Hello everyone and a warm welcome to Amampur. Here's what's coming up.

I think the Ukrainians are very well prepared as you know very well the United States

and other allied countries in Europe and really around the world that provided training and

ammunition and advice.

America's top general says Ukraine is ready to roll as both sides can test whether a large-scale

offensive has begun. Defense policy expert Corey Shaki helps us peer through the fog of war then.

The fact is I'm just hearing their stories they're the ones living them so for me to

cry it feels like I don't know a bit of a self-indulgence. The listener. A new film directed by Steve

Bussemi looks at America's mental health crisis through the eyes and ears of one helpline volunteer.

And who cares for the caregivers?

Shell Martin speaks with author Emily Kenway on the hidden cost

to those looking after our loved ones. Plus, a pitcher notches a win against cancer.

I speak with Liam and Christy Hend about his emotional journey back to the program everyone. I'm Paul Newton in Atlanta sitting in for

Christiane-Hum-Mampur. Russia's Defense Ministry claims Ukraine's much

anticipated counter-offensive has begun. In Moscow meantime, the Ministry of Defense says, without evidence, I'll add, that

it's thwarted a large-scale attack by Ukrainian forces attempting to break through Russian

defenses in southern Danetz. Keeb acknowledges, in its words, switching to offensive actions in some directions,

but claims Russia is spreading news of a counter-offensive to distract from military challenges elsewhere.

In fact, for now, Keeve's message is mums the word.

Here's a video showing Ukrainian soldiers calling for operational silence around any new offensive.

So what is actually happening on the battlefields of eastern Ukraine?

Defense analyst Kori Shaki has worked on security policy both inside and outside the US government

...