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Kate Adie presents stories from the US, Russia, Afghanistan, Germany and Bhutan

It’s been a week of high drama in Manhattan as Donald Trump’s former ally and fixer, Michael Cohen testified in the former President’s criminal trial. Kayla Epstein was watching events unfold in the courtroom and reflects on what it might mean for Donald Trump’s re-election chances.

A new front opened up in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine this week in the country’s north-east. Ukraine is still suffering from a lack of ammunition and personnel, even as the US aid begins to filter through to the frontline. Vitaliy Shevchenko relays how Russian troops are being supplemented by fighters from Cuba.

It’s been nearly three years since the Taliban took back control of Afghanistan in a rapid offensive. Since then, the freedoms that women had come to know have been curtailed. John Kampfner has met one woman who embarked on a perilous journey to Canada

The island of Fehmarn, off Germany’s north-east coast is something of an oasis for holidaymakers. But it’s also soon to be the entrance to the world’s longest underwater rail and road tunnel. Rail travel times from Hamburg in Germany to Copenhagen in Demark will reportedly be cut from around five hours to less than three. But for those living on the island – it’s changing a long-cherished way of life, and many are concerned about the threats to the region’s eco-system. Lesley Curwen has been speaking to some of the locals.

At soaring altitudes, foragers in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan seek out a special parasitic fungus, highly prized for its therapeutic qualities. Sara Wheeler’s been hearing about the special status afforded to those who harvest the delicacy.

Note: The programme script incorrectly stated that the the Denmark-Germany tunnel will connect Germany and Denmark for the first time.

Editor: Bridget Harney
Series Producer: Serena Tarling
Production Coordinator: Janet Staples