Talk Eastern Europe

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• Russia Escalates and Poland-Ukraine Tensions Rise | Weekly News Roundup 05.06.2026 21นาที

  Russia has launched another massive wave of attacks againstUkraine, raising concerns about Kyiv's air defence capabilities and the future trajectory of the war. Meanwhile, reports of a Russian drone striking a residential building in Romania have intensified fears that the conflict is increasingly spilling into NATO territory.In this week's Talk Eastern Europe News Roundup, Adam and Nina also discuss warnings that Belarus could be drawn deeper into Russia's war, growing pressure on Alyaksandr Lukashenka, and the latest diplomatic dispute between Poland and Ukraine over President Volodymyr Zelenskyy'sdecision to honour a military unit with the title "Heroes of theUPA".Plus: Christian Schmidt's departure from Bosnia and Herzegovina, concerns about US pressure in the Western Balkans, and a preview of our latest Deep Dive on Czech politics under Andrej Babiš.Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from New Eastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space.  ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly: - Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuringdeep dives with leading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updates and commentary on the latest developmentsAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all major platforms.Read the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-formanalysis. Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, earlyaccess, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSubscribe to the Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Chaos in Czechia: Babiš's First 100 Days | Pavel Havlíček 02.06.2026 27นาที

  What has changed in Czechia since Andrej Babiš returned topower? More than 100 days into the new government, concerns are growing over democratic backsliding, attacks on public media, proposed foreign agent legislation and a sharp shift in support for Ukraine.In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe, Alexandra Karppi and Nina Pániková speak with Pavel Havlíček, Research Fellow at the Association for International Affairs (AMO) in Prague, about the state of Czech politics, tensions between Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and President Petr Pavel, and whether Czechia is following a path similar to neighbouring Slovakia.🎧 Topics discussed:The first 100 days of the Babiš governmentDemocratic backsliding and proposed foreign agent legislationAttacks on public media and civil societyThe future of Czech support for UkraineBabiš's conflict of interest controversyGrowing tensions between the prime minister and presidentMunicipal and Senate elections later this yearTalk Eastern Europe is the podcast from New Eastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis andexpert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space. ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives with leading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updates and commentary on the latest developments Read the New Eastern EuropeMagazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/ Support on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSubscribe to the Brief Eastern EuropeNewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Mondaywith news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Ukraine Under Massive Attack as EU Enlargement Faces Questions | Weekly News Roundup 29.05.2026 17นาที

  Russia launched one of its largest attacks on Ukraine in recent months, including the reported use of the nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile. Meanwhile, questions are growing about the future of EU enlargement after reports of a possible "associate membership" model for Ukraine. Alexandra Karppi and Adam Reichardt break down the latestdevelopments from across Eastern Europe, including political changes in Slovenia and a dramatic mayoral recall vote in Kraków.In the extended version – for Patrons only - Adam andAlexandra discuss Serbian President Aleksandra Vučić’s visit to China and Serbian-China relations. -> Watch the extended version here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/ukraine-under-as-159536786👍 Like, subscribe and leave a comment with your thoughts! Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from New Eastern Europemagazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space.ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives withleading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updatesand commentary on the latest developmentsAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all majorplatforms.Read the New Eastern Europe Magazine Our bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis.https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support TEE on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access,behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSubscribe to Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates,expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Kazakhstan’s Quiet Power Shift | Paolo Sorbello 26.05.2026 22นาที

  Is Kazakhstan entering a new political era or consolidating authoritarian rule under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev?In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe’s Deep Dive, Alexandra Karppi speaks with journalist and researcher Paolo Sorbello about Kazakhstan’s controversial constitutional referendum and what it could mean for the country’s future.The discussion explores the restructuring of parliament, the return of the vice presidency, concerns over centralization of power, restrictions on civil society and media, and the broader geopolitical balancing act between Russia, China, Europe and the United States.Paolo Sorbello is the English-language editor at Vlast.kz and has covered Central Asia for nearly two decades. ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives withleading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updatesand commentary on the latest developmentsRead the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. →Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access,behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeBrief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates,expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFree ArticlesRead our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.euFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Russia Escalates, Baltic Alerts & Hungary’s New PM | Weekly News Roundup 22.05.2026 25นาที

  This week on Talk Eastern Europe, Adam and Nina discuss growing fears of escalation as drones cross into NATO territory, Lithuania issues emergency shelter alerts, and Russia deepens ties with China during Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing. They also unpack the political implications of Hungary’s new Prime Minister Péter Magyar, the possible revival of the Visegrad Group, and Russia’s latest move inTransnistria.For our patrons, Adam and Nina look closer at the latest developments in Transnistria and interpret what it might mean for the near future. Want to listen to the full version of this episode? Become apatron: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives with leading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updates and commentary on the latest developmentsRead the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis.→ Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time.→ Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSign up for the Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. →Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Warsaw: The City Rebuilt from Ruins | Owen Hatherley 19.05.2026 36นาที

  Why does Warsaw look so different from every other European capital? In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe, Nina Panikova speaks with British writer and journalist Owen Hatherley about the dramatic history that shaped Poland’s capital – from wartime destruction and communist-era rebuilding to modern skyscrapers and experimental urban planning.They discuss Warsaw’s modernist housing estates, socialistrealist architecture, the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, and why the city remains one of Europe’s most misunderstood capitals. Is Warsaw chaotic, visionary, unfinished – or all three at once?If you’re interested in architecture, urban history, Central Europe, communism, post-socialist transformation, or the future of European cities, this episode is for you.Places in Warsaw (and beyond) mentioned in the interview:Żoliborz, one of the northern districts of Warsaw. Narkomfin building,  a block of 25 flats known for its constructivist architecture in Moscow, Russia.Praga, a district of Warsaw, Poland. It is on the east bank of the river VistulaConstitution Square, a monumental urban square in Warsaw built in the 1950s as a flagship project of socialist realism.Muranów, a special area in Warsaw’s history located adjacent to the Wola and Śródmieście districts. Most of it was incorporated into the Warsaw Ghetto during the Second World War.Palace of Culture and Science, a notable high-rise building in central Warsaw, Poland. With a total height of 237 meters, it is the second-tallest building in both Warsaw and PolandNowy Świat (New World Street), one of Warsaw’s most famous and vibrant historic streets.New Belgrade (Novi Beograd) is the largest and most modern district of Belgrade, SerbiaCentral Department Store, ‘Smyk’, a modernist building in Warsaw.Koło Housing Estate of the architects Szymon and Helena Syrkus.Sady Żoliborskie, a celebrated modernist housing estate and sub-district in northern Warsaw.Palace of the Soviets, was a project to construct a politicalconvention centre in Moscow on the site of the demolished Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. It was never built. The Palace of Parliament ( previously People's House ), the seat of the Romanian parliament and the heaviest building in the world. Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from NewEastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space. ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts andall major platforms.JOIN THE COMMUNITYNew Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-formanalysis. → Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/ Support on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeBrief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with newsupdates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe FOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/Twitter/X: https://x.com/NewEastEurope
• Putin’s Parade, Bosnia Uncertainty, & Surprise Referenda | Weekly News Roundup 15.05.2026 24นาที

  This week on Talk Eastern Europe, Adam, Nina and Alexandra discuss major developments across the region: Christian Schmidt’s decision to step down as High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia’s scaled-down Victory Day parade, renewed talk of negotiations with Moscow, referendum politics in Slovakia and Poland, and possible snap elections in Serbia.For the extended version of the news roundup (for patrons only), Adam dives deeper in the scandal surrounding Poland’s ex-minister of justice, Zbigniew Ziobro, providing context and details on the case of his escape to the United States.Support us on Patreon!Join our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time.→ Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeGet more insight and analysis- Read the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-formanalysis: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Sign up for the Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe FOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• The Baltic Divide? Russian Speakers after Ukraine | Ieva Birka 12.05.2026 23นาที

  How has Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine reshaped theidentity and political outlook of Russian-speaking communities in the Baltic states?In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe, Alexandra Karppi speaks with Ieva Birka from the University of Latvia in Riga about new research on Russian speakers in Latvia and Estonia, the growing security concerns facing the region, and the challenges of social cohesion in an era of hybrid threats and geopolitical tension.Support us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time.→ Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeCheck out the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. → Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Free ArticlesRead our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.eu Sign up for the Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe FOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/Twitter/X: https://x.com/NewEastEurope
• Romania’s Government Falls, Armenia Turns West & Kosovo Heads to Elections | Weekly News Roundup 08.05.2026 23นาที

  This week, Alexandra and Nina unpack the latest political upheaval across Central and Eastern Europe from Romania’s government collapse and Kosovo’s latest election drama to Armenia’s growing European ambitions and what it all means for the region’s future.Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from New Eastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space. We publish two episodes per week:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives withleading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updatesand commentary on the latest developmentsAvailable on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and all majorplatforms. Help us reach our goal of 75 Patrons! Support us on Patreon for bonus content, extended news roundups, and early access: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeTopics covered: Romania, Armenia, Slovakia, Ukraine,Kosovo, Russia, Western Balkans, EU enlargement, rule of law, media freedom, Central and Eastern Europe.Check out the New Eastern Europe products: New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. Starting at 35 EUR per year! → Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeBrief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFree ArticlesRead our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.euFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/Twitter/X: https://x.com/NewEastEurope
• Russia’s Internet Crackdowns, War Economy and Victory Day | Mark Galeotti 05.05.2026 39นาที

  In this Talk Eastern Europe Deep Dive, Adam Reichardt and Nina Panikova speak with renowned Russia analyst Mark Galeotti about what is happening inside Russia today and what it means for Ukraine, Europe, and the wider global order.The conversation explores the Kremlin’s tightening control over the internet, disruptions to platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp, and the political struggle behind Russia’s so-called “sovereign internet.” Galeotti explains how these measures are not only about security, but also about power inside the Russian system — and why they may be alienating new parts of Russian society.The discussion also looks at the state of the Russian economy, the impact of Western sanctions, Russia’s evolving relationships with Iran and North Korea, and how Vladimir Putin is trying to position Russia in an increasingly fragmented world. Galeotti also reflects on Donald Trump, Europe’s internal divisions, Hungary after Viktor Orbán, and the risks posed by future elections in France and elsewhere.Finally, the episode turns to Russia’s May 9th Victory Day narrative and what it reveals about Putin’s weakened social contract with Russian citizens.Topics covered in this episode:00:00 Introduction03:00 Russia’s internet restrictions and “sovereign internet”08:45 Public discontent and protest potential inside Russia16:15 Is the Russian economy really faltering?20:00 Western sanctions and their real impact22:30 Russia, Iran, North Korea and the global order27:00 Trump, Putin and the future of US-Russia relations29:00 Hungary, Europe and Russia’s influence in the EU34:30 Victory Day, propaganda and Putin’s wartime narrativeGuest:Mark Galeotti is a historian, Russia analyst, director of Mayak Intelligence, honorary professor at UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies, and host of In Moscow’s Shadows.—Talk Eastern Europe is the podcast from the New Eastern Europe magazine - your trusted source for in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, and the post-Soviet space.ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives with leading analysts, journalists, and scholars Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updates and commentary on the latest developmentsAvailable on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Support on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeNew Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis.→ Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox.→ Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe FOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/
• Belarus Prisoner Swap, Romania Political Crisis & Moldova Oligarch Jailed | Weekly News Roundup 01.05.2026 26นาที

  This week’s Talk Eastern Europe new roundup covers a major Belarus prisoner exchange, growing political instability in Romania, and a landmark corruption verdict in Moldova – plus developments in Bulgaria and rising tensions in Kosovo.Adam Reichardt and Alexandra Karppi break down the biggest stories shaping the region and explain why they matter.In this episode:– Belarus releases journalist Andrzej Poczobut in ahigh-profile prisoner swap– What the deal signals for Belarus and its relations withthe West– Romania heads toward a possible political crisis asmainstream parties cooperate with the far right– The rise of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR)– Vladimir Plahotniuc sentenced in Moldova’s “theft of thecentury” case– Post-election fallout and judicial changes in Bulgaria– A spy scandal and new convictions linked to tensionsbetween Kosovo and SerbiaSupport us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time.→ Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope Check out the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis.→ Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/ Free ArticlesRead our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.eu Sign up for the Brief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates, expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/Twitter/X: https://x.com/NewEastEurope
• Belarus Resistance Through Music | Sasha from Volny Chor 28.04.2026 26นาที

  How did a choir become one of the symbols of the 2020 Belarus protests? In this Talk Eastern Europe Deep Dive interview, Nina Panikova speaks with Sasha from Volny Chor, the Belarusian choir that emerged after the stolen election and mass demonstrations against Alyaksandr Lukashenka.Volny Chor became famous for surprise public performances of Belarusian freedom songs in Minsk, singing in shopping centers, courtyards, and public squares while avoiding arrest. Since then, members have faced repression, imprisonment, and exile – yet they continue to perform across Europe to preserve the Belarusian identity, language, and culture.This episode explores protest music, authoritarian repression in Belarus, the meaning of Belarusian national symbols, and how culture can become resistance.Some examples of their music:Volny Chor, Mahutny Boža (Almighty God): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZKpd900L-EVolny Chor, Pahonia (Coat of arms of Belarus):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c49ZmYZhGaASupport our podcast – join us on patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSubscribe for more interviews on Eastern Europe, democracy,Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, and regional politics.
• Bulgarian Politics, Fico’s Moscow Trip & Slovenia’s Turmoil | News Roundup 24.04.2026 25นาที

  Help us reach our goal of 75 patrons – sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeThis week on Talk Eastern Europe, we look at major politicaldevelopments across the region. Bulgaria’s latest snap election may mark the end of years of instability, but what does Rumen Radev’s victory mean for domestic reform, relations with the EU, and support for Ukraine?We also discuss French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Poland, where strategic cooperation was in focus but internal political tensions were impossible to ignore. In Slovakia, Robert Fico faces criticism over plans to limit voting from abroad while continuing his controversial push to attend Moscow’s May 9th celebrations.Finally, we turn to Slovenia, where failed coalition talks could pave the way for Janez Janša’s return, and to Brussels, where the EU has moved forward with major new financial support for Ukraine.Read more on Slovenia: https://neweasterneurope.eu/2026/04/14/the-future-of-slovenias-new-government-coalition-remains/Check out the latest issue of New Eastern Europe:https://neweasterneurope.eu/2026/04/21/issue-3-2026-when-human-rights-end/Join us for our weekly roundup of the key stories shaping Central and Eastern Europe.
• Hungary After Orbán: What Magyar’s Victory Means for Europe | Zsuzsanna Vegh 21.04.2026 31นาที

  Hungary has entered a new political era. After 16 years ofViktor Orbán’s rule, Péter Magyar and the TISZA party have secured a sweeping election victory, reportedly with a two-thirds majority. What happens next?In this Deep Dive episode of Talk Eastern Europe, host Alexandra Karppi speaks with Zsuzsanna Vegh, an expert on Central Europe and democratic resilience from the German Marshall Fund. They discuss the dramatic election result and what it could mean for Hungary, the European Union, and the wider region. In the interview, Zsuzsanna discusses:How Péter Magyar could begin dismantling Orbán’s politicalsystemAnti-corruption reforms, media changes, and constitutionaloverhaulFrozen EU funds and whether Hungary’s economy couldrebound quicklyWhat this means for Viktor Orbán and the future of FideszThe impact on Robert Fico, Aleksandar Vučić, and illiberalalliances in Central EuropeHungary’s future relationship with European Union, NATO,Ukraine, and the Western BalkansRussian influence, intelligence scandals, and regionalsecurity risksIs this the end of the Orbán era or just the beginning of anew political struggle? Subscribe to Talk Eastern Europe for more expert analysis onCentral, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.Support our podcast – become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope
• Hungary Fallout, Moldova Turns West, Russia Crackdown | Weekly News Roundup 17.04.2026 13นาที

  Help us reach our goal of 75 Patrons. Join us here: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeThis week on Talk Eastern Europe, Alexandra and Nina unpack the regional ripple effects following Hungary’s elections and what they could mean for politics across Central and Eastern Europe.They also discuss a high-profile visit by Donald Trump Jr. in the Balkans as well as the latest from Moldova, including the country taking another step away from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Finally, the two look at the latest pressure on Memorial in Russia. Plus, protests in Bratislava raise fresh questions about democratic rules ahead of future elections.Check out our weekly newsletter: www.briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe
• Music, Freedom & Politics - Inside Slovakia’s Pohoda Festival | Michal Kaščák 15.04.2026 30นาที

  Support our work! Join our patron community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeWhat is the story behind Slovakia’s most famous musicfestival? In this episode, Nina speaks with Michal Kaščák, founder of Pohoda Festival, about 30 years of music, freedom, and politics in Slovakia.The conversation explores how Pohoda began in the 1990s during the Mečiar era, why the festival became a symbol of democracy and free expression, and how it grew into one of Europe’s most respected music and arts festivals. The two also discuss culture in today’s Slovakia, political pressure, civil society, and why festivals like Pohoda matter far beyond music.In the bonus section, for our patrons only - Michal takes us back to the 1980s as frontman of Bez ladu a skladu, sharing what it was like to play underground music under communism. From censorship and banned concerts to the fall of the regime in 1989, this is a powerful story about music, resistance, and freedom—and how those experiences shaped the creation of Pohoda Festival. Sign up to our patreon page here: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeAs Pohoda celebrates its 30th edition, this is a conversation about art, community, and the fight to keep culture free.Check out the Pohoda Festival website: https://www.pohodafestival.sk/en
• Viktor Orbán Defeated After 16 Years | TEE Quick Take 14.04.2026 17นาที

  Hungarian voters have delivered a political earthquake. After 16 years in power, Viktor Orbán has been defeated, marking a historic turning point not just for Hungary, but for all of Central and Eastern Europe.In this special quick take episode of Talk Eastern Europe, we break down the key takeaways from the election results, including how Péter Magyar secured a constitutional majority and why voters turned out in record numbers. We also explore what this result reveals about the state of democracy in Hungary, how everyday issues like the economy and corruption shaped the vote, and why this election may become a case study for defeating entrenched power.Beyond Hungary, we look at the broader geopolitical implications, from relations with the European Union and NATO to future support for Ukraine and the shifting dynamics within Central Europe. With a peaceful concession already underway, the big question now is what comes next - forHungary, for Europe, and for Orbán himself.Is this a turning point for democracy in Europe, or just the beginning of a new political struggle? Tune in for our quick, sharp reaction and stay with us for a deeper analysis coming soon.And Subscribe for more insights on Eastern Europeanpolitics, democracy, and geopolitics.If you like our content please support us by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope
• Orbán’s Big Test and Bulgaria’s Warning | Weekly News Roundup 10.04.2026 27นาที

  Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSign up for the Brief Eastern Europe Weekly Newsletter! https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeIn this week’s Talk Eastern Europe news roundup, Adam Reichardt, Alexandra Karppi and Nina Panikova break down the latest stories shaping Central and Eastern Europe.We discuss the rising stakes ahead of Bulgaria’s snap parliamentary elections, including concerns over Russian interference, disinformation, and the political role of Rumen Radev. The conversation then turns to Hungary, where the team dissects the dramatic final stretch before the election, from the alleged pipeline sabotage plot and Viktor Orbán’s campaign tactics to high-profile backing from theUnited States, including J.D. Vance’s visit.The episode also highlights this week’s deep-dive interviewon Poland, covering polarization, security, relations with the US and EU, and the growing influence of the far right. For the Deep Dive on Poland – watch it here: https://youtu.be/1mDT4EJep2k?si=Xg8Qlt__fOJMiUntTo close, the hosts reflect on a striking contrast in theregion: violent developments in Serbia alongside football euphoria in Bosnia and Herzegovina after a major World Cup qualifier upset.Subscribe to Talk Eastern Europe and join the conversation in the comments.Check out our previous episode on Romania and foreigninterference: https://talkeasterneurope.eu/episodes/episode-208-foreign-interference-in-europe-and-the-case-of-romaniaRead even more on Orban’s Ukraine narrative: https://neweasterneurope.eu/2026/04/07/orbans-ukraine-narrative/
• Poland Between Politics and Security | Mateusz Mazzini 07.04.2026 42นาที

  Help us grow! Support us: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope More than halfway through Donald Tusk’s term, Poland is entering a crucial political moment. The governing coalition is under pressure to deliver on its promises while navigating institutional gridlock, deep political polarization, and a rapidly changing international security environment.In this week’s Talk Eastern Europe interview, Adam Reichardt speaks with journalist, writer, and sociologist Mateusz Mazzini about where Polish politics stand today and what may come next.They discuss the Tusk government’s record so far, why security and foreign policy now dominate domestic politics, President Karol Nawrocki’s veto of the EU SAFE defence financing mechanism, Poland’s evolving relationship with the United States under Donald Trump, and the rise of the right and far right ahead of the 2027 parliamentary elections. This is a wide-ranging conversation on power, sovereignty, defence, and the political choices that may shape Poland’s future.Guest: Mateusz Mazzini is a Polish journalist, writer, and sociologist. He writes for Gazeta Wyborcza and Polityka, and has published in The Washington Post, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, and New Eastern Europe.
• US Tensions, NATO Risks & Serbia Elections | Weekly news roundup 03.04.2026 25นาที

  In this week’s Talk Eastern Europe news roundup, Adam Reichardt, Alexandra Karppi, and Nina Panikova break down the latest developments across the region.We start with Ukraine, where growing tensions with the United States over potential peace conditions raise serious questions about future security guarantees and military support. With the war in the Middle East reshaping global priorities, the episode explores how shifting geopolitics may be weakening Ukraine’s position while strengthening Russia’s hand.The discussion then turns to wider regional security concerns, including whether NATO could face a real test in the Baltics and how countries like Poland are preparing for a potential escalation. We also look at Moldova’s newly declared energy state of emergency following Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, highlighting how the war continues to impact the broader region.Finally, we head to the Balkans to unpack local elections inSerbia, where reports of irregularities and political pressure raise fresh concerns about democratic standards under Aleksandar Vučić.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and check outour full episodes and bonus content.