I totally agree with this view! I want to support your selfless effort to show the war the way that it really is. Unvarnished. From a local perspective. I also subscribe because, frankly, it feels like one micro-small extra thing I can individually do to support the people of Ukraine in their just struggle. Support and understanding starts with informed awareness. You all provide that!
Same for me; wanting to support Tim and everyone. May I add that I watched the editorial meeting and suggest that you try to mic more closely to each speaker and caption her/him with their name so we know. Are you recording with a handheld laptop? Could you use a handheld mic to record audio? Having worked in video myself, I know that close and clear micing is important for coherence. You can do one or more "dry run" sessions to practice the technical elements before public release. Thank you for all your work. I wish you well.
I would add that I also really appreciate you all being in the thick of it, on the ground, giving us news that I can trust. As I stand with Ukraine from afar, your human interest stories help me to get to know the people I am standing with and are a source of encouragement and hope in the midst of such darkness. Thank you for all you are doing. Take care and slava Ukraine 🇺🇦 ❤️
I think a lot about how a lot of opinion-driven publications are doing a lot better than us, even though we are doing the real hard work of being in the thick of us. I don't really understand why!
My answer to that last question as a paid subscriber doesn't fit into any of the choices given. It's because I want to support your work as a unique and valued voice on events and people in Ukraine.
I enjoy the human stories, but would really like more political, economic and strategic coverage of the war from the human side.
I want to feel like I'm getting the "inside scoop" on what the NYT and other international media are covering. For example, what was the reaction in Ukraine to Zelensky's Oval Office meeting? Is he more popular and what does that look like on the ground? How are Ukrainians responding to the intensified Russian attacks during this second administration? Introduce us to some of the real people in his circle and their families.
I wish there was another option for the last question, "Paid subs: Which was most important for making the decision to upgrade?" I upgraded because I want to support the work you do because I believe it is important to help keep people from moving to the "next shiny object" and forget about Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. I don't have the luxury of forgetting since my brother and sister-in-law live in Kyiv and my love for them ensures my eyes stay focused on this war and the heartbreak and loss it brings to the Ukrainian people. I admire the work you and your team do and appreciate the varied content and your professionalism. Thank you for all you do.
1. I am now a paid subscriber. I’ve been following this Substack for a long time. I’m a PhD student in Peace and Conflict Studies and have been following because I’m interested and concerned about what is happening in Ukraine. You provide the best local news reporting I’ve seen. I had always planned to become a paid subscriber once my course work was completed. I have 1 class and 1 assignment left. The discount induced me to subscribe now rather than later in the week.
2. I’m not sure I have an answer to this. Unless maybe you could report on how your reporting is making a difference or what impacts you’re starting to see. Maybe feedback from the locals on their perspective of your reporting versus other news outlets doing reporting in / on Ukraine.
3. Also not sure I have an answer for this. But I would like to suggest follow up articles on people you have interviewed in the past. Where they are now and how things have changed for them since they were first featured in one of your articles.
Mostly, I want to support investigative journalism, eyes and ears on the ground, in places that could otherwise be forgotten. Media/journalism has been under assault and newsrooms have been gutted, and I admire anyone who can persevere in search of the truth.
Also, I've tutored Ukrainians and other refugees and migrants in English language and heard their incredible stories of resilience and fortitude. Thank you for giving them a broader voice.
I am reminded of the scene in Welcome to Sarajevo where journalists risk their lives to tell a story, only to be bumped from the news by some fluffy gossip about the royals. I'd love to see more journalist doing what you're doing—though I know it's not easy.
I subscribe to support the writers--people who report on the news, particularly those who do so under such difficult and dangerous conditions, deserve to make a living. Stay safe.
I think a lot about how a lot of opinion-driven publications are doing a lot better than us, even though we are doing the real hard work of being in the thick of us. I don't really understand why!
"What could we do to add even more value?" One thing I might suggest, maybe as a monthly feature, - in what ways could those of us outside of Ukraine potentially and meaningfully contribute to the Ukrainian people during this difficult time?
Are there particular charities or non-profit efforts that you come across that you could recommend?
On Facebook, there are a number of "sponsored" ad groups doing the rounds like WhiteStork (ostensibly for donating first aid kits) or others doing Ukrainian themed 'dissent pins' or apparel. I'm understandably sceptical.
Are there genuine needs that you come across in your work that interested readers could consider supporting?
I've hesitated to do this, simply because we are not a nonprofit rating company. The nightmare scenario for me is an NGO we recommend which ultimately is not effective, and the trust we have built in our readers is our #1 goal.
Reasonable. But you could simply occasionally report on organizations that you come across that are doing important work under the radar - without an outright endorsement. Your readers can take it from there, if they choose.
One of the most memorable stories I read was when you were embedded with the EMTS on our Christmas Eve. You are my main source for Ukraine now. It is alarming how the coverage and interest on Ukraine has diminished in the US. I also subscribe to the Bulwark and saw your podcast with Tim Miller. The journalists know that the Counteroffensive is the only game in town and want to hear from you. I worry about your safety and truly appreciate all your dedication. So I say keep doing what you are doing !
I'm living in long-term care in a nursing facility in New Mexico, which means I have a monthly "personal allowance" in two figures. I simply can't afford to subscribe to you ... or contribute to United24 ... And I wish I could because you journalists out in the field deserve that support above all others. What I'm glad to give you is kudos and recommendation by word of virtual mouth.
Your reports are high quality and I hope you continue to garner increasing support. Thanks for what you do.
I wish to no longer see news media refer to "the war in Ukrane" but instead refer to "the Russian invasion" or to "Putin's invasion". Also, it would be good for media ro always include a byline or tagline such as "20,000+ kidnapped Urkanian children still held by Russia/Putin" or " x number civilian hospitals bombed to date by Putin". Attach such a byline to each article regardless of the articles subject. In other words keep the focus on Russia invading, on Putin's crimes, on Russia being able to end their unprovoked war at any second by going home.
The biggest reason that I subscribed was because I found this was one of the best sources for news about what's going on in Ukraine, both for breaking news and daily happenings, and I wanted to support the writers to ensure that this would continue.
The first question on the number of newsletters I think should be the last question. As it's all about the content. I'd much rather have two or three newsletters with great reporting in them than several short newsletters containing news that can be found elsewhere. I have been very impressed with the coverage you'd done, which is why I remain a subscriber.
My actual reason for upgrading to subscriber status is because I want to support the writers.
I totally agree with this view! I want to support your selfless effort to show the war the way that it really is. Unvarnished. From a local perspective. I also subscribe because, frankly, it feels like one micro-small extra thing I can individually do to support the people of Ukraine in their just struggle. Support and understanding starts with informed awareness. You all provide that!
Me too!!
Yes, this is the real reason.
Same
Same. I want them to keep doing this work.
Same here.
Same for me
Ditto
Same
Me too!
And me
Same for me; wanting to support Tim and everyone. May I add that I watched the editorial meeting and suggest that you try to mic more closely to each speaker and caption her/him with their name so we know. Are you recording with a handheld laptop? Could you use a handheld mic to record audio? Having worked in video myself, I know that close and clear micing is important for coherence. You can do one or more "dry run" sessions to practice the technical elements before public release. Thank you for all your work. I wish you well.
Thank you Bo! We're limited in technical ability but trying very much to improve!
I would add that I also really appreciate you all being in the thick of it, on the ground, giving us news that I can trust. As I stand with Ukraine from afar, your human interest stories help me to get to know the people I am standing with and are a source of encouragement and hope in the midst of such darkness. Thank you for all you are doing. Take care and slava Ukraine 🇺🇦 ❤️
I think a lot about how a lot of opinion-driven publications are doing a lot better than us, even though we are doing the real hard work of being in the thick of us. I don't really understand why!
My answer to that last question as a paid subscriber doesn't fit into any of the choices given. It's because I want to support your work as a unique and valued voice on events and people in Ukraine.
I enjoy the human stories, but would really like more political, economic and strategic coverage of the war from the human side.
I want to feel like I'm getting the "inside scoop" on what the NYT and other international media are covering. For example, what was the reaction in Ukraine to Zelensky's Oval Office meeting? Is he more popular and what does that look like on the ground? How are Ukrainians responding to the intensified Russian attacks during this second administration? Introduce us to some of the real people in his circle and their families.
I wish there was another option for the last question, "Paid subs: Which was most important for making the decision to upgrade?" I upgraded because I want to support the work you do because I believe it is important to help keep people from moving to the "next shiny object" and forget about Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. I don't have the luxury of forgetting since my brother and sister-in-law live in Kyiv and my love for them ensures my eyes stay focused on this war and the heartbreak and loss it brings to the Ukrainian people. I admire the work you and your team do and appreciate the varied content and your professionalism. Thank you for all you do.
Please continue your great work. Your dedication shows.
1. I am now a paid subscriber. I’ve been following this Substack for a long time. I’m a PhD student in Peace and Conflict Studies and have been following because I’m interested and concerned about what is happening in Ukraine. You provide the best local news reporting I’ve seen. I had always planned to become a paid subscriber once my course work was completed. I have 1 class and 1 assignment left. The discount induced me to subscribe now rather than later in the week.
2. I’m not sure I have an answer to this. Unless maybe you could report on how your reporting is making a difference or what impacts you’re starting to see. Maybe feedback from the locals on their perspective of your reporting versus other news outlets doing reporting in / on Ukraine.
3. Also not sure I have an answer for this. But I would like to suggest follow up articles on people you have interviewed in the past. Where they are now and how things have changed for them since they were first featured in one of your articles.
Thank you!
i would have chosen all four under what kinds of stories do you prefer. i learn so much from all types.
Mostly, I want to support investigative journalism, eyes and ears on the ground, in places that could otherwise be forgotten. Media/journalism has been under assault and newsrooms have been gutted, and I admire anyone who can persevere in search of the truth.
Also, I've tutored Ukrainians and other refugees and migrants in English language and heard their incredible stories of resilience and fortitude. Thank you for giving them a broader voice.
I am reminded of the scene in Welcome to Sarajevo where journalists risk their lives to tell a story, only to be bumped from the news by some fluffy gossip about the royals. I'd love to see more journalist doing what you're doing—though I know it's not easy.
I subscribe to support the writers--people who report on the news, particularly those who do so under such difficult and dangerous conditions, deserve to make a living. Stay safe.
I think a lot about how a lot of opinion-driven publications are doing a lot better than us, even though we are doing the real hard work of being in the thick of us. I don't really understand why!
"What could we do to add even more value?" One thing I might suggest, maybe as a monthly feature, - in what ways could those of us outside of Ukraine potentially and meaningfully contribute to the Ukrainian people during this difficult time?
Are there particular charities or non-profit efforts that you come across that you could recommend?
On Facebook, there are a number of "sponsored" ad groups doing the rounds like WhiteStork (ostensibly for donating first aid kits) or others doing Ukrainian themed 'dissent pins' or apparel. I'm understandably sceptical.
Are there genuine needs that you come across in your work that interested readers could consider supporting?
I've hesitated to do this, simply because we are not a nonprofit rating company. The nightmare scenario for me is an NGO we recommend which ultimately is not effective, and the trust we have built in our readers is our #1 goal.
Reasonable. But you could simply occasionally report on organizations that you come across that are doing important work under the radar - without an outright endorsement. Your readers can take it from there, if they choose.
I like that idea.
One of the most memorable stories I read was when you were embedded with the EMTS on our Christmas Eve. You are my main source for Ukraine now. It is alarming how the coverage and interest on Ukraine has diminished in the US. I also subscribe to the Bulwark and saw your podcast with Tim Miller. The journalists know that the Counteroffensive is the only game in town and want to hear from you. I worry about your safety and truly appreciate all your dedication. So I say keep doing what you are doing !
I'm living in long-term care in a nursing facility in New Mexico, which means I have a monthly "personal allowance" in two figures. I simply can't afford to subscribe to you ... or contribute to United24 ... And I wish I could because you journalists out in the field deserve that support above all others. What I'm glad to give you is kudos and recommendation by word of virtual mouth.
Your reports are high quality and I hope you continue to garner increasing support. Thanks for what you do.
Keep it up. Great journalism
I wish to no longer see news media refer to "the war in Ukrane" but instead refer to "the Russian invasion" or to "Putin's invasion". Also, it would be good for media ro always include a byline or tagline such as "20,000+ kidnapped Urkanian children still held by Russia/Putin" or " x number civilian hospitals bombed to date by Putin". Attach such a byline to each article regardless of the articles subject. In other words keep the focus on Russia invading, on Putin's crimes, on Russia being able to end their unprovoked war at any second by going home.
Excellent comments
The biggest reason that I subscribed was because I found this was one of the best sources for news about what's going on in Ukraine, both for breaking news and daily happenings, and I wanted to support the writers to ensure that this would continue.
The first question on the number of newsletters I think should be the last question. As it's all about the content. I'd much rather have two or three newsletters with great reporting in them than several short newsletters containing news that can be found elsewhere. I have been very impressed with the coverage you'd done, which is why I remain a subscriber.