Ukraine This Week

Why Russia never accepted Ukraine's independence | Ukraine This Week

Why has Russia never accepted Ukraine’s independence? In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines 35 years of Ukrainian independence and the centuries of Russian attempts to control, suppress, and ultimately deny Ukraine’s sovereignty. From the collapse of the Soviet Union and Ukraine’s 1991 independence referendum to the Orange Revolution, EuroMaidan Revolution, and Russia’s full-scale invasion, the episode explores how Ukrainian resistance has rejected Moscow’s vision of a shared Russian-Ukrainian identity. Featuring historian Serhii Plokhy and Oleksandr Donii, a participant of Ukraine’s 1991 independence movement, Anna examines why Russia continues to reject Ukraine’s right to exist as a sovereign state — and why Ukrainians continue to fight for it. 00:00 Intro 00:56 Ukraine declares independence 04:03 A witness to 1991 07:35 Russia challenges Ukraine's sovereignty 09:34 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 09:48 Centuries of Russian oppression 13:59 Ukraine in Russian imperial mythology 17:58 1991 to now 22:05 Member Q&A 23:39 Outro Watch more from historians on Russia, Ukraine, and the past: https://youtu.be/IsmHQe1P0Zc https://youtu.be/-n9OTrkfoBg https://youtu.be/Q-gsbgeRLq4 Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_234&utm_medium=234 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced reporting from Ukraine to the world. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. #Ukraine #Russia #History #UkrainianHistory #UkraineWar #KyivIndependent

How Russia turns Ukrainian strikes into propaganda | Ukraine This Week

Is Ukraine deliberately targeting civilians inside Russia? In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines what we actually know about civilian deaths linked to Ukrainian strikes, how international humanitarian law distinguishes military targets from civilian targets, and why many of the most high-profile incidents remain difficult to verify. Featuring insights from Kyiv Independent junior investigative reporter Linda Hourani and war correspondent Janine di Giovanni, Anna explores how the Kremlin uses Ukrainian attacks that inflict civilian casualties to shape public opinion, justify escalation, and reinforce its long-standing narrative of Ukrainian "terrorism." The episode also examines what verified evidence shows, why civilian casualties remain one of war's most difficult realities, and how Russia's information strategy fits into its broader war against Ukraine. 00:00 Intro 01:10 Civilian casualties explained 06:12 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 06:45 Russia's deadliest claims 09:54 Investigating Starobilsk 15:35 Russia's “retaliation” 18:57 Putin's playbook 23:30 How propaganda shapes war 25:31 Member Q&A 28:28 Outro Read more about the Kyiv Independent's investigative story about Ukraine’s attack on Starobilsk: https://kyivindependent.com/what-we-know-about-starobilsk-strike-russia-turned-into-propaganda-flashpoint/ Watch more from the Kyiv Independent on Russia’s information warfare strategy: https://youtu.be/pITde5slL0A https://youtu.be/EGdSN05s0ow Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_233&utm_medium=233 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced reporting from Ukraine to the world. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. #UkraineThisWeek #RussiaUkraineWar #RussianPropaganda #WarCrimes #UkrainianStrikes

Inside Ukraine's 40-day drone campaign to weaken Russia | Ukraine This Week

Did Ukraine's largest deep-strike campaign achieve its goal? In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the results of Ukraine's 40-day campaign of long-range drone strikes deep inside Russia – whether it shifted the balance in the war, weakened Russia's economy, or changed the Kremlin's political calculations. Featuring insights from Black Bird Group analyst Pasi Paroinen and the Kyiv Independent's politics reporter Tim Zadorozhnyy, Anna explores why Ukraine targeted refineries, factories, military airfields, and occupied Crimea, what these strikes reveal about the future of the war, and whether bringing the war to Russian territory can ultimately force Moscow to compromise. 00:00 Intro 00:59 Ukraine's deep strike strategy 06:48 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 07:31 Inside drone campaign 14:15 Did Russia get weaker? 20:19 Member Q&A 23:54 Outro Watch more from the Kyiv Independent on Ukraine's asymmetric warfare strategy:https://youtu.be/3cP5_zVny1shttps://youtu.be/qCC0GQUCsBchttps://youtu.be/WO7zFBR07j8 The Kyiv Independent is raising $68,000 to fund a full year of mental health support for our entire team. If you'd like to support this effort, you can contribute here: https://kyivindependent.com/crowdfunding/support-the-mental-health-of-the-kyiv-independents-team/?utm_source=yt-ukrainethisweek-crowdfunding&utm_medium=yt-ukrainethisweek-crowdfunding Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_232&utm_medium=232 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced reporting from Ukraine to the world. Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine. #UkraineWar #DroneWarfare #RussiaUkraineWar

How Russia recruits spies through social media | Ukraine This Week

How does Russia turn civilians into spies via social media? In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines Russia's covert recruitment networks and how the Kremlin systematically enlists ordinary people to carry out sabotage, espionage, and cyberattacks across Ukraine and Europe. From encrypted Telegram channels to teenage operatives, we uncover the tactics behind one of Europe's fastest-growing security threats. Anna reveals what makes these operations so effective, with insights from cybersecurity expert Kostiantyn Korsun and Russia analyst Keir Giles, and explains how Russia leverages social media, financial incentives, and ideological messaging to build a clandestine network of civilian operatives. Understand why European intelligence agencies are sounding the alarm, what these attacks reveal about Moscow's long-term hybrid warfare strategy, and why experts warn the threat is accelerating. 00:00 Intro 01:04 What is sabotage? 04:17 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 04:50 How Russia recruits online 09:24 What Russia targets 13:12 Fighting Russia's hybrid war 17:40 Member Q&A 19:18 Outro Read more about how Ukrainians use Telegram and the potential threats here: https://kyivindependent.com/is-ukraines-most-popular-messenger-app-a-russian-trojan-horse/ Watch more from the Kyiv Independent on Russia is building a state-controlled internet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaGT1BjaYY4 Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_231&utm_medium=231 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. #HybridWarfare #Cybersecurity #Telegram #UkraineThisWeek #UkraineWar

• Transcript

Could Nord Stream turn Germany against Ukraine?

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines Germany’s allegations that a Ukrainian-led team sabotaged the Nord Stream pipelines on Kyiv’s orders—claims that Ukraine continues to reject. The episode explains why Nord Stream, a German-Russian energy project, became one of Europe’s most controversial, what German prosecutors allege, what evidence is publicly available, and how the case could reshape Ukrainian-German relations. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro 01:12 Why Nord Stream mattered 02:03 Russia's response 03:58 Why the case is so complicated 08:51 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 09:29 Germany's main suspect 10:48 Ukraine rejects the allegations 13:12 Why this matters for Europe 15:43 Member Q&A 17:09 Outro

• Transcript

The first foreign victims of Russia’s war against Ukraine

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the legacy of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, 12 years after the passenger plane was shot down over eastern Ukraine with a Russian Buk missile, killing all 298 people on board. Drawing on testimony from journalist Evgeniy Maloletka and interviews with the Dutch ambassador to Ukraine, Alle Dorhout, and representatives of the MH17 memorial foundation Stichting Vliegramp MH17, the episode explores who shot down MH17, why the plane was flying over a war zone, how the international investigation held Russia responsible, and how the tragedy continues to shape aviation safety, international justice, and Russia’s war against Ukraine. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro02:00 Why MH17 flew over Ukraine10:32 Support independent journalism in Ukraine11:09 Who shot down MH17?14:39 The fight for justice17:16 Why MH17 still matters24:33 Member Q+A27:37 Outro

• Transcript

Will Ukraine cut off Crimea?

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines Ukraine’s escalating campaign to isolate Russian-occupied Crimea. Once promoted by the Kremlin as a symbol of Russia’s resurgence and a premier tourist destination, the peninsula now faces mounting pressure from Ukrainian drone strikes targeting military infrastructure, logistics, and supply routes. Thousands of Russians are reconsidering whether to live and vacation on the occupied peninsula. Is Ukraine’s strategy in Crimea working to weaken Russia’s grip on one of Vladimir Putin’s most prized territorial gains? Visit our merch store: https://store.kyivindependent.com/col... Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 01:11 - Why the focus on Crimea now?06:08 - Become a member!06:46 - Growing pressure07:52 - Interview with expert Mykola Bielieskov11:26 - New merch collection12:03 - Paradise lost?12:31 - Toll on tourism16:01 - Interview with former resident of Crimea19:59 - Ask the team Q&A24:35 - Outro

• Transcript

How adult content could help Ukraine's war effort

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kateryna Denisova examines one of Ukraine's most unusual legal contradictions. Numerous adult content creators pay taxes to the state while risking criminal prosecution for the very work that generates their income. As Ukraine searches for every possible source of wartime revenue, platforms like OnlyFans have become part of the country's digital economy. Yet creating adult content remains a criminal offense, leaving many creators caught between paying taxes and protecting themselves from prosecution. The episode explores why efforts to decriminalize pornography have stalled, what the current law means for ordinary Ukrainians, and whether parliament is finally ready to change it. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_227&utm_medium=227 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro00:52 Legal contradiction09:55 Criminalizing creators16:29 Support independent journalism in Ukraine16:54 Why creators are leaving20:38 Will the law change?22:09 Member Q&A24:59 Outro

• Transcript

Ukraine debates LGBTQ rights as thousands serve in the military

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kateryna Denisova examines how Ukraine's attitudes toward LGBTQ people have changed — and why the country's laws have struggled to keep pace. Public support for LGBTQ equality has grown dramatically since Russia's full-scale invasion, while thousands of LGBTQ Ukrainians now serve in the military. Yet many still lack basic legal protections, including the right to have their relationships legally recognized. The episode explores how Ukraine's democratic transformation, its path toward European Union membership, and the realities of wartime have reshaped the debate over LGBTQ rights. Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_226&utm_medium=226 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro00:49 Changing attitudes04:47 Kyiv Pride in 202611:52 Support independent journalism in Ukraine12:26 Why legal reforms stalled14:37 LGBTQ soldiers' rights15:34 Barriers to civil partnerships21:33 Political responsibility24:09 Member Q&A27:20 Outro

• Transcript

The Russian oligarch behind Ukraine peace talks

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the surprising return of Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich to the center of efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. Known internationally as the former owner of Chelsea FC, Abramovich has quietly played a role in negotiations since the earliest days of the full-scale invasion. The episode explores Abramovich’s relationship with the Kremlin, his history as a behind-the-scenes negotiator, and why Ukraine is now publicly signaling its willingness to work with him. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_225&utm_medium=225 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro 00:53 From Moscow to London 04:15 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 04:48 Abramovich behind the scenes 09:00 Holding the cards 11:33 What Abramovich can do 16:29 Member Q+A 20:36 Outro

Russia’s war has transformed North Korea

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur explores the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea nearly two years after the two countries signed a strategic partnership agreement. From North Korean troops fighting on Russia’s behalf to billions of dollars flowing into Pyongyang’s economy through arms sales and military support, the war has reshaped North Korea’s influence, economy, and military capabilities. But Kim Jong Un's growing relationship with Vladimir Putin has risen some concern with their mutual ally – China. Audio dubbing provided by an AI-generated voice. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro 01:07 Russia-North Korea deepening friendship 03:45 Transformation of life in North Korea 07:10 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 07:55 China worried? 10:25 Trump seeks to meet with Kim 12:00 Larger geopolitical shifts 19:20 Member Q+A 23:20 Outro

Hunger and death in Russian-occupied Oleshky

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, three years after Russia destroyed the Kakhovka Dam, causing major flooding in the area. Once home to more than 24,000 people, Oleshky has endured occupation, flooding, food shortages, and increasing isolation since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The episode explores how conditions in Oleshky have deteriorated over time, why evacuations remain so difficult, and what the situation in the town reveals about Russia's broader goals in Ukraine. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro 01:29 Oleshky under occupation 06:42 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 07:21 Oleshky's humanitarian crisis 09:17 Escaping Oleshky 11:55 What officials know 14:51 Is it genocide? 21:40 Member Q+A 24:10 Outro

Ukraine’s mobilization problem

In this episode, Anna Belokur explains how mobilization actually works in Ukraine — and why the reality is far more complicated than viral videos often suggest. As Russia’s full-scale invasion is well into its fifth year, Ukraine faces the challenge of maintaining a military large enough to defend the country while balancing public concerns about fairness, freedom, and accountability. The episode explores how Ukraine’s mobilization system developed, why it became necessary, and how it operates today. It also examines the shortcomings of the system, the reforms under discussion, and the difficult choices facing a country fighting for its survival. Audio dubbing provided by an AI-generated voice.Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine.Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi...Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.00:00 Intro01:27 Ukraine’s manpower challenge05:52 Inside military recruitment08:07 Growing an army at war09:44 Support independent journalism in Ukraine10:24 Mobilization under scrutiny14:06 Reforming the system15:45 Proposed changes18:50 An uncomfortable reality20:41 Member Q+A23:15 Outro

The dark truth about Russia’s African fighters

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines Russia’s growing recruitment of fighters from African countries — and the tactics used to lure vulnerable people into military service. As Russia struggles to sustain high battlefield losses in Ukraine, Moscow has intensified efforts to recruit abroad, targeting countries with high youth unemployment and limited economic opportunities. While some recruits knowingly sign military contracts, others report being promised ordinary jobs or education in Russia before being pressured into joining the army. The episode explores how these recruitment networks operate, why African workers are particularly vulnerable to coercion and deception, and what happens to many recruits once they reach the battlefield. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine.Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi...Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.00:00 Intro01:13 Wagner’s role in Africa06:52 From jobs to war08:46 Support independent journalism in Ukraine09:40 Russia’s deadly contracts14:22 “Expendable force”21:18 Russia expands recruitment24:27 Member Q+A27:00 Outro

Has power changed Zelensky?

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines how Volodymyr Zelensky’s presidency has changed over seven years in office, and whether he still represents the anti-establishment promises he campaigned on in 2019. Elected as a political outsider who vowed to fight corruption, Zelensky became the wartime leader who rallied the country after Russia’s full-scale invasion. But as his presidency stretches beyond its original term under martial law, growing scandals involving figures from his circle have intensified debate over corruption, accountability, and democratic reform. Featuring analysis from journalist Danylo Mokryk and reactions from Kyiv residents, the episode examines whether Zelensky’s government still reflects the political change voters demanded seven years ago. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world. 00:00 Intro 01:22 Political outsider to president 07:06 Support independent journalism in Ukraine 08:03 Anti-corruption promises fade 18:13 Questions of Zelensky’s legitimacy 21:46 What Ukrainians think 27:03 Zelensky’s uncertain legacy 27:35 Member Q&A 30:38 Outro

New dangers of war reporting

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines why war reporting is becoming more dangerous in Ukraine. As drone warfare expands across the country, journalists are increasingly exposed to risks far beyond the front line. With these new dangers, questions have emerged about how best to protect themselves and whether journalists should carry and use guns while working on the front line. The episode also explores how war reporting has evolved during Russia’s war against Ukraine, from traditional foreign correspondents to today’s fragmented, often freelance-driven media landscape. This episode was originally published on World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2026.

Why the West struggles with Shahed drones

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines how Russia and its allies have rapidly expanded the use of long-range attack drones — and why much of the world remains unprepared to defend against them. Iranian-designed Shahed drones first appeared in Russia’s war against Ukraine in 2022. Since then, Moscow has scaled up production and developed its own improved versions, while launching mass drone attacks targeting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure on a near daily basis. The episode explains how these weapons work and why they are so difficult to down. As countries from the Middle East to Europe now confront similar threats, Ukraine’s battlefield experience has become one of the few real-world case studies of large-scale drone warfare.