Battleground

The world’s focus on Ukraine has been affected by the clashes in Los Angeles this week between law enforcement and protestors against Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Saul David and Patrick Bishop discuss Donald Trump’s response to these clashes, if he is moving towards authoritarian state, his loss of interest in the peace mission between Russia and Ukraine and how his change in focus internally will affect Ukraine.  They also discuss if Europe and others can help step up to support Ukraine as America’s support wanes, how the Krinks are currently winning and Russias further advances on the battlefield. Plus, your questions answered.  If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: Robby Williams X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

In this episode of Battleground 45, Saul is joined by, Professor Alexander V. Pantsov, a renowned historian and author specialising in 20th-century Chinese history. Together, they delve into the complex and often controversial figure of Chiang Kai-shek, the leader of the Nationalist Party of China and a pivotal player in the tumultuous events of World War II and the Chinese Civil War. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

Join Saul David and Patrick Bishop as they dissect the two audacious operations that have shocked the Kremlin and reshaped the narrative. We dive into "Operation Spider's Web," the mass drone attacks that hit five Russian air bases, crippling a third of their long-range bomber fleet. We are also privileged to be joined by friend of the podcast Colonel Pavlo Khazan of the Ukrainian Electronic Warfare Command, to hear his thoughts and insights on these remarkable operations and more. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 June 2025

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul and Patrick take a deep dive into a host of fascinating listeners questions on the second world war. These include a look into returning POWs, preparation for soldiers heading into Germany, and Escaping Nazi's. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2025

Has Donald Trump finally had enough? In this week's Battleground Ukraine Saul David and Patrick Bishop analyse his condemnation of Putin's "crazy" actions and the possibility of new US sanctions following brutal Russian civilian attacks. Adding to the pressure, Germany has announced Western allies are lifting all range restrictions on weapons, giving Ukraine the power to hit deep into Russia—could Taurus missiles be next? Plus, a powerful report from Hungarian war correspondent Boldi Gyori, who witnessed the emotional return of Ukrainian soldiers in a recent POW swap. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

In this episode of Battleground '45, Patrick Bishop and Saul David transport us back to the immediate aftermath of World War II. The celebrations are over, and the monumental task of rebuilding has begun. For Britain, it was a moment of hope and determination to forge a better society out of the ashes of conflict, fuelled by a unique sense of national solidarity. Whilst across the Channel, France faced an even more daunting challenge. Bitterly divided by war, could Charles de Gaulle's coalition hold, and how would the nation heal? Meanwhile, for Germany, the future was uncertain and fraught with the enormity of its crimes. What price would the defeated nation pay? And as the smoke cleared across the globe, two giants emerged: the USA and The Soviet Union. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

A strange calm has fallen over diplomatic efforts in Ukraine, leaving many questioning the path forward. In this episode of Battleground Ukraine, Saul David and Patrick Bishop dissect the apparent anti-climax of recent US peace initiatives, including the much-touted Putin-Trump phone call. They discuss if the US begun to walk away from its peacemaking role, and if so, is Europe prepared to fill the void—militarily and politically—as Russia's appetite for conflict remains undiminished? They also look at Ukraine's strategic wins behind enemy lines, including a crucial strike on a Russian military-industrial plant and the increasing drone attacks bringing the war directly to Moscow. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

In this episode of Battleground 45, Roger welcomes author and expert Eric Lee to delve into one of World War II's most remarkable and often overlooked events: the Georgian Uprising on the Dutch island of Texel. From April to well beyond Germany's surrender in May 1945, as the war in Europe drew to a close, a contingent of Georgian soldiers, conscripted into the German army, turned their weapons on their captors in a desperate fight for freedom on the Dutch island of Texel. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

Welcome to a special edition of Battleground Ukraine. With Saul and Roger absent, producer James Hodgson joins Patrick to dissect the significant non-event of the week: Vladimir Putin's failure to appear at the first face-to-face talks between Russia and Ukraine in over three years – talks ironically initiated by Putin himself. What does Putin's no-show, and subsequently President Zelensky's absence, alongside a potential visit that never materialised from Donald Trump, tell us about the prospects for peace? While low-level delegations convene with limited authority, is this still a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict? If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

Joining Saul on this week's Battleground '45 is bestselling author and award winning filmmaker, Phil Craig. Together they delve into the deeply thought-provoking narrative of Phil's new book "1945: The Reckoning." They explore the bitter divisions within families, like the one in India torn between supporting the Raj and fighting for independence with the Japanese. Uncover the little-known and often brutal campaigns in Borneo and Indochina, revealing the uncomfortable truths behind the Allied victory and the struggle to reimpose colonial rule. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

In this Battleground Ukraine special we take you back to our last trip to Ukraine where Saul and Patrick sat down with friend of the podcast Colonel Pavlo Khazan, in his home in Kyiv. They discuss his current role in the Ukrainian armed forces with unmanned systems and electronic warfare, what his feelings are on the prospect of a peace deal, and how he views Ukraine's future. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

This week on Battleground Ukraine, Roger Moorhouse and Patrick Bishop analyse Ukraine's reported downing of Russian jets with naval drones, in what has been called a military first. They also look at Russia's three day ceasefire request, Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow, and the shifting international focus amidst new global tensions. Plus, a cyber update and your questions answered. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

This week on Battleground 45, we have a powerful conversation about resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable darkness. Saul is joined by Wendy Holden the author of Born Survivors and together they discusses the incredible true stories of Priska, Rachel, and Anka, three pregnant women who defied the odds to survive Auschwitz and other Nazi atrocities. Their secret pregnancies, a miraculous twist of fate, and the kindness of strangers paved the way for their survival and the birth of their children. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

This week on Battleground Ukraine, Patrick is back and together he and Saul delve into the latest news from Ukraine, starting with a look at the details and implications of the newly signed strategic minerals deal between the US and Ukraine. They discuss how this agreement aims to incentivise US investment, and the surprising language it uses regarding Russia's aggression. Could this deal be a crucial step towards a broader settlement, or even to Trump turning on the US supplies? They are also joined by Edward Lucas, Times columnist and security expert with a particular interest in Russia, who shares his analysis of the conflict. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul and Roger discuss the Battle of Berlin, the final, bloody showdown for the Nazi capital. Together they delve into the huge Red Army offensive and the desperate German resistance, but also shed light on the dramatic final days of Adolf Hitler and his inner circle within the besieged Führerbunker, in what was a chaotic end to the Third Reich, both above and below ground. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

This week on Battleground Ukraine, Saul David and Roger Moorhouse dissect the dramatic unraveling of the Trump administration's proposed 7-point peace plan. With a controversial Easter truce riddled with violations, and a deal that many see as a betrayal of Ukraine, the stakes couldn't be higher. Together they examine the plan's key points, ask if this is a win for Putin, a strategic manoeuvre by Trump, or a devastating blow to Ukraine's sovereignty? If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

In this episode of Battleground, Patrick joins Saul to delve into the historic meeting of American and Red Army Soldiers on the banks of the Elbe near Torgau, Germany on April 25, 1945. As Soviet and American forces converged on the banks of the Elbe River, a handshake across the ruins of Nazi Germany symbolised not just the end of a brutal war, but the dawn of a new, complex global order. Join us as we explore the strategic context, the emotional weight of the moment, and the long shadow this iconic encounter cast on the Cold War that followed. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

This week on Battleground Ukraine, Roger Moorhouse and Saul David discuss the escalating diplomatic tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine, particularly President Trump's controversial remarks regarding Zelensky's request for missile systems, and his reaction to the deadly Russian missile strike on Sumy. They analyse the accusations of pro-Russian bias and delve into the implications of Trump's statements. Plus Saul speaks to friend of the show Hungarian war reporter Boldiszar Gyori, who gives a fascinating report from the East of Ukraine where he visited a Coal mine who have for the first time since the second world war turned to women as workers, and discusses the evolving nature of mine clearance in Ukraine. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

Hitler's Berghof was more than just a mountain retreat; it was a key location for Nazi decision-making and a powerful symbol of the regime. Patrick Bishop and Saul David delve into the history of this infamous site and the story of the RAF's bombing attack in 1945. They discuss the symbolic significance behing the decision to launch the mission and take a look at what became of the Berghof in the aftermath of the war. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

In this episode Saul David and Roger Moorhouse speak to Belgian War reporter Arnaud De Decker about his recent trip to Georgia and Armenia where he witnessed the growing tensions between Georgian's and their Russian neighbours. He also discusses time he spent with a unit comprising of former Ukrainian deserters who have been given a second chance, and were undertaking training ahead of being sent into combat. If you are interested in reading Arnaud's book it is out now in Belgium and The Netherlands: Onverwoestbaar: Het menselijke gezicht van Oekraïne If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

This week on Battleground: Ukraine, Saul David and Roger Moorhouse analyse President Zelensky's announcement of captured Chinese fighters and its potential to draw the West's attention to Beijing's role. Additionally they speak to Belgian War Reporter Arnaud de Decker, who shares his firsthand accounts from speaking with Russian soldiers who deserted the Russian army and fled to Armenia. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

In this episode of Battleground Saul and Roger conclude their two-part examination of the Battle for Okinawa. Together they analyse the strategic importance of securing the island for the planned invasion of Japan and discuss how the ferocious resistance influenced the decision to use atomic weapons. They explore the arguments for and against this controversial link, taking new historiography into account, alongside the immediate and long-term consequences of the battle itself. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

In this episode Saul is joined by Roger to discuss the latest news surrounding the war in Ukraine, including Trump's frustrated remarks aimed at the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin which may signal a shift in the US administration's stance towards Russia. Saul is also joined by friend of the podcast Askold Krushelnycky, to discuss what the latest mood music is regarding the dramatic developments of the past few weeks from both Ukraine and Washington. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

In this first of a two-part special, Saul David is joined by Roger Moorhouse to dissect the first phase of the Battle of Okinawa. They explore the island's crucial role in the Pacific theater, the immense scale of the fighting, and the unique challenges faced by both Allied and Japanese forces. From the initial landings to the fierce defence of the inland, and a dive into the strategic rationale behind the invasion of Japanese territory, this episode looks at a battle that shaped the final months of World War II. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

This week Saul David is joined by Roger Moorhouse to dissect the announcement of a fragile ceasefire in the Black Sea agreed separately by both sides with the US in Riyadh. They also delve into the alarming pro-Russian rhetoric emerging from Trump's circle, and explore Zelensky's growing distrust of US support and ask the question if genuine peace is even possible. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

In this episode Saul David is joined by Roger Moorhouse to discuss the grim realities of the Siege of Breslau, a city trapped by Hitler's desperate, suicidal strategy which transformed Breslau into a killing ground. They also delve into the human cost of total war, and Breslau's post-war transformation into Polish Wrocław. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

This week, Saul David and Roger Moorhouse dissect the latest diplomatic manoeuvres and frontline developments in the Ukraine war. Donald Trump's much-anticipated phone call with Vladimir Putin, aimed at securing a 30-day ceasefire, resulted in a swift rejection and immediate Russian escalation. Additionally, we have an update from the frontlines with war reporter and friend of the podcast Boldizsar Gyori, who describes the reality for the Ukrainian soldiers fighting in Kursk. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul is joined by Roger Moorhouse to take a deep dive into a host of fascinating listeners questions on the second world war. These include a look into Switzerland's stance during the war, why the allies sent back soviet prisoners to Stalin, and a look into whether Japan would have surrendered if there were no atomic bombs. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

This week, we bring you a remarkable interview where Patrick spoke with special operations unit commander Kateryna Ratyshna, a young woman from Kharkiv who has been fighting on the front lines since the very beginning of the full-scale invasion. Kateryna, who also appears in - Porcelain War - a recent Oscar-nominated documentary about the war, shares her deeply personal experiences and the motivations that drive her fight. This is a truly humbling conversation that offers a unique insight into the dedication and resilience of Ukraine's frontline soldiers, and their unwavering determination to keep their country free. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

The ceasefire deal agreed between the US and Ukraine faces immediate hurdles. Patrick Bishop and Saul David dissect the news surrounding this fragile agreement, taking a look at Russia's "eye-watering" demands. They also analyse the Trump administration's tariff war and its impact, featuring insights from friend of the show and Canadian Resident and National Julius Strauss. Plus, we hear an extract of Patrick's interview with special forces unit commander, Kateryna Ratyshna, who stared in the award winning documentary film Porcelain War, and has now returned to Kharkiv after attending the Oscars award ceremony in Los Angeles. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2025

This week on Battleground, Saul David and Patrick Bishop dissect Operation Varsity, the audacious Allied airborne operation across the Rhine in March 1945. They explore the strategic aims, the intense fighting, and the controversial outcomes of this massive undertaking, examining the paratroopers' experiences and the operation's impact on the war's final stages. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

In this special episode recorded in the heart of Kyiv, Saul and Patrick speak with Anton, director of the Ukrainian Institute for the Future, about the country's vision for post-war reconstruction and its long-term security strategy. They discuss the challenges of rebuilding and the vital role of forward-thinking analysis in shaping Ukraine's destiny. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

In a whirlwind 24 hours, the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically. Join Saul David and Patrick Bishop on this episode of Battleground as they dissect the latest developments in the Ukraine conflict. A crucial letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to US President Donald Trump has signalled a potential thawing of tensions, but US aid remains halted and includes the stopping of crucial intelligence sharing. Plus, we analyse the European Union's response, with Ursula von der Leyen's ambitious €800 billion plan to bolster European defence capabilities. We are also joined by regular contributor, journalist Askold Khruselnycky, who to provides us with on-the-ground insights and analysis. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2025

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul and Patrick look at the Nazi Occupation of The Channel Islands, the only part of British territory occupied by the Germans in World War Two. Together they examine the complexities of this occupation, the treatment of the locals, the collaboration and resistance that arose, and the lasting questions it raises about wartime choices. They also look at few instances the war came ashore on the otherwise peaceful islands, with commando raids and the remarkable story of double agent Eddie Chapman. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

In yet another emergency episode Patrick and Saul give their immediate reaction to the news that the US has put an immediate halt on all military aid to Ukraine. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

In this emergency episode Patrick is joined by Roger Moorhouse to react to the extraordinary scenes in the White House Oval office yesterday, as President Trump and his Vice President J.D. Vance clashed angrily with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in front of the world's media. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 March 2025

This week, Patrick is joined by returning friend of the podcast Julius Strauss, as Saul takes a well-deserved break. The whirlwind of events surrounding President Trump continues to baffle, with a relentless barrage of news making it nearly impossible to keep pace. Is there a method to the madness, or is it simply a chaotic disruption strategy? Julius and Patrick delve into the challenge of discerning truth from Trump's statements, who seems to prioritise impression over facts. Together, they explore the delicate balance between underestimating and overestimating his impact. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

In this episode of Battleground 45, Saul David is joined by renowned historian Rob Lyman who delves into the often-overlooked but crucial British campaign in Burma during 1945. rob describes the complex narrative of the Fourteenth Army's relentless push against the Japanese, culminating in hard-fought victories in Meiktila and Mandalay, and the eventual recapture of Rangoon. This episode shines a light on the logistical nightmares, and the sheer determination of the "Forgotten Army." Discover how General Slim's strategic brilliance and the resilience of his multi-national forces turned the tide in Southeast Asia. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

Marking the somber three-year anniversary of the invasion, Saul and Patrick address the questions you've sent in. We analyse the strategic shifts, the human cost, and the geopolitical ramifications of this enduring conflict. This episode is a dedicated exploration of your insights and inquiries. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

With the worst fears about the Trump administration having been realised, Saul and Patrick digest the disturbing realities of this weeks news. Not only has Trump's administration cut Ukraine and Europe out of the start of the peace talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, but Trump himself has now doubled down on his earlier concessions to Russia. And top of that falsely labelled Zelensky a dictator, and wrongly blamed Ukraine for starting the war in the first place. Joining them to discuss these latest developments and where the UK and Europe goes next, they speak to defence analyst and veteran war reporter Robert Fox. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

In this episode of Battleground: Ukraine Saul and Patrick sit down with British photographer Mark Neville in the Ukrainian capital. Mark's lens has captured the stark realities of this conflict, helping to give a human face to the war. He also discusses his inspiring work with Postcode Ukraine, a charity making a tangible difference by providing essential aid and supporting Ukrainian culture. Join us for a powerful conversation about Mark's personal feelings and thoughts on this war, the strength of the Ukrainian people, and the importance of continued support. You can find out more and support marks charitable efforts with Postcode Ukraine here: https://www.postcodeukraine.com/ If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

The Trump administration is pushing for a peace deal in Ukraine, but with Ukraine and Europe sidelined. Is this a path to peace, or a US retreat and a new world order? Saul David and Patrick Bishop analyse the latest developments. They also speak to American journalist Joe Lindsley, reporting live from Kyiv, for his reaction and for his insights into the Trump administration. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

This week on Battleground, Patrick and Saul analyse the historic turning point in the Russia-Ukraine war. Following a Trump-Putin phone call, talks have begun between Washington and Moscow. But what concessions is Ukraine expected to make? And what does this mean for European security? We discuss the implications and the reactions, from delight in Moscow to dismay among Ukraine's allies. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

Join Saul in today's episode of Battleground as he speaks with Boldizsár Győri, a young Hungarian journalist who has embedded himself in war-torn Kharkiv. Boldizsár shares his experiences of life under the constant threat of bombardment, and recounts his time spent with Oleksy, a Ukrainian body collector. A story which shines a light on one of the grim realities of war, the process of identifying the fallen, and the emotional toll it takes. You can read Boldizsár's article on the story of Oleksy the body collector here: https://www.szabadeuropa.hu/a/a-halottak-oldalan-nem-all-senki-mondja-a-harcteri-maradvanyokat-elszallito-onkentes/33282239.html If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

Iwo Jima. A seemingly insignificant speck of land, yet its capture proved crucial in the Pacific theatre. On this episode of Battleground, Saul is joined by American historian Jonathan Parshall and together they examine the strategic importance of Iwo Jima, the fierce resistance faced by the Americans, and how this battle shaped the final stages of World War II. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

In this week's Battleground podcast Saul and Patrick discuss the first clear signal that the US will not abandon Ukraine. This is in response to Trump's comments that he's looking to do a deal with Ukraine where the US will look to secure some of Ukraine's rare earth minerals. They also address a host of listeners questions including on what the effects of Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries are and what needs to happen for Ukraine's western allies to send in troops. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

In another bonus episode recorded on the ground in Ukraine's embattled eastern city of Kharkiv, Saul and Patrick speak to a Ukrainian Soldier from the Khartiia Brigade namely unit spokesperson Volodymyr Dehtiarov. Additionally, in the second half of the episode Saul speaks to friend of the podcast Joe Lindsey about his time reporting for WGN Radio and Kharkiv's evalution through the different phases of the war. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

On February 13th, 1945 British bombers began one of the most devastating attacks of WWII: the bombing of Dresden. Considered one of the most controversial events of the Allied war, it ignited an firestorm that devastated the city and killed an estimated 25,000 people. Joining Patrick to discuss the event and the surrounding controversy is historian Sinclair McKay, the author of The Fire and the Darkness: The Bombing of Dresden, 1945. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

Armed with new insights from their recent trip to Ukraine, Saul and Patrick discuss the latest developments surrounding the ongoing conflict. They take a look at the diplomatic stage, as the latest signals indicate Putin is seeking to flatter Trump ahead of any potential upcoming negotiations. They also delve into listeners questions that range across a host of different subjects, including what the opinions of Ukrainians are towards a variety of pressing issues. If you are interested in donating to Reusing IT, you can find out more here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7281708536277942274/ If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

In another special episode recorded on the ground in Ukraine, we start from the pearl of the Black Sea - Odesa, where we are joined by friend of the podcast Julius Strauss. Together with Saul and Patrick, Julius discusses what ways the conflict has transformed Odesa, especially given its context as a historically predominately Russian speaking city. You can read more about Julius' thoughts and findings on Odesa on his substack here - https://backtothefront.substack.com/p/return-to-odesa We then take you on our Journey to Ukraine's second largest city, Kharkiv, where we give our first impressions of the embattled city. Patrick also attended mass at the Cathedral of the Assumption and spoke to Farther Oleg Kovynyov, on his experiences and thoughts about the war. If you are interested in donating to Reusing IT, you can find out more here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7281708536277942274/ If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - [email protected] Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025