We reported on Ukrainian defense tech, US diplomacy, and front-line developments — Here's what you helped us cover this week (Patreon)

Dear Kyiv Independent community members,

Thank you for your continued support.

Hello from a sunny springtime Kyiv. We'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who donated to our fundraiser for photojournalist George Ivanchenkо, who lost his leg in a targeted Russian drone attack while reporting on the front line. Together, we raised $63,500 for an electronic prosthetic knee, which will allow George to continue his work as a photographer. “Everyone who supported me is truly changing my life. You are giving me the chance to live actively and to live this life fully,” George said. 

We'd also like to give a warm welcome to the 204 new members who joined this week. We’re so grateful to have you with us. Our members give us the stability we need to keep going!

Here's what you helped us accomplish at the Kyiv Independent this week:

We reported on the latest battlefield developments. Francis Farrell analyzed Ukraine's recent gains on the southern front line, after Ukraine reportedly liberated more territory than it lost — for the first time in years.

We also reported on the challenges facing Ukraine’s combat medics. Asami Terajima spoke to medics about the difficulties of evacuating the wounded in a drone-dominated battlefield. The work of combat medics has become far more dangerous, as soldiers carrying injured comrades are prime targets for Russian drones.

We also reported on frustrations within Ukraine’s defense tech sector as the U.S.-Israel war with Iran continues. Kollen Post wrote about Ukrainian drone makers warn Kyiv risks missing a “window of opportunity” to export battlefield-proven technology to the Middle East, as President Volodymyr Zelensky holds out for potential deals involving air defense systems like PAC-3 missiles.

We also reported on the implications of Trump easing sanctions on Russian oil. Tim Zadorozhnyy and Luca Léry Moffat explained that Washington’s shift could boost Russia’s position amid the war in Ukraine, while Tania Myronyshena covered how many weapons — including Shahed drones, cruise and ballistic missiles, and FPV drones — Russia could buy with the windfall from oil sales.

We also continued our coverage of Hungary’s upcoming election. Martin Fornusek reported from Budapest on deepening political divisions, as Prime Minister Viktor Orban used National Day rallies to attack Ukraine and portray his opponents as aligned with Kyiv. In a separate piece, Martin also spoke to opposition supporters who see the upcoming vote as a last chance to shift Hungary away from Russia’s influence. We also have a video report examining how Ukraine has become a central issue in the campaign; you can watch it here.

We also reported on the growing risks to Ukraine’s finances. Luca Léry Moffat covered how Hungary’s blockade of EU funding is leaving Kyiv with few alternatives, and article explained that not just Orban, but also delays in reforms and political bottlenecks could put billions in Western aid at risk.

We interviewed Iran’s envoy to Ukraine and fact-checked his claims. In conversation with Polina Moroziuk, the diplomat denied Tehran’s involvement in Russia’s war and insisted Iran remains neutral, despite extensive evidence of Iranian support for Moscow’s military efforts.

We also reported on U.S. diplomatic efforts in Belarus. Tim Zadorozhnyy’s story shows that outreach by U.S. envoy John Coale is raising concerns in Moscow, with Russian intelligence warning of Western attempts to weaken ties between Belarus and the Kremlin.

We also launched a new roundup of news from occupied Ukraine. Yuliia Taradiuk reported on key changes, including property confiscations in Mariupol, forced passportization, and tightening restrictions on reproductive rights under Russian occupation.

We also reported on efforts to locate Ukrainians held in Russian captivity. Kate Tsurkan wrote about a network of Russian opposition activists working with Ukrainian authorities to track down and document civilians detained or disappeared by Russia.

As a final note, we would like to know your opinion: We're exploring new ways to expand your membership benefits by offering free or discounted subscriptions to other media outlets. And we're currently discussing a potential partnership with The Atlantic, and we'd love to hear your thoughts. Please take part in a short survey with this link: https://form.typeform.com/to/M1MpGMhI

And thank you once again for standing by our side, as we continue to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world!