Alicia Alamillos is a journalist and fixer based in Madrid, Spain. Former Middle East correspondent for ABC newspaper, based in Cairo, Egypt. Former Subsaharan Africa correspondent and editor for EFE News Agency based in Nairobi, Kenya. With experience working for print, online and radio. Breaking ...

Ukraine struggles to mobilize new recruits: why does it leave out half of its population?

10 Mar 2025  |  www.elconfidencial.com  |  Spanish  |  US-Ukraine Relations

Ukraine faces significant challenges in mobilizing new military recruits amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The article highlights societal tensions, particularly regarding the exclusion of women from mandatory military service, despite pressure from the US to lower the recruitment age. The Ukrainian government is struggling to balance military needs with demographic and economic considerations. The US, under Trump's administration, has suspended military aid, complicating Ukraine's recruitment efforts. The article also discusses the societal divide and the impact of recruitment policies on the workforce and military morale.

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Ukrainian Government Ukrainian Armed Forces US Government

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Adrian Ardelean is a journalist based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Broadcast working experience 15yrs
BBC Worldservice
Europa FM Radio, Romania
Digi24 TV, Romania

At least four dead and dozens injured after Russian attacks on Ukraine

09 Jan 2024  |  Europa Liberă România  |  Romanian  |  War in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski acknowledged the ongoing emergency and rescue operations in the Donetsk, Kherson, and Khmelnytskyi regions following Russian military strikes. The Ukrainian military reported downing 18 cruise missiles and eight Iranian-made drones, citing a need for more advanced air defense systems like the U.S.-made Patriot. A Ukrainian military official highlighted a shortage of anti-aircraft guided missiles. Meanwhile, German Chancellor called on EU members to increase military support for Ukraine. Concurrently, Ukrainian bombings injured three in the Russian region of Belgorod, where Russian defense downed 9 RM-10 Vampir missiles.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces European Union United States Congress

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Adrian Blomfield is available for comment and analysis on developments in eastern, central and the horn of Africa, the Middle East and the former Soviet Union. Over the past 16 years he has been based in Nairobi, Baghdad, Moscow and Jerusalem. Adrian held the following positions over that time:

...

Ukraine loses one of its few advantages on the front line

21 Jan 2025  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Ukraine's ability to use drones effectively against Russian forces has diminished due to improved Russian electronic jamming, contributing to Ukraine's defensive struggles along the front line, particularly in Kupiansk. The Trump administration's foreign policy shift towards negotiating with Russia, potentially at Ukraine's expense, is causing concern among Ukrainians. The article highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces and civilians, the differing opinions on negotiations with Russia, and the potential implications of US foreign policy changes under President Trump.

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Russian Forces Ukrainian Army Trump Administration

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I am journalist based in Warsaw, Poland.
Over 25 of experience in media. I wrote for newspapers (Gazeta Wyborcza, Rzeczpospolia), magazines (PRESS, SENS, Slużba Zdrowia, websites/ online media (OKO.press) and others. 
In last years mostly I write for OKO.press - polish well know online media team ...

Was he too good a soldier? Ukrainian with Polish citizenship wants to go to war, Ministry of National Defense disagrees

03 Nov 2024  |  oko.press  |  Polish  |  Citizenship Issues

Oleg, a Ukrainian with Polish citizenship, faces a dilemma as he wishes to serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces amidst the ongoing war. Despite fulfilling military obligations in Poland, the Ministry of National Defense has denied his request, citing potential conflicts with Polish interests. Oleg's personal history, including his ties to both countries and his military service, highlights the complexities of dual citizenship during wartime. The article explores the bureaucratic hurdles and emotional challenges Oleg faces, as well as the broader implications for individuals in similar situations.

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Polish Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces Ministry of National Defense

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Jonathan is a print, radio, and video journalist. He was based in the Middle East for two years and is now reporting throughout the former Soviet Union.
 
His work has been published by BuzzFeed World, Politico, MSNBC, the International Business Times, the Independent, Vice News, Radio France ...

Ukrainian women descend into the mine to replace men gone to the front

08 Mar 2024  |  www.ledevoir.com  |  French  |  Women's Employment

Hundreds of Ukrainian women, including Ania Karkatchova, have taken up work in coal mines in the Dnipropetrovsk region to replace men who have joined the fight against Russian forces. A change in Ukrainian labor legislation under martial law has allowed women to fill roles traditionally held by men. DTEK, the private energy sector company employing these women, has seen a significant shift in workforce demographics, with women now comprising 15% of the mining workforce. While initially met with skepticism, the contribution of women in the mines has become seen as indispensable, especially as Ukraine faces a labor shortage exacerbated by the war and the emigration of millions. Some women hope for the return of their husbands post-war, while others acknowledge the necessity of their roles in this national crisis.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces

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Anna Conkling is a freelance journalist from New York. Her work focuses on current events, climate change, the war in Ukraine, and pop culture.

North Korean flag drives fear through Ukraine’s exhausted front-line troops

24 Oct 2024  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Russia-Ukraine conflict

The presence of a North Korean flag alongside the Russian tricolour in eastern Ukraine has sparked fears among Ukrainian troops of potential North Korean military involvement. Reports suggest North Korean soldiers may be aiding Russia, although confirmation is lacking. The US has verified the presence of North Korean troops in Russia, with numbers expected to increase. The situation in Pokrovsk is tense, with residents preparing for possible street fighting. The article highlights the strategic importance of Pokrovsk and the challenges faced by its remaining residents amid ongoing conflict.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces North Korean military Russian military

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Dominic Culverwell is a journalist based between Berlin and Kyiv. 
Politics, business, economics, banking, conflict, culture. 

Bylines- Financial Times, Radio Free Europe, EuroNews, bne IntelliNews, New Eastern Europe, EYESORE.

Russia launches record number of drones in overnight attack on Ukraine

10 Nov 2024  |  The Kyiv Independent  |  English  |  Drone Attacks

Russia launched a record number of drones in an overnight attack on Ukraine, targeting various regions with Iranian-designed Shahed drones. Ukraine's Air Force successfully downed eight drones, resulting in at least two deaths and six injuries. The conflict continues to impact Ukraine's infrastructure, with significant damage reported to civilian airports. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the need for more military aid from Western allies, while North Korea's Kim Jong Un pledged support for Russia. The article also mentions the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving various international actors.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Air Force

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Álvaro García is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain.

This is how the Ukrainian armed forces destroyed a TOS-1A, the feared Russian thermobaric flamethrower

09 Jan 2024  |  www.larazon.es  |  Spanish  |  Military Technology

A Ukrainian soldier from the Balu HUB group shared images on Telegram showing the destruction of a Russian TOS-1A thermobaric flamethrower in the Avdiivka sector. The TOS-1A, mounted on a T-72 tank chassis, is known for its devastating impact using thermobaric rockets. The Ukrainian forces likely used a conventional drone with explosives to destroy the system, observing the event through surveillance. The TOS-1A is particularly effective and terrifying in urban warfare due to its ability to incinerate, cause explosive impacts, and asphyxiate victims.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces

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JJ Green is a journalist based in Washington, D.C. United States of America. I am an international security reporter. My area of specialty includes war correspondence, intelligence, espionage, cyber military and foreign policy.

Worried about Donbas, strong Russian response to Kursk incursion may never materialize

01 Sept 2024  |  wtop.com  |  English  |  Military Strategy

Ukrainian forces' incursion into Russia's Kursk region has not prompted the expected large-scale Russian military response, as Moscow remains focused on the Donbas. The incursion aims to create instability within Russia and challenge its military strategy. Western support, particularly from the U.S., has been crucial for Ukraine, but internal issues, such as the friendly fire incident involving an F-16, highlight challenges in military coordination. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has responded by firing the head of the Air Force, emphasizing the need for cohesion and protection of personnel.

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Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Ukrainian Ministry of Defense Kremlin Atlantic Council

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Jack Hewson is a freelance journalist based in Kyiv, Ukraine, after 10 years reporting across the world. Previously he was France 24's correspondent in Baghdad, Iraq, and Indonesia-Philippines. He has reported live on countless breaking news stories for clients, including BBC, Sky News, France 24, ...

How Ukraine’s drones have transformed the fight against Russia

26 Sept 2024  |  PBS.org  |  English  |  Military Technology

Ukraine's use of drones has significantly altered the dynamics of its conflict with Russia, providing a tactical advantage despite Russia's superior airpower. The U.S. has announced $8 billion in military aid to Ukraine, including advanced weaponry and training. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasizes the need for continued pressure on Russia to achieve peace. The article highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, including the destructive impact of Russian airpower and the innovative use of drones in combat. The resilience of Ukrainian troops is underscored, despite the overwhelming challenges posed by Russian military capabilities.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces U.S. Government

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Tim Judah covers the Balkans, and sometimes other places, for the Economist. 

He also covers Ukraine where he is now for the New York Review of Books. 

He wrote a book on the Ukraine conflict which was published by Penguin in 2015. 

He is the author of three books on the Balkans: The Serbs:...

Ukraine Divided

05 Dec 2024  |  The New York Review of Books  |  English  |  Ukrainian Conflict

The article explores the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the division between those engaged in the war and those detached from it. It discusses the slow progress of Russian forces, the challenges faced by Ukrainian families with missing soldiers, and the strategic considerations of international allies. The narrative reflects on the potential outcomes of the conflict, including the possibility of an armistice and the geopolitical implications of NATO involvement. The piece underscores the resilience of Ukrainian forces and the complex dynamics of international support, while also addressing the internal divisions and challenges within Ukraine.

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Ukrainian Defense Forces Russian Military NATO Red Cross

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Julia Kalashnyk is a freelance Ukrainian journalist, living and working between Kyiv and Kharkiv, and reporting, as far as possible, the Russian war against Ukraine. Her coverage of the invasion has appeared in Euronews and La Stampa

Kharkiv, the story from the heart of the war: "Flattened by bombs without food and medicine"

12 May 2024  |  www.lastampa.it  |  Italian  |  Humanitarian Crisis

Kharkiv is under renewed Russian attack, with significant bombings forcing evacuations in the region, particularly from Vovchansk. The situation remains dire, with shortages of food and medicine, and ongoing power outages. Despite the intense conflict, Kharkiv attempts to maintain normalcy. Ukrainian officials, including Governor Oleh Synehubov and President Volodymyr Zelensky, assure that the situation is under control, although fighting continues in the 'grey zone' near the border. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims control over several villages, while the Institute for the Study of War suggests the Russian strategy may aim to divert Ukrainian forces and create a demilitarized zone.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Russian Ministry of Defense Institute for the Study of War

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Michal Kranz is a journalist based in New York City.

Russia's propaganda machine is failing

01 Aug 2024  |  unherd.com  |  English  |  Propaganda

The article discusses the growing dissatisfaction among Russians with the Kremlin's propaganda and leadership, particularly in light of Ukraine's incursion into Kursk. It highlights the failure of Russian military and government officials to address the situation effectively, leading to increased criticism from military bloggers and ordinary citizens. The incursion marks the first foreign occupation of Russian territory since World War II, challenging Putin's narrative of Russia as a victorious power. The article suggests that this situation could pose a significant threat to Putin's legacy and credibility, as dissatisfaction spreads beyond the usual nationalist circles.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Russian Ministry of Defence Kremlin

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Multimedia journalist (print/audio/video) -  BBC, Al Jazeera, The Irish Times, Global Post, Forbes, European Voice (now politico.eu) and many others. Westminster-based - over the past decade, I have covered subjects as diverse as Brexit, Scottish independence, Canadian native rights, narco-...

What Ukraine’s assault on Russia could mean for EU gas supplies

09 Aug 2024  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Russian Gas

A significant Ukrainian military incursion into Russia's Kursk region threatens a major gas supply line from Russia to the EU, particularly affecting countries like Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia that still rely on Russian gas. The incursion has led to a state of emergency in Russia and raised concerns about potential disruptions to gas supplies, although current flows remain largely unaffected. The EU's reliance on Russian gas is due to limited alternatives, despite efforts to diversify energy sources. The situation underscores the geopolitical complexities of energy dependence amid ongoing conflict.

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Ukrainian Forces Kremlin Institute for the Study of War Center for Information Resilience Carbon Tracker

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Kateryna Malofieieva is a journalist based in Kyiv, Ukraine. She has been working as a producer for various international media outlets such as Al Jazeera English and Vice News for almost ten years. She is a regular guest on Times Radio, the BBC World Service (+Radio 5, Scotland, Wales, Ulster, etc....

Ukraine ‘will not defeat Russia under Soviet-style generals’

30 Jun 2024  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Military Leadership

Ukraine's military leadership faces criticism for outdated Soviet-style tactics, with calls for reform and promotion of experienced brigade commanders. Bezuhla, a former military doctor and current parliament member, has been vocal in her criticism, leading to the dismissal of General Yuriy Sodol. She advocates for innovation in warfare and decision-making, reflecting a shift in President Zelensky's approach. Despite initial resistance, her fearless stance has gained respect within the armed forces. The article highlights the need for structural reforms and deeper integration with NATO standards.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Servant of the People party Azov brigade NATO

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Malik Mansur is a journalist based in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Labor Migrants Being Drawn into the Ukraine War

16 Oct 2024  |  www.amerikaovozi.com  |  Uzbek  |  Human Rights

Labor migrants in Russia face increasing pressure and coercion to join the Russian army in the Ukraine war, with reports of threats and harsh conditions in detention centers. The situation is exacerbated by the lack of human rights activists in Russia and the growing nationalist sentiment. Migrants from Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, are particularly affected, with some joining the army in hopes of obtaining Russian citizenship. The article also highlights the presence of Central Asian fighters in the Ukrainian armed forces, defending against Russian aggression.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Russian Army

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British journalist, editor, and researcher. Work published in the Guardian, POLITICO Europe, New Statesman, Vice, The Moscow Times, and New Eastern Europe. 

Now primarily in London/Baltics but open to Russia-based commissions with the appropriate arrangements.

Ukraine launches surprise counteroffensive in Russia

05 Jan 2025  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  War in Ukraine

Ukraine has launched a counteroffensive in Russia, with significant fighting reported in the Kursk region and near Pokrovsk in Donetsk. Ukrainian forces are using western-armoured vehicles, and their electronic warfare has reportedly disrupted Russian drone operations. Russia has deployed North Korean troops to the region, with Ukraine claiming to have destroyed a battalion. Both sides are seeking to improve their positions ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration, as he has promised to end the war swiftly.

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Akhmat special forces Russian forces Ukrainian armed forces

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Erkan Pehlivan is a freelance journalist based in Frankfurt, Germany.

Many years of case reporting experience, with a network of contacts in EU, Turkey, Balkans, MENA, think tanks...
Particularly familiar German, EU and Turkey policy.

Human rights, abductions, turkish intelligence MIT, Islam ...

Ukraine plans counteroffensive after Russia's territorial gains

01 Dec 2024  |  www.leinetal24.de  |  German  |  War in Ukraine

Ukraine is planning a counteroffensive against Russian forces following recent territorial gains by Russia. Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, emphasized the need for offensive action to achieve victory. The conflict has intensified, with Russia launching extensive drone attacks, while Ukraine intercepted many of them. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed Germany's support for Ukraine in a call with President Volodymyr Selenskyj, promising continued military aid. The article also notes the return of the bodies of 502 Ukrainian soldiers killed in the conflict.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces German Government

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Dan Peleschuk is a freelance journalist in Kiev, Ukraine, covering politics and society in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union.

A Ukrainian commander stated that his troops, now in 'active defense,' can still surprise Russia

15 Jan 2024  |  infobae  |  Spanish  |  War in Ukraine

Ukrainian forces, under the command of Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, are focusing on active defense along the eastern front, maintaining positions and inflicting maximum losses on Russian forces. Despite initial optimism for a significant Ukrainian counteroffensive, Russian defenses have largely held, leading to smaller-scale engagements. Ukraine continues to call for more ammunition from Western allies. Recently, Ukrainian forces claimed to have downed two significant Russian aircraft, highlighting ongoing strategic operations.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces

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Anna Romandash is an award-winning journalist from Ukraine. She has collaborated with Open Government Partnership, Freedom House, and Deutsche Welle. She works as a reporter and a digital policy expert focusing on sustainable media development, human rights, and access to information. She has ...

Ukraine prepares to assist war veterans with disabilities

15 Jan 2024  |  es.globalvoices.org  |  Spanish  |  Disability Rights

Ukraine faces significant challenges in integrating war veterans with disabilities into civilian life. The NGO Pryncyp, co-founded by Liubov Halan, advocates for inclusive policies and practical support for veterans. The organization highlights the gap between legal guarantees and the actual support available, emphasizing the need for systematic solutions and state cooperation. Pryncyp's initiatives include legal guides, advocacy for inclusive employment, and collaboration with donors to improve rehabilitation services. The article underscores the importance of state involvement in providing high-quality, transparent services to ease the burden on veterans' families.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Pryncyp

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Jerome is The Times Africa Correspondent, based in Nairobi. Before that he lived in Afghanistan and worked for various newspapers and broadcasters.

British Challenger 2 tanks helped Ukraine smash through Putin's defences in Kursk in lightning three-pronged attack

06 Jan 2025  |  The Sun  |  English  |  Military Technology

British Challenger 2 tanks have played a significant role in Ukraine's recent military advances in the Kursk region, according to reports. Despite Russian claims of destroying one of these tanks, footage suggests minimal damage and successful crew escape. Ukraine's coordinated attack, supported by long-range missile strikes and electronic jammers, has led to tactical gains, reversing previous losses. The conflict has seen increased involvement of North Korean troops on the Russian side, with significant casualties reported. The situation remains dynamic, with potential for further Ukrainian offensives.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces Russian Army 155th Guards Marine Brigade Pacific Fleet Institute for the Study of War

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Maxim Tucker reports for The Times on Ukraine. He has worked in some of the hottest spots in the conflict zone and various locations throughout the country. He has extensive contacts within the Ukrainian government, military and intelligence services, as well as among diplomats, political parties, ...

Ukrainian forces make another incursion into Russia

28 Mar 2025  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Russia-Ukraine War

Ukrainian forces have made another incursion into Russian territory, specifically in the Kursk direction, as a deterrent against a potential Russian invasion of the Sumy region. The operation is described as more modest compared to a previous offensive in the Kursk region. Analysts suggest a possible misstatement by Zelensky regarding the regions involved. The article also notes the redeployment of Russian troops and the involvement of North Korean infantry in response to Ukrainian actions.

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Russian Armed Forces Ukrainian Armed Forces

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Brian Whitmore is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

The President and the Generals

09 Feb 2024  |  www.powervertical.org  |  English  |  Politics

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed General Valery Zaluzhny as the chief of the country's armed forces amid ongoing tensions and speculation. This significant move occurs as Russia intensifies its battlefield efforts and US defense aid to Ukraine faces delays in Congress. The Power Vertical Podcast, hosted by Brian Whitmore, features discussions with Serhiy Kudelia and David Kramer on the political implications of this decision and its future impact on the war in Ukraine.

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Ukrainian Armed Forces US Congress Baylor University US Department of State

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Correspondent and video journalist based in Istanbul. I have been working as a writer and broadcast journalist for over 15 years with some of the world’s leading media organisations, delivering creative, high quality audio, video and digital storytelling to diverse audiences across the globe. 

A ...

Ukraine captures ‘hundreds’ of Russian prisoners as shock advance continues

14 Aug 2024  |  www.channel4.com  |  English  |  War in Ukraine

Ukrainian forces have made significant advances into Russian territory, capturing hundreds of Russian prisoners and establishing a security zone in Russia's Kursk region. This unexpected development has led to embarrassment for Russia, which is reinforcing its defenses near the border. The situation marks a notable shift in the ongoing conflict, with Ukraine gaining ground and distributing humanitarian aid in the newly captured areas.

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Ukrainian forces Russia

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