The Bulwark Podcast Ben Wittes: A Defiant Ukraine
36 snips
Feb 11, 2026 
Ben Wittes, journalist and legal analyst who edits Lawfare and reports from Ukraine, shares vivid on-the-ground scenes. He describes civilian energy crises, battery and blanket aid efforts, resilience in Kharkiv, Ukrainian views of the U.S., geopolitical risks with Russia, and strains on U.S. justice institutions and the press.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Winter Energy Crisis Is Deliberate And Severe
- Ben Wittes reports Ukraine faces an intentionally inflicted, severe energy and heating crisis this winter.
- Many buildings lack heat, electricity, or running water, making civilian suffering acute and dangerous.
Battery Campaign For Cold Apartments
- Ben and his host Nastya launched a campaign buying large batteries to power electric blankets and small heaters.
- They raised about $80,000 and are distributing units person-to-person to relieve freezing apartments.
Kharkiv: Damaged But Unbowed
- Kharkiv remains functionally alive despite heavy, visible damage and ongoing attacks.
- Residents are determined to stay, showing fierce local defiance against Russian forces.