The Rachman Review Ukraine’s ‘existential’ battle with Russia
24 snips
Apr 30, 2026 
Dmytro Kuleba, former Ukrainian foreign minister known for rallying global support and wartime speeches. He discusses Ukraine’s resilient frontline and the struggle to break the stalemate. He explains how drones, interceptors and munitions shape modern combat. He warns about mass emigration and outlines Ukraine’s push for full EU political membership.
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Emigration Is A Disaster But A Diaspora Asset
- Kuleba describes mass emigration as a disaster with conservative estimates of 5 million Ukrainians abroad since 2022.
- He urges treating the diaspora as assets and keeping them Ukrainian across generations rather than expecting mass returns.
Middle East Tensions Buy Putin Time
- The Iran conflict indirectly helps Putin by raising oil prices and buying Russia time through increased revenues.
- Kuleba notes this won't alter Russia's trajectory drastically but prolongs its capacity to wage war.
Airdefence Strain Creates Risk and Opportunity
- Diversion of interceptors to the Iran theatre weakens Ukraine's air defence at home, creating a summer peak risk for Russian ballistic attacks.
- Simultaneously, Ukraine sells anti-drone solutions to Gulf states, deepening strategic ties and tech cooperation.
