Is Pokrovsk about to fall, and why does Putin desperately need a victory despite massive Russian casualties?
The episode opens with host Johanna Melén introducing the focus on the battle for Pokrovsk and renewed nuclear weapon discussions. Correspondent Lubna Elshanti describes Pokrovsk as a pre-war industrial city of 60,000, now reduced to about 1,000 residents under constant fighting. Fredrik Wahlström explains its strategic value as a transport node that could open new fronts if captured. Comparisons are drawn to the battle of Bakhmut, which cost an estimated 20,000 Russian lives and led to the Wagner Group's downfall. The analysts debate the potential human and material costs for both sides in Pokrovsk. Putin's need for a propaganda victory ahead of his annual press conference is highlighted. The discussion turns to Putin's recent hospital visit where he proposed inviting foreign and Ukrainian journalists to Pokrovsk to witness the situation, a move met with Ukrainian skepticism. Putin also announced successful tests of new nuclear-capable weapons: the Poseidon underwater torpedo and Borevestnik cruise robot, both with nuclear reactors. Karolina Wendil-Palin explains these as long-term responses to U.S. missile defense, aimed at instilling fear and delaying Western military aid to Ukraine. The episode explores how nuclear threats influence Western support and psychological warfare. In the Kremlinology segment, Lubna notes the resilience of Kharkiv residents rebuilding after attacks, Karolina points to Sergei Kirenko's rising influence in Russian foreign policy, and Fredrik mentions musician Yuriy Shevchuk's subtle protest in London. The episode concludes with a preview of the next week's show.
