大象传媒

Stories from Ukraine, Afghanistan, the USA and Rwanda.

Russia is focusing its military might on Ukraine's east where some of the locals have been heavily influenced by President Putin鈥檚 propaganda machine. Allegiances have become blurred, with local informants tipping off Russian soldiers on the positions of Ukrainian forces, says Orla Guerin.

People in Afghanistan鈥檚 Paktika province are trying to rebuild lives from the rubble of the recent earthquake. It鈥檚 now estimated more than 1,000 people were killed and several villages were destroyed. Secunder Kermani met with some of the survivors who showed both resilience and generosity.

Access to abortion will be a critical issue in the US mid-term elections in November, with battlelines drawn in Pennsylvania and many other states between Republican and Democratic candidates who either want to protect the right to abortion or want an outright ban. Christine Spolar is a Pennsylvania native and returned home as the US Supreme Court鈥檚 decision was announced.

Rwanda has been hosting a gathering of Commonwealth leaders, amid controversy over its immigration deal with the UK. President Paul Kagame was eager to present a polished image to the international community, whilst rebutting criticisms of his own human rights record, says Anne Soy.

Before the war, cities like Kyiv and Odessa were known for their bustling cafes and a lively arts scene. But just as they try to spring back to life, Russia fires another deadly missile, reminding the country and its people of the perils of dropping their guard. Nick Beake was in Kremenchuk and Kyiv this week.

Presenter: Kate Adie
Producer: Serena Tarling
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
Production Coordinators: Gemma Ashman