training Director for the Galloway Run-Walk-Run program, partners with Diana on trips to Ukraine, bringing medical supplies and supporting humanitarian efforts, and spreading the word. Their latest visit included both Lviv—a vital base for relief work close to the Polish border—and the capital Kyiv, where they participated in the Kyiv Marathon, standing in solidarity with Ukraine's resilient spirit and thousands of fellow runners. They also brought medical relief supplies most recently to Traveling Colonels, a group of military veterans providing critical medical relief to the front lines where through dedicated people across the country. Brendan Twiggs stands out for his ongoing commitment, joining us from the streets of Lviv as we hear the sounds of everyday life in his daily commute. Lviv Volunteer Kitchen—founded in 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea by caring individuals; serves as a place to connect relief workers to needs on the ground. The Twiggs' reflections in this episode emphasize how showing up for others can bridge divides and demonstrate in person that Ukrainians are not forgotten. They also the harrowing actions that everyday Ukrainians are taking to support their neighbors and countrymen as they fight to regain peace while striving to live a meaningful life each day. What can you do? ***Get Involved, Advocate, Give or Learn More***International Medical Relief: https://internationalmedicalrelief.org/Medical supplies were also brought to Kyiv through Traveling Colonels: https://thetravelingcolonels.com/Lviv Volunteer Kitchen Charity: Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lvivkitchen/ or through local Ukrainian relief networks.Kyiv Marathon:Event info at https://kyivmarathon.org/ and through charity run directories.***Take Action: Contact Your Representatives***Your voice matters. Get informed and then urge continued support for Ukraine by contacting your US representatives!Find Your Elected Officials: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officialsDirect link for Senate and House contacts.For more inspiring stories and resources in the running community, visit and share: https://www.runninganthropologist.com

Ilya Ponomarev is a Russian-Ukrainian politician who was a member of the Russian State Duma from 2007 to 2016. After the 2022 Russian invasion, Ponomarev joined Ukraine's Territorial Defence Forces, and categorically denounced the invasion. While a member of the Russian State Duma, he was the only deputy not to vote in favour of the Russian gay propaganda law and to vote against Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014. He is now in exile in Ukraine and is a spokesman with insurgent Russian forces (National Republican Army) fighting on the side of Ukraine. ----------LINKS:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilya_Ponomarev https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002113qhttps://www.fpri.org/contributor/ilya-ponomarev/BOOKS:Does Putin Have to Die? The Story of How Russia Becomes a Democracy after Losing to Ukraine (Hardcover – 19 Jan. 2023)ARTICLES: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/01/19/ilya-ponomaryov-we-have-to-capture-the-kremlin-there-is-no-other-way-a83772 ----------David DeBatto is host of the ‘No Delusion Zone' podcast @NoDelusionZone is a retired U.S. Army Counterintelligence Special Agent, a geopolitical analyst, writer, and podcaster. David is an Iraq war veteran who served as Team Leader of a Tactical Human Intelligence Team (THT) in operations within Iraq and is also a former police officer. David is considered too conservative for the progressive left and too independent minded for the radical right and seeks to challenge political dogma and the naked self-interest of politicians. ----------LINKS:@NoDelusionZone https://www.protectingtherepublic.com/podcasthttps://x.com/ddebattohttps://www.kyivpost.com/authors/743----------This is super important. There are so many Battalions in Ukraine, fighting to defend our freedoms, but lack basics such as vehicles. These are destroyed on a regular basis, and lack of transport is costs lives, and Ukrainian territory. Once again Silicon Curtain has teamed up with Car4Ukraine and a group of wonderful creators to provide much-needed assistance: https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/autumn-harvest-silicon-curtainAutumn Harvest: Silicon Curtain (Goal€22,000)We'll be supporting troops in Pokrovsk, Kharkiv, and other regions where the trucks are needed the most. 93rd Brigade "Kholodnyi Yar", Black Raven Unmanned Systems Battalionhttps://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/autumn-harvest-silicon-curtain----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

In this episode, we discuss how Russia destroys Ukrainian families, kidnaps Ukrainian children — including those who have parents — and reprograms them, changing their identity, their way of thinking, their lifestyle, their homes. *** Host: Volodymyr Yermolenko, a Ukrainian philosopher, editor-in-chief of UkraineWorld, and president of PEN Ukraine. Guest: Kateryna Rashevska, a Ukrainian human rights lawyer, expert at the Regional Centre for Human Rights, and a tireless fighter for the liberation of Ukrainian children. *** Explaining Ukraine is produced by UkraineWorld, an English-language media outlet about Ukraine run by Internews Ukraine. Listen on various platforms: https://li.sten.to/explaining-ukraine *** The podcast episode is produced by UkraineWorld with the support of the Askold and Dir Fund as a part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine - a Driver towards Reforms and Democracy project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia, funded by Norway and Sweden. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of UkraineWorld and can in no way be taken to reflect the views the Government of Norway, the Government of Sweden and ISAR *** SUPPORT: You can support our work on https://www.patreon.com/c/ukraineworld Your help is crucial, as we rely heavily on crowdfunding. You can also contribute to our volunteer missions to frontline areas in Ukraine, where we deliver aid to both soldiers and civilians. Donations are welcome via PayPal at: ukraine.resisting@gmail.com. *** CONTENTS: 00:00 Kateryna Rashevska, a lawyer at the Regional Center for Human Rights 02:00 How many Ukrainian children were deported to Russia? 03:37 Why does Russia use words like "rescue" or "salvation" instead of "deportation"? 04:48 Ignoring the law: Why Russia refuses to return Ukrainian children 07:54 Militarizing Ukrainian children and the role of "UNARMIA" (Young Army) 08:25 Russia's plan to destroy the Ukrainian nation 10:36 Russia re-education: Children were taken to “camps” in Crimea and separated from their parents 15:33 The horror for parents: Losing contact and facing deprivation of parental rights as coercion 20:45 Will Putin or Lvova-Belova ever face justice? 25:33 Analysis of Melania Trump's letter to Putin 30:26 The humanitarian obligations Russia has failed to meet 35:05 Kateryna talks about her work: Submitting evidence to the ICC, proposing sanctions, and providing legal assistance

October 27th 2025 Yuriy returns to his childhood apartment in Kharkiv, reflecting on memories and the stark changes brought by war. Amidst the remnants of the past, he finds solace in small comforts and prepare the space for fellow Ukrainian soldiers passing through. Send Yuriy your letter of support fightingtherussianbeast@gmail.com  Yuriy's Podbean Patron sign-up to give once or regularly: https://patron.podbean.com/yuriy   Buy Yuriy a coffee here: https://bmc.link/yuriymat  Subscribe to his substack: https://yuriymatsarsky.substack.com/  ----more---- TRANSCRIPT: (Apple Podcasts & Podbean app users can enjoy accurate closed captions)   It is 27th of October. I'm recording this episode sitting in the kitchen of my apartment in Kharkiv. I came here for, just a few hours and almost as soon as I finish this story, I'll be living again. This apartment belonged to several generations of my family. I grew up here, as did my cousins, my daughter, and my nephews. There were always a lot of people here, always noisy and cheerful, you know those silly comedies where stereotypical Italian families all cram into a tiny kitchen and everyone talks at once, it was kind of like that here too. But for almost four years now, it hasn't been like that. The Russian border is less than 20 miles away and constant sharing has destroyed much of the civilian infrastructure. There is no heat in the apartment and electricity is often cut off. I look out the window and see almost the same view I saw all my childhood- trees with yellow, autumn leaves a few people walking by dogs, pigeons perched on the wires, waiting for my elderly neighbor to come out and feed them bread crumbs. Of course, many things in the courtyard have changed. The big, beautiful riping willow is gone, only the stump remains. A few weeks before the full scale war, it was struck by lightning and burned completely. If I believed in omens, I would have taken that as a very bad sign. Next to the stump, there is something else that was not here when I was a child, a green military van. It's mine. It's large and fairly comfortable though, it's already 20 years old. It could easily fit my whole family and we could drive somewhere to the sea, to Crimea where it is still warm, even if swimming in the sea is no longer possible. But there is no one to go with, and Crimea has long been occupied. My family is scattered across the world. The once noisy apartment now stands silent and slowly falls apart. I'm not selling it or renting it out- not only for sentimental reasons, but also because I use it as a place to rest during my trips. There is still gas here so I can hit some water and take a shower. When the power's on, I can even do laundry in the washing machine. You can't imagine what a luxury that is for a soldier. I made several sets of keys to this apartment and gave them to friends who serve nearby or occasionally pass through Kharkiv. I can tell that someone was here recently. There is a bottle of water and a can of food on the table just in case someone arrives late when the stores are closed, so they'll have something to eat and something to make tea or coffee with. Someone also spent the night in my daughter's former room and read books from her little library, Sherlock Holmes, and some modern science fiction. It's time for me to go. I'll check if I've turned off all the lights, leave some fresh water and a bit of cookies on the table for people who can come here in the future and head out from my childhood home once again. I don't know when or if I'll come back, but I really hope I will.  

In Western Europe, we typically associate Vikings with the storm-tossed waters of the North Sea and the North Atlantic, the deep Scandinavian fjords and the attacks on the monasteries and settlements of north-western Europe. This popular image rarely includes the river systems of Russia and Ukraine, the wide sweep of the Eurasian steppe, the far shores of the Caspian Sea, the incense and rituals of the Eastern Orthodox Church and the high walls and towers of the city of Constantinople. Yet for many Viking raiders, traders and settlers, it was the road to the East that beckoned. These Viking adventurers founded the Norse–Slavic dynasties of the Rus, which are entangled in the bitterly contested origin myths of Russia and Ukraine. The Rus were the first community in the region to convert to Christianity – in its Eastern Orthodox form – and so they are at the heart of the concept of ‘Holy Russia'. Russian rulers have frequently referenced these Norse origins when trying to enhance their power and secure control over the Ukrainian lands, most recently demonstrated by Vladimir Putin as his justification for seizing Crimea and invading Ukraine. In Vikings in the East: From Vladimir the Great to Vladimir Putin – The Origins of a Contested Legacy in Russia and Ukraine (BiteBack Publishing, 2025), historian Martyn Whittock explores the important but often misunderstood and manipulated role played by the Vikings in the origins of Russian power, the deadly consequences of which we are still living with today. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

1. Khmelnytsky and the Russian Imperial Project The discussion begins with the 1888 statue of Bohdan Khmelnytsky in Kyiv, symbolizing the 200-year quest to dominate Ukraine. Khmelnytsky, a 17th-century Orthodox nobleman, led a rebellion against the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth to protect the Orthodox Church and create a proto-Ukrainian state. Unable to win against Poland, he swore allegiance to the Tsar of Moscow, leading Russians to celebrate him as the unifier of Ukraine and Russia. Khmelnytsky intended a military alliance, but the Tsars viewed it as Ukraine fully joining Russia, gradually dismantling Cossack freedoms. By 1783, coinciding with the US Peace of Paris, Catherine the Great formalized Russia's imperial project, expanding to the Black Sea and integrating Crimea. Russia treated Ukraine as a colonial project, calling it "New Russia" and inviting diverse European settlers, seeking to force these people to become Russian, which Ukrainians resisted, forming the core of ongoing conflict. 1859 ODESSA

4. Khrushchev, Putin's Perceptions, and the Soviet Golden Age in Ukraine The Soviet period saw Ukraine rise to crucial importance; leaders like Khrushchev and Brezhnev spent large parts of their careers in the Ukrainian Communist Party apparatus. In 1954, Khrushchev transferred Crimea from the Russian Federation to Ukraine for practical reasons, as Kyiv was better positioned to manage it than Moscow. During the 1960s, Ukraine became a critical industrial manufacturing center, producing coal, military ballistic missiles, and space-related equipment, reinforcing its centrality to the Soviet state. Vladimir Putin, born in 1953, formed his understanding of Ukraine during this relatively calm period. For his generation, it was implicit and taken for granted that Ukraine was merely an extension of Russia—a source of industry, grain, and the beloved vacation spot of Crimea, the "Soviet Florida." Russians became emotionally attached to Ukraine as "ours," making the idea of Ukrainian independence not even a question for debate in the Russian mindset. 1855 CRIMEA

5. Putin's 2021 Essay and the Road to Annexation: Myths Versus Reality Isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic, Vladimir Putin read history and published an essay in 2021 that was revelatory of his expansionist, revisionist thinking. This document, based on historical myths, asserts that Ukrainians are essentially Russians, that Ukraine has always been Russia, and that its future must be fully subordinated to Moscow. Experts often misjudged Putin, seeing him as utterly cynical and rational, failing to recognize his ideological commitment to turning these myths into reality. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 was a reaction to the Euromaidan uprising, which deposed the pro-Russian president Yanukovych. Putin saw Ukraine's pivot to the West as an immediate threat, necessitating the seizure of Crimea and the Donbas industrial areas before it was "too late." In Donbas, initial local protests were quickly bolstered by Russian infiltrators, mercenaries, and funding, escalating the situation into a mix of local dissent and invasion.

6. Volodymyr Zelenskyy: The Evolution of Ukrainian National Identity Volodymyr Zelenskyy, born in 1978, represents a modern, non-ethnic definition of Ukrainian identity. Zelenskyy is a Jewish, native Russian-speaking former comedian and successful media entrepreneur who spent a substantial part of his career in Moscow. His identity showcases that being Ukrainian is now primarily a national affiliation based on commitment to the state, transcending language or ethnic background. Zelenskyy entered politics as an outsider because the old guard had failed to bring prosperity or resolve the war in Donbas and the Crimea crisis. Russian propaganda attempts to label him as a neo-Nazi, but his background contradicts this. He initially believed that his native Russian language and past work in Moscow would enable him to successfully negotiate a peace treaty or resolution with Vladimir Putin.

1. The Roots of the Russo-Ukrainian War: Putin's Power and the Failure of the 2008 NATO Summit. Serhii Plokhy (Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard University) analyzes the origins of the Russo-Ukrainian War, highlighting Vladimir Putin's authority, which is derived from Russia's super-presidential constitution. This power allowed him to move toward dictating who could align with the West. The 2008 NATO summit in Bucharest proved critical: the alliance split, with the US favoring membership for Ukraine and Georgia, and Germany leading opposition. This resulted in a failure to agree, leaving Ukraine and Georgia exposed to future Russian attacks without military guarantees. Putin responded by starting the war in Georgia later that year, effectively annexing territory and rendering Georgia ineligible for NATO. In Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych, backed by Putin, lost the 2004 election due to the Orange Revolution, which Putin viewed as a serious threat to his authority in Russia. Yanukovych returned in 2010 and, pressured by Russia, refused to sign an association agreement with the European Union in 2013, triggering the Euromaidan Revolution. This protest against Moscow's influence was a direct prelude to the annexation of Crimea and the start of the 2014 war. 1855 TATARS CRIMEA

4. The 2014 Kremlin Decision and Ukrainian Unity Against Russian Imperialism. Serhii Plokhy (Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard University) discusses the all-night Kremlin meeting on February 23–24, 2014, where Vladimir Putin and his state security chiefs unilaterally decided to annex Crimea and fragment Ukraine. This scene exemplifies modern Russia's nature as a dictatorship, where critical decisions are made by one man—Putin, a former FSB chekist—without democratic oversight. Putin's dictatorial powers are legally based on the super-presidential constitution approved in 1993, following Boris Yeltsin's actions against the parliament. Previously, Putin built credibility by being brutal during the conquest of Chechnya in 1999. A longstanding stereotype divided Ukraine between westward (often Roman Catholic/cosmopolitan) and eastward (Orthodox/Russian-speaking) orientations. While Russia exploited these existing linguistic, cultural, and religious tensions in 2014 to facilitate the seizure of Crimea and initiate hybrid warfare in Donbas, the ultimate effect of the 2014 aggression was the creation of a much more unified Ukrainian society than had ever existed before. Moscow's failure to recognize this post-2014 change was a fundamental miscalculation when invading in 2022.

5. Western Appeasement of 2014: Crimea Annexation and the Flawed Minsk Accords. Serhii Plokhy (Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard University) examines the Western reaction to the annexation of Crimea in February 2014, following the appearance of "little green men." Professor Plokhy asserts that had the West reacted to the Crimean annexation with the same severity as they did to the 2022 invasion, the major war might have been avoided. Instead, the collective West treated Crimea as an isolated exception, drawing a historical parallel to the 1930s Anschluss of Austria, and mistakenly believed that Putin would stop there. This flawed assumption led Germany to pursue economic ties like Nord Stream 2, hoping escalation would be less likely. Moreover, NATO's policy was to pacify Russia by not placing military units close to its borders, leaving the alliance with "very little to respond with" in 2014. Although the annexation was quickly followed by Russian-concocted violence in Donbas, leading to a massive Russian counterattack in summer 2014, the West pursued the Minsk II agreements. These agreements were often implemented according to Russia's interpretation: requiring elections first under Russian military control, intended to create a "Trojan horse" to destabilize Ukraine and preclude its movement toward the EU or NATO. This approach was closely related to the "policies of appeasement of the 1930s." 1840 KHIV

6. The Dictatorial Power of Putin and the Unification of Ukraine Post-2014. Serhii Plokhy (Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard University) focuses on the unilateral nature of decision-making in the Kremlin regarding the 2014 invasion. The decision to annex Crimea and fragment Ukraine was made by Vladimir Putin and his security chiefs during an all-night meeting on February 23–24, 2014. This process confirmed that Russia operates as a dictatorship, transitioning from the hope of Russian democracy under Yeltsin to the current reality where Putin's power is rooted in the super-presidential constitution established in 1993. Putin initially gained public support through brutality in Chechnya. While Ukraine was traditionally viewed as split between Eastern and Western orientations, Russia actively exploited these linguistic, cultural, and religious divisions in 2014 to justify the takeover of Crimea and the initiation of hybrid warfare in Donbas. Crucially, the professor emphasizes that the shock of the 2014 conflict had the opposite effect desired by Moscow: it unified Ukrainian society far more than it had ever been before. Moscow's biggest error in planning the 2022 invasion was proceeding under the assumption that Ukraine was still the divided country it had been in 2014.

8. The West's 2014 Appeasement: The Failure to Respond to Crimean Annexation. Serhii Plokhy (Professor of Ukrainian History at Harvard University) focuses on the annexation of Crimea in 2014 via "brute force" and the Western response. Professor Plokhy suggests that if NATO's reaction to Crimea had been commensurate with its response to the 2022 invasion, the current large-scale war might have been avoided. Instead, the West treated the annexation as an exception, comparing it to the 1930s Anschluss of Austria, believing Putin would cease aggression after securing the Russian-majority region. This thinking was a mistake; for example, Germany continued pursuing Nord Stream 2, based on the failed premise that economic ties guaranteed peace. NATO's overall policy was designed to pacify Russia and avoid placing military units near its borders, resulting in NATO having "very little to respond with" when the annexation occurred. Russia quickly moved beyond Crimea, concocting uprisings in Donbas, leading to a massive Russian counterattack against Ukrainian forces in the summer of 2014. This led to the Minsk II agreements, which NATO backed. However, Russia exploited Minsk II by insisting on holding elections first under its military control—a plan intended to insert a "Trojan horse" into Ukraine's political body to destabilize it and block its Euro-Atlantic integration. This resembled the policies of appeasement seen in the 1930s. 1855 BRITISH ARMY CRIMEA

Day 1,328.Today, as we learn the Donald Trump administration has been sharing intelligence enabling Kyiv to strike at Russian energy facilities, we reflect on the likelihood that Tomahawk missiles are incoming, and the fallout from the US President not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. Then we hear live from the country of Georgia, where protests continue and tensions remain high, before Francis ends with an appeal on a neglected subject: animals in war.Contributors:Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Marika Mikia-shvili (Foreign affairs, Droa Party - Georgia). @Mikiashvili_M on X.MORE TICKETS JUST RELEASED FOR 'UKRAINE: THE LATEST' LIVE, IN-PERSON:Join us for an in-person discussion and Q&A at the distinguished Honourable Artillery Company in London on 22nd October starting at 7pm.Our panel includes General Sir Richard Barrons, former head of UK Joint Forces Command and latterly one of the authors of Britain's Strategic Defence Review, and Orysia Lutsevych, head of the Ukraine Forum at the Chatham House think tank. Tickets are open to everybody and can be purchased at: https://www.squadup.com/events/ukrainelive SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.CONTENT REFERENCED:Learn more about the Dickin Medal - the animals' Victoria Cross:https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/animal-awards-programme/pdsa-dickin-medal Trump gave specific intelligence to Ukraine for strikes on Russian energy (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/10/12/trump-shares-intelligence-ukraine-strike-russian-energy/ Putin: Trump's too good for the Nobel Peace Prize (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/10/10/donald-trump-loses-out-on-nobel-peace-prize-2025/ Melania Trump: I convinced Putin to send Ukrainian children home (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2025/10/10/melania-trump-putin-children-families/ Senate Passes Bipartisan $925 Billion Defense Policy Bill (New York Times):https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/09/us/senate-passes-bipartisan-925-billion-defense-policy-bill.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day 1,321.Today, we break down Ukraine's escalating drone war targeting Russian industry and examine how Ukrainian intelligence claims China supplied satellite imagery of US-funded factories. We also cover the latest riots in Georgia and election results in Czechia, analysing what they reveal about European political stability. Later, following a weekend of explosions across Russia and occupied Crimea, a RAND Corporation analyst joins us to assess Putin's weakening oil industry, the potential breaking point for Russia's energy sector, and how a proposed European “drone wall” could reshape the continent's defences.Contributors:Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to RAND Analyst Michael Bohnert.CONTENT REFERENCED:‘The Battle for Odesa: Ukraine's Culture War' (Francis & Dom Video Documentary):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28HqbQLYGMM Europe is facing its ‘Pearl Harbor moment' (Landbergis in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/10/05/europe-faces-pearl-harbor-moment/ Georgia's presidential palace ‘attacked' after pro-Russia party's win (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/10/05/georgia-protests-presidential-palace-georgian-dream-tbilisi/ Santander hires former head of British Army (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/10/06/santander-hires-former-head-of-british-army/ BOOK NOW: 'UKRAINE: THE LATEST' LIVE, IN-PERSON:Join us for an in-person discussion and Q&A at the distinguished Honourable Artillery Company in London on 22nd October at 7pm.Our panel includes General Sir Richard Barrons, former head of UK Joint Forces Command and latterly one of the authors of Britain's Strategic Defence Review, and Orysia Lutsevych, head of the Ukraine Forum at the Chatham House think tank. Tickets are open to everybody and can be purchased at:https://www.squadup.com/events/ukraineliveThey are going fast, so don't delay!SIGN UP TO THE ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:http://telegraph.co.uk/ukrainenewsletter Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RANKOPAN6.mp3 - The Great Divergence, Coal Location, and Global Climate Shocks Peter Frankopan | The Earth Transformed: An Untold History The Great Divergence seeks to explain how Europe accelerated scientifically and technologically after 1500 to dominate global empires. A key factor was location: England benefited from coal fields situated close to London and easily transportable by sea, unlike China's distant resources. Climate shocks created opportunities for European powers. Severe famines and droughts in India (such as the 1770s Bengal famine that killed 30 million) shattered the Mughal state's ability to collect revenue, facilitating British control. Additionally, the 1783 Laki volcanic eruption caused a climate shock affecting Egypt's Nile, diverting Ottoman focus southward and enabling Catherine the Great to annex Crimea.