The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

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Russians stole my birthday
Born on Feb. 24, Polina and Dariia watched Russia turn their birthdays into a national anniversary, and now negotiate joy and grief on the same date.
 • Oleksandra Poda
The ‘anniversary effect’: Ukrainians live by a trauma calendar
As Feb. 24 approaches, Ukrainians feel it on a physical level—with the sudden onset of insomnia, anxiety, and appetite loss. They’re dealing with a…
 • Mariana Lastovyria
They’re attacking the railways
This winter Russia is targeting Ukrainian railcars – a vital transport in a country without air travel. Meet Oleh, who handles Russia’s strikes on…
 • Anastasiia Kryvoruchenko
How Elon’s satellites nearly led to Ukrainian disaster
Russians tried to use Starlink-equipped drones to thwart Ukrainian air defense, a potential catastrophe. But Kyiv managed to turn the situation around…
 • Oleksandra Poda and Mariana Lastovyria
How war disrupted my love story
War dismantled Oksana’s relationship — holding commitment and future plans hostage to uncertainty and distance. Here’s what keeps her choosing love…
 • Oksana Stepura
So many Iranians killed, funeral traditions are changing
As the Iranian regime’s violence disrupts burial traditions, some Iranians are reinventing how they mourn by publicly singing and dancing.
 • Alessandra Hay and Jacqueline Cole
We’re approaching our breaking point
Due to harrowing conditions, The Counteroffensive’s Ukraine team is taking a week’s break to rest, spend time with family, and restore our strength.
 • The Counteroffensive team
Why cold, darkness worsen PTSD among ex-POWs
We explore the tragic, unusual link between cold and post traumatic stress. Amid blackouts, former POWs face a surge in flashbacks. Oleksii is waking up…
 • Mariana Lastovyria and Oleksandra Poda
How Ukraine’s homeless are faring in freezing conditions
Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s heating infrastructure have turned the -20°C winter into a harsh test of survival for homeless people. Ivan hasn’t had a…
 • Tania Novakivska and Oksana Stepura

January 2026

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