Author: Andriy Kurkov

Recently, a public activist in Ukraine sparked controversy by publicly announcing his desertion from the Ukrainian army, igniting a national debate on mobilization and demobilization legislation. Serhiy Gnezdilov, a former soldier, called attention to the lack of clear rules governing the process of leaving the military, leading to divided opinions among Ukrainians. Gnezdilov’s bold move challenged the traditional narrative of heroism and sacrifice associated with military service, highlighting issues of fairness and responsibility in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. His actions raised important questions about the true cost of war and the sacrifices made by those who serve on…

In a move towards European financial tradition, Ukraine plans to replace the kopeck with a new denomination called the “shag,” meaning “step.” This reform echoes Ukraine’s independence efforts in 1918, during which shag currency concepts emerged. However, the idea of shags as a serious currency is met with skepticism today. Amid discussions about the new coin’s design, attention shifts to the delayed allocation of $6 billion in aid to Ukraine by the United States. With war costs reaching $100 million per day for Ukraine, the unspent aid could mean crucial defense funding for 60 days. As the conflict intensifies, the…

As temperatures soar in Ukraine, a concerning trend of fires in apartment buildings has emerged. The root cause is the misuse of car batteries to power appliances due to frequent power outages caused by Russia’s attack on energy infrastructure. While some can afford mini-generators, others resort to connecting car batteries to their home’s electrical system. These makeshift power sources have led to explosions and fires, with a distinct pattern of military vehicles being targeted. Ukrainian teenagers are being recruited by Russian special services to commit acts of arson in exchange for money. The Russian handlers exploit minors, promising no consequences,…

Exploring the town of Kosice, I witnessed a poignant scene at the train station. A young Ukrainian couple, with the man possibly avoiding military registration, faced an emotional goodbye. This incident shed light on the complexities of Ukrainian men living abroad amidst the war. Since the conflict began, one million Ukrainian men have left the country, creating legal challenges if they all return. The judiciary already faces a severe shortage of judges, with thousands of cases awaiting trial, including cases of desertion. To address the issue, a proposed bill aims to allow first-time offenders a chance to avoid a criminal…

All stories have a way of continuing, even if they seem to have come to an end. In a poignant turn of events, Pavlo Petrichenko, a soldier in the 59th Brigade who petitioned to ban online casinos before dying in battle on April 15, sparked a new petition for him to be posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. Similarly, the heroic military pilot, Stepan Tarabalka, known as the “Ghost of Kyiv,” received posthumous recognition without the need for a petition after his death in battle. Now, Tarabalka’s mother, Natalya Tarabalka, has joined the military chaplain corps, aiming to…