What can we learn about Putin's motivations for this war and how the conflict is likely to continue, by looking into Russian history? In our first in-depth interview, we hear from the brilliant historian, Simon Sebag Montefiore, the author of multiple prizewinning books on Russia. Sebag explains the historical relationship between Ukraine and Russia, how Putin fits into a long line of Russian autocratic rulers, and his assessment on how the conflict will play out.

If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - battlegroundukraine@gmail.com

Producer: James Hodgson

Twitter: @PodBattleground

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