Escalation: A Podcast History of U.S.-Ukraine Relations

February 24, 2025 marked three years of Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s full-scale invasion — three years of resilience, sacrifice, and a war that have reshaped global politics. As Ukraine faces mounting battlefield challenges and growing uncertainty over U.S. support, the conflict has reached a pivotal moment.

To coincide with this anniversary, Lawfare and Goat Rodeo are presenting Escalation, a gripping new narrative podcast that unpacks the complex and often surreal twists and turns in the U.S.-Ukraine relationship. Through exclusive interviews with over 50 diplomats, journalists, spies, and key decision-makers, Escalation tells the story of defining moments that shaped ties between the United States and Ukraine—from high-stakes diplomatic deals, impeachment and corruption scandals, and the largest land war in Europe since World War II.

The Blue Center for Global Strategic Assessment will host a timely and thought-provoking conversation at the intersection of journalism, diplomacy, and war, featuring Escalation co-hosts Anastasiia Lapatina, Lawfare Ukraine Fellow, and Tyler McBrien, managing editor of Lawfare, who will be joined by Lawfare editor-in-chief Benjamin Wittes. They will discuss the making of the podcast, share behind-the-scenes insights, and explore what lies ahead for Ukraine.