Episode 28

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Published on:

4th Aug 2026

How Ukraine Plans to Win the War & Rebuild the Nation | Oleksandra Azarkhina

How does a country rebuild while fighting for its survival?

In this episode of the Oxford Policy Pod, MPP student Marc Naro interviews Oleksandra Azarkhina, International Lead of the Small Air Defence Command of the Ukrainian Air Force, former Deputy Minister for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine.

Drawing on her experience at the highest levels of government throughout Russia's full-scale invasion, Oleksandra discusses Ukraine's reconstruction strategy, the creation of a groundbreaking digital reconstruction platform to combat corruption, the coordination of international military and humanitarian assistance, and the development of Ukraine's defence industry. She also reflects on the growing importance of international cooperation in air defence, the protection of critical infrastructure, and the lessons Ukraine's wartime experience holds for Europe and its allies.

From digital governance and defence innovation to public service in times of war, this conversation offers a unique insider's perspective on how Ukraine is planning not only to defend itself today, but to rebuild for the future.

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About the Podcast

Oxford Policy Pod
A policy podcast from students at the Blavatnik School of Government
A bi-weekly policy podcast based out of the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford. The Oxford Policy Pod explores pressing policy issues around the globe and is produced by students reading for a Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government.

The podcast explores contemporary policy challenges that policymakers face all over the world, and taps into the rich diversity of policy experience and insights of the student body and faculty.

The podcast is supported by the staff of the Blavatnik School of Government.

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