We reported from the front line, uncovered Russia’s military developments, and examined shifts in U.S. policy and Ukraine’s wartime society — Here’s what you helped us cover this week (Patreon)

Dear Kyiv Independent community members,

Thank you for your continued support. Today started with more news about overnight strikes involving missiles and more than 200 drones, which killed at least one civilian and injured over 50 others. During the day, drones targeted Ternopil, in the west of Ukraine, a city far closer to Poland than the front line. Above, you can see a photo from the scenes of a Russian overnight attack on Odesa. 

We’re grateful to have our members with us. We'd also like to give a warm welcome to the 169 new members who joined this week. 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 published a field report on Russia’s evolving offensive tactics in Donbas. Francis Farrell reported from near Sloviansk, where Ukrainian troops say constant drone surveillance and pressure signal Moscow’s preparations for a major summer campaign.

We reported on Russia’s evolving missile capabilities. Polina Moroziuk wrote that Ukraine’s military intelligence revealed details of a new Russian cruise missile, the S-71K, highlighting its simple design, use of foreign components, and potential for mass production.

We published an exclusive on stalled U.S. diplomacy. Tim Zadorozhnyy’s latest article explains why President Donald Trump’s envoys have yet to visit Kyiv despite repeated trips to Moscow, raising concerns in Ukraine about an imbalance in engagement and a lack of progress in peace talks.

We also reported on shifting U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Tim Zadorozhnyy reported that Vice President JD Vance has not only defended halting U.S. weapons transfers but is also playing a key role in shaping the administration’s approach, drawing criticism from lawmakers who warn the move benefits Russia.

We also reported on the aftermath of Ukrainian strikes on Russia’s Tuapse oil refinery. Kateryna Hodunova wrote that while fires continue to burn and a state of emergency has been declared, Russian authorities and tour operators are downplaying the risks as they push ahead with the summer tourist season.

We also reported on a potential breakthrough in Ukraine’s air defense. Kollen Post reveals that Ukrainian electronic warfare units may be able to disrupt and divert Russia’s Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, potentially neutralizing one of Moscow’s most feared weapons.

We also reported on Ukraine’s nuclear energy system under wartime pressure. Dominic Culverwell visited the Rivne and Chornobyl nuclear power plants, showing how they have become the backbone of Ukraine’s electricity supply — and why Russian attacks and occupation pose risks that go far beyond power outages. You can watch the video here.

We also published an interview on Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts. Oleksiy Sorokin spoke with NABU chief Semen Kryvonos about high-profile investigations, political pressure on anti-corruption institutions, and the challenges of advancing the rule of law during the war. You can watch the video here.

We also covered Ukraine’s evolving gun debate. In a new episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines how the war — and a recent mass shooting in Kyiv — are reshaping Ukrainians’ attitudes toward firearms, as millions of weapons circulate and questions of security and control grow more urgent. You can watch the video here.

Finally, on a positive note. We've put together a summary of how your support helped us through the winter. In just one day, you raised over $82,000 — far exceeding our initial goal. These funds helped keep our newsroom running with power supplies and heating, supported team relocations, and covered essential operational costs. Looking ahead, part of the funds will go toward preparing for next winter, while the rest will support our mental health program, helping our team stay resilient and continue reporting. Those who contributed have received a more detailed email outlining exactly how the funds were used. 

We also have an important update to share. We’ve seen how much you value Ukrainian lessons with our tutor Vitalii, so we’re expanding the program to give you more opportunities to learn. We’re adding an extra weekly session — lessons will now take place on Tuesdays for intermediate and Thursdays for beginner students. Based on your feedback, we're also launching a monthly Speaking Club to explore Ukrainian culture, films, sports, and books. If you’re interested but not yet on our Discord, you can leave a comment or contact our Community Manager, Oleksandra, at o.nazarenko@kyivindependent.com to learn more.

Thank you for standing by our side as we bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.