Episode description

Long before Russia invaded Ukraine, the country was dealing with a problem: the abandoning of disabled people to institutions that weren’t fit for purpose. The BBC’s Dan Johnson and producer Ruth Clegg tell us about these institutions.

In the news, Russia continues to weaponise its gas supplies as a way of wielding leverage over Western nations. Dr Aura Sabadus, energy specialist at International Commodity Intelligence Service, takes us through how this is playing out.

But back in Ukraine, a 10-year-old checkers champion has been capturing hearts by raising funds for the army. We speak to her and her mother.

The series producer is Estelle Doyle. The producers are Phil Marzouk and Ivana Davidovic, and planning producer Louise Hidalgo. The technical producer is Emma Crowe. The editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.

Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480.