Stories from Kyiv · Ukraine

Ukraine is beginning to reopen its defense exports to maximize geopolitical leverage and national survival. Ukraine's defense industry is seeking to open up export markets, according to insights gained at the Defense Tech Export Forum. General Lieutenant Budanov, head of the President's Office, was present at the event, which gathered many industry representatives to discuss state policy on arms exports. Ukraine urgently needs to reopen defense exports to boost its industrial complex. There is a demand from industry representatives to hear clear messages that will set the tone for future discussions. The Ukrainian defense industry is transitioning from a period of prioritizing domestic front-line needs to exploring international exports. The state aims to maximize benefits while maintaining control over sensitive technologies like drone and anti-aircraft missile systems.

A soldier has leveled accusations of financial misconduct against a commanding officer. The soldier stated they aimed to gain 10-15 kg to meet specific requirements. Andriy Marchenkov was convicted of receiving a bribe on February 26, 2026. Prosecutors are appealing the sentence, claiming it was too lenient. Bailiffs have seized assets Marchenkov acquired through his illegal activities. Many military personnel who paid the bribes have since died or gone missing. Thick black smoke has been rising from strategic targets for nearly a week. A new, more precise strike occurred recently, causing fires. The ongoing strikes are raising concerns regarding long-term ecological damage. New strikes have been reported that are described as stronger and more precise than previous attacks.

Ukraine is discussing the role of sports in uniting the veteran community, particularly through the Invictus Games. Captain Santos Coelho was identified as the only army officer in a group provided with weapons and equipment. On February 7, 2025, former commander Andriy Marchenko allegedly accepted bribes to send soldiers to the frontlines instead of military musicians. One soldier, Vladyslav Vorobiov (callsign 'Medovik'), was reportedly sent to combat despite being part of a musical unit. The incident involves allegations of corruption where funds were taken to prevent soldiers from being sent to high-casualty assault roles. Soldier Vladyslav Vorobyov, callsign Medovyk, claims his former commander Andriy Marchenko embezzled 21 million hryvnia. Vorobyov stated he and his family provided evidence of the theft.

The 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which imposed international controls on uranium enrichment, is discussed as a strategy that allowed Iran a year to accumulate fissile material for a warhead, providing time for global reaction. Iranian President Pezeshkian, during a call with the Pakistani Prime Minister, asserted that Iran will not negotiate under pressure, threats, or maritime blockades. He cited US maritime blockade measures as a primary obstacle to building mutual trust. The US President announced the cancellation of a trip for envoys to participate in negotiations with Iran aimed at ending the war. Trump stated he would not send envoys to talk about nothing, effectively ending hopes for new US-Iran talks in Islamabad. The FBI has confirmed that the shooter has been detained.

Prime Minister Yulia Sverdienko announced that cardiovascular disease medications will be added to the 'Accessible Medicine' program. Currently, the initiative includes 748 drug offers available across more than 17,000 pharmacies nationwide. The Ukrainian government is providing medical drugs for free or with a small co-payment through a new program. The initiative covers over 700 types of medications, including treatments for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, respiratory issues, epilepsy, mental health, Parkinson's, post-transplant needs, and analgesics. The program is described as gradually expanding its list of covered drugs. Patients can obtain electronic prescriptions through family doctors, therapists, pediatricians, or specialized physicians. Prescriptions can be ordered remotely via telephone or messaging services.

Ukrainian authorities are processing claims for housing damage, with social managers assessing properties for habitability. If a dwelling is deemed unfit, residents can file an additional application for temporary accommodation, which can be arranged in hotels, hostels, or dormitories. It is for residents to report damage and apply for temporary housing on the first day to avoid complications with eligibility. The Ministry of Digital Transformation provided an algorithm for citizens whose housing was damaged or destroyed by Russian shelling. Residents can obtain compensation or certificates for purchasing new housing through the eVidnovlennya system. The process requires documenting damage via Diia or Snap and submitting a formal application. The ministry stated that users must then await a decision on their claim.

Ukraine is preparing for post-war recovery, with many airports and personnel ready to resume operations. Duda's involvement highlights Poland's ongoing role in supporting Ukraine following the full-scale invasion. The forum, which included high-level officials from Europe and the West, also touched upon the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster and broader global security issues. Dudas delivered a speech regarding the opening of borders by Polish authorities. Duda noted he assumed the presidency in 2015 when Donetsk was already occupied. Discussions included the distribution of volunteer and charitable resources across multiple simultaneous crisis locations. The focus is on rebuilding destroyed housing and addressing the ongoing aggression from Russia. Ukrainian companies are looking toward export expansion to ensure a stable business model following the end of the war.

A spontaneous memorial site has emerged at Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kyiv, featuring thousands of photos and belongings of fallen Ukrainian defenders. The site has grown significantly since 2022, evolving into a large-scale area of remembrance. Volunteers currently manage the site, but increasing chaos in its organization has raised calls for unified rules or official status. Discussions are ongoing regarding how to formalize the site's management and preservation.

Ukrainian filmmakers are actively working to distance themselves from Russian influence in the film industry, a trend that began before the full-scale invasion. While some fear a return to pre-war reliance on Russian narratives, the consensus is that any attempt to re-engage with Russian cinema will be met with social condemnation. The primary challenge for Ukrainian cinema is not funding, but rather a lack of stability. Russian policies are aimed at preventing Ukraine from maintaining its independence or autonomy. This approach is described as a constant in Russian and Soviet history. Ukrainians are aware of their national history and the tragic aspects of it, fighting with this knowledge in mind. According to the commission's data, 26 media workers remain in Russian custody.

Komsomolskaya Pravda reports on potential Russian strikes targeting Ukrainian factories, particularly those described as 'Ukrainian-German' or 'Ukrainian-NATO' enterprises. The outlet suggests these targets are not solely the responsibility of the Ministry of Defense but also fall under the purview of other ministries. The discussion implies a strategic focus on industrial infrastructure within Ukraine.