Battleground

Goalhanger

A history podcast that explores the narratives, turning points, and characters that shape conflicts, encompassing a blend of social and military history. Following on from the series on the Falklands War, best-selling military historians Patrick Bishop, Saul David, and Roger Moorhouse turn their attention every Friday to the war in Ukraine, and every Wednesday look back at the significant wars, events, and figures from conflicts around the world.Goalhanger Podcasts

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444 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes444

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Thursday · 58 min
423. On the Front Line with Ukraine's Drone Units with Arnaud De Decker
Hosts Patrick Bishop and Roger Moorhouse take a look at the latest shifting political dynamics surrounding US-Ukraine relations. They unpack the recent White House meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the potential transactional nature of future US support, and the growing role of Ukraine’s defence industry. Then, Belgian journalist Arnaud De Decker joins the show for an extended interview to share his eyewitness perspective on the war. Returning from an embed with an FPV drone unit in the Donbas, Arnaud offers a vivid account of the reality inside the "kill zone", the rapid integration of ground drones and fibre-optic tech, and a harrowing close encounter with a Russian drone. He also breaks down the domestic fallout from high-level Ukrainian military shake-ups, the stark realities facing soldiers on the front lines, and briefly discusses his recent reporting on the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Key Topics Covered: US-Ukraine Political Thaw: Analysing Trump and Zelenskyy’s recent meeting, potential visits by US envoys, and the transactional framework of prospective peace and reconstruction deals. Kyiv Military Shake-Up: The public backlash and protests following the dismissal of Defence Minister Fedorov, the replacement of Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi with General Drapaty, and how leadership rivalries impact frontline operations. Inside the Kill Zone: Arnaud De Decker's firsthand experience embedded with the "Signum" drone unit in the Donbas, dodging fibre-optic Russian FPV drones, and relying on ground drones for logistical supplies. The "Uber" for Drone Pilots: A look inside the operations of the "Birds of Magyar" unit and how long-range, low-cost B2 strike drones are targeting multi-million-dollar Russian air defence systems. Frontline Reality vs Strategy: The widening gap between high-level strategic/mid-range strike successes and the deteriorating, high-pressure situation for ground troops and civilians near Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Spotlight on Sudan: Arnaud shares insights from his reporting in Khartoum and Darfur, detailing the immense destruction, geopolitical influence, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tuesday · 40 min
422. Al Carns MP on Why Western Defence Policy Must Evolve
In this installment of Battleground: The Big Picture, host Saul David sits down with Al Carns—Labour MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, former Royal Marines colonel, SBS veteran awarded the Military Cross and Distinguished Service Order, and former Minister for the Armed Forces. Carns opens up about his transition from a stellar 24-year military career into politics, driven by the realization that modern technology—specifically AI, low-cost drones, and data integration—has fundamentally transformed the character of warfare. Drawing direct lessons from the battlefield in Ukraine, the former Defence Minister makes a compelling case for why Western defence forces must pivot away from slow, expensive, traditional hardware procurement and towards scalable, tech-enabled mass. The discussion also dives deep into: The Defence Funding Gap: Why Carns resigned from his post as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Armed Forces over budget shortfalls and the urgent need for military transformation. Reforming Veterans' Policy: His perspective on the Northern Ireland Legacy Bill and why a single, empowered truth-and-reconciliation body is required. National Resilience: Why true national defence relies on industrial capacity, supply chain security, and societal unity rather than just frontline troop numbers. Hybrid Threats & Propaganda: How foreign adversaries use social media and asymmetric tactics to sow division within Western democracies. The Trajectory of the Ukraine Conflict: Insights into recent leadership reshuffles in Kyiv, the tactical reality of drone saturation on the front lines, and the strategic dilemmas facing Putin’s war-driven economy. Tune in for an unvarnished, highly knowledgeable perspective on modern warfare and the hard choices facing defence policy today. Coming up next: Look out for Friday's extended interview with Belgian war correspondent Arnaud De Decker on modern drone units in Ukraine, followed by Roger Moorhouse interviewing Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski next week! Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 23 · 44 min
421. Retail Under Fire: Drone Strikes, Oligarch Warnings, and a New Ukrainian Commander
Hosts Roger Moorhouse and Patrick Bishop return to discuss the latest critical developments in the war, starting with a major strategic shift in Ukraine's drone targeting. The hosts break down Ukraine's long-range strikes against distribution centres belonging to Wildberries—Russia’s largest online retailer—which have left facilities destroyed, killed nine people, and caused widespread economic disruption. While Russian sources denounce the strikes as terrorism, Ukrainian sources and President Zelenskyy maintain that the retailer forms a key part of Russia's military supply chain, distributing items like body armour, drone parts, and sanctioned electronics. The hosts also examine the ongoing political and military drama at the top of Ukraine's armed forces. Following public backlash over the sacking of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi has also been removed and replaced by Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, a modern, reform-minded commander. Highlights: Strikes on Wildberries: How Ukrainian drone attacks on major warehouses near Moscow, Tambov, and Podolsk hit Russia’s consumer economy and military logistics. Economic Backlash: The financial strain on a million Russian entrepreneurs whose contracts failed to cover drone damage, driving up broader inflationary pressures. Oligarch Breaks Ranks: Why Russian industrialist Andrei Melnichenko’s interview with The Economist warning of looming disaster may actually be a Kremlin-approved piece of disinformation. Change at the Top: The removal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and the appointment of Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, known for his actions in Mariupol and Kharkiv. French Cyber Warning: France’s firm stance against persistent FSB cyberattacks on its institutions, authorizing active countermeasures ahead of its 2027 presidential elections. Listener Q&A: Discussions on cyberattacks versus physical drone strikes on petrol stations, Western geopolitical moves in the Middle East, and the strategic leverage surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 21 · 41 min
420. 40% of the World by 2100: Why Is Everyone Ignoring Africa?
Despite holding vast mineral wealth and being on track to represent 40% of the global population by the end of the century, Africa remains largely overlooked in global political and economic discussions. Why does a continent with such massive potential continue to be sidelined on the world stage? In this episode of Battleground: The Big Picture, host Patrick Bishop is joined by author, journalist, and former foreign correspondent Michela Wrong. Drawing on over 30 years of reporting on the continent, Michela breaks down the complex geopolitical forces shaping modern Africa: Economic Realities: Why 54 nations collectively account for just 2–3% of global trade, and how past cold war dynamics contrast with today's landscape. The Chinese Investment Model & Looming Debt: How "minerals-for-infrastructure" deals and opaque loans have left nations like Kenya facing serious debt challenges. The Changing Western Footprint: The dramatic fallout from the sudden withdrawal of USAID, a reduction in European aid budgets, and Washington's pivot toward a transactional, business-led approach to diplomacy and peace deals. Regional Vacuum & "Middling Powers": The limits of the African Union, South Africa's domestic focus, and how middle powers like the UAE are shaping conflicts—such as the devastating crisis in Sudan—for local resources like gold. Demographics & Gen Z Protests: The dual challenges of climate change and rapid population growth, balanced against the energy, youth, and political frustration driving a new generation of Africans to demand change. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 16 · 44 min
419. Zelensky’s Spectacular Own Goal
A week of major military successes for Ukraine is overshadowed by a self-inflicted political crisis in Kyiv. Hosts Saul David and Patrick Bishop break down President Volodymyr Zelensky's highly controversial dismissal of both his Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, and the young, popular, and deeply effective Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov. The hosts explain why this move is being called Zelensky's "biggest mistake since the start of the full-scale invasion," sparking mass protests across Ukraine. On a brighter note, the hosts look at a massive new defence pact with France, which has handed Ukraine the blueprints to co-produce SCALP EG cruise missiles and Aster air defence missiles. Meanwhile, Ukraine's relentless drone campaign triggers a massive Russian fuel deficit, causing fistfights at petrol pumps and halting shipping routes. Quick Highlights: The Fedorov Sacking: Why Zelenskyy ousted his widely praised defence minister over a rumoured power struggle and popularity jealousy, threatening Kyiv's international status. France's SCALP Blueprint: The details of a major new pact allowing Ukraine to build French SCALP cruise missiles, Aster missiles, and precision-guided bombs domestically. Crimea Blockaded by Air and Sea: How Ukrainian drones crippled 100 Russian tankers, shutting down seaborne shipping through the Don-Azov Canal. The "Freya" Initiative: A look at Europe's new $700,000 anti-ballistic system, a highly cost-effective Ukrainian-led alternative to the multi-million-dollar Patriot system. The F-16s in Action: An update on how Ukraine is successfully utilising its F-16 jets to knock down Russian cruise missiles and deliver precision-guided bombs. An Atomised Russian Society: Why drone strikes on infrastructure might actually be degrading Russian public support for the war, challenging traditional WWII assumptions. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 15 · 37 min
418. Battleground Big Picture: Power Struggles in Kyiv - The Story Behind the Government Reshuffle
"If Zelenskyy decides to remove Fedorov, it’s gonna be his biggest mistake during the war." Welcome to the inaugural episode of Battleground: The Big Picture, where we cut through the fog of information to bring you the unfiltered reality of global conflicts. In this episode, we sit down with Oleksiy Sorokin, the co-founder and deputy chief editor of The Kyiv Independent. Oleksiy pulls back the curtain on the immense pressures facing the free press in Ukraine, the shifting dynamics of power within the Zelenskyy administration, and the ground-level realities of combating sophisticated Russian disinformation. From the decline of oligarch rule to the critical military dependency on Western air defence, this episode offers an essential, clear-eyed look at the internal and external forces shaping the future of the region. Highlights: The Birth of The Kyiv Independent: How a team of journalists took back control of their voices after being abruptly fired from the Kyiv Post for refusing to silence their political reporting. Inside the Russian Mindset: An analysis of why domestic support for the war is shifting due to practical daily hardships—like fuel shortages and economic strain—rather than moral awakenings. The Death of Oligarch Rule: How the full-scale invasion inadvertently shattered the political and economic grip of Ukraine’s wealthy elite, consolidating unprecedented power within the government. Political Tensions & Reshuffles: The internal polling anxieties surrounding former Armed Forces Chief Zaluzhnyi and the potentially catastrophic stakes of moving the popular Defence Minister, Fedorov. The Battlefield Truth: Why long-range Ukrainian drone strikes are changing the narrative, but the critical depletion of Patriot air defence interceptors leaves major cities highly vulnerable to ballistic missile attacks. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 9 · 44 min
417. "Make Your Own": Trump's Answer to the Patriot Interceptor Shortage
A major shift in Washington policy headlines a fraught NATO summit in Ankara. This week, Patrick Bishop and Saul David break down Donald Trump’s surprising warming of relations with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marked by a critical deal allowing Ukraine to co-produce Patriot missile interceptors to defend its cities from brutal Russian ballistic strikes. Meanwhile, JD Vance signals a massive change in American tone, acknowledging that Russian offensives are achieving almost nothing on the battlefield. The hosts also unpack the tightening noose around occupied Crimea as Ukrainian strikes trigger a full-scale logistics collapse, forcing Russia to take the drastic step of banning diesel exports to safeguard domestic fuel. Plus, a look at European defense gridlock, a massive hack by Ukraine's IT Army, and a philosophical dive into why Ukrainian democratic traditions breed out-of-the-box military ingenuity while Russia relies on rigid authority. Quick Highlights: The Patriot License: Why Trump's allowig a localised Patriot interceptor manufacturing is a massive defensive game-changer for Kyiv. Crimea’s Fuel Crisis: How intermediate and long-range drone strikes forced Russian Deputy PM Alexander Novak to halt seaborne diesel exports. European Disunity: The collapse of the joint French-German-Spanish stealth fighter jet project, revealing deep fractures in European defence management. Cyber & Logistics: The IT Army of Ukraine wipes 3,000 servers from a major Russian construction firm. Introducing The Big Picture: A sneak peek at Battleground's new midweek feature cutting through the fog of global geopolitics with genuine experts. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 7 · 46 min
416. The Atomised Empire: Passivity, Cash, and the Fate of Putin’s Russia
This week, Roger Moorhouse sits down with exiled Russian journalist and Deutsche Welle commentator Konstantin Eggert for a candid look inside the Russian psyche. As Ukrainian long-range strikes push the realities of war onto Moscow’s doorstep, Eggert explains why the average Russian remains passive, how the Kremlin relies on life-changing sign-up bonuses to avoid mass mobilisation, and why the regime's true vulnerability lies in economic collapse rather than social solidarity. Highlights: The Consumer Shield: Why modern Russians—who have apartments, mortgages, and holidays to lose—actively choose "learned depoliticisation" over civic responsibility. Transactional Warfare: A look at the cold, transactional nature of Russia's heavy death toll, where "coffin money" often stifles parental grief. The Prime Minister's Trap: How Russia’s constitution gives current PM Mikhail Mishustin massive immediate power if Putin dies, and why the FSB might not easily keep control. A Moral Wake-up Call: Eggert’s cautious, long-term hope for a future Russian civic conscience that finally learns to say "I'm sorry" to Ukraine. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 3 · 47 min
415. Choking the Russian War Machine
The clock is ticking on Vladimir Putin's presidency as Ukraine’s 40-day deep-strike campaign forces a "logistics lockdown" on occupied territories. This week, Saul David and Patrick Bishop break down the surgical precision of Starlink-guided Zvezducha drones paralyzing Russian supply lines. They also confront tough realities on both sides of the frontline, discussing catastrophic Russian casualty rates alongside a troubling investigation into misconduct within an elite Ukrainian regiment. Plus, a look at rumoured friction between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Valerii Zaluzhnyi over potential autumn elections, and a breakdown of the UK’s messy new defense investment plan. Highlights: The Starlink Scalpel: How mid-range drones are causing a slow strangulation of Russia’s means of waging war. Babel’s Investigation: Addressing unprecedented abuse allegations within Ukraine's 425th Separate Assault Regiment. Wartime Elections?: Why talks of a political showdown with Valerii Zaluzhnyi have left the hosts mystified. Listener Q&A: Unpacking post-war partition scenarios and why targeting civilian aviation remains a high-risk gamble. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 1 · 25 min
414. Reflections from Lviv: The Highs, Lows, and Hard Truths of a "Forever War"
In the final episode of their latest journey through Ukraine, the team gathers in Lviv to reflect on a deeply moving and sobering trip. The day begins with dramatic news: Hungarian journalist and team fixer, Boldi, was detained for five and a half hours of polite but intense questioning by the SBU (Ukrainian Secret Service). After attempting to investigate a Russian rocket strike on the strategic Druzhba oil pipeline near Brody. Key Reflections from the Ground: The "National Shrug": The team discusses how initial wartime shock has shifted into a grim, everyday resignation as citizens adapt to a conflict with no clear endpoint. Tragedy and Fortitude: Remembrances of the trip's most haunting faces, from a grieving resident outside a destroyed Kharkiv apartment to Nastia’s heartbreaking process of identifying her fallen husband in Odesa. Defiance in the Everyday: Inspiring stories of resilience, including a zookeeper protecting animals under active shellfire and the crowded, vibrant streets of Kharkiv celebrating International Women’s Day. Signs of a Sea Change: A look at small tactical victories near Kupiansk, the clearing of Dnipro Oblast, and a powerful interview with Katya, a fearless female combat soldier who survived the brutal sieges of Bakhmut and Avdiivka. The team concludes with a look at the collective, undeniable energy of the Ukrainian people that continues to inspire anyone who witnesses it. Julius Strauss writes the blog Back from the Front and also owns and runs Wild Bear Lodge, a bear-viewing lodge, in Canada. Check out both in the links below: Substack: https://backfromthefront.substack.com/ Wild Bear Lodge: https://wildbearlodge.ca/ Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 26 · 36 min
413. Trump’s G7 Bombshell, the Battle for Kostiantynivka, and Russia’s Desperate Draft Raids
In this episode of Battleground, hosts Patrick Bishop and Roger Moorhouse explore what feels like a momentous and highly unpredictable phase of the war in Ukraine. They unpack the strategic fallout from the G7 summit in Evian, where Donald Trump declared that America has "nothing to do with this war"—a stark statement contrasted by reports of his private, enthusiastic meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky over Ukraine's long-range strikes. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov laments the shifting diplomatic landscape. Patrick and Roger also dive deep into the current battlefield realities, dissecting Russia's infiltration tactics and propaganda stunts in the critical city of Kostiantynivka. They look at the severe logistics degradation and worsening manpower shortages facing the Kremlin, highlighting a wave of aggressive draft raids across European Russia that are sparking local panic and resistance. Key Topics Discussed: The American Calculus: Analysing Trump's transactional foreign policy, his controversial G7 comments, and the conflicting signals coming from his private conversations with Ukrainian leadership. The Battle for Kostiantynivka: Separating battlefield reality from Kremlin propaganda as Russian forces attempt to squeeze the "Fortress Belt" city in Donetsk Oblast. Russia's Forced Mobilisation: The political risks of the Kremlin's brutal new recruitment tactics, highlighted by a viral confrontation in Penza and widespread draft raids. Listener Q&A: The media's oversimplified war narratives versus front-line stasis. Ukraine’s innovative "Trophy Lab" program for reverse-engineering captured Russian military tech. The future of European and NATO defence spending in a post-war climate. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 24 · 26 min
412. The Superhumans of Ukraine with Eddie Scott
In this episode, Saul David and Julius Strauss travel to western Ukraine to visit the remarkable Superhumans Center in Lviv—a state-of-the-art reconstructive surgery and rehabilitation hospital addressing a staggering crisis of an estimated 100,000 amputees nationwide. They sit down with Eddie Scott, a British volunteer who survived catastrophic, near-fatal injuries while conducting humanitarian work in Ukraine. Instead of returning to the UK, Eddie chose to stay and now serves as the centre’s Senior Media Manager and global ambassador. In a deeply moving and raw conversation, Eddie shares his journey of physical and psychological recovery, the unique spirit of unity he finds in Ukraine, and delivers a blistering, urgent message to a Western world he fears is growing dangerously indifferent to the ongoing conflict. Julius Strauss writes the blog Back from the Front and also owns and runs Wild Bear Lodge, a bear-viewing lodge, in Canada. Check out both in the links below: Substack: https://backfromthefront.substack.com/ Wild Bear Lodge: https://wildbearlodge.ca/ Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 19 · 50 min
411. The Squeeze on Crimea, Lukashenko’s Apology & Inside the Kherson 'Human Safari'
In a remarkably mixed bag of an episode, Roger Moorhouse and Saul David explore whether the war is finally "coming home" to ordinary Russians as a systematic Ukrainian degradation campaign triggers widespread fuel shortages and chaos across fifty-three Russian regions. The team breaks down Ukraine's multi-strand, hybrid strategy: disabling crucial land bridges to isolate the Crimean Peninsula, mocking Moscow's air defenses with daylight refinery raids, and the geopolitical shockwave of Belarus' Alexander Lukashenko publicly apologizing to President Zelensky. They also dive into a historical comparison to the 1944 Normandy breakout, asking if we are on the cusp of a major Russian battlefield collapse. Featured Interview: Later in the episode, intrepid Hungarian war reporter Boldi Gyori joins the podcast from Budapest. He shares deeply moving—and at times gruesome—firsthand accounts from his recent trip to the liberated but heavily targeted city of Kherson. Boldi details the terrifying reality of the Russian "human safari," where drone pilots use civilians for target practice, distance-mining litters the streets with "flower petal" explosives, and local volunteers brave "the blue hour" to evacuate the vulnerable and the deceased. (Warning: This episode contains graphic descriptions of civilian suffering and war casualties.) Plus, in the Q&A: A look at the clandestine partisan group Atesh. The likelihood of a desperate Kremlin executing a false flag operation. Why Vladimir Putin recently cut the Kremlin's security cameras over cybersecurity threats. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 17 · 18 min
410. The Artery of the Nation & The War on Corruption
In this episode of Battleground Ukraine, Saul David and Julius Strauss check in from the bustling Kyiv Railway Station after completing a train journey from Kharkiv. Despite ongoing Russian infrastructure attacks that have heavily impacted the national grid, Ukraine’s rail network continues to prove itself as the resilient, indispensable artery keeping the country moving in wartime. The hosts explore how Ukraine’s railways have defied Western calls for "efficiency rationalisation"—revealing how their old-school, deep-reserve structure has actually saved them from collapse. They also examine Russia's evolving, aggressive strategy of targeting critical civilian infrastructure and how it measures up against international law. Diving Deep on Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Battle In the second half of the episode, the hosts sit down after their remarkably candid conversation with Executive Director of Transparency International Ukraine - Andrii Borovyk to unpack the high-stakes battle against internal corruption—a fight critical to Ukraine's aspirations of joining the European Union. Key highlights from their discussion include: The Corruption Perception Index: Where Ukraine stands globally, its notable progress since 2014, and how it dramatically compares to Russia. The Midas Scandal & Zelenskyy’s Report Card: A look at the $100 million kickback scheme that rocked the administration, the subsequent firing of top advisor Andriy Yermak, and how the expert grades Ukraine's past and present leaders on crushing corruption. No One Above the Law: Why addressing wartime corruption cannot wait until the conflict ends, even as sectors like customs, energy, and military conscription remain vulnerable. The Power of the EU carrot: How Ukraine’s deep desire for EU membership serves as the ultimate external driver keeping the nation on its best behaviour. What's Coming Friday: Don't miss our next episode, featuring an exclusive, boots-on-the-ground report from friend of the show Boldi Gyori, who just spent a week in Kherson—arguably one of the most dangerous frontline cities in Ukraine right now. Julius Strauss writes the blog Back from the Front and also owns and runs Wild Bear Lodge, a bear-viewing lodge, in Canada. Check out both in the links below: Substack: https://backfromthefront.substack.com/ Wild Bear Lodge: https://wildbearlodge.ca/ Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 11 · 44 min
409. Gaining Dominance: Ukraine Shifts the Momentum
"History moves gradually, then suddenly." As Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine crosses a somber milestone—matching the exact duration of the First World War at 1,568 days—co-hosts Saul David and Patrick Bishop analyse what feels like a definitive "hinge moment" in the conflict. This week, the tide is turning rapidly in Ukraine’s favour, driven by an extraordinary and relentless intermediate-range drone campaign that Russia seems entirely incapable of combating. In part one of this deep dive, Saul and Patrick break down how Ukrainian drone pilots have effectively seized control of critical Russian supply lines, including the vital M14 highway, forcing the Kremlin into a logistical catastrophe. From frontline reports of Russian soldiers reduced to acting as supply mules to panic-buying and fuel rationing in occupied Crimea, the vital organs of the Russian war machine are under heavy fire. The hosts also examine the broader strategic landscape: Russia's deepening diplomatic isolation following pivotal elections in Armenia, the restructuring of Ukraine’s armed forces into powerful army corps, and the geopolitical chess match behind President Zelenskyy’s latest peace feelers. Later in the episode, the guys dive into the listener mailbag to answer your questions on: The psychological and political fallout of a potential large-scale Russian frontline collapse. How NATO handles Russia's continuous "fuzzy" hybrid provocations and the true threshold of Article 5. Whether the rapid evolution of cheap drone tech will permanently grounded multi-million dollar fighter jets in future warfare. Plus, a cyber security update on big tech's shifting role in the war, and a look back at the incredible, viral response to their recent interview with Ukrainian special operations forces operative Katya Ratushna. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 10 · 28 min
408. Geopolitical Shifts, Strategic Autonomy, and the 'Fantastic Kingdom' with Dr. Helene von Bismarck
As the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year , Europe finds itself facing a monumental geopolitical shift. With the United States under an erratic presidency taking a highly transactional, unpredictable approach to its historic alliances , the transatlantic network that has guaranteed Western security for eighty years is under profound strain. Can Europe truly step up to secure its own future , or is the dream of "strategic autonomy" just a lot of hot air? In this episode, hosts Patrick Bishop and Roger Moorhouse sit down with historian, author, and political commentator Dr. Helene von Bismarck. Together, they unpack the fragile state of European diplomacy, the erosion of international norms , and the rising tide of populism that threatens to derail Western resolve. They also dive into Helene’s latest book, Fantastic Kingdom: A Foreigner's Portrait of the United Kingdom. Helene offers a sharp, constructive, yet brutally honest perspective on Britain’s current grand strategic blindness, its inward-looking political debate, and the dangerous intersection between the global security crisis and the domestic crisis of liberal democracy. In this episode, we discuss: The Transatlantic Rift: Why European governments—from Berlin to Paris to London—are terrified of a fracturing NATO and how they are struggling to prepare for an unpredictable White House. The Power of Historical Memory: How ancient rivalries are being rewritten in lockstep cooperation (such as Poland and Germany) , and how visiting a Latvian museum reveals the deep-seated trauma that still shapes European responses to Russia. The Danger of Stereotypes: How crises like Brexit revive lazy national clichés just when we can least afford them. The Inward-Looking Kingdom: Helene’s deep disappointment with the current Labor government's fear of bold reform, and why ignoring international affairs to appease domestic populism is a losing strategy for any government. Security vs. Welfare: Why the modern debate around cutting social spending to fund defence is fundamentally flawed, and why protecting democracy and protecting state security are two sides of the same coin. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 5 · 36 min
407. Black Smoke Over St Petersburg: Ukraine Targets Putin’s "Russian Davos"
In this episode, Patrick and Roger dive into what has officially become the new reality: Ukraine has gained the upper hand in the war against Russia. We break down the stunning and deeply embarrassing Ukrainian drone strikes on St Petersburg and the Kronstadt naval base—timed perfectly to shatter Vladimir Putin's illusion of stability right as he hosted his flagship economic forum. Not only did these strikes degrade Russia's crucial energy sector, but they successfully sank a Russian Navy corvette, the Boikiy, right in the headquarters of the Baltic Fleet. As Russia resorts to press-ganging occupied citizens and faces a widening budget deficit due to unsustainable military spending, we ask a critical question: With the US under Donald Trump seemingly losing interest and stepping back, can Europe fill the diplomatic and military vacuum to maintain this forward momentum? To help answer this, we are joined by renowned historian, author, and political commentator Dr. Helene von Bismarck. We get her expert diplomatic perspective on a weakening Russia, a strengthening Ukraine, and what comes next for European security. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 2 · 56 min
406. Fighting the War Within – Ukraine’s Anti-Corruption Battle
As the brutal conflict continues, Ukraine is fighting a war on multiple fronts—not just in the trenches, but internally within the corridors of power against a long-standing weapon of Kremlin information warfare: the accusation of irredeemable corruption. In this episode, hosts Saul David and Julius Strauss sit down in Kyiv with Andrii Borovyk, the executive director of Transparency International Ukraine, for a brutally honest assessment of where the country stands today. Borovyk pulls back the curtain on the Global Corruption Perception Index, exploring how Ukraine remarkably managed to stabilize and even improve its score during wartime—a feat virtually unheard of for a nation in conflict. The conversation dives deep into the high-stakes friction between wartime efficiency and democratic transparency, covering: The Reality of the Index: Exactly where Ukraine sits globally, how its score compares to neighbours like Hungary and Slovakia, and why the metric is about external perception rather than a direct measurement of ground-level corruption. The High-Stakes U-Turn: The dramatic, late-night political maneuvering surrounding a controversial bill aimed at bringing anti-corruption agencies under political control, the ensuing public protests, and the resulting erosion of international trust. Watchdogging under Fire: How Transparency International Ukraine operates on the policy and legislative levels, saves millions for the state budget through public procurement monitoring, and the institutional distrust surrounding agencies like the State Bureau of Investigations. The Leadership Report Card: A candid evaluation of Ukrainian leadership—from Yanukovych to Poroshenko and Zelenskyy—in their historical and current fights against corruption. The Path Forward: The heavy influence of international leverage (like the EU and IMF) on pushing reforms forward, and a sobering look at Ukraine's post-war future, demographic challenges, and shifting immigration needs. Julius Strauss writes the blog Back from the Front and also owns and runs Wild Bear Lodge, a bear-viewing lodge, in Canada. Check out both in the links below: Substack: https://backfromthefront.substack.com/ Wild Bear Lodge: https://wildbearlodge.ca/ Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 28 · 32 min
405. Escalation, Ambiguity, and the Ghost of Katyn
In this episode of Battleground Ukraine, Roger Moorhouse and Saul David analyse a week defined by Russian escalation, psychological warfare, and deep structural fractures behind the frontline. The Kremlin has intensified its campaign of domestic terror, launching a brutal round of strikes against Kyiv. Among the targets was the newly refurbished Chornobyl Museum—a deeply symbolic attack on historical truth and memory. Russia's deployment of the nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile has drawn fierce international condemnation, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas slamming it as "reckless nuclear brinkmanship." Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned US diplomats to evacuate the capital ahead of planned "systematic strikes"—a move the team discusses as classic coercive diplomacy designed to fracture Western support. The hosts also unpack the murky diplomatic fallout surrounding a deadly strike on a dormitory in occupied Starobilsk, a location that carries chilling historical echoes of the 1940 Katyn Massacres. Despite Russia's aggressive rhetoric, the strategic picture tells a different story. Ukraine’s targeted long-range drone strategy continues to bite, successfully shutting down the massive Syzran oil refinery deep inside Russian territory and shifting battlefield momentum. This pressure is exposing cracks within Moscow itself, as reports emerge of an unprecedented split between "hawks" and "doves" among Russia's elite military analyst class. Finally, Roger and Saul dive into the listener mailbag to answer your questions on: Whether Russian electronic jamming is sending Ukrainian drones off-course into civilian buildings. The legal complexities and political fallout surrounding third-party Russian oil sanctions. The terrifying reality of Putin's nuclear brinkmanship. Whether the high-tech, 20-to-1 casualty ratio achieved in Kupiansk can be replicated across the entire front line. Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 27 · 13 min
404. The Reinforced Character of Kharkiv
On their final night in Kharkiv, Saul, Boldi, Kim, and Julius gather for a debrief to reflect on a city caught between extreme opposites. Fresh off an overnight train from Odesa, they arrived just in time for International Women’s Day—witnessing a blue-sky celebration of smiles and flowers juxtaposed against the smoking ruins of a freshly struck residential building. They dive deep into the unique friction of daily life in Kharkiv, where air sirens have become a permanent backdrop to existence. They share extraordinary firsthand accounts from the ground, including: A Surreal Encounter: The story of a traumatised survivor pushing a fistful of valuable Russian rubles toward them, declaring that the currency must have dropped straight out of the bomb. The Kupiansk Dynamic: A look at the fluid, nearby front lines where Ukrainian forces are currently encircling the last holdouts of Russian troops. Institutional Hurdles: A candid discussion on the Ukrainian army’s struggle to scale innovation from elite units like the Khartiia brigade down to the "no-name" brigades. The Russian Way of War: An analysis of Russia's ability to learn as an organisation over a long war, balanced against their history of devastating troop losses. Finally, the team explores the evolving and complex role of women on the front lines. From a compelling interview with Katya—a special operations soldier who warns that Kyiv is now the more dangerous destination—to a Khartiia brigade story about female staff members turning down traditional Women's Day gifts in favour of a day on the rifle range, this episode highlights the unbreakable, "reinforced concrete" character of the Ukrainian people. The team wraps up as they prepare to catch an early morning train to Kyiv to see what the next chapter of their journey holds. Julius Strauss writes the blog Back from the Front and also owns and runs Wild Bear Lodge, a bear-viewing lodge, in Canada. Check out both in the links below: Substack: https://backfromthefront.substack.com/ Wild Bear Lodge: https://wildbearlodge.ca/ Join the Conversation: If you have a question about the war in Ukraine or any of the conflicts we cover, email us at podbattleground@gmail.com Follow us on: X - @PodBattleground Instagram - podbattleground Producer: James Hodgson A Goalhanger Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.