A pivotal moment in Ukraine war

Ukraine is bracing itself for what could be the decisive battle in this brutal war: the battle for Kherson. Russia’s defense minister has ordered the withdrawal of its troops from parts of the region, as Ukrainian forces advance towards the city. It seems to be a major setback for Putin’s war aims, but Ukrainian officials are expressing skepticism and caution – especially as the Kremlin’s top security adviser visits Iran, where western officials say he’s seeking more advanced weapons. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to ensure international support for his country’s defense continues, particularly from the US in the wake of the midterms. At this pivotal moment, Christiane sat down with the president and his wife, First Lady Olena Zelenska, for a global exclusive.

Also on today's show: Equipping female soldiers in Ukraine; America at the climate summit; sports and cultural journalist Jemele Hill's new memoir. To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices