Kyiv Independent
Why China is quietly buying Russian weapons, explained
- Title
- Why China is quietly buying Russian weapons, explained
- Runtime
- 1:11
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In the second year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Chinese military delegations quietly traveled to Russia to negotiate arms deals. Leaked Russian defense documents acquired by the Kyiv Independent reveal that China is seeking parachute systems, armored vehicles, ammunition, and even aircraft — equipment suited for large-scale airborne operations. Some of the contracts run through 2027, a year many analysts view as a benchmark for China’s military readiness to move against Taiwan. The Kyiv Independent’s Alisa Yurchenko investigates why China is buying Russian weapons, what Moscow gains from the deal, and what the deepening Russia–China military cooperation could mean for future conflicts.
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Your support allows us to bring i...
- Title
- Keith Kellogg on how Putin views Russia's war against Ukraine
- Runtime
- 1:29
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent’s Tim Zadorozhnyy speaks with Keith Kellogg, former U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine, about why he believes Russia has failed to achieve its goals in Ukraine, how Russian President Vladimir Putin views his military campaign, and what is preventing the war from ending. Kellogg also shares his perspective on U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace efforts, reflects on his former role inside the administration, and revisits key events and decisions shaping those negotiations.
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Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.
- Title
- A tent camp in Kyiv shelters people amid energy crisis
- Runtime
- 1:51
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Despite claims of a week-long "pause" in strikes following discussions involving U.S. President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, a mass Russian attack hit several regions on Feb. 3.
In Kyiv, where residents have endured a grueling January marked by a lack of heating, water, and electricity, the strikes serve as a cold reminder of Moscow’s strategy. On the city's left bank, "Invincibility Points" have become a lifeline, providing warmth, food, and electricity for those left in the dark.
"They don't uphold agreements," said Viktoriia Leshchenko, a Kyiv resident seeking warmth in a government-run tent. "They are trying to starve us and freeze us."
- Title
- Keith Kellogg on why Russia's setbacks in Ukraine don't stop Putin
- Runtime
- 15:43
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent’s Tim Zadorozhnyy speaks with Keith Kellogg, former U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine, about why he believes Russia has failed to achieve its goals in Ukraine, how Russian President Vladimir Putin views his military campaign, and what is preventing the war from ending. Kellogg also shares his perspective on U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace efforts, reflects on his former role inside the administration, and revisits key events and decisions shaping those negotiations.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_interview_keithkelloggfeb2026&utm_medium=keithkelloggfeb2026
Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.
- Title
- Does Ukraine need a “drone wall” along its borders?
- Runtime
- 1:10
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kyiv Independent reporter Francis Farrell responds to a community question in the regular “Ask the team” segment, examining whether Ukraine could build a “drone wall” along its borders similar to projects being discussed in the EU.
As drone warfare expands beyond Ukraine’s borders, the question is increasingly not whether Ukraine will copy Europe’s approach, but whether Europe can learn quickly enough from Ukraine’s experience defending against constant aerial threats, Farrell says.
Members of the Kyiv Independent community can submit their questions directly to host Anna Belokur, so we answer them at the end of each show.
By joining our community, you’ll gain access to exclusive events, Q&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and direct communication with our team on Discord.
- Title
- Putin 'kept his word' — Trump reacts to latest Russian strike on Ukraine
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Speaking to reporters at the White House on Feb. 3, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin had "kept his word" regarding a temporary truce on strikes against Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure.
"(The pause) was for Sunday to Sunday," Trump said. "It opened up and (Putin) hit them hard... He kept his word on that. One week is a lot — we will take anything."
Trump's remarks came in response to a question about Russia's latest attack on Ukraine, after Moscow targeted the country's power plants overnight on Feb. 3.
Taking advantage of a bitter cold snap that pushed temperatures below -20°C (-4°F), Russia launched one of the largest attacks of the winter, firing more than 70 missiles and 450 drones across Ukraine.
The mass attack marked the end of a brief energy ceasefire, under which Moscow had agreed to temporarily pause attacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure after Trump said on Jan. 29 th...
- Title
- This is what Ukraine’s power stations look like after Russian attack
- Runtime
- 0:41
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Russian forces launched a mass ballistic missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Feb. 3, striking multiple energy facilities across the country and injuring at least nine people.
Russian forces struck thermal power plants operated by DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company, marking the ninth mass attack on its thermal facilities since October 2025. The attack caused significant damage to equipment, DTEK said.
Following the strikes, Kyiv introduced emergency power outages on the left bank of the Dnipro River in the city's eastern districts, according to the company.
More than 1,100 buildings in the Darnytskyi and Dniprovskyi districts remain without heating following the Russian attack, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.
DTEK described the Feb. 3 attack on energy facilities as "the most severe" since the start of 2026. Ukraine's energy system is currently operating under significant constraints, the company added.
- Title
- Attack on Ukraine overnight on Feb. 3
- Runtime
- 2:13
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Temperatures drop to -25°C (-13°F). Ukrainians brace for Russia's winter tactic—pummeling energy grid during cold snaps to freeze civilians indoors.
Russian forces launched a mass ballistic missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Feb. 3. Ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, drones slammed residential buildings, thermal power plants amid the cold.
Mykola Skoryi, Ukrainian Society of Hunters and Fishermen head, standing next to a damaged residential building said: "Today, we witnessed yet another barbaric attack on a peaceful city by the Russians - or rather, by the rashists. They struck people who were resting peacefully in their homes."
- Title
- NATO chief arrives in Kyiv as Russia bombards Ukraine
- Runtime
- 0:21
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte arrived in Kyiv on Feb. 3 as Russia launched a large-scale strike on Ukraine overnight.
The news comes as Ukraine and Russia prepare for another round of talks this week aimed at ending Russia's full-scale invasion. Representatives of Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia are set to meet in Abu Dhabi on Feb. 4-5.
Rutte and President Volodymyr Zelensky placed memorial candles and paid tribute to fallen Ukrainian soldiers at a memorial on Maidan Nezalezhnosti, according to the President's Office.
Rutte also spoke at a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament.
- Title
- Russia targets Ukraine's power plants amid brutal freeze
- Runtime
- 0:31
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Russian forces launched a mass ballistic missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Feb. 3, striking multiple energy facilities across the country and injuring at least nine people, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
The strikes came amid a larger attack on Ukrainian cities, including those located hundreds of kilometers from the front line, with dozens of missiles and hundreds of drones reported over Ukraine's night sky.
Russia's latest assault signals the end of a brief energy ceasefire, under which Moscow had agreed to temporarily pause strikes on Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure. The resumed attacks on the capital comes days after U.S. President Donald Trump said on Jan. 29 that he personally asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to refrain from attacking Kyiv.
The Kremlin previously said it would pause strikes on energy facilities, but only until Feb. 1.
Russia launched 71 missiles and 450 drones, including nearly ...
- Title
- Kyiv Botanical Garden struggles to save irreplaceable tropical plants
- Runtime
- 2:48
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Kyiv Botanical Garden scientists battle to save irreplaceable tropical collections amid Russia’s energy attacks.
Thousands of rare plant species — gathered from every continent since World War II — face extinction without heat, as greenhouses drop to 3°C (37°F).
“If it were 10-15°C [50-59°F], they would all already be blooming,” says Roman Ivannikov, head of tropical plants. “We’re not just a park — we are a research institute.”
- Title
- Ukraine bends martial law to survive winter | Ukraine This Week
- Runtime
- 0:54
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, the Kyiv Independent's Anna Belokur explains how martial law shapes daily life in Ukraine amid the country's harshest winter since the full-scale invasion. As Russia's attacks on energy infrastructure leave millions without heat, water, or electricity, authorities have begun easing curfew restrictions to help civilians cope. The episode examines how curfews operate across Ukraine, why they are widely accepted, and how they are being adapted during the humanitarian crisis. It also includes on-the-ground reporting from Kyiv, where businesses and “points of invincibility” are operating through the night, and street interviews with residents navigating winter nights under martial law.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_205&utm_medium=205
Your support allows us to bring indep...
- Title
- Ukraine bends martial law to survive winter | Ukraine This Week
- Runtime
- 19:05
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, the Kyiv Independent's Anna Belokur explains how martial law shapes daily life in Ukraine amid the country's harshest winter since the full-scale invasion. As Russia's attacks on energy infrastructure leave millions without heat, water, or electricity, authorities have begun easing curfew restrictions to help civilians cope. The episode examines how curfews operate across Ukraine, why they are widely accepted, and how they are being adapted during the humanitarian crisis. It also includes on-the-ground reporting from Kyiv, where businesses and “points of invincibility” are operating through the night, and street interviews with residents navigating winter nights under martial law.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_205&utm_medium=205
Your support allows us to bring indep...
- Title
- Businesses cope with emergency power outages in Kyiv
- Runtime
- 1:49
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- A “cascade shutdown” of Ukraine’s power grid occurred on the morning of Jan. 31 after disruptions to key transmission lines.
The failure caused widespread power outages across the country.
In Kyiv, the metro was temporarily suspended due to the outage, while businesses across the capital faced disruptions.
- Title
- Passengers stranded on metro lines in Kyiv
- Runtime
- 0:15
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv metro stopped operating on the morning of Jan. 31 due to a power outage. Passengers stranded on metro lines were forced to exit through tunnels along the tracks.
Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal reported "a cascade shutdown" in Ukraine's power grid in the morning on Jan. 31, following disruptions to transmission lines between Romania and Moldova, as well as between western and central Ukraine.
Ukraine's largest private energy company, DTEK, reported emergency power shutdowns in Kyiv and its surrounding region in the morning.
Residents in Kyiv are experiencing energy, heating, and water outages following the accident amid freezing temperatures.
The incident follows Russia's months-long campaign targeting Ukraine's critical infrastructure, which has inflicted severe damage to the system.
Video: Kateryna Maliuha / The Kyiv Independent
- Title
- Kyiv metro suspended due to the power outage
- Runtime
- 0:13
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal reported "a cascade shutdown" in Ukraine's power grid in the morning on Jan. 31, following disruptions to transmission lines between Romania and Moldova, as well as between western and central Ukraine.
A systemic failure in the energy system led to power outages widely across Ukraine, but the reasons are unclear for now, sources in an energy company and the Cabinet of Ministers told Ukrainian media outlet Ekonomichna Pravda.
Ukraine's largest private energy company, DTEK, reported emergency power shutdowns in Kyiv and its surrounding region in the morning.
The Kyiv military administration reported at 11 a.m. local time that the metro is temporarily suspended due to the power outage. Water supply has also been cut off across Kyiv due to an accident in the power system, the water utility company Kyivvodokanal reported on Jan. 31.
Video: zaiarnyi_pasha / Instagram
- Title
- White House calls Kyiv Independent's story on envoy 'nonsense,' attacks reporter
- Runtime
- 1:39
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- A senior U.S. envoy involved in efforts to end Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine made basic factual errors about Ukraine’s political system during a closed conversation with reporters, the Kyiv Independent has learned.
The White House provided a statement in response to Kyiv Independent's reporting.
"President Trump and his entire team have done more than anyone to stop the killing and bring peace to this brutal war, including by bringing both sides together for trilateral talks last weekend," White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said.
"It's pathetic that this 'reporter' was too scared to reach out to the White House for comment, as he does frequently, because he knows this story is nonsense and the United States has been working incredibly hard to save lives."
- Title
- Why Colombian volunteers are joining war in Ukraine
- Runtime
- 1:28
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Colombians, many shaped by decades of armed conflict at home, have become one of the largest groups of foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The Kyiv Independent's Jared Goyette speaks with a Colombian volunteer who spent two years fighting in Ukraine. He explains why he came, how foreign fighters are recruited, and how combat here differs from his previous military experience in Colombia. He also reflects on the challenges faced by foreign volunteers, including discrimination within units, delayed pay, and the personal cost of this choice for his family.
The interview was conducted in Portuguese and Spanish and dubbed using AI. The original audio can be selected in the Audio Track settings.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_interview_colombian_soldier&utm_medi...
- Title
- Why China is quietly buying Russian weapons, explained
- Runtime
- 11:28
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In the second year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Chinese military delegations quietly traveled to Russia to negotiate arms deals. Leaked Russian defense documents acquired by the Kyiv Independent reveal that China is seeking parachute systems, armored vehicles, ammunition, and even aircraft — equipment suited for large-scale airborne operations. Some of the contracts run through 2027, a year many analysts view as a benchmark for China’s military readiness to move against Taiwan. The Kyiv Independent’s Alisa Yurchenko investigates why China is buying Russian weapons, what Moscow gains from the deal, and what the deepening Russia–China military cooperation could mean for future conflicts.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_explainer_chinaweapons&utm_medium=chinaweapons
Your support allows us to bring i...
- Title
- More than 900 buildings on Kyiv’s left bank left without heating
- Runtime
- 2:59
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- The situation on Kyiv’s left bank remains among the most severe in the city. More than 900 residential buildings have been left without heating or electricity since Russia’s latest mass attack, affecting hundreds of thousands of residents and depriving them of basic services.
The Kyiv Independent spoke with residents of one apartment building that remains in critical condition without heating or power.
- Title
- Trump claims Putin agreed not to strike Kyiv, other Ukrainian cities 'for a week'
- Runtime
- 0:51
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- U.S. President Donald Trump said on Jan. 29 that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, agreed to his request not to strike Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities and towns for a week.
"I personally asked President Putin not to fire on Kyiv and the cities and towns for a week," Trump said during a press briefing, stressing that Ukraine is currently facing extremely cold temperatures. "And he agreed to do that. And I have to tell you, it was very nice."
The U.S. president did not clarify when or how he relayed this request to Putin, or from what date the supposed ceasefire would begin.
The statement comes as Ukraine faces daily attacks on its cities and an escalation of Russia’s campaign against energy infrastructure amid harsh winter conditions.
Video: White House; State Emergency Service
- Title
- Ukraine's ice-encased thermal power plants
- Runtime
- 0:29
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- DTEK reveals ice-encased thermal power plants amid Ukraine’s worst winter in years, with temperatures plunging to -15°C (5°F).
Russian strikes on Jan. 9, 20, and 24 crippled Kyiv’s grid — leaving 15% of housing (1,330 buildings) without heat as of Jan. 25 for 3 million residents, and 6,000 apartment blocks cold after the latest barrage.
Workers battle deep frost and bombardment as blackouts spread, with Zelensky calling for more air defense amid 1,700+ drones and 69 missiles last week alone.
Video: DTEK / Telegram.
- Title
- Why Colombian volunteers are joining war in Ukraine
- Runtime
- 16:10
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Colombians, many shaped by decades of armed conflict at home, have become one of the largest groups of foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The Kyiv Independent's Jared Goyette speaks with a Colombian volunteer who spent two years fighting in Ukraine. He explains why he came, how foreign fighters are recruited, and how combat here differs from his previous military experience in Colombia. He also reflects on the challenges faced by foreign volunteers, including discrimination within units, delayed pay, and the personal cost of this choice for his family.
The interview was conducted in Portuguese and Spanish and dubbed using AI. The original audio can be selected in the Audio Track settings.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_interview_colombian_soldier&utm_medi...
- Title
- Kyiv Zoo operates amid power cuts and freezing conditions
- Runtime
- 2:28
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Repeated Russian strikes have caused emergency power outages across the country, leaving thousands of apartments without heating or running water as daytime temperatures drop below −10°C (14°F).
The Kyiv Independent visited the Kyiv Zoo to see how the facility is operating amid power cuts and freezing conditions.
- Title
- Ukrainian MP raises humanitarian crisis in Ukrainian cities at European Parliament
- Runtime
- 0:51
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Roman Hryshchuk, a member of Ukraine’s parliament, raised the issue of a humanitarian сrisis in Ukrainian cities during his address to the European Parliament.
Repeated Russian bombardment of Ukraine's energy infrastructure has left major cities without heat, electricity, or water amid freezing temperatures.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis is a result of Russia's deliberate targeting of critical energy facilities — infrastructure it has sought to destroy every winter since 2022.
“One of the issues we raised in the European Parliament is the humanitarian catastrophe in Ukrainian cities — Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and others,” Hryshchuk said.
Hryshchuk outlined key priorities for international support, including the supply of air defense missiles, assistance with generators and fuel, support for decentralized energy generation, and help from emergency repair teams from European cities.
Video: Roman Hryshchuk / X
- Title
- Russian drone strike on Odesa on Jan. 27 causes 'colossal destruction'
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Russia launched over 50 drones at Odesa in southern Ukraine, killing at least 3 people and injuring 35 more, and leaving an unknown number still stuck under rubble, officials said on Jan. 27.
“The destruction is colossal, and repair work will require extended time to return equipment to working condition,” energy provider DTEK wrote in a statement identifying its facilities as among those hit.
Lysak specified in a separate Telegram post that 43 buildings and 122 apartment units fell under the drone attack in Odesa’s Prymorskiy Neighborhood, the downtown area near the Black Sea that includes much of the city’s famous port. Three other buildings were damaged in the neighborhood of Perespylsky, which includes the rest of the main ports.
Odesa was the hardest hit among Ukrainian cities overnight. The Air Force reported a total of 165 Russian drones in Ukrainian airspace, including 24 strikes in 14 locations, as well as nine instances of drone ...
- Title
- Is Ukraine’s air defense failing?
- Runtime
- 2:48
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kyiv Independent reporter Francis Farrell responds to a community question in the regular “Ask the team” segment, examining whether Ukraine’s air defense is failing as Russia intensifies its strikes on energy infrastructure.
The reality is more complex. Ukraine is facing an onslaught unlike anything seen before, from an adversary that constantly adapts its tactics — from ballistic missiles to hundreds of drones launched daily. Ukraine operates a multi-layered air defense, but some threats, especially high-speed missiles, can only be intercepted with a limited number of advanced systems that are scarce worldwide.
- Title
- How Ukrainian soldiers cope with subzero temperatures | Ukraine This Week
- Runtime
- 21:34
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, the Kyiv Independent's Anna Belokur reports on how subzero temperatures are shaping the war on Ukraine's front lines, as Russia continues assaults around Pokrovsk, Myrnohrad, and Lyman in Donetsk Oblast amid severe winter conditions. The episode examines how mud, freezing weather, and climate shifts affect battlefield movement, why drones become both essential and vulnerable in the cold, and how manpower shortages are straining Ukraine's defenses. It also includes on-the-ground reporting from a drone training ground, footage from front-line units, and expert analysis on what this winter may mean for the course of the fighting.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_204&utm_medium=204
Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.
- Title
- How animal shelter in Kyiv Oblast copes with toughest winter
- Runtime
- 1:01
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent visited the Hostomel animal shelter near Kyiv to witness firsthand how Russia’s relentless attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure — making this the toughest winter since the full-scale invasion — are pushing animal rescuers to the brink.
Dozens of dogs and other animals endure the same brutal cold and blackouts as their caretakers, with generators churning nearly nonstop from 6:30 AM to 9 PM just to keep lights and heat running.
Fuel costs have skyrocketed to $1,000-1,500 monthly for the shelter’s nearly 700 animals, most of them dogs and many permanent residents rescued amid the war.
“Without electricity, we simply can’t function,” Mariia Vronska, owner of the Hostomel shelter, told Kyiv Independent.
- Title
- Building of the Roshen chocolate factory was damaged by Russian attack overnight Jan. 24
- Runtime
- 0:25
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Russia launched mass drone attack on Kyiv overnight Jan. 24.
Building of the Roshen chocolate factory owned by former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko was damaged.
Woman, working night shift in production hall, was killed by direct Shahed strike on the factory.
- Title
- How Ukraine organizes resistance in Russian-occupied territory
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In this exclusive interview, the Kyiv Independent’s Yuliia Taradiuk speaks with a Ukrainian Special Operations Forces' officer who helps organize resistance movements in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine. He explains how civilians are trained and supported under occupation, why resistance continues despite the risks, and why Ukraine will keep fighting until its territories and people are liberated.
- Title
- How US intelligence supports Ukraine behind the scenes of peace talks
- Runtime
- 45:28
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent's Chris York speaks with Adam Entous, an investigative reporter at The New York Times, about his new investigation into the first year of U.S. President Donald Trump administration's peace efforts to end Russia's war against Ukraine. Entous describes how competing camps inside the administration pulled negotiations in different directions, why early plans quickly unraveled into "chaos," and what that volatility has meant for Ukraine as Russia continues its relentless attacks. He also shares behind-the-scenes details on the roles of Keith Kellogg, JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Pete Hegseth — and explains how U.S. intelligence support for Ukrainian strikes inside Russia became one of the most consequential (and least understood) parts of the story.
Read the full story: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/12/30/world/europe/ukraine-war-us-russia.html
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Bec...
- Title
- Republican congressman slams Trump's Russia policy, Greenland threats
- Runtime
- 1:23
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent’s Tim Zadorozhnyy speaks with U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R) about U.S. President Donald Trump's approach to ending Russia's war against Ukraine, arguing that appeasing Russia would only invite further aggression and calling on tougher sanctions on Moscow. Bacon also criticizes Trump for his threats to seize Greenland, which could effectively end NATO and undermine U.S. leadership in Europe and the world.
- Title
- Zelensky blasts Europe's inaction
- Runtime
- 1:34
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- President Volodymyr Zelensky used his Jan. 22 World Economic Forum speech to sharply warn Europe: “Today, Europe relies only on the belief that if danger comes, NATO will act.”
“Act now against those missiles in Belarus. Missiles are never just decoration,” added Zelensky reffering to Russian Oreshnik missiles deployed in Belarus.
Photo: TUT.BY/AFP; Sergei Gapon via Getty Images.Video: World Economic Forum / YouTube; Kyiv Info / Telegram.
- Title
- President Zelensky's speech at World Economic Forum in Davos
- Runtime
- 1:43
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- President Volodymyr Zelensky used a speech at the World Economic Forum on Jan. 22 to deliver a sharp warning to Europe, accusing its leaders of recognizing global threats year after year while failing to act decisively.
Zelensky spoke shortly after holding talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the forum, in what marked their first in-person meeting this year.
The discussions came at a sensitive moment for Kyiv, as Washington presses ahead with a diplomatic push to end the war while Russia continues large-scale attacks on Ukraine.
Video: World Economic Forum / YouTube.
- Title
- Odesa’s shoreline turned into a sheet of ice
- Runtime
- 0:24
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Several days of freezing temperatures have turned Odesa’s shoreline into a sheet of ice, coating the beach and the Black Sea waves for the first time in years.
Video: @maximilliano_09 ; @valerievna_ya_ / Instagram; @sveta.vorobiova /TikTok.
- Title
- How Ukraine organizes resistance in Russian-occupied territory
- Runtime
- 1:30
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In this exclusive interview, the Kyiv Independent’s Yuliia Taradiuk speaks with a Ukrainian Special Operations Forces' officer who helps organize resistance movements in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine. He explains how civilians are trained and supported under occupation, why resistance continues despite the risks, and why Ukraine will keep fighting until its territories and people are liberated.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_interview_specialforcesofficer&utm_medium=specialforcesofficer
Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.
This interview was recorded in Ukrainian and features AI-generated dubbing into English. To listen in the original language, change the audio track in your YouTube player settings in the gear box at the bottom right of t...
- Title
- Republican congressman slams Trump's Russia policy, Greenland threats
- Runtime
- 17:12
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent’s Tim Zadorozhnyy speaks with U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R) about U.S. President Donald Trump's approach to ending Russia's war against Ukraine, arguing that appeasing Russia would only invite further aggression and calling on tougher sanctions on Moscow. Bacon also criticizes Trump for his threats to seize Greenland, which could effectively end NATO and undermine U.S. leadership in Europe and the world.
Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.
Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=video_interview_repdonbacon&utm_medium=repdonbacon
Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.
- Title
- Zelensky picks a fight with Kyiv Mayor Klitschko
- Runtime
- 2:19
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kyiv Independent reporter Kateryna Denisova responds to a community question in the regular “Ask the team” segment, analyzing the political dispute between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko that unfolded amid a deepening humanitarian and energy crisis in the capital following Russia’s Jan. 9 attack.
Members of the Kyiv Independent community can submit their questions directly to host Anna Belokur, so we answer them at the end of each show.
By joining our community, you’ll gain access to exclusive events, Q&As, behind-the-scenes updates, and direct communication with our team on Discord.
Join today through the link in bio.
- Title
- One year since U.S. President Donald Trump began his second term
- Runtime
- 2:37
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Jan. 20 marks one year since U.S. President Donald Trump began his second term in the White House.Almost a year after pledging to “stop the deaths,” Trump’s approach to mediation of Russia's war against Ukraine has been defined by contradiction — an endless cycle in which he alternates between warning Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, and echoing him, between expressing support for Kyiv and casting doubt on it.For Ukraine, the outcome remains the same: a war that keeps claiming lives while the world watches the cycle repeat.
- Title
- Energy workers repair power lines in central Kyiv amid prolonged outages
- Runtime
- 1:49
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent visited central Kyiv, where energy workers from DTEK are working on repairing damaged power lines serving a residential building amid freezing temperatures. Recent Russian attacks have left Ukraine’s energy grid severely weakened, with power overloads causing further damage and prolonged outages.
Residents in the building say they have been without heating for nearly three weeks. As temperatures drop below freezing, they sleep in multiple layers and rely on gas stoves and brief periods of electricity to heat water and keep warm.
- Title
- Russia’s “all in” attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid | Ukraine This Week
- Runtime
- 1:23
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, the Kyiv Independent’s Anna Belokur breaks down Russia’s intensified winter assault on Ukraine’s energy grid, as sustained missile and drone strikes push the system to the brink. The episode includes reporting from Chernihiv Oblast, where crews repair power substations under fire, and explains why Russia has shifted to targeting weaker nodes in the grid. It also looks at how corruption, dwindling equipment, and air-defense shortages are deepening the crisis in the midst of the coldest winter since the full-scale invasion began.
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- Title
- Ukraine’s energy system near brink | Ukraine This Week
- Runtime
- 27:04
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, the Kyiv Independent’s Anna Belokur breaks down Russia’s intensified winter assault on Ukraine’s energy grid, as sustained missile and drone strikes push the system to the brink. The episode includes reporting from Chernihiv Oblast, where crews repair power substations under fire, and explains why Russia has shifted to targeting weaker nodes in the grid. It also looks at how corruption, dwindling equipment, and air-defense shortages are deepening the crisis in the midst of the coldest winter since the full-scale invasion began.
**Correction: Chornobyl disaster was in 1986, not 1984.
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- Title
- The Kyiv Independent team adapting to blackouts
- Runtime
- 2:54
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Over the past week, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure have left people across the country without electricity, heating, and water amid subzero temperatures.
The Kyiv Independent team is reporting from Kyiv, where prolonged blackouts have forced us to adapt to stay warm and connected.
- Title
- How Ukraine organizes resistance in Russian-occupied territory
- Runtime
- 20:44
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- In this exclusive interview, the Kyiv Independent’s Yuliia Taradiuk speaks with a Ukrainian Special Operations Forces' officer who helps organize resistance movements in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine. He explains how civilians are trained and supported under occupation, why resistance continues despite the risks, and why Ukraine will keep fighting until its territories and people are liberated.
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This interview was recorded in Ukrainian and features AI-generated dubbing into English. To listen in the original language, change the audio track in your YouTube player settings in the gear box at the bottom right of t...
- Title
- Invincibility trains in Kyiv Oblast
- Runtime
- 1:35
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- State-owned railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia has deployed the first seven “Invincibility trains” (warming carriages) to communities in Kyiv Oblast struggling with power outages following Russian strikes.
The carriages are currently operating in Brovary, Boryspil, and Vasylkiv. Each unit can accommodate approximately 40 people at once, providing a heated space for residents to charge electronic devices and access the internet via Starlink.
The facilities are equipped with activities for children and pet-friendly compartments. Free tea is also provided to visitors.
- Title
- Mobile Points of Invincibility deployed by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Kyiv
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- As Kyiv residents continue to face severe power shortages, mobile Points of Invincibility deployed by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine continue to operate across the city.
As of Jan. 15, more than 15,000 Kyiv residents have visited the points.
The ongoing energy crisis in Kyiv remains “extremely serious,” officials said on Jan. 15, as Ukraine’s Security Service said Russia’s ongoing strikes against energy infrastructure amount to “crimes against humanity.”
Olena Pavlenko, president of the Kyiv-based energy-focused think tank DiXi Group, told the Kyiv Independent that without Russian attacks, Ukraine might come back to “close to normal.”
“Not normal. There will still be outages, but at least there will be a stable schedule in a few weeks. But again, we see the strategy of Russia that they allow us to repair something and then they attack again, then they give us time for repair and they attack again,” Pavlenko said.<...
- Title
- Why NATO can’t survive a return to spheres of influence
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent’s Martin Fornusek speaks with Kurt Volker, former U.S. special representative for Ukraine negotiations and former U.S. ambassador to NATO, about U.S. foreign policy, NATO’s future, and the war in Ukraine. Volker discusses why any attempt to take Greenland by force would effectively end NATO, and how President Donald Trump’s growing willingness to use military force is reshaping global politics. He also explains why Moscow will not agree to peace without serious pressure — and what that means for Ukraine, Europe, and the United States.
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- Title
- Zelensky declares state of emergency in Ukraine’s energy sector as crisis worsens
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- The Kyiv Independent visited one of Kyiv’s Points of Invincibility, set up by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, after a series of Russian attacks plunged much of the capital into blackout.
Over the past several days, Russia has pounded Kyiv and cities across Ukraine with missiles and drones, leaving around 70% of the capital without electricity. As energy workers work to repair the damage, subzero temperatures are complicating restoration efforts, while stocks of replacement equipment are running low.
On Jan. 14, Volodymyr Zelensky declared a state of emergency in the energy sector, placing particular focus on Kyiv, which continues to reel from sustained Russian strikes.
- Title
- Crimea: The War Before the War
- Runtime
- 1:59
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Russia’s takeover of Crimea did not begin in 2014. In the first part of a new documentary, the Kyiv Independent’s War Crimes Investigation Unit looks at how Russia began moving to seize the peninsula immediately after Ukraine gained independence in 1991. The film traces Moscow’s early military and political pressure in Crimea, focusing on the struggle over the Black Sea Fleet and the intimidation of Ukrainian officers who tried to bring naval units under Kyiv’s control — including arrests, sabotage, and moments that nearly escalated into armed confrontation. The second part of the investigation will continue the story.
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