Serhiy Zhadan, a prominent Ukrainian novelist, poet, and political activist, reflects on the profound changes in Ukraine and his own life since the Euromaidan protests. He discusses his involvement in the protests, the impact of the ongoing conflict with Russian-backed separatists, and his views on language, culture, and politics in Ukraine. Zhadan emphasizes the importance of Ukrainian identity and patriotism while rejecting nationalism. He also shares his current projects, including music albums, an opera, and a novel about the start of the war in 2014.

Tom Parfitt's book 'High Caucasus' is a travelogue and historical exploration of Russia's North Caucasus, reflecting on the region's complex history of violence and ethnic tensions. The narrative intertwines Parfitt's personal journey with historical events, such as the Beslan school siege, Chechen wars, and Stalin's deportations. Through vivid descriptions and encounters with locals, Parfitt delves into themes of grief, healing, and the legacy of conflict. The book, shortlisted for the Pushkin House Book Prize, offers a poignant reflection on the region's past and present, resonating with current geopolitical tensions.

Jacek Dehnel and Piotr Tarczynski, a gay literary couple known as 'Maryla Szymiczkowa', are challenging societal norms in conservative Poland through their murder mystery series. Despite the risks in a country where same-sex marriage is illegal and the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party has launched an anti-LGBTQ campaign, they openly discuss their relationship and insist on visibility to change attitudes. Their character Turbotyńska, a conservative, bourgeois woman, is the protagonist of their 'cosy crime' series set in historical Krakow, which they meticulously research to ensure authenticity.

Dmitry Markov, a renowned Russian photographer known for capturing the essence of Russian society, particularly its most vulnerable, passed away at the age of 41. His work, which often featured orphans, alcoholics, addicts, and the homeless, offered a stark contrast to the official narratives of Russia under Putin's regime. Markov, who had a history of heroin addiction and personal struggles, used his iPhone for photography, amassing nearly a million Instagram followers. He combined his art with philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes. Despite criticism for remaining in Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, Markov felt tied to the country and its people. His death prompted widespread appreciation for his contributions to socially oriented Russian art.

Dmitry Markov, a renowned Russian photographer known for capturing the essence of Russian life, particularly its most vulnerable citizens, passed away earlier this month. His work, which often featured orphans, alcoholics, addicts, and the homeless, provided a stark contrast to the official narratives of Russia under Putin's regime. Markov, who had a history of heroin addiction and personal struggles, used his photography as a means of philanthropy and personal healing. Despite criticism for remaining in Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, Markov felt a deep connection to the Russian people. His death has sparked widespread appreciation for his contributions to socially oriented art, with some critics comparing him to historical figures like Ilya Repin and Caravaggio.

Dmitry Markov, a celebrated Russian photographer known for his empathetic portrayal of marginalized communities, passed away at 41. His work, often capturing the harsh realities of life under Putin's regime, gained widespread acclaim and criticism. Markov's photography, primarily using an iPhone and shared on Instagram, highlighted the beauty amidst brutality in modern Russia. Despite his personal struggles with addiction and a troubled past, Markov's legacy is celebrated for its deep social impact and artistic brilliance.

The Federal Tax Service reported that Russia's 'tax on the rich' raised $1.1 billion in its first year, exceeding expectations but still a modest sum for government spending. The tax, which increased the income tax rate from 13% to 15% for those earning over 5 million rubles annually, was intended more as a statement on social justice than a significant revenue source. Half of the funds were collected in Moscow. President Putin stated that the revenue would support the Circle of Kindness charity, which funds treatments for children with rare illnesses. However, bureaucratic hurdles have complicated access to treatments like Zolgensma, a costly medication for spinal muscular atrophy.

Russian authorities are grappling with a wave of bomb threats targeting major public buildings, which the Kremlin has labeled as 'telephone terrorism.' Despite extensive evacuations affecting over 100,000 people across various cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, the perpetrators remain unidentified. Theories range from involvement by the Islamic State group to potential links with Ukraine, but no evidence has been provided. State-owned media have offered minimal coverage, and security officials have yet to issue formal statements.

Hundreds of bomb threats made by anonymous callers against major public buildings in Russia this week have been condemned as 'telephone terrorism' by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Over 100,000 people have been evacuated from various cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. Theories about the origins of the threats include involvement by the Islamic State group, calls from Ukraine, and an official exercise, but no evidence has been provided. State-owned television has provided little coverage, and there have been no official statements from security services.