‘It really is insane:’ Ex-defense minister on Slovakia’s pro-Russian turn¹

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, neighboring Slovakia, with its own experience of decades of Russian occupation in the 20th century, became one of the staunchest supporters of Ukraine.

Under the guidance of then-Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad, Bratislava became the first country to deliver fighter jets to Ukraine, handing over its MiG-29s to a badly depleted Ukrainian Air Force, along with a much-needed S-300 air defense system.

The Kyiv Independent spoke with Nad about Slovakia’s turn away from Ukraine, political processes inside the country, and the future of pro-Russian political advances across Europe.

Read the full interview here.²

Photo: Kay Nietfeld/picture alliance via Getty Images

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¹ https://kyivindependent.com/former-defense-minister-on-slovakias-pro-russian-turn/
² https://kyivindependent.com/former-defense-minister-on-slovakias-pro-russian-turn/

Generation of fighters: An intimate look at Ukraine's fearless youth

In the midst of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the resilience of the Ukrainian people shines in the photographer Brett Lloyd's photo essay, "Ukraine Today." Commissioned by Vogue Ukraine, this series captures the vibrancy of life persisting amid war, offering an intimate look into the lives of Ukrainians.

“'Ukraine Today' is aimed to elevate and amplify our personal and collective stories, and, I hope, to promote our culture, as well as to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ukraine's rich tapestry of identities and experiences,” said Julia Kostetska, Vogue Ukraine publisher.

Photo: Brett Lloyd/Vogue Ukraine

🔗 https://kyivindependent.com/generation-of-fighters-an-intimate-look-at-ukraines-fearless-youth-photos/