17 October 2026
In this episode of Ukraine This Week, host Don Arleth is joined by Gen. Ben Hodges (Ret.), former commander of U.S. Army Europe. They discuss the growing strain in relations between Washington and Kyiv, as well as Europe’s increasing responsibility for Ukraine’s defense. Hodges argues that Ukraine is fighting for its survival and shouldn't waste time trying to please the Trump administration. He urges European allies to increase their military and intelligence support. The discussion also addresses concerns about reduced U.S. intelligence sharing, the possibility of lifting sanctions on Russia, and Moscow’s intensifying hybrid attacks on European countries and Black Sea shipping. Hodges also discusses Ukraine’s battlefield adaptations, the impact of strikes on Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure, and the urgent need to strengthen air defense before winter. He concludes that, alongside Canada, Australia, Japan, and other allies, Europe must be prepared to fill the gaps in U.S. support and help ensure Ukraine’s success.
Sir Richard Branson has accused Donald Trump of being “an appeaser to autocrats and dictators”. The outspoken Virgin Group founder criticised Trump on LinkedIn in response to reports that the US president had blocked Ukraine from the Pentagon’s Starshield system, a critical defensive and battlefield support system. 🔗 https://t.co/XwMrYzPu3T
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) October 16, 2026
