Ukraine debates LGBTQ rights as thousands serve in the military

How adult content could help Ukraine's war effort

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kateryna Denisova examines one of Ukraine's most unusual legal contradictions. Numerous adult content creators pay taxes to the state while risking criminal prosecution for the very work that generates their income. As Ukraine searches for every possible source of wartime revenue, platforms like OnlyFans have become part of the country's digital economy. Yet creating adult content remains a criminal offense, leaving many creators caught between paying taxes and protecting themselves from prosecution. The episode explores why efforts to decriminalize pornography have stalled, what the current law means for ordinary Ukrainians, and whether parliament is finally ready to change it. Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_227&utm_medium=227 [https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_227&utm_medium=227] Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.

Ukraine debates LGBTQ rights as thousands serve in the military

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Kateryna Denisova examines how Ukraine's attitudes toward LGBTQ people have changed — and why the country's laws have struggled to keep pace. Public support for LGBTQ equality has grown dramatically since Russia's full-scale invasion, while thousands of LGBTQ Ukrainians now serve in the military. Yet many still lack basic legal protections, including the right to have their relationships legally recognized. The episode explores how Ukraine's democratic transformation, its path toward European Union membership, and the realities of wartime have reshaped the debate over LGBTQ rights.Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine.Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_226&utm_medium=226 [https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_226&utm_medium=226]Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.

The Russian oligarch behind Ukraine peace talks

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the surprising return of Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich to the center of efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. Known internationally as the former owner of Chelsea FC, Abramovich has quietly played a role in negotiations since the earliest days of the full-scale invasion. The episode explores Abramovich’s relationship with the Kremlin, his history as a behind-the-scenes negotiator, and why Ukraine is now publicly signaling its willingness to work with him. Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_225&utm_medium=225 Y our support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.

Russia’s war has transformed North Korea

In this episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur explores the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea nearly two years after the two countries signed a strategic partnership agreement. From North Korean troops fighting on Russia’s behalf to billions of dollars flowing into Pyongyang’s economy through arms sales and military support, the war has reshaped North Korea’s influence, economy, and military capabilities. But Kim Jong Un's growing relationship with Vladimir Putin has risen some concern with their mutual ally – China.Audio dubbing provided by an AI-generated voice.Subscribe to our show for more independent reporting from Ukraine.Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membershi... [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbnRYOWpmckNoN2c3NG14YXI4Tzl6eGpUWjU5Z3xBQ3Jtc0tuNVlER1o1cHh1WHFFR0poX1RqbFJaZVIzZ1h6OXZyY00zRktZXzRrT3JjaWRpT3hNbXJ5V01EN09POTZnYVcxRnJXbld1emx0NnQwbmprY2x3U0d5bU96bzZiRjVRYm9WNTBhRzRoSEo3eEM2d0phOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fkyivindependent.com%2Fmembership%2F%3Futm_source%3Dweekly_show_224%26utm_medium%3D224&v=dlLb9CYa2gc]Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.

Hunger and death in Russian-occupied Oleshky

In the latest episode of Ukraine This Week, Anna Belokur examines the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, three years after Russia destroyed the Kakhovka Dam, causing major flooding in the area. Once home to more than 24,000 people, Oleshky has endured occupation, flooding, food shortages, and increasing isolation since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The episode explores how conditions in Oleshky have deteriorated over time, why evacuations remain so difficult, and what the situation in the town reveals about Russia's broader goals in Ukraine. Subscribe to our channel for more independent reporting from Ukraine. Become a member of our community: https://kyivindependent.com/membership/?utm_source=weekly_show_223&utm_medium=223 Your support allows us to bring independent, locally sourced news about Ukraine to the world.