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Artist Zhanna Kadyrova (R) and curator Leonid Marushchak pose with the "Origami Deer" sculpture in Prague on March 12, 2026.
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When security guarantees fail: Ukraine's message at the Venice Biennale

by Valeria Radkevych

The 61st Venice Biennale is now underway, with the world's premier international art event having been in the spotlight not for its showings, but for its controversy and internal strife. On April 30, just days before the opening of the festival, the jury collectively resigned in protest over Russia and Israel's planned presence in the event, declaring that with a "responsibility toward the historical role of the Biennale," they could not judge art from countries whose leaders are charged with c

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How Ukraine defends Black Sea coast from Russian drones and mines

The Kyiv Independent’s Kollen Post and Nick Allard embed with sailors of the Ukrainian Navy operating small mine-clearing vessels off the coast of Odesa. Using sea drones and sonar systems, these crews identify potential explosives and secure maritime routes — often under the threat of Russian drone and missile attacks.

Explainer: What’s the corruption controversy around drone maker Fire Point, and what should be done?

Ukrainian drone maker Fire Point has been described as a crucial supplier for the country's army and contributor to the country's war effort. At the same time, the company has found itself at the center of Ukraine's largest corruption scandal — a $100 million scheme centered around the state nuclear monopoly Energoatom and defense procurement. This has prompted calls for auditing the company's contracts and owners and nationalizing it, as well as reviewing the rules of defense procurement. Fi

A worker inspects a combat drone at a Fire Point secret production facility in Ukraine on Aug. 18, 2025.

Could Europe take over Ukraine peace talks from Trump? Here's what officials say

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional comments. The EU is not about to hold its own peace talks with Russia and has no concrete plans to do so, several bloc's leaders and diplomats have confirmed on May 8, following news reports that suggested otherwise. The discussions come as U.S.-mediated peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv remain stalled for more than two months, as Washington is focused on its war with Iran. Frustration among European capitals at the lack of progress

About Culture

Our reporting on literature, films, art, and traditions from Ukraine and the latest news on culture in Eastern Europe.

Ukrainian culture
Ukrainian culture has survived centuries of Russian attempts to appropriate Ukrainian art, silence Ukrainian artists, and erase the Ukrainian language. Modern Ukrainian writers, filmmakers, and musicians — some of whom are serving on the front lines — continue to develop Ukrainian culture and fight for Ukraine’s future.

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