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  1. Economist Podcasts
  2. Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals
Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts · Oct 14, 2026

Trump’s flawed Russia energy deals pressure Ukraine, India cracks down on youth-led protests, and the science and barriers of singing.

Importing Russian Diesel Barely Moves Global Prices While Yielding Outsized Political Risk

Promised Russian diesel exports of up to one million tonnes monthly constitute under one percent of global consumption, offering virtually no downward pressure on fuel prices. The transaction serves primarily as an electoral talking point, while exposing leadership to accusations of undermining sanctions for negligible economic relief.

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals thumbnail

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts·10 days ago

Reciprocal Energy Ceasefires Create Massive Asymmetry When Refining Assets Are Unequal

A mutual moratorium on striking oil infrastructure appears evenhanded on the surface but heavily favors the side with broader industrial assets. Russia retains numerous operational refineries critical to its economy, whereas Ukraine possesses only a single refinery that has already suffered Russian strikes.

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals thumbnail

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts·10 days ago

Limiting Satellite Terminal Speed to 100 MPH Cripples Deep-Strike Drone Warfare

Reported restrictions capping Starlink terminals to operating speeds under 100 miles per hour leave ground systems operational while immobilizing fast-moving unmanned aircraft. Ukrainian forces depend on commercial satellite links for both kamikaze and deep-strike drones, making velocity caps a crippling battlefield constraint.

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals thumbnail

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts·10 days ago

Heavy-Handed Police Crackdowns Accidentally Convert Apolitical Youth into Committed Dissidents

Aggressive state tactics like internet shutdowns and physical baton strikes often backfire by radicalizing casual observers. Young citizens who originally encountered satirical online content become hardened, recurring street demonstrators once they experience unprovoked police brutality against themselves and their peers.

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals thumbnail

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts·10 days ago

Instant Access to Flawless Recorded Vocals Discourages Everyday Group Singing

Despite documented benefits for postpartum depression and social cohesion, participatory singing is hindered by deep social embarrassment. The universal accessibility of perfect vocal performances on mobile devices establishes an intimidating standard, making ordinary vocal errors in amateur choirs feel intensely exposed and socially disheartening.

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals thumbnail

Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals

Economist Podcasts·10 days ago