On the eve of the Trump–Putin summit, Episode 3 of Eyes on Democracy confronts the dangers of appeasement, the fight for press freedom, and Ukraine’s frontline struggle for truth.
Episode 3 of the Eyes on Democracy podcast brings an urgent and timely discussion about journalism, democracy, and the cost of defending freedom in times of war. Hosted by Jabir Deralla, head of CIVIL – Center for Freedom, internationally awarded journalist, and hybrid warfare analyst, together with Roger Casale, former UK MP and founder of New Europeans, this episode features a compelling conversation with Lina Kushch, First Secretary of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine.
The episode begins against the backdrop of a highly publicized Trump–Putin summit—a moment that raises fears of dangerous compromises at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty and Europe’s peace. Drawing on Deralla’s recent article Innocent Blood for a Handshake, the hosts explore why peace and freedom must never be traded for photo opportunities.
From there, the discussion turns to the state of press freedom across Europe, the promises and limitations of the European Media Freedom Act, and the escalating threats facing journalists—from legal harassment and surveillance to physical violence.
Lina Kushch offers first-hand insights into reporting under constant bombardment, the resilience of Ukrainian media, and the role of independent journalism as a shield against propaganda and disinformation.
The conversation closes with a call to action—urging Europe and the global “Coalition of the Willing” to stand firm with Ukraine, strengthen democratic institutions, and protect the free press as a pillar of peace and justice.
You can watch the full episode on CIVIL’s YouTube channel, in the Eyes on Democracy playlist.
CIVIL MEDIA News Desk
