Deutsche Welle (DW), Germany’s international broadcaster, has launched its first Ukrainian-language vodcast from Brussels, targeting Ukrainian audiences with analysis of EU and NATO policies. Titled Brussels Calling, the weekly program will feature interviews with policymakers, experts, and journalists covering Ukraine’s EU accession talks, military aid, and geopolitical developments.
The vodcast marks DW’s latest expansion of Ukrainian-language content since Russia’s 2022 invasion. ‘This fills a critical gap in explaining complex EU processes to Ukrainian viewers,’ said a DW spokesperson who requested anonymity as they weren’t authorized to speak publicly. Analysts note the timing coincides with Ukraine’s intensified lobbying for F-16 fighter jets and EU membership negotiations.
Brussels-based think tank sources describe the vodcast as part of a broader Western ‘information diplomacy’ strategy. Similar initiatives include the BBC’s increased Ukrainian broadcasts and France 24’s new Eastern Europe bureau. However, some Ukrainian media advocates argue local independent outlets should receive more funding instead.
DW’s move comes as Russian state media faces growing EU restrictions. The vodcast will be available on YouTube and DW’s Ukrainian service website, bypassing traditional broadcast channels that face jamming in occupied territories.