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Same enemy, different methods. The US and Iran trade accusations. Next-generation F-35 fighter jets arrive in the Middle East. ISIS fighters flee from the Russian military. Where do former extremists go? Or is there no such thing as a «former» extremist?

«Nobody wanted war, yet it was inevitable.” Sergey Lavrov draws alarming historical parallels. Why did the US lose interest in dialogue? And what risks does this create for the world? What is the global hegemon capable of as it is losing its power?

In this episode of The Great Game: a black hole is now visible, and not only in space but in global politics as well. Julian Assange gets arrested in London. The Unites States wants him extradited. The Sudanese president is behind bars. His family and associates are being hunted down.

The Greater Middle East: Moscow is putting back together what Washington has destroyed. Why is the US losing its influence in the region? Why is it that ultimatums no longer work? Why are even the closest allies turning away from the United States? And whom are they going to turn to? Why is it that nations no longer fear the United States? Who will define the rules in the East? Are we going to see

Signs of a thaw in PACE, as the Ukrainian delegation’s anti-Russian rhetoric draws a four-letter response from Germany. The Secretary General of the Council of Europe wants Russia’s voting rights restored.

Stakes are getting higher in the Ukrainian election as the debates draw near. Zelensky wants talks with Putin; the Kremlin doesn’t mind but the candidate has to win first. How massive is electoral fraud? And will it help Poroshenko to win in the run-off?

The US ambassador to NATO has announced a new strategy in the Black Sea: more ships, more sanctions and guarantees of free passage into the Sea of Azov for Ukrainian ship. How are they going to deliver on their guarantees if it means direct military engagement with Russia?

The outcome of the Ukrainian presidential election will be decided at a stadium. Zelensky vs. Poroshenko: a soccer game or a boxing match? What will the drugs test reveal? How do the candidates play the military card?

As NATO turns 70, what does it face — growing pains or the prospect of retirement? The aging alliance is pondering the reason for its existence. Key members are fighting each other, resorting to blackmail, extortion and threats.

Whom did Ukrainians vote for: Vladimir Zelensky or his character Vasily Goloborodko? The comedian does surprisingly well, getting 30 percent of the vote. Poroshenko got only half of that. Will he manage to close the gap?

With just a couple of days left before the presidential election, the Ukrainian authorities launch a criminal probe into Poroshenko’s opponents. We talk directly to the incumbent president’s rival about harassment and his chances of winning the vote. Since polls are unreliable, how well are the candidates doing in reality?