President Donald Trump's visit to Warsaw was marked by a shift from initial ambiguity regarding U.S. security guarantees to Poland to a strong endorsement of NATO's Article 5 and a commitment against

A cyberattack starting in Ukraine crippled computers internationally, with banks, infrastructure, and various companies reporting hacks. The attack, initially thought to be ransomware, was later suspected to be a sophisticated attack disguised as such, with motives beyond financial gain. Ukrainian intelligence attributed the attack to Russia, but experts like Robert M. Lee of Dragos, Inc. and Nicholas Weaver from the International Computer Science Institute offered alternative views. The attack affected diverse companies and raised questions about its true intent, with ISSP suggesting it could be a precursor to more damaging future attacks.

Yury Kasyanov, a former journalist and advertising executive, has developed a crowdfunded drone called The Commander through his company Matrix-UAV, aimed at aiding Ukraine in its conflict with Russia-backed separatists. The drone is designed to provide visibility, evacuate soldiers, carry weapons, and potentially fire Anti Tank Guided Missiles, pending approval from the Ministry of Defence. Despite challenges, including conducting test flights in harsh Ukrainian winter conditions, Kasyanov is optimistic about the drone's impact and is seeking buyers, with a focus on the United Arab Emirates and the developing world.

The article discusses the similarities between the political situations in the United States under President Donald Trump and Poland under the Law and Justice party (PiS). It highlights concerns about democracy, the undermining of checks and balances, attacks on the media, and the polarization of politics in both countries. The piece also touches on the public's reaction to globalization, populist rhetoric, and the potential consequences for Polish democracy.

Malhama Tactical is the world's first jihadi private military contractor (PMC), consisting of well-trained fighters from Uzbekistan and the Russian Caucasus. Founded in May 2016, it has gained notoriety for its military prowess and training programs, primarily serving groups like Jabhat Fateh al-Sham and the Turkistan Islamic Party in Syria. The group's leader, Abu Rofiq, is a former member of the Russian military who moved to Syria and founded Malhama Tactical to train other rebel and jihadi groups. Despite setbacks in the Syrian war, demand for their services remains high. Malhama Tactical also has a significant online presence, using social media for marketing and offering online training guides. The Russian government has targeted Abu Rofiq, considering him a terrorism threat, but he survived a recent airstrike that killed his family. The emergence of Malhama Tactical represents a new trend in the privatization of war and could inspire similar organizations beyond the Middle East.

The article reports on the escalation of the conflict in Eastern Ukraine, particularly focusing on the town of Avdiivka, which has been severely affected by shelling. The town is without electricity, heat, or water amidst a cold spell with temperatures dropping to -22 C. The use of Grad rockets, which had been rare since the Minsk II agreement in February 2015, has resumed, leading to civilian and military casualties. The Ukrainian military and separatist forces are both heavily armed and entrenched, with the Ukrainian government prepared for all scenarios. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and the UN Security Council have called for an end to the fighting. The article also touches on the broader context of the conflict, including Russia's annexation of Crimea and the recent phone call between Russian President Putin and U.S. President Trump. The Ukrainian government has begun evacuating the most vulnerable residents from Avdiivka.

Intense fighting has resumed in Avdiivka, eastern Ukraine, with both Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces engaging in heavy shelling, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Alexander Hug described the situation as the worst since 2014-2015. Residents are enduring harsh conditions, with many relying on humanitarian aid and spending nights in basements. A 25-year-old rescue worker and a woman were reported killed, and British photographer Christopher Nunn was injured. Despite the dire situation, locals hope for a ceasefire.

Intense fighting has resumed in Avdiivka, eastern Ukraine, with both Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces engaging in heavy shelling, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Alexander Hug described the situation as the worst since 2014-2015. Residents are enduring harsh conditions, with many relying on humanitarian aid and spending nights in basements. A 25-year-old rescue worker and a woman were reported killed, and British photographer Christopher Nunn was injured. Despite the dire situation, locals hope for a ceasefire.

The article discusses a group of volunteer fighters in Ukraine who are part of the nationalist battalion of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army. These volunteers, many with nationalist views, continue to join the conflict despite the assumption that volunteer battalions had been fully integrated into the military. They fight alongside official Ukrainian troops but do not operate heavy weaponry. The volunteers have become staunch nationalists through intense combat and are critical of their government's handling of the conflict, which they refuse to call a war, instead labeling it an anti-terrorist operation. They are particularly discontent with the ceasefire terms, viewing them as a betrayal and questioning whether they honor the sacrifices of their fallen comrades. The volunteers had hoped the 2014 Maidan revolution would lead to a new Ukraine, but they feel disillusioned by the lack of significant change.

Thirty years after the Chernobyl disaster, the remaining members of the 633rd fire brigade from Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, revisit the exclusion zone. The article recounts the events of the 1986 disaster, the immediate response by Soviet firefighters, and the long-term health effects on the 'liquidators' who worked to contain the disaster. Despite being hailed as heroes, many liquidators have been forgotten by the state, losing their entitled benefits. The article also discusses the varying estimates of deaths and illnesses caused by the disaster, with some experts suggesting numbers far higher than the official UN estimate. Additionally, the article highlights the current threat of forest fires in the exclusion zone, exacerbated by climate change and poor forest management, which could potentially release radioactive materials into the atmosphere. The firefighters currently working in the zone are underfunded and underequipped, especially due to resources being diverted to the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The article discusses the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, focusing on the experiences of Ukrainian volunteer soldiers from the Ukrainian volunteer army (UDA) who are fighting against Russian-backed separatists. Despite the presence of a capable Ukrainian military, nationalist volunteers continue to join the front lines. The article explores the motivations of these soldiers, their coexistence with regular troops, and the complex relationship with the Ukrainian government. It also touches on the broader context of nationalism in Ukraine, contrasting it with the rise of the far right in other European countries. The war has become a routine of nightly skirmishes despite cease-fire attempts, with little change in territory. The soldiers express frustration with the Ukrainian government's handling of the war and the lack of change post-Maidan revolution. The article raises concerns about the future stability of Ukraine, given the anger and disillusionment of these soldiers, the proliferation of weapons, and the lack of support for veterans with PTSD.

The article discusses the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, focusing on the experiences of Ukrainian volunteer soldiers from the Ukrainian volunteer army (UDA) who are fighting against Russian-backed separatists. Despite the presence of a capable Ukrainian military, nationalist volunteers continue to join the front lines. The article explores the motivations of these soldiers, their coexistence with regular troops, and the complex relationship with the Ukrainian government. It also touches on the broader context of nationalism in Ukraine, contrasting it with the rise of the far right in other European countries. The war has become a routine of nightly skirmishes despite cease-fire attempts, with little change in territory. The soldiers express frustration with the Ukrainian government's handling of the war and the lack of change post-Maidan revolution. The article raises concerns about the future stability of Ukraine, given the anger and disillusionment of these soldiers, the proliferation of weapons, and the lack of support for veterans with PTSD.

Poland's ruling party, Law and Justice (PiS), faced significant protests over a proposed abortion ban, leading to its rejection. The protests, organized online and symbolized by black attire, reflected Poland's political divide and broader European trends of rightward shifts. The European Union has scrutinized PiS's constitutional changes, fearing democratic erosion. The abortion proposal, initiated by conservative group Ordo Iuris, was part of a larger conservative push in Poland, a predominantly Catholic country. Despite the proposal's rejection, the political and social debate over abortion and the role of the church in state affairs continues, with many Poles resorting to mass protest as a form of direct democracy.

Asher Cherkassy, an Orthodox Jewish soldier, counters Russian propaganda that labels Ukraine as anti-Semitic. Despite historical instances of Ukrainian collaboration in Nazi-led massacres, such as the Babi Yar tragedy, Cherkassy's experience in the Ukrainian military and his friendship with nationalist figures like Dmitry Yarosh challenge the narrative of prevalent fascism and anti-Semitism in Ukraine. He emphasizes that nationalists in Ukraine, including Jewish nationalists, express pride without malice. Cherkassy's story, including his symbolic role in the psychological war against Russian media narratives, is highlighted by the mayor of Dnipro, Borys Filatov, as a powerful counterexample to claims of widespread anti-Semitism and fascism in Ukraine.

Mykola Nyzhnykivskyi, a twelve-year-old boy from Eastern Ukraine, survived an RPG blast that killed his brother Danylo. The conflict in Eastern Ukraine, which began after Russian-backed separatist movements declared their own republics, has resulted in nearly 10,000 deaths and 1.6 million internally displaced persons. Mykola's severe injuries were beyond the capabilities of Ukrainian state doctors, but with the help of volunteers and the Canada Ukraine Foundation, he received medical attention from Canadian surgeons. Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Montreal is now covering his surgeries and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Canadian soldiers are training Ukrainian troops in IED disposal to prevent future accidents. Mykola's recovery continues in Canada, but he will eventually return to Ukraine, where challenges await due to limited accessibility rights and social inclusion for people with disabilities.

Mykola Nyzhnykivskyi, a twelve-year-old boy from Eastern Ukraine, survived an RPG blast that killed his brother Danylo. The conflict in Eastern Ukraine, which began after Russian-backed separatist movements declared their own republics, has resulted in nearly 10,000 deaths and 1.6 million internally displaced persons. Mykola's severe injuries were beyond the capabilities of Ukrainian state doctors, but with the help of volunteers and the Canada Ukraine Foundation, he received medical attention from Canadian surgeons. Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Montreal is now covering his surgeries and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Canadian soldiers are training Ukrainian troops in IED disposal to prevent future accidents. Mykola's recovery continues in Canada, but he will eventually return to Ukraine, where challenges await due to limited accessibility rights and social inclusion for people with disabilities.

The article discusses the large-scale protests in Warsaw, Poland, against the right-wing government's policies that are perceived as undermining democracy and Poland's position in the European Union. The ruling party, Law and Justice (PiS), led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, is accused of authoritarianism, cronyism, and promoting a nationalist agenda. The protests, reportedly drawing around 240,000 people, are a response to PiS's attempts to paralyze the constitutional court, support for restrictive abortion laws, and changes to media laws that have led to Poland's drop in the World Press Freedom Index. Critics, including former Polish presidents and opposition parties, fear PiS's actions will isolate Poland from Europe and damage its democratic institutions. The article also touches on the support PiS has gained from unexpected demographics and the concerns over the party's influence on education and increasing reports of racism.

The article discusses the pervasive issue of corruption in Odesa, Ukraine, and the efforts to combat it led by the region's governor, Mikheil Saakashvili, and his team, including Yulia Marushevska, the young head of customs. Despite the Western-backed push for cleaner government, progress is questioned, with Saakashvili's motives and Marushevska's qualifications under scrutiny. The article highlights the challenges of reforming Odesa's port, the largest in Ukraine, and the digitization initiatives aimed at reducing bribery. The piece also touches on the political dynamics in Odesa, including Saakashvili's national ambitions and the skepticism of locals towards the reform efforts. The U.S. Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt's comments on Odesa being a potential model for Ukraine's reform are mentioned, alongside the difficulties faced due to entrenched corruption and the lack of control over judicial processes.

The article discusses the downing of a Russian Su-24 warplane by Turkish jets near the Syrian border, an act that President Vladimir Putin described as a 'stab in the back.' The incident has escalated tensions between Turkey and Russia, with potential implications for their bilateral relations and the broader NATO-Russia relationship. Experts from various institutions provided their insights on the situation, highlighting the complexities of forming a coalition against ISIS, the risks of military operations in contested airspace, and the strategic responses both countries might employ. The article also touches on the economic ties between Turkey and Russia, particularly in the energy sector with Gazprom, and the potential impact on these relations. The experts suggest that while a direct military confrontation is unlikely, the incident could lead to economic retaliation and increased support for opposing factions in Syria. The event raises concerns about the coordination among countries involved in the Syrian conflict and the future of NATO-Russian relations.

The article discusses the plight of Ukrainian soldiers like Sergey, who are suffering from both physical and psychological trauma due to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine. Despite the Minsk II ceasefire, fighting continues, and soldiers returning from the front face a healthcare system ill-equipped to handle their needs due to corruption and lack of resources. Canadian organizations and individuals, such as the Guardian Angels Ukraine project and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, have stepped in to provide support. They have established rehabilitation programs, sent medical teams for reconstructive surgeries, and are working to build a sustainable prosthetic limb industry in Ukraine. The Canadian government has also provided financial aid for these medical missions. The article highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian soldiers and the international efforts to assist them in recovery.

A Russian Forpost drone, worth $6 million and part of Russia's advanced military technology, was shot down by the Ukrainian Dnipro-1 Battalion near Avdeevka in Eastern Ukraine. Despite Russia's denial of involvement in Ukraine, the evidence, including the drone's unique features and serial numbers, contradicts their claims. The Forpost drone is exclusively operated by Russia, and its capture further undermines Russia's credibility regarding their activities in Ukraine.

Ukrainian forces have reportedly shot down two advanced drones, believed to be of the Israeli Searcher type, which they claim are being used by Russia to monitor the conflict zone in eastern Ukraine. The first drone was downed by the Aerorozvidka unit near Luhansk on May 8, and a second similar drone was shot down later by the Dnipro-1 battalion. The wreckage revealed Israeli markings and a triple backup navigation system, indicating resistance to electronic jamming. Gustav Gressel, after inspecting the wreckage, identified it as resembling an Israeli Searcher drone, which Russia has licensed for manufacture under the name Forpost. The drones are considered advanced and costly, with estimates up to $6 million each. The findings are seen as further evidence of Russia's involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, which Russia has consistently denied.

The article details the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, highlighting the struggle between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists. It surpasses the one-year mark with over 6,000 casualties and a significant displacement of civilians. The focus is on the Ukrainian efforts to crowdfund military equipment, including body armour, weapons, and drones, due to the lack of substantial aid from the West. The journalist visits Eleks, a Ukrainian IT company involved in developing software for drones, and meets with volunteer groups like Aerorozvidka and The People's Project, who are actively engaged in building and operating weaponised drones. Despite the challenges posed by Russian electronic jamming systems, these groups are innovating to create drones that can return home automatically and provide accurate artillery coordinates. The article also touches on the use of outdated Soviet-era maps by Ukrainian forces and the secretive nature of the drone development projects due to security concerns.

The article discusses the pursuit of significantly extending human lifespan, with figures like Joon Yun, Ray Kurzweil, and Aubrey de Grey at the forefront of this movement. Yun has established the Palo Alto prize to encourage breakthroughs in longevity science, aiming to maintain youthful wellness into extreme old age. Kurzweil speaks of 'Bridges' to longevity, with the first being current knowledge to slow aging, and the second involving reprogramming biological processes. De Grey, from the SENS Research Foundation, believes in targeting accumulated cellular damage to prevent age-related diseases. However, their views are met with skepticism from parts of the scientific community, with critics like Dr. Richard Miller questioning the plausibility and scientific basis of such claims. Despite the controversy, these futurists are optimistic about the next decade's potential for breakthroughs, hoping for increased venture capital investment in longevity research.

The article discusses the development of new military technologies in response to the threat posed by ISIS, particularly focusing on the creation of stealth bikes for Special Forces operations. It highlights the collaboration between the British SAS and American Special Forces in a unit called 'Task Force Black,' which operates covertly. The Defense Department's high-risk tech lab, DARPA, awarded a contract to Logos Technologies for the development of a lightweight, near-silent vehicle to transport forces over hostile terrain. The article also touches on the psychological impact of these stealth operations on enemy morale and the strategic shift of the US military towards more mobile and covert fighting platforms. Former Navy SEAL Jonathan Gilliam provides insights into the tactical advantages of using stealth bikes and the challenges of remaining undetected during operations.

Google and Facebook are launching initiatives to bring internet access to over one billion people in rural Africa and Southeast Asia. Google's plan involves solar-powered balloons, while Facebook intends to use drones. The internet's expansion is expected to revolutionize entrepreneurship and efficiency in these regions, with local problems being addressed by new startups. African entrepreneurs like Heshan de Silva and Njeri Rionge anticipate a different business landscape, focusing on basic needs and potentially adopting mobile money and cryptocurrency more readily than the West. The Praekelt Foundation, co-founded by Gustav Praekelt, is working on providing essential services and exploring what localized versions of popular Western services could look like. The article highlights the optimism surrounding Africa's future and the transformative potential of increased internet access.

The article discusses the increasing use of wearable technology by professional sports teams to improve talent scouting and player performance analysis. Companies like Catapult Sports, Adidas, Push, and OMsignal are developing high-end performance trackers that provide teams with actionable data. Catapult Sports, in particular, is highlighted for its widespread adoption by teams such as AC Milan, Philadelphia Flyers, and the Toronto Raptors. The technology is used to compare prospects against current top players and has been credited with helping teams like the Raptors improve their standings. Despite the potential benefits, teams are reluctant to share information about their use of such technologies, leading to a 'wearable technology arms race' in leagues like the NBA, where owner Mark Cuban acknowledges the trend towards standardization to protect players.