Ukraine: The Latest

James Kilner, a seasoned Russia analyst, dives into the Kremlin's nuanced reactions to the US operation in Venezuela. He reveals how Moscow juggles the challenge of standing by an ally while fearing backlash from Trump. Kilner also discusses the Kremlin's strategic pragmatism and its implications for US-Russia relations. He highlights Orban’s emphasis on national interests, his views on energy and migration, and the broader geopolitical landscape, including Arctic ambitions and implications of Kadyrov's health for Chechnya.

Joining the discussion is Natalie Gallon, a Colombian-American journalist who has reported extensively from Ukraine on foreign fighters. She shares insights into why Colombians are joining Ukraine's foreign legion, highlighting motivations ranging from economic factors to a strong sense of solidarity. Natalie contrasts the guerrilla warfare experience in Colombia with Ukraine's modern battlefield tactics. She also addresses the challenges faced by Colombian fighters, including language barriers and rehabilitation needs after combat, drawing parallels between the militarization in both nations.

Anastasia Nusmeyan, the founder and director of Theatre Ocheret, leads a young theatre company in Kharkiv, creating performances amid war. She discusses the no-pay model of the theatre and its commitment to fundraising for the space. Anastasia highlights how Kharkiv's artistic legacy fuels their creativity during wartime and the importance of theatre as a refuge for audiences. She shares updates on renovations, upcoming productions, and the resilient spirit of Kharkiv's cultural community, inviting listeners to experience its vibrant art scene.

Day 1,405. Today, as the Kremlin tries to divert attention from President Zelensky’s seemingly successful meeting with Donald Trump in Florida with un-evidenced claims of an attempt on Putin’s life, we report on Russian advances in Zapporizhia oblast that may lead to legal difficulties for a Ukrainian commander. And, later, Francis watches, and reports on, Ukrainian TV and I take a brief look back at the main events of 2025. ContributorsDominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.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:Exclusive: 'Be careful' — European leaders warned Zelensky to assess Trump's real stance at Mar-a-Lago, Kyiv Independent:https://kyivindependent.com/european-leaders-warned-zelensky-to-assess-real-us-stance-at-trump-meeting/?mc_cid=9ce9652bd4&mc_eid=4a5b852913LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Benjamin Lynch, an intrepid journalist, shares his firsthand experiences from Kyiv's first marathon since the war began, where he ran alongside 13,000 participants. He highlights the remarkable spirit of resilience among locals amid ongoing conflict and recounts personal stories of veterans overcoming adversity through running. The discussion also touches on President Zelensky's recent talks with Trump, securing a 15-year security guarantee while expressing the need for longer-term support. The event symbolizes hope, community, and determination in challenging times.

Bjorn Geldhoff, a jury member for the prestigious Pinchuk Art Centre Prize, discusses the selection process and highlights the resilience of contemporary Ukrainian art amid the war. Lesya Vasilchenko, an acclaimed artist and prize winner, shares insights about her installation that delves into Ukrainian memory and the night, evoking emotional reactions from viewers. The conversation explores the transformative power of art for mental health, the solidarity within the artistic community, and how creativity continues to thrive in turbulent times.

Day 1,398.Today, as reports come in of a renewed Russian cross-border incursion in the north east of the country, Ukraine is clearing up after another massive overnight aerial attack which has left thousands without power. We report the diplomatic fallout from the inconclusive talks in Miami and Later, we have an interview with Ukrainian artist and designer, Mariya Dykalo, the Creative Director of Aspinal of London.Pic credit: The Russian Ministry of Defense/Anadolu via Getty ImagesContributors:Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.With thanks to Ukrainian artist and designer, Mariya Dykalo (Creative Director of Aspinal of London). @MariyaASPINAL on X.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 Mariya Dykalo's work:https://mariyadykalo.com/ The scarf given to Melania Trump designed by Ukrainian children:https://www.aspinaloflondon.com/products/we-can-dream-again-silk-scarfUN report: Weekend attacks in Ukraine bring more casualties, damage infrastructurehttps://news.un.org/en/story/2025/12/1166652?_gl=1*l4bfr6*_ga*MTIwMjkxNTk1MC4xNzY1ODAyMzEw*_ga_TK9BQL5X7Z*czE3NjY0OTE4MjQkbzMkZzEkdDE3NjY0OTE4OTgkajYwJGwwJGgwMiyamoto article: Addressing Ukraine’s Asbestos Crisishttps://miyamotointernational.com/addressing-ukraines-asbestos-crisis/Subscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tensions rise as a Moscow car bombing claims the life of a senior Russian general. Diplomatic talks in Miami yield no progress, leading to speculation about a potential call between Macron and Putin. Ukrainian forces launch drone strikes on crucial energy targets in the Caspian Sea, impacting Russian revenues. A visit to a prosthetics factory in Odesa highlights the resilience of war victims and their ongoing rehabilitation. There are also reports of sabotage within Russia, raising questions about its internal stability.

Joe Barnes, the Brussels correspondent, shares his insights on the recently agreed €90 billion loan to Ukraine, discussing its critical role in stabilizing the nation's finances. He details the complex negotiations in Brussels and why frozen Russian assets weren't utilized. The conversation also touches on the implications for Ukraine's defense capabilities, particularly in drone production. Additionally, the podcast covers a striking attack on a Russian tanker in the Mediterranean, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tension.

In this engaging discussion, Joe Barnes, Brussels correspondent for The Telegraph, reveals critical insights from the European Council meeting. He explores the high stakes of using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s financial needs, including a potential £48 billion black hole. The conversation also touches on Vladimir Putin's provocative remarks branding European leaders as ‘pigs’ and the implications for US peace efforts. Barnes highlights Zelensky’s urgent plea to secure military aid and the challenges facing European leaders in justifying their defense spending.