{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/6a22b52017f169d6433fb960/6a22b579e25fe33c7caa0e24?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"142. An exercise in fake democracy","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/6a22b52017f169d6433fb960/30baed1ccd7e85678cd0958443e5f44d.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>Today Russians go to the polls to select a president for the next six years, with only one result to come - the re-election of President Vladimir Putin for a record fifth term in office.  </p><p>To help Saul and Patrick better understand the reality of the Presidential elections in Russia they speak to veteran journalist and Russia expert Alan Philps.</p><p>They also assess the controversial statements made by Pope Francis on the ongoing war in Ukraine and look at the latest news regarding Ukraine getting it's much needed F-16's</p><p>If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.com</p><p>Producer: James Hodgson</p><p>X (Twitter): @PodBattleground</p><p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href=\"https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices\">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a></p>","author_name":"Goalhanger"}