The Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in a significant number of veterans, many with disabilities. Liubov Halan, a lawyer and co-founder of the Kyiv-based NGO Pryncyp, discusses the need for Ukraine to develop systems to integrate these veterans into civilian life. Pryncyp, founded in early 2023, addresses systematic problems regarding veterans' rights and advocates for policy changes and state investment to support veterans. The organization also focuses on reintegration into professional life and has launched a rights navigator to assist veterans and authorities. Ukrainian society has seen a shift towards inclusivity, with Pryncyp collaborating with other organizations to promote disability-friendly employment policies. The state-owned Ukrainian Railways is an example of an entity that retrains and employs veterans with disabilities. The article emphasizes the importance of preparing for the long-term support of veterans by the state, especially once the war ends.

LGBTQ+ activist Anna Romandash recounts her escape from Kherson just before the Russian occupation and details her efforts in coordinating with international volunteers and raising funds to assist others in evacuating from the city.

Marianna, a queer activist and head of the LGBTQ+ organization 'For Equal Rights' from Kherson, Ukraine, became a refugee following the full-scale Russian invasion. She escaped Kherson before Russian occupation and helped over 300 queer Ukrainians flee. Marianna and her group faced a perilous journey to western Ukraine and eventually received support from volunteers in Berlin, Germany. In Berlin, Marianna continued her activism, aiding queer Ukrainians and raising awareness about the situation in Ukraine.

Polish farmers have resumed their blockade at the Medyka border crossing to pressure the Polish government into signing a formal guarantee to meet their demands against Ukrainian agricultural competition. The blockade, which allows only three trucks to cross per hour, will continue until February 3 unless demands are met. Protest leader Roman Kondrow seeks written confirmation of the government's agreement to protect local interests, citing excessive competition from Ukraine after the EU eased import restrictions. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is seeking to protect local truckers' interests without resorting to blockades.

Liubov Halan, co-creator and head of the human rights center 'Pryncyp,' is working to improve services for Ukrainian veterans, many of whom face challenges with accessing state-guaranteed services. With around 1 million active soldiers and an expected 1.6 million veterans post-war, the organization aims to address systemic issues and simplify bureaucracy. 'Pryncyp' was co-founded by Halan and Masi Nayyem, a lawyer and veteran, to focus on advocacy rather than individual legal aid. The organization has developed a legal navigator app to help veterans and their families understand and access services. Despite the challenges posed by an outdated legal framework and underdeveloped infrastructure, there is strong political will in Ukraine to address these issues, with 'Pryncyp's' advocacy playing a crucial role in shaping future veteran policies.

Anastasiya Blyshchyk's fiancé, Oleksandr Makhov, a journalist and experienced soldier, was killed in action on May 4, 2022, during the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. They both met as journalists and fell in love at their TV station. After Oleksandr's death, Anastasiya surrounded herself with work until she decided to join the Ukrainian army in July 2022. She now serves near the Belarusian border, determined to contribute to her country's defense. The article recounts the couple's last moments together, Anastasiya's initial denial of Oleksandr's death, and her subsequent enlistment in the army, where she serves as a Press officer.

Anastasiya Blyshchyk recounts the traumatic experience of losing her boyfriend, Oleksandr Makhov, who died fighting in the Ukrainian Army after Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Both journalists, they fell in love at their TV station. Following Oleksandr's death, Anastasiya joined the army, serving near the Belarusian border, and is now dedicated to documenting Russian war crimes and assisting journalists. She reflects on the personal and collective impact of the war, the loss of loved ones, and the importance of preserving the memory of fallen heroes like Oleksandr, who was posthumously awarded the Order of Valor by President Zelenski and has streets named after him in Ukraine.

Despite the ongoing Russian invasion and its devastating effects on civilian infrastructure, Ukrainians are preparing for Christmas with resilience. Kyiv has erected the 'unbreakable tree' in Saint Sophia Square, a symbol of endurance, albeit without the traditional Christmas market. In Kharkiv, no large Christmas tree will be placed in the main square, but smaller trees are set up in bomb shelters and metro stations. Mykolaiv's Christmas tree is adorned with military-inspired decorations. Residents like Eugenia Hlushchenko in Kharkiv and Yana Lyashuk in Kyiv are finding ways to celebrate modestly, focusing on family and supporting the Armed Forces. In Lviv, known for its grand festivities, there will be no major celebrations due to energy shortages. Maryana Oleksiv from Lviv shares her experience of a wartime Christmas and the stark contrast to the normalcy she witnessed in Paris.

The grain deal allowing Ukrainian exports via the Black Sea is insufficient to address global market impacts and domestic producer needs. Despite the deal signed with the UN and Turkey, and continued exports after Russian missile attacks, Ukraine's exports are below pre-war levels. Alternative routes like the Danube and rail are also used, but limitations exist without heavy investment. Heinz Strubenhoff suggests expanding the deal or controlling shipping risk premiums to improve conditions. The deal's success hinges on military developments, with potential expansion linked to Ukrainian counteroffensives. Current grain stocks are low globally, with China holding significant reserves, potentially influencing regional politics. The Russian blockade highlights the vulnerability of food-insecure regions and the need for stronger food safety nets.

Odesa, a strategic Ukrainian port city, is struggling to maintain normalcy amidst Russian attacks. Despite the threat, the city has not been successfully seized by Russian forces, thanks to the Ukrainian defense. The recent intensification of Russian actions against Odesa, including missile attacks on Victory Day, has caused casualties and infrastructure damage. The city's residents are slowly returning, adapting to a new reality with fewer barricades and more open cafes, despite fuel shortages and the constant threat of missile attacks. Local volunteer organizations, such as Monster Corporation, have mobilized to support the Ukrainian military and displaced persons. Many residents have switched from speaking Russian to Ukrainian as a principled stance against Russia. The community remains resilient, with a mix of fear and hope, as they face unemployment and the ongoing threat of Russian aggression.