Jim’s Return to Ukraine: State of the War, A Complicated Ally, Secret Drone Factory

Back in April, we brought you a full episode describing Jim's reflections following his second trip to Ukraine for two weeks in March. Here again are his descriptions about the reality of where the war stands, how complicated relationships can be in this conflict, and his visit to a truly fascinating drone factory.

First, Jim explains why he wanted to go back to Ukraine a little more than six months after his visit last summer. He also updates the war effort, the relentless Russian "meat waves," the impact of U.S. aid being on hold, and what conditions for an end to the war might be under consideration. They also discuss Ukraine's policy of not holding elections while under martial law. Would it be better to demonstrate a commitment to democracy regardless of the circumstances or is it simply impossible to hold elections under the current circumstances?

Next, Jim recounts his meeting with Ilya Ponomarev, a former member of the Russian Duma who is now working with Ukraine against the Russians. His tactics are certainly fodder for debate but Jim explains why what Ponomarev is doing is quite courageous.

Finally, Jim describes his visit to a secret drone factory somewhere in Ukraine and shares as much as he can about the innovations happening to assist the war effort and the people working there. Jim may be the first western journalist to visit the plant.