This podcast episode discusses analyses of the war in Ukraine, focusing on the discrepancies between Western narratives of Russian military struggles and assessments suggesting Russia's effective adaptation. It also examines Donald Trump's shifting stance on the conflict, contrasting his campaign promises with his current, more hawkish approach. Furthermore, the episode explores the effectiveness of sanctions, highlighting unintended consequences and the economic impacts on both Ukraine and Russia, alongside the potential for escalation and pathways to peace. Finally, the conversation considers internal instability within Russia as a significant, yet often overlooked, factor.