Global News Podcast Russia to pause attacks on Ukraine as temperatures plummet
17 snips
Jan 30, 2026 
Gary O'Donoghue, BBC chief North America correspondent, explains US-Russia diplomatic manoeuvres. Abdujalail Abdurasulov, Kiev-based reporter, describes strikes on energy infrastructure and civilian hardship. They discuss a claimed pause in attacks amid extreme cold, scepticism on the ground, and the human cost of damaged utilities and winter conditions.
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Fragile Weeklong Pause Claimed By Trump
- President Trump said he personally asked Vladimir Putin to pause attacks on Kyiv and Russia agreed for a week.
- Gary O’Donoghue warns the week is a fragile test given subzero temperatures and potential renewed strikes.
Energy Attacks Amplify Winter Risk
- Kyiv has seen repeated strikes on energy infrastructure leaving many without heat as temperatures fall.
- Abdujalail Abdurasulov says emergency teams have reduced outages but fear remains as temperatures head toward −20°C.
Moscow’s Motives May Be Tactical
- The Kremlin has historically pursued military advantage despite diplomacy, making any Russian restraint notable but uncertain.
- Gary O’Donoghue stresses Moscow may pause to relieve international pressure, not out of concession.