Ukraine at War - Donnacha Ó Beacháin on Russia, Drones & Aughinish ~ Perspectives with Neilo

What is life really like in Ukraine after more than four years of Russia’s full-scale invasion? And how is the war changing on the ground?

In this episode of Perspectives with Neilo, Neil O’Sullivan speaks with Professor Donnacha Ó Beacháin, (X: @DonnachaDCU) Professor of Politics at Dublin City University and author of Unfinished Empire: Russian Imperialism in Ukraine and the Near Abroad, following his recent visit to Ukraine.

Donnacha shares his observations of life in Ukraine and the mood among ordinary Ukrainians as the war continues. The discussion includes Ukraine’s increasingly important drone warfare, Russia’s ability to sustain its war effort, and the challenges facing Ukraine as the conflict enters another year.

The conversation also turns to an issue much closer to home: Ireland’s Aughinish Alumina refinery and its links to Russia.

How is the Aughinish controversy being perceived in Ukraine? What does it say about Ireland’s relationship with Russia and its commitment to supporting Ukraine? And what can Ireland and the European Union learn from how other countries have dealt with Russian demand for alumina?

We also explore the significance of China’s support for Russia, the different elements of that support and much more.

A wide-ranging conversation about Ukraine, Russia, Ireland, economic pressure, sanctions, drones and the geopolitics of the war — with a particular focus on the view from Ukraine itself.

Listen to Perspectives with Neilo for conversations that go beyond the headlines to examine how foreign influence, economic pressure and political fear shape modern democracies.

This episode was recorded on the sidelines of the 2026 MacGill Summer School in Glenties, Co. Donegal.

Date of Recording: July 24th, 2026.