Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight

Send us Fan Mail This week on Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We sit down with former French General Dominique Trinquand — one of Europe’s leading military voices on NATO, Russia, Ukraine and the future of European defence. Drawing on decades of experience in NATO, the United Nations, the Balkans and Lebanon, General Trinquand explains why Europe is rapidly rearming, whether NATO can survive a weakening American commitment, and why he believes Europeans must prepare to defend themselves independently.The conversation explores: Europe’s military weaknesses after decades of underinvestment  Lessons Western armies are learning from Ukraine  France’s long-standing push for strategic independence from the United States  The future of NATO and whether a “European army” is realistic  Germany’s evolving role in European defence  Drone warfare, AI and the transformation of modern combat  Putin, Trump and the pressure reshaping Europe  Democracy, national identity and what younger generations are losing faith in General Trinquand also reflects on his family’s history in the French Resistance, his lifelong military service, and why he still believes democracy will endure despite rising authoritarianism.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Amber French-Griette — co-founder and Executive Director of the Organization for Nonviolent Movements — joins Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight to explain why nonviolent resistance remains one of the most powerful weapons against authoritarianism. From Ukraine’s civic resistance against Russia to the role of strikes, boycotts, social cohesion and information warfare, this conversation explores how ordinary people resist dictators without picking up a weapon. We discuss wartime civic resistance, hybrid warfare, democratic resilience, social media, and why authoritarian regimes increasingly fear organised citizens as much as military force. Topics include: * Nonviolent resistance * Ukraine and civic resilience * Fighting authoritarianism * Information warfare * Democracy and freedom * Hybrid war and social media * Europe’s defence challenges Support the show

Send us Fan MailSteven Moore, founder of the Ukraine Freedom Project, joins Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight to discuss the war in Ukraine, Russian propaganda, faith under occupation, and why freedom remains worth fighting for.A former Republican congressional chief of staff who arrived in Ukraine days after the full-scale invasion, Moore reflects on frontline aid work, the persecution of religious communities in occupied territories, divisions within American conservatism over Ukraine, and the wider struggle between democracies and authoritarian states.Topics include: Russian religious persecution in occupied Ukraine  American conservative attitudes towards Ukraine  The role of faith during wartime  Tucker Carlson, propaganda and the information war  Europe, security and rearmament  Freedom, democracy and political violence  The global axis of authoritarian powersSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWe are joined by Roger McNair, founder of Project Jinn, to examine the growing crisis of confidence in British democracy and the case for reform.McNair argues that the current system—built around elections every five years—is no longer sufficient for a politically aware and connected population. He sets out a vision for a more direct, participatory model, where citizens have a meaningful say on key issues between elections. Drawing on his journey across all 76 UK cities, he describes a country marked by deep disillusionment with politics, but not without hope.The episode also confronts harder questions about truth, division, and whether democratic systems can function when citizens no longer share a common understanding of reality.🔑 Topics coveredCollapse of public trust in politicians and institutionsThe limits of representative democracyDirect democracy and the Swiss/Liechtenstein modelsProject Jinn’s mission and structureInsights from a nationwide tour of the UKPublic disengagement vs latent political opinionsMedia trust, misinformation, and foreign interferenceTruth vs perspective in political debateInclusion of anti-democratic viewpointsThe emotional state of the country: disconnection, fatigue, and underlying goodwillAt its core: if democracy is no longer delivering for the public, what should replace it—and how can it be rebuilt?Support the show

Send us Fan MailJason Pack, host of the Disorder podcast, joins Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight to discuss his idea of “enduring disorder” — a world where democracies struggle to coordinate, institutions fail to deliver, and power is increasingly fragmented.The conversation looks at what that means in practice: from Libya and Ukraine to British politics and the failures of Western leadershipWhat we cover What Pack means by “enduring disorder” — and why he thinks the post–Cold War system has broken down  Why democracies are struggling to coordinate on major issues like climate, security and technology  Libya as a case study in how international cooperation fails  The rise of “disorder actors” — from authoritarian states to populist movements within democracies  Whether democracy still offers anything tangible to ordinary people  Why belief in democratic values may be weakening, even in the UK and US  The role of money, media and private power in shaping modern politics  Why people in stable democracies often care less about democracy than those who’ve lived under dictatorship  Pack’s personal reasons for defending democratic systems Key questions If the system is breaking down, what is democracy actually delivering?  Are people turning away from democracy — or just losing faith in it?  Who benefits from disorder: democracies or dictatorships?  Can democratic systems adapt to an age of social media, AI and fragmented power? Follow Jason's work Podcast: Disorder podcast Book: Libya and the Global Enduring DisorderSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight, I speak with Akhmed Zakayev, the exiled Prime Minister of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria.Zakayev lays out his case that Chechnya remains under Russian occupation, describing life inside the republic as lawless and repressive, and arguing that the Chechen struggle is not a recent conflict but part of a centuries-long resistance to Russian imperialism.We discuss the legacy of the Chechen wars, the role of Russian propaganda in shaping Western perceptions, and why Zakayev believes those wars were the prelude to Russia’s invasions of Georgia and Ukraine. He also explains how a government in exile operates, how Chechens abroad maintain ties to those at home, and why he believes independence is essential for the survival of the Chechen people.The conversation explores Chechen culture, its emphasis on honour and equality, and what freedom and democracy mean from a Chechen perspective. Zakayev also makes a broader argument: that lasting global security depends on the end of Russian imperialism.This is a rare, in-depth interview with one of the most prominent figures in the Chechen independence movement—on history, identity, and the future of a nation still fighting to exist.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We speak with Iranian human rights activist Zolal Habibi of the National Council of Resistance of Iran.Born into a family shaped by repression Habibi has spent her life advocating for a democratic alternative to the Islamic Republic. Amongst the backdrop of America and Israel's war on IranThey discuss: The reality of resistance inside Iran  Why repeated uprisings haven’t yet toppled the regime  The role of women at the forefront of protest movements  The controversy and vision behind the NCRI The lack of nuance among Western commentators Why she argues the solution is “neither war nor appeasement”And ultimately, what a free Iran could look like — and whether it’s closer than we think.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We sit down with Jaden Braves a young Canadian political organiser and director at the Sephira Institute.They explore how a new generation is engaging with democracy—and where it’s breaking down. From flawed electoral systems and youth disengagement to the impact of social media, foreign influence, and global conflict, Jaden argues that democratic systems are failing to keep up with the world they now operate in.The conversation covers: Why young people feel locked out of politics  The case for lowering the voting age  Social media as a national security threat  Whether democracy is “at war” globally  How Gen Z is being shaped—and misled—by information overload This is a wide-ranging discussion about power, participation, and what democracy needs to survive in the 21st century.Support the show

Send us Fan MailAre political parties actually undermining democracy?In this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We sit down with businessman-turned-author Metin Peckin, whose new book Breaking Democracy’s Chains argues that the biggest threat to modern democracy isn’t dictators—it’s the system itself.Peckin makes a provocative case: political parties have become gatekeepers, limiting true representation and concentrating power in the hands of wealthy elites and entrenched interests. Drawing on history—from the warnings of the American Founding Fathers to modern examples like the Iraq War and Citizens United—he argues that democracy has been captured.Together, we explore: Why political parties may be “the bottleneck” in representation  How money and elite influence shape modern politics  Whether independent candidates could replace party systems  A radical proposal for a party-less democracy  The role of technology in transforming representation  The limits of freedom, and what democracy should actually mean Peckin also outlines his proposed reforms, including independent MPs, ranked-choice voting, and a “democracy tax” designed to curb the influence of big money in politics.This is a challenging, wide-ranging conversation about whether democracy as we know it still works—and what it might take to fix it.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We speak with Dr. Roberto Foa, one of the world’s leading political scientists studying democratic legitimacy and populism. Drawing on decades of research into public attitudes, Dr. Foa explains his influential theory of “democratic deconsolidation” — the erosion of faith in democracy, particularly among younger generations. We explore why democratic values like tolerance, trust, and fairness are under strain, how populism exploits genuine public grievances, and what must be done to renew democratic engagement in the digital age. This is a conversation about the fragility of democracy, the responsibilities of citizens and elites, and whether democracy can adapt to survive the pressures of the 21st century. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail*Note from the host - I apologize for the missed weeks, a combination of holiday and family concerns. Also, my audio in this one is a little poor, unfortunately my good mic has developed an issue.*In this episode, we speak with Ukrainian veteran and civil activist Dmytro Koziatynskyi, a former combat medic who returned from war to fight a different battle — defending democracy at home in Ukraine.After serving on the front lines following Russia’s full-scale invasion, Koziatynskyi became a central figure in organising mass protests against controversial anti-corruption legislation that many feared would undermine the independence of National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. The demonstrations, held during wartime and under martial law, forced a political U-turn by the government of Volodymyr Zelenskyy — a rare and remarkable example of democratic pressure succeeding during an existential national conflict.Koziatynskyi discusses his journey from civilian entrepreneur to battlefield medic, and from soldier to protest organiser. He explains the risks of public dissent during war, the role of civil society in resisting authoritarian drift, and why he believes individual action can still shape the fate of nations.This conversation explores corruption, democracy under fire, Ukraine’s European future, and what citizens everywhere can learn from a society fighting for survival while refusing to surrender its democratic values.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we speak with Mamatjan Juma, a veteran Uyghur journalist and one of the most important voices documenting China’s repression in Xinjiang.For nearly two decades, Juma reported for Radio Free Asia’s Uyghur Service, helping to expose the reality of mass internment, forced labour, family separation and the systematic erasure of Uyghur identity. His reporting was among the first to bring credible, source-based evidence of the camps to the outside world — long before governments were willing to name them for what they were.That work came at a devastating personal cost. Like many Uyghur journalists, Juma has seen members of his own family targeted by the Chinese state, a reminder that authoritarian power does not stop at borders and does not distinguish between professional reporting and collective punishment.We discuss how independent Uyghur journalism has survived under extraordinary pressure, how Beijing wages transnational repression against exiled journalists, and why the closure of trusted outlets makes new initiatives like the Uyghur News Network more vital than ever.This conversation is not only about Xinjiang. It is about truth under dictatorship, the fragility of press freedom, and what democracies lose when crimes against humanity are allowed to fade into the background noise of global politics.Episode bullet pointsWho Mamatjan Juma is and why his journalism mattersHow early Uyghur-language reporting exposed the internment campsThe personal cost of reporting on Xinjiang from exileChina’s use of intimidation, surveillance and family punishmentTransnational repression beyond China’s bordersThe collapse of legacy platforms and the rise of new Uyghur mediaHow journalists verify information under total state controlWhat democracies risk by looking away from XinjiangSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this special and unusually candid episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we speak to an anonymous American investor who has privately channelled close to half a million dollars into Ukrainian frontline units fighting Russia’s invasion. At his request, this interview is audio-only and his voice has been altered. Our guest explains what drove him, as a private citizen, to step far beyond conventional charity and into direct support for military units. Drawing on first-hand relationships with Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers, he outlines how crowdfunding, “angel investors”, and rapid private procurement have become decisive factors on the battlefield. From drones and electronic warfare to logistics and innovation, he describes how Ukrainian units increasingly function like start-ups, adapting faster than traditional military supply chains ever could.The conversation goes beyond hardware. We discuss Bucha and occupied territories, the moral calculus of inaction, and why he believes delays and half-measures translate directly into civilian suffering. He addresses the legal and ethical objections often raised in the West, arguing that they collapse when confronted with mass atrocities and imperial aggression.The episode also tackles the information war. Our guest explains how Russian propaganda exploits religious, political and cultural divisions in the United States and Europe, and why Ukraine, in his view, represents a clearer moral line than many past conflicts. He speaks openly about faith, freedom, responsibility, and why he believes Ukraine’s fight is inseparable from the future of democracy in the West.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we speak with Jakub Kalenský, one of Europe’s leading experts on disinformation, hybrid threats, and information warfare.Jakub is Deputy Director at the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats in Helsinki and a former senior figure behind the EU’s flagship EUvsDisinfo initiative. For over a decade, he has worked at the sharp end of efforts to expose and counter authoritarian influence operations, particularly those originating from the Kremlin.We explore how modern disinformation campaigns actually work, why repetition and scale matter more than persuasive narratives, and why democracies remain structurally vulnerable in the information space. Jakub lays out his “four lines of defence” for countering disinformation, from detection and data collection to deterrence and punishment, and explains why Western governments consistently underinvest in this fight.The conversation also examines how artificial intelligence is accelerating information warfare, enabling mass content production, micro-targeting, and more sophisticated language use — while also offering potential defensive tools for democracies. We discuss the role of social media platforms, the limits of free speech arguments, and whether the information space should be treated as critical national infrastructure.Finally, we turn to values: democracy, freedom, and why Ukraine has become the defining frontline in the global struggle against authoritarianism — not just militarily, but informationally.This is a wide-ranging, unsparing look at one of the most consequential and least understood battlefields of our time.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We are joined by Commander (Ret.) Lance McMillan, a former US Navy officer with more than 25 years of service and a regular contributor to independent US media on defence, security and global affairs.Lance reflects on growing up across multiple countries during the Cold War, witnessing stark inequalities and contrasting political systems, and how those experiences shaped his instincts about power, authority and the role of the state. He discusses his father’s career in US intelligence, the realities of that world behind the myths, and how proximity to diplomacy and espionage influenced his worldview.The conversation explores Ukraine’s theory of victory, the limits of military power, and why war termination theory suggests that negotiated settlements rarely emerge before true war-weariness sets in. Lance offers a frank assessment of Russia’s maximalist objectives, Ukraine’s strategic dilemma, and the security risks inherent in territorial compromise.Attention then turns to the United States itself. Lance outlines his concerns about democratic backsliding, the erosion of institutional norms, and the growing influence of oligarchic and ideological power blocs. He examines voter suppression, political polarisation, and why trust in American democracy is weakening both at home and abroad.The episode also looks at the transatlantic relationship, Europe’s move towards defence autonomy, and how democratic allies respond when US leadership becomes unpredictable. From Ukraine to Washington to Venezuela, this is a wide-ranging conversation about power, democracy and what happens when political systems begin to hollow themselves out.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, Theo Allthorpe-Mullis is joined by Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon OBE, one of the UK’s leading authorities on chemical weapons and modern deterrence.Drawing on more than three decades of service and frontline experience, Hamish reflects on why he joined the British Army, what service means in a democracy, and how Syria shaped his understanding of power, responsibility and Western failure. The conversation moves from the broken “red lines” of 2013 to their consequences today, examining how inaction over chemical weapons emboldened authoritarian regimes and reshaped Russian behaviour in Ukraine.The discussion also covers the confirmed use of chemical agents on the Ukrainian battlefield, the risks of escalation, and what a credible Western response would look like. From NATO deterrence and Article 5, to national resilience, military service and the quiet erosion of democratic confidence at home, this is a wide-ranging and unsparing look at the world as it is, not as we would like it to be.Show NotesColonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon OBE on growing up in a family shaped by military service and why he chose the ArmyWhat “service” actually means in a democracy, and why serving the nation is not the same as serving a governmentSyria as the defining experience: witnessing chemical warfare, civilian suffering, and Western reluctance to actThe failure to enforce the chemical weapons red line in 2013 and how it shaped Putin’s calculationsWhy Syria matters to Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova and Europe more broadlyRussian aggression and the long shadow of Western hesitationThe use of chemical agents in Ukraine, including chloropicrin and riot control agents delivered by dronesHow chemical weapons are being used tactically to force Ukrainian soldiers out of trenchesThe risk of escalation to more lethal nerve agents, and why the taboo is weaker than many assumeWhat a credible response to chemical weapons use would look like without crossing the nuclear thresholdNATO, Article 5, and whether deterrence still holds in an era of ambiguity and hybrid warfareEurope’s readiness, defence spending, and the question of seized Russian assetsWhy authoritarian systems are still widely misunderstood in the WestDemocracy’s internal vulnerabilities, from political extremes to public disengagementAdvice to young people considering military service, and to societies reluctant to prepare for warWhy strength and preparedness remain the best way to prevent conflictA final message to dictators and authoritarians, and the limits of trying to “buy off” ideologuesSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We speak with Jenny Chan, historian and co-founder of Pacific Atrocities Education, about the overlooked history of the Asia–Pacific theatre of the Second World War and its impact on today’s geopolitics.Jenny explains how her grandmother’s experience under Japanese occupation shaped her interest in history, and why much of the Pacific War remains absent from Western education. She discusses the thirty million deaths across Asia, the fall of Hong Kong on “Black Christmas”, and the strategic decisions that allowed many Japanese wartime figures to avoid justice after 1945.The conversation also explores how authoritarian fanaticism emerges, how democracies sometimes compromise on their values, and why honest historical memory is vital for defending free societies today.Topics Covered• Family history and personal motivation Jenny’s grandmother, wartime Hong Kong, and the loss of the family’s fortune during the occupation.• Why the Pacific War is forgotten Western-centric teaching, focus on Hitler, and a lack of coverage of the Asian continent’s devastation.• Unit 731 and wartime atrocities Biological experimentation, comfort women, and how key perpetrators avoided prosecution.• Post-war geopolitical choices Cold War alliances, immunity deals, and the rehabilitation of wartime elites and corporations.• Fanaticism and failed civilian control Military dominance in pre-war Japan and the collapse of moderate voices.• How democracies respond to brutality Operation Paperclip, moral compromises, and long-term consequences.• Historical memory and revisionism The dangers of online denialism, extremist nostalgia, and why younger audiences seek deeper history.• Modern Asia–Pacific tensions Japan’s rearmament, China’s military build-up, and rising risks around Taiwan.• Democracy, freedom and peace Jenny’s reflections on why peace is essential to preserving democratic values.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, T. A. Mullis speaks with Ji Hyun Park, who escaped North Korea twice and went on to rebuild her life in the United Kingdom. (Sorry for the delay, recent family bereavements have left my schedule all out of whack)Park describes her childhood under the Kim dictatorship, the famine, and the complete control the regime holds over information and daily life. She explains her first escape to save her younger brother, her experience of human trafficking in China, and the Chinese government’s practice of returning North Korean refugees to the regime. She gives a clear account of the labour camp she was sent to after repatriation, including forced labour, hunger and the treatment of repatriated pregnant women.She then recounts her second escape with her son, the journey through China and Mongolia, and her arrival in Britain in 2008. Park reflects on rebuilding her life, learning English, raising her family and eventually entering public life as a Conservative Party candidate. She speaks about what motivates her, the values she associates with democracy, and her concerns about rising authoritarianism.Main topics covered include:Life under the Kim dictatorship and the impact of total controlEscaping North Korea twice and surviving trafficking and imprisonmentChina’s role in returning refugees to the regimeRebuilding a new life in the United Kingdom with her sonWhy she entered public life and what motivates her workThe values she associates with freedom and democracyHer warning about rising authoritarianism and why democracy must be protectedJi Hyun Park’s book:The Hard Road Out: One Woman’s Escape from North Koreahttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Hard-Road-Out-Womans-North/dp/1785787079This conversation offers a rare first-hand account of life inside a totalitarian state and what it takes to build a future in a free society.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we speak with Lieutenant General (Ret.) Ben Hodges, former Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, for a wide-ranging and unusually candid conversation about the state of democracy, the duty of military leaders, the future of Ukraine’s defence, and the global challenge posed by modern autocracies.General Hodges reflects on the oath he took, how its meaning evolved across his career, and why he believes that oath is under greater strain today than at any time in his service. He discusses the pressures facing serving officers, the erosion of norms inside American civil-military relations, and the emerging patterns of authoritarian coordination described by Anne Applebaum.The conversation moves from U.S. internal challenges to the war in Ukraine, where Hodges sets out:• why Ukraine’s victory matters strategically to Europe, the U.S., and global security• how Russia’s “grey zone” tactics shape the conflict• what he believes Ukraine’s theory of victory now is• the critical role of long-range strike capability, air defence, and defence-industrial innovation• how Ukraine must address manpower, training culture, and leadership development• lessons U.S. and European militaries should be drawing from the warWe also explore the values at stake: freedom and democracy. Hodges speaks frankly about what these terms mean: trust, responsibility, and the struggle to keep institutions healthy.The episode closes with two key questions:• What can ordinary citizens do to defend democracy?• And what message does General Hodges have for dictators, and for those who enable them?This is one of the most comprehensive and sober assessments yet on the global contest between democratic systems and authoritarian regimes.About General Ben HodgesBen Hodges is the former Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe (2014–2017), a West Point graduate, and one of the leading Western voices on European security and the war in Ukraine.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, host T. A. Mullis speaks with Zarina Zabrisky, an American war correspondent and filmmaker reporting from the frontlines of Kherson, Ukraine — a city living under daily Russian drone and artillery attacks.Zabrisky, who has spent a decade documenting Russia’s hybrid war against the West, reveals the horror of what she calls a “human safari” — Russia’s use of FPV drones to hunt civilians for sport. She discusses the collapse of truth in the AI age, the Kremlin’s psychological warfare against democracies, and why she continues to risk her life to tell these stories.Together, they explore:Life and survival in Kherson under drone siegeThe UN’s findings that short-range drone attacks are war crimesRussia’s mastery of psychological and information warfareHow AI and disinformation are eroding democratic resilienceThe meaning of freedom and democracy through the eyes of someone who escaped totalitarianismZabrisky’s documentary Kherson: Human Safari is available free at KhersonHumanSafari.comYou can find more of Zabrisky’s work at Byline Times and Euromaidan PressGuest Links:Website: KhersonHumanSafari.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailDictators v Democrats: Why We Fight — Episode: American War Correspondent Phil IttnerIn this episode, host TA Mullis speaks with Phil Ittner, an American war correspondent with more than two decades of experience covering conflicts around the world — from Iraq and Afghanistan to Georgia and Ukraine. Now based in Kyiv, Ittner discusses the moral and historical battle lines between democracy and authoritarianism that define the 21st century.Together, they explore journalism’s role in an age of disinformation, the impossibility yet necessity of striving for objectivity, and the philosophical divide between free societies and autocratic ones. Ittner reflects on his years reporting from Moscow during the rise of Vladimir Putin, his time on the front lines of Maidan and the 2022 invasion, and his belief that Ukraine represents a global line in the sand.The conversation delves into:Journalism as a vocation and moral dutyWhy “objectivity” is impossible but essential to pursueThe failure of Western media to explain Ukraine’s fight and identityRussia’s imperial mindset and its parallels with Britain’s colonial pastHow democracy’s greatest strength is its willingness to try, fail, and try againThe meaning of liberty, individual rights, and participation in shaping societyWhy autocracy always collapses into violence and decayIttner closes with a warning to dictators: power without participation always ends in ruin — and a reminder that, despite its flaws, democracy remains humanity’s best hope.Phil Ittner’s Work: 🎥 On the Edge — YouTube: Phil Ittner 🌐 Website: philipittner.comFollow Dictators v Democrats 🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DictatorsvDemocrats 🔗 Substack: dictatorsvdemocrats.substack.com 🎧 Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms 🐦 Twitter/X: @TheoAMullisSupport the show

Send us Fan MailAmerican Azov: Vegas — The Firefighter Who Joined Ukraine’s Fight for FreedomIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, host Theo Allthorpe-Mullis speaks with Vegas, an American firefighter and medic who left Texas to join Azov’s International Battalion in Ukraine.From pulling people out of burning buildings to pulling wounded soldiers off the zero line, Vegas shares his journey from civilian life in the United States to the front lines of Ukraine’s war for survival.He explains what compelled him to risk everything, how he went from medic to assault soldier, and why he believes the battle for Ukraine is part of a much larger global struggle between dictatorship and democracy.Vegas speaks candidly about:The moment he decided to go to UkraineWhat it’s really like fighting on the zero lineHow the war is reshaping Ukraine’s military and mindsetThe reality of drone warfareWhat the West still doesn’t understand about the scale of this conflictHow Ukraine changed his view of America, patriotism, and freedomThis is a raw, unfiltered conversation with a man who traded comfort for conviction — and found purpose fighting for the ideals that define democracy itself.“The number one threat on the front right now is drones — and number two, three, four, and five are drones.” “Ukraine is safer at war than the US is at peace.” “Fighting for Ukraine is the purest form of Americanism I’ve ever known.”Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host we speak with Nick Soutter — American author, philosopher, and journalist behind In Time Media and the dystopian novel The Water Thief. Soutter has spent years dissecting the moral and political decay of democratic societies and the slow rise of corporate authoritarianism.Together, Theo and Nick explore the erosion of democracy in the United States and across the Western world, from the Trump phenomenon and “pay-to-play” corruption to the creeping power of corporations like Musk’s and Thiel’s techno-feudal empires. Soutter argues that what we are witnessing is not just political backsliding, but the birth of a system where private power supplants public will — echoing the warnings of his own fiction.This wide-ranging conversation delves into:Why democracies are faltering and how complacency has become our greatest enemy.The transformation of capitalism into neo-feudalism.The psychology of authoritarianism and why ordinary people are drawn to strongmen.The failure of modern media, education, and marketing in defending truth.What the “No Kings” protests mean for the future of democracy.Soutter leaves us with a grim but galvanising message: the arc of history may bend toward progress, but only if we keep fighting to hold it there.📘 Nick Soutter’s book: The Water Thief🎧 His show: In Time MediaSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Theo Allthorpe-Mullis speaks from Kyiv with Knight, a British volunteer serving in Ukraine’s Azov International Battalion.Knight explains why he left the United Kingdom to join Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion, how he copes with fear and loss on the front line, and why he considers this war a just and necessary struggle. He describes daily life within Azov, the realities of combat in the Donbas, and the misconceptions surrounding the unit.The discussion ranges from the practical and psychological demands of frontline service to the wider meaning of democracy and freedom in wartime. Knight also reflects on the motivations of foreign volunteers, the failures of Western support, and the moral divide between democratic and authoritarian states.Topics CoveredWhy Knight volunteered to fight for UkraineLife and danger on the front lines in the DonbasCoping with fear, trauma, and combat stressWhat Ukraine needs from its alliesThe reality of Azov compared to Russian propagandaThe mindset and unity of foreign volunteersReflections on democracy, freedom, and dictatorshipSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, host Theo Allthorpe-Mullis speaks with Oleg Magaletsky, a Ukrainian investor, strategist and one of the founders of the Free Nations of Post-Russia Forum.Oleg argues that true and lasting peace in Europe will only be possible through the decolonisation and disintegration of the Russian Federation. From the Caucasus to Siberia, dozens of captive nations remain under Moscow’s control. Their natural wealth is exploited and their people are used as expendable soldiers in wars of imperial expansion.The conversation explores how the Free Nations of Post-Russia Forum connects independence movements with Western policymakers, and why the West must stop fearing the breakup of Russia. Oleg explains how a smaller, post-imperial Russia would make the world more stable, and outlines the urgent need for a coordinated strategy to support the peoples still living under Moscow’s rule.He discusses:Why peace in Europe depends on the collapse of Russian imperialismHow Russia remains the last colonial empire in EuropeThe growing alignment of authoritarian states in a new axis of dictatorshipLessons from the fall of the USSR and Yugoslavia for managing the risks of Russian fragmentationHis journey from the Maidan Revolution to global political activismWhat democracy and freedom mean when both are under assaultOleg also reflects on the moral responsibilities of the free world and the importance of individual agency in defending open societies.Key ThemesThe Free Nations of Post-Russia ForumDecolonisation and self-determination in the Russian FederationThe axis of authoritarian statesThe role of Ukraine in defending democracyDisinformation and Kremlin influenceCivic courage and personal responsibilitySupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, I speak with Lieutenant Colonel Andrii “Djakonda” Koval, head of the Unmanned Systems Battalion “Kondor” of the 1st Presidential Operational Brigade Bureviy in the Ukrainian National Guard.Djakonda and his soldiers are on the cutting edge of modern warfare—fighting with drones and robotic systems that have reshaped the battlefield from the front line to hundreds, even thousands, of kilometres into enemy territory. From reconnaissance and FPV strike drones to robotic ground vehicles delivering supplies and evacuating the wounded, Kondor’s work is redefining how wars are fought.📌 Support the Kondor BattalionDjakonda and his unit rely on donations for drones, vehicles, electronics, and supplies. Listeners can support directly by contacting the Kondor Battalion via social media (X, Instagram) to donate equipment or funds.They are currently in need of a new engine for a pickup truck. Listeners can donateHEREWe discuss:How drones have fundamentally changed the course of the war.The integration of AI into military decision-making and what the future of combat looks like.The birth and growth of Ukraine’s unmanned systems battalions since 2022.Why motivation for Ukrainian soldiers is not a question of morale but of survival.Why Djakonda believes Europe must wake up, support Ukraine, and prepare for Putin’s wider ambitions.His vision of democracy, freedom, and what’s at stake if Ukraine falls.The role of volunteers, donors, and international support in sustaining Ukraine’s fight.Djakonda also shares his own journey from a student-soldier in 2017, to programmer, and back into uniform as a commander of one of the most innovative battalions in Ukraine’s defence.This is a first-hand look into the future of warfare and the human determination behind it.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, I speak with Rosie Cecil — head of strategic partnerships for Mission Ukraine UK and a medic/ambulance driver with Mobile Medical Rescue (MMR). For three years, Rosie has volunteered in Ukraine, supporting frontline medics, delivering vehicles and aid, and driving into danger zones to evacuate the wounded.We discuss her journey from delivering generators to war-torn villages in 2022 to running medical evacuations in the “grey zone” today. Rosie reflects on the realities of drone warfare, the deliberate targeting of medics and civilians, the trauma faced by Ukrainians, and why international volunteers remain vital to Ukraine’s survival.She also shares hard-earned lessons on courage, coping with fear, and the values that drive her to return again and again. From Xinjiang to Turkmenistan, Rosie has seen dictatorship up close — and explains why democracy, however flawed, is still worth defending.Topics covered:Rosie's path into volunteering in Ukraine after the 2022 invasion.Supporting frontline medics with vehicles and supplies.What it’s like driving medevac ambulances under drone threat.The “grey zone” and “death zone”: life on the edge of the front.Targeting of medics, ambulances, and civilians as war crimes.Trauma, resilience, and coping strategies for volunteers.Crowdfunding a modern war: the crucial role of civilians and NGOs.International support and morale for Ukrainian soldiers.Dictatorship vs democracy: lessons from Ukraine, Xinjiang, and Turkmenistan.Rosie's message to dictators and their supporters.Resources & links mentioned:Mission Ukraine UKMobile Medical Rescue (MMR)Come Back Alive Foundation – supporting Ukraine’s defendersFollow Dictators v Democrats: Why We FightYouTubeSubstackTwitter/XTikTokSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn this unique episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, I speak with LK, a Hong Kong artist, puppeteer, playwright, and dissident now living in exile in France.LK’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and defiance. We discuss how art can resist silence, the dangers and power of puppetry and object theatre, and the struggle to create freely under censorship. LK opens up about leaving Hong Kong in 2019, the wave of repression that followed the National Security Law, and the transnational threats they and their family continue to face.We also explore:How art and activism intersect—and why LK insists on keeping them apartWhat it means to live in exile, and the difficulty of building a new “anchor” in a foreign landThe unique role of Hongkongers in Ukraine, Taiwan, and the global fight for democracyWhy freedom of speech and human rights are not luxuries, but basic survival needsIn one of the most powerful parts of the conversation, LK reflects on Hong Kong’s 2019 movement, the sacrifices made, and what democracy and human rights mean at their core. Their message to dictators is short, sharp, and unforgettable.👉 If this conversation resonated with you, please like, share, and leave a comment. Paid subscribers get early access to episodes and support independent journalism.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, I speak with Dr Mark Clifford President of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, journalist, academic, and author of The Troublemaker, a biography of Jimmy Lai.Mark spent nearly three decades in Hong Kong, working as editor-in-chief of the South China Morning Post and The Standard, and serving on the board of Apple Daily. He witnessed the city’s democratic flowering under Governor Chris Patten, its crushing under Beijing’s National Security Law, and the imprisonment of his colleague and friend Jimmy Lai who is now in solitary confinement for over 1,700 days.We discuss:Clifford’s journey from journalist to activist.Jimmy Lai’s courage and why he knowingly risked prison for freedom.The CCP’s “United Front” playbook and how it spreads authoritarian influence abroad.Why Hong Kong is a “canary in the coal mine” for China’s global ambitions.How South Korea and Taiwan prove democracy fuels prosperity.Why journalism and truth-telling are vital weapons against authoritarianism.China, Russia, Iran and North Korea’s growing coordination and what it means for democracies.The battle for hearts and minds: why young people are losing faith in democracy, and how we can win them back.Dr Clifford also shares updates on Jimmy Lai’s ongoing trial a “kangaroo court” with handpicked judges and why sanctions so rattle Beijing.Paid supporters on Patreon or Substack get episodes 1 week early. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this very special episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we are honoured to speak with General David H. Petraeus: former CIA Director, Commander of U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and one of America’s most respected military leaders.Across a remarkable career at the highest levels of military and intelligence service, Petraeus has had a front-row seat to the great struggles between democracy and dictatorship; from the Cold War to counterinsurgencies in the Middle East, and now to the rise of authoritarian powers in the 21st century.In this wide-ranging conversation, General Petraeus reflects on:His path from a childhood near West Point to leading U.S. forces abroad.How democratic values were tested throughout the Cold War and beyond.The methods authoritarian regimes use to maintain power: coercion, propaganda, and control.Why deterrence and alliances remain essential in confronting Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea.His candid assessment of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and lessons from strategic successes and failures.What young people disillusioned with democracy should demand of their leaders.The importance of service, mission, and values and why soldiers really fight.From the battlefield to the CIA, from Iraq to Ukraine, Petraeus shares unique insights into the global contest between autocracy and democracy and why he still believes free societies will prevail.🔑 Key Parts:Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others. Quoting ChurchillHistory is back with a vengeanceDeterrence rests on capabilities, and the will to use them; both must be clearSoldiers don’t fight for democracy in the moment, they fight for the man or woman on their left and right🎧 Listen to and follow Dictators v Democrats:SubstackSupport: Patreon | Buy Me a CoffeeSocials: X/Twitter | TikTokYouTube💬 Question for you:Do you agree with Gen. Petraeus that deterrence and alliances are the key to keeping democracies safe, or do democracies need a different strategy in facing today’s autocrats?Support the show

Send us Fan Mail“If you fire, fire at me.”During Hong Kong’s Umbrella Revolution in 2014, Ray Wong saw an older man stand in front of armed police and offer his life to protect the crowd. That moment changed Wong forever, and set him on a path from student protester to activist leader, and finally into exile.In this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, Ray — now policy and strategy advisor at Hong Kong Watch — tells his story: how the Umbrella Revolution brought together a generation, why “Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of Our Times” became the defining slogan, and what it means to keep resisting under authoritarian pressure.Also found on Youtube and Substack We discuss:The turning point of the Umbrella RevolutionThe birth of the Be Water protest strategyBeijing’s United Front and its reach into EuropeExile, surveillance, and the personal cost of resistanceWhy authoritarian regimes are weaker than they look🎧 A conversation about protest, exile, and why democracy is always worth fighting for.If you like this work: please do like, share, subscribe and leave a review! Any reviews especially are much appreciated. 📣 Support the Show ☕ Buy Me A CoffeeSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this compelling episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we sit down with Professor Tim Wilson - academic, filmmaker, YouTuber, and former politician - in London to explore the crisis facing modern democracy and what we can do about it.Professor Wilson brings a unique perspective, having taught in authoritarian countries including Russia, where he met Vladimir Putin in 2016 ("he emanates evil"), and having infiltrated UKIP from within before resigning over racism. Now through his daily YouTube channel, he offers uncompromising analysis that earns him criticism from both left and right - which he sees as proof he's doing something right.Key topics we explore:Why our education system is failing democracy by using 19th-century methods to teach 21st-century citizensHow scripted politics and theatrical PMQs are undermining public trustThe real meaning of Brexit as a protest vote rather than a vision for the futureWhy Nigel Farage is "the best politician in the UK" despite Wilson detesting his viewsHow technology could revolutionize education and make students resistant to propagandaThe sliding scale of liberty and why Britain is becoming more authoritarian than we realizeWilson argues that democracy isn't just about voting - it's about the Socratic method of debating your way to truth. But our political class has forgotten this, turning politics into theatre while teachers spend 70% of their time on bureaucracy instead of inspiring students.From his chilling encounter with Putin to his thoughts on toxic masculinity, drill music, and why children need positive role models rather than just being told what not to do, this wide-ranging conversation challenges conventional wisdom about politics, education, and resistance.Perfect for listeners interested in: UK politics, education reform, media literacy, authoritarianism, Russia, Brexit, and practical solutions for strengthening democracy."The right to say 'F** you' to power - that's what democracy means to me."*Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, we’re joined by Professor Mark Galeotti, one of the world’s leading experts on modern Russia, for a sweeping conversation on authoritarianism, democracy, and the future of Putin’s regime.We explore:Why democracy failed in post-Soviet RussiaThe real legacy of Boris Yeltsin and the 1990sHow Putin rebuilt an authoritarian state with elite loyalty and public apathyRussia’s strategic culture and the "first punch" doctrineWhat comes after Putin—and how the war in Ukraine might endGrey zone warfare, gangsters as proxies, and Russia’s criminal statecraftHow democracies can resist authoritarian influence without sacrificing their valuesWhy Russian disinformation works—and why fact-checking alone won’t stop itKey Takeaways:“You can have rule of law without democracy, but not democracy without rule of law.”Putin's Russia is a hybrid of medieval court politics and 21st-century bureaucracy.The West enabled Russian authoritarianism by endorsing rigged elections and prioritising short-term stability over long-term democratic development.Today’s global struggle isn’t just military—it’s narrative, emotional, and psychological.Disinformation thrives where trust in institutions has already collapsed.Fixing democracy’s reputation means fixing democratic systems themselves.Russia’s alliances with Iran, China, and others are transactional—not ideological.“Democracy is a frustrating, unstable beast—but it can do amazing things if we fight for it.”Mark Galeotti’s Latest Book:Homo Criminalis — out now in the UK and Netherlands. U.S. release coming soon.Listen to Mark’s podcast: In Moscow’s ShadowsSupport the ShowThis podcast is entirely self-funded. If you value this work:Buy Me a Coffee Join our PatreonSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight we’re speaking with Jonathan Fink. He was a digital marketing strategist, then Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine changed everything. Now, he’s the creator of Silicon Curtain, a YouTube channel and podcast that battles Russian disinformation with facts, context, and strategic narrative warfare.Be sure to check out his work through the link above!In this episode, we dive deep into:The mechanics of modern propaganda and why fact-checking often failsWhy many Russian dissidents still cling to imperial mindsetsThe failure of the Russian opposition to offer a democratic visionThe difference between truth and narrative and which one winsWhat a post-imperial Russia might look likeHow democracies can build resilience against authoritarian influence🔑 Key Takeaways"I used to sell people stuff they didn’t need. Now I’m trying to deprogram them." Jonathan’s background in SEO and behavioural psychology helps him explain why Russian propaganda works.Propaganda isn’t about truth. It’s about identity, emotion, and action. And in that arena, Russia is winning.The Russian opposition isn’t the solution. Many dissidents the West celebrates are still imperialists. Fink argues we must stop giving them platforms unless they confront the empire they once served.You can’t remove Putin without removing the system. Russian authoritarianism is born from centuries of imperial ideology.Ukraine’s lesson for the world: Revolution is necessary. Democracy isn’t efficient but it’s the best we have.📣 Support the ShowThis podcast is entirely self-funded. If you value this work: Buy Me a Coffee Join our PatreonOr just share the show and leave a review! either helps me enormously. Always remember: Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this gripping episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight we sit down with award-winning journalist and war correspondent John Sweeney. With four decades on the frontlines from Grozny to Kyiv, Sweeney unpacks what he's learned about authoritarian power, the role of propaganda, and why telling the truth still matters.From Chechnya to Ukraine, from the Taliban to Tommy Robinson, Sweeney reflects on how democracies are under siege from bombs and bullets, lies, nostalgia, and digital manipulation.🔥 Highlights include:Why war reporting matters — and why some stories can only be told from the frontlinesThe humour and horror of being arrested by both Russian and Ukrainian authoritiesPutin, Trump, and the pathology of powerThe real threat of radical disinformation — and how social media platforms are failing democracyBrexit, bots, and British amnesia: why we forgot what fascism looks likeWhat democracies must do to defend truth, dignity, and freedomA powerful message to Vladimir Putin - VPDFO! 📣 Support the ShowThis podcast is entirely self-funded. If you value fearless, independent journalism: Buy Me a Coffee Join our PatreonRemember: Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Dictators v Democrats: Why We Fight, We speak with Estonian MP and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee Marko Mihkelson for an unflinching conversation about Russia’s imperial legacy, the modern authoritarian playbook, and what it takes to defend democracy today.Drawing on decades of experience as a journalist and politician, Mihkelson shares eyewitness insights from the First Chechen War, the Kremlin’s early efforts to dismantle democracy, and how the West has enabled Moscow’s aggression through appeasement and inaction.We explore:The roots of Russian imperialism and its resurgence under PutinThe formation of a new authoritarian axis: Russia, China, Iran, North KoreaHow democracies are losing the information warWhy disinformation is the autocrats’ sharpest weaponEstonia’s leadership in cybersecurity and digital democracyWhat the West must do to ensure Ukraine’s victoryThe dangers of Western political amnesia and moral hesitationThe generational fight for liberty, and what it means to resistMihkelson argues that defeating Russia in Ukraine is essential to securing a future for free societies and sends a clear message to dictators everywhere: You will not succeed. You will be defeated.Highlights00:03 – Witnessing the death of Russian democracy05:30 – Interviewing Chechen president Dzhokhar Dudayev on the frontline10:00 – The authoritarian alliance and the long war against democracy19:00 – How Russia uses disinformation as a weapon of war24:30 – Estonia’s cybersecurity response and the future of digital defence33:00 – Why the West must stop appeasing Russia42:00 – The risk of World War III if Ukraine is not supported53:00 – What a post-imperial Russia could look like1:00:00 – Marko’s personal journey: from Soviet occupation to Estonian freedom1:10:00 – A message to young democrats — and to the autocrats themselvesLet me know what you think in the comments below!Enjoy!This work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack, Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work:https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullispatreon.com/DictatorsvDemocratsDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aThankyou and remember:Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight, I speak with Adil Raja, a former major in the Pakistani military who became one of its fiercest critics.Now living in exile in the UK, Raja pulls back the curtain on how Pakistan’s military has dominated the country’s politics, enabled extremism, and violently suppressed dissent both at home and abroad.We explore:· His transformation from decorated officer to dissident journalist· His firsthand account of how the military manipulates elections, courts, and media· How the generals built and deployed jihadist militias as tools of foreign policy· Why transnational repression is one of the biggest threats to democracy today· The brutal retaliation he and his family faced for speaking out· His ongoing legal battle in the UK against a SLAPP lawsuit filed by a top Pakistani general· What democracies must do to play the geostrategic game while staying as true to their values as possibleThis is a detailed account about how the Pakistani military’s ‘Deep State’ controls every aspect of life in the nuclear-armed country.Links to Mr. Raja’s work can be found here:https://soldierspeaks.org/and his Patreon can be found here:https://www.patreon.com/SoldierSpeaksLet me know what you think in the comments below!Enjoy!This work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack, Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work:https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullispatreon.com/DictatorsvDemocratsDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aThankyou and remember:Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Why We Fight, we speak with award-winning Pakistani investigative journalist Taha Siddiqui, who survived an attempted abduction by Pakistan’s military and now lives in exile in Paris. From exposing military human rights abuses to running The Dissident Club, a bar for global exiles and freedom fighters, Siddiqui shares how authoritarian regimes weaponise identity, faith and fear to silence dissent.We discuss:• How the Pakistani military suppresses press freedom and democracy• The rise of transnational repression targeting dissidents abroad• Why exile has made his journalism more impactful, not less• His acclaimed graphic novel memoir, The Dissident Club found here or in good bookstores everywhere. • How Western democracies must protect, rather than compromise, their valuesThis episode is a fascinating conversation about courage, resistance and the global fight for freedom.Let me know what you think in the comments below!Enjoy!This work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack, Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work:https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullispatreon.com/DictatorsvDemocratsDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aThankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re again recording in Kyiv, speaking to the legendary war correspondent Paul Conroy. He’s covered nearly every war since Kosovo: Libya, Iraq, Syria and now, Ukraine. He has brought back stories that have made an enormous difference; the human stories, the stories that mattered. We discuss what war is, where in the human spirit it comes from, what resistance can look like, how truth can survive autocracy and what the future may hold for the war correspondent. Enjoy!Oh, and, this work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack, Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullispatreon.com/DictatorsvDemocratsDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember:Democracy is Non-NegotiableSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re at the Estonian Embassy in Kyiv, speaking with Ambassador Annely Kolk, Estonia’s highest representative in Ukraine. She has had a storied career in the Estonian Foreign Service, previously serving as ambassador to Turkey, concurrently accredited to Iran and Azerbaijan. In 2017 she helped secure the release of Estonian security personnel in India, earning her the nickname ‘Lioness’We discuss Estonia’s history with Russian imperialism and their fight for freedom, the importance of supporting Ukraine in its fight and what European partners should be doing to ensure that freedom wins. Enjoy!Oh, and, this work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack, Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-Negotiable.Support the showSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re speaking with Jimmy Rushton, a British journalist and defence analyst. He has covered nearly every conflict in the 21st century. He is a geopolitical expert and has been living in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. We discuss what we can expect from the US in Ukraine, what China may do and the prospects for Ukrainian victory. Enjoy!Oh, and, this work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories. Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-Negotiable. Support the showSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re speaking with Marika Mikiashvili. She's a politician, an academic and an activist working to keep the flame of liberty alight in embattled Georgia, where the regime is trying to turn the clock back to older, darker times of tyranny and repression. We talk about how Georgian Dream stole the 2024 elections, what democrats in other countries can do to help protect Georgian democracy, how it feels to watch democracy slip away and how dictatorship is terrible for your skincare routine. Enjoy!Oh, and, this work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack or Buy Me A Coffee. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories. Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-Negotiable. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re speaking with Freddie SteimlerA 27 year veteran of Norway’s military, he now serves again as a volunteer bringing vital vehicles and equipment into Ukraine for the charity Bergen Hjelper Ukraina.We explore how a children’s theatre in Norway came to support Ukraine, and reflect on his wartime experience to assess how much warfare has changed — and how Russia’s war crimes undermine it both militarily and morally.Paid subscribers can listen to the full episode here now!Full release to all my other wonderful supporters is set for Friday 6th June.This work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories.Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-Negotiable. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight we’re speaking with Dr Alex Fergusson. He’s a British boffin in the highest and best tradition. A PhD in materials science from Imperial College London, he initially founded a green tech company: FAC Techonology. When Russia invaded Ukraine, he refocused his efforts on arming the Ukrainian military with the best drones he could design. We talk about his experience of repression in the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, what makes a good drone for the Ukrainian military and, of course, why he believes Democracy is worth fighting for. Paid subscribers can listen to the full episode here now! Full release to all my other wonderful supporters is set for Friday 30th May. This work is entirely self funded, if you enjoy it please consider supporting me with a small donation or becoming a paid subscriber on my SubStack. Every little helps me continue to tell these vital stories. Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Thankyou and remember: Democracy is Non-Negotiable. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn our third episode of ‘Why We Fight’ I am privileged to be talking with the filmmaker  Caolan Robertson. His films on Russia’s illegal and imperialist invasion of Ukraine have reached millions worldwide and he represents a new, young and vibrant type of conflict correspondent. We talk about how to combat disinformation, the fear you need to keep hold of when reporting war and what government needs to do to fight Russian psy-war efforts. Support my work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisDiscord: https://discord.gg/qnYb8K9aDictators v Democrats: https://tamullis.substack.com/Patreon: AwaitsSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Why We Fight, I am speaking with Tamara, a woman protesting against Aleksandar Vucic’s corrupt and undemocratic government in Serbia. She is one of many protesting in the wake of a tragedy at a railway station in Novi Sad last year in which 16 people died. She speaks about feeling democracy slip away, about how corruption effects daily life and what she wants Serbia’s future to look like. Support my Work: https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisJoin the Discord: https://discord.gg/vsTNKRvyPatreon: Awaits approvalSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn our first episode of why we fight, we're talking with Sheikh Said Ismagilov. He is one of the most senior Islamic clerics in Ukraine and was Mufti of the Religious Administration of Muslims of Ukraine. When the Russians invaded in 2022, he signed up to fight as a combat medic, serving in Bakhmut and across the lines. He participated in the liberation of his hometown of Bucha, where the Russians had looted his home. Join me, as we find out what it was like for the Sheikh to defend both his faith and freedom. Patreon: Awaiting reviewDiscord: https://discord.gg/DPqJXkJQSupport my work https://buymeacoffee.com/tamullisSupport the show