Invisible scars: the psychological impact of war

While Ukraine fights for its survival, this economic agreement will shape its future. In the latest episode of the Ukraine the Possible podcast, we analyze the complex "mineral deal" between the U.S. and Ukraine — an arrangement that links future natural wealth to the promise of aid. We examine the questions surrounding the deal's transparency and the long-term control over national resources. Is this a necessary path to reconstruction, or does it risk locking Ukraine into a long-term cycle of resource extractivism? Listen now to understand the true cost of this partnership. Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Russia's war against Ukraine inflicts more than physical damage; it's creating deep psychological scars across an entire population. This episode confronts the hidden epidemic of trauma – the PTSD, anxiety, and moral injury devastating lives. We explore the personal stories behind the statistics, the neurological impact of constant stress, and the critical need for accessible mental healthcare and societal healing in the face of ongoing conflict and its long-term consequences.Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Millions of Ukrainians are living as refugees in their own land. How the nation responds to their plight will determine its very soul. This episode urgently investigates the massive challenges faced by these internally displaced people – struggling for housing, jobs, and basic dignity amidst war. We dissect the effectiveness of current support systems, revealing the gaps and raising critical questions: ▪️ Are Ukrainian IDPs being forgotten? ▪️ Is the government truly prioritizing their needs? ▪️ And what crucial, fundamental changes are needed to secure a just and stable future for all Ukrainians?Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

The war has drastically altered Ukraine's agricultural landscape, impacting not just farmers but the entire country. This episode focuses on Ukraine's land, agriculture, and grain in the shadow of the Russian invasion. We’ll explore how the full-scale war has affected the agricultural sector, the consequences of land reform, and the challenges Ukrainian farmers face.  Join us as we dive deeper into this complex issue, analyzing the current situation and future prospects. Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Russia's brutal war has left a trail of devastation in Ukraine, making housing a critical issue. With 1.4 million apartments, 135,000 individual  homes, and 39,000 dormitory rooms damaged, many Ukrainians are now homeless.  This episode examines the contributions of the government, local authorities, and international organizations in addressing the housing crisis. We'll explore their approaches, discuss challenges faced by those displaced, and explain why Ukraine's housing sector needs radical changes, including the development of social housing and fair property taxes.  Join us as we delve into these pressing issues and uncover steps needed to rebuild homes for all Ukrainians. Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine persists, bringing with it widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure. Debates on post-war reconstruction have quieted, shifting focus towards reconstruction during wartime. The urgency to rebuild quickly arises from the necessity to provide essential services to citizens and sustain economic functioning.  Is the government doing enough for reconstruction, and what are the primary obstacles?Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Contamination of Ukraine's territory with landmines and unexploded ordnance due to Russia's full-scale invasion has reached unprecedented levels, resulting in the creation of the largest minefields in the history of warfare. In areas where these explosive mines are present, human casualties, including children, are inevitable. Addressing this colossal issue will demand years, if not decades, and substantial resources for effective cleanup.  This prompts the question: What measures and methods is Ukraine currently employing to eliminate landmines? Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

In the three decades leading up to the Russian invasion, Ukraine lost roughly 8 million citizens due to diverse causes. After the outbreak of the full-scale war, the nation witnessed a comparable drop in population, but in a significantly shorter span. This time, the cause was a mass migration due to the hostilities. The likelihood remains that not everyone displaced by the invasion will return once conditions stabilize.  In this episode, we'll evaluate the upcoming challenges and explore the potential for demographic recovery in the country.  Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

The Russian invasion has delivered a crippling blow to the Ukrainian economy, and the road to recovery will span years. This conflict has affected every pivotal sector of the economy, spanning from industry and agriculture to the service sector. The military actions have inflicted substantial damage on Ukraine's infrastructure throughout various regions, leaving a notable impact on employment rates and the income of its citizens.  What measures has the Ukrainian government implemented to address the issues stemming from social protection and the regulation of labour relations amidst this tumultuous period? About Ukraine the Possible Podcast The Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine is a war of aggression by a fossil fuel empire, so the peoples of Ukraine have no choice but to resist. In the podcast, we discuss the war and its impact, as well as the historical context of transformations, crises and inequality. Despite the tragedy, Ukrainian society has demonstrated its ability to dialogue, cooperation, and potential for a more just, inclusive and diverse future. And this future requires international solidarity. Authored by Vitalii Atanasov from Kyiv.

Russia cynically exploits global anti-colonial sentiments while simultaneously occupying Ukrainian territories, illegally exporting seized grain, and destroying Ukrainian ports. As part of its expansion, Russia aims to control Ukraine's transport, energy, agriculture and communication networks. The digital realm stands out as a crucial battleground for contemporary infrastructural imperialism.  In this episode, we will delve into the methods employed by Russian forces to seize and control Ukraine's digital infrastructure, examining the impact on internet services, mobile communication, and broadcasting during the Russian occupation. Authored by Vitalii Atanasov. He is a journalist and researcher, editor of Digital Capitalism and Internet Utopias, author of “Anthropogen” podcast. Lives in Kyiv, Ukraine.