Author: Irynka Hromotska
Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Become a member Support us just once In stark contrast to the grim reality of air raid sirens and blackouts amid Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainians gathered to celebrate Ivana Kupala, one of their most magical and ancient rituals dating back to pagan times. Ivana Kupala falls on June 24, during the summer solstice, where people wear traditional clothing, make wreaths, jump over bonfires, and bathe in rivers and lakes to honor fire, water, and vegetation. This year, despite curfew restrictions, hundreds gathered on the outskirts of Kyiv at the National…
Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Become a member Support us just once KHERSON OBLAST – The destruction of the Kakhovka Dam by Russian forces on June 6, 2023, caused a catastrophic flood in southern Ukraine, impacting multiple oblasts. The breach led to the evacuation of thousands, submerged 80 settlements, and caused significant economic and environmental damage. The humanitarian crisis in Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson, and Mykolaiv Oblasts resulted in severe water shortages and damaged infrastructure. With extensive farmland destroyed, the rebuilding process is estimated to take several years and cost billions of dollars. Despite the challenges,…
Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Become a member Support us just once A recent announcement made by local Ukrainian authorities has urged families with children to evacuate from front-line areas due to escalating hostilities. This evacuation mandate affects districts in Kharkiv Oblast and the entire Donetsk Oblast, both heavily impacted by the Russian invasion. Despite the orders, some parents are hesitant to leave due to various reasons, leaving children to grow up amidst air raid alerts and bombardments. Photographer and military member Kostiantyn Huzenko documented the lives of these children near the front line, capturing…
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 changed the course of history, urging Western leaders to take decisive action to stop the aggression. Oxford professor Timothy Garton Ash, in his book “Homelands: A Personal History of Europe,” highlights the mistakes that led to this invasion. Discussing the Western understanding of the war, Ash emphasizes the need for clarity on supporting Ukraine’s victory. He stresses the significance of Ukraine winning for its security and European stability. Addressing hesitancy among Western leaders, Ash points out the importance of bold actions in wartime and the reluctance to deter escalation. He underlines the need…
The Beauty and Meaning of Vyshyvanka: Ukraine’s Traditional Embroidered Shirt Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Become a member Support us just once Every year on the third Thursday of May, Ukrainians celebrate Vyshyvanka Day, honoring the traditional embroidered shirt that holds deep cultural significance. Known as Vyshyvanka in Ukrainian, these beautifully crafted garments are made from linen and adorned with unique symbols representing different regions of Ukraine. Traditionally worn for special occasions like weddings, Vyshyvankas have experienced a resurgence in popularity, becoming a symbol of national pride and connection to Ukrainian heritage. Following the EuroMaidan…