This special edition of Corresponsales delves into the harsh realities faced by Ukraine two years after the onset of the war. Amidst the ongoing crisis, the focus is on the ground where the conflict's essence is most evident. The reporting teams have gathered stories from various regions, providing a detailed and multifaceted view of the situation in Ukraine.

Ukraine faces a divisive debate over a new mobilization bill aimed at maintaining its defense against Russian offensives. The proposed legislation seeks to limit military service to three years, lower the recruitment age from 27 to 25, and impose stricter penalties for non-registration. The bill has sparked significant polarization within the country.

Ukraine is debating a new version of a mobilisation bill aimed at recruiting enough soldiers to maintain its defence against Russia. The bill proposes limiting military service to three years, reducing the conscription age from 27 to 25, and tightening penalties for those who fail to register. The legislation is divisive, reflecting the challenges faced by exhausted soldiers after nearly two years of war.

The European Union has agreed to start accession talks with Ukraine next year, with progress contingent on rigorous measures, particularly in the fight against corruption. Many of these conditions are defined not by Brussels but by Ukrainian civil society activists, who urge the EU to demand necessary reforms. Following the resistance to the Russian invasion, the community of Ukrainian anti-corruption activists and journalists has intensified its vigilance.

The European Union has agreed to begin accession talks with Ukraine next year, contingent on the country's progress in combating corruption. Ukrainian civil society activists and journalists, who have intensified their anti-corruption efforts, are instrumental in defining the necessary reforms. The report highlights the active role of these groups in ensuring accountability and transparency in Ukraine.

In Ukraine, drones play a central role in the conflict with Russia, being one of the five key sectors where Kyiv must focus its efforts to gain an advantage over Moscow, according to the Chief of the General Staff Valery Zaloujny. The use of drones and signal jamming are highlighted in a report by correspondent Gulliver Cragg.

Ukraine's military is intensifying training for new recruits and offering advanced courses to experienced soldiers in anticipation of a prolonged conflict. Recovered wounded troops are being reintegrated into reconstituted units, highlighting the country's strategic preparations for an extended war effort.

Poland is set for legislative elections, seen as a crucial test for democracy with the Law and Justice Party seeking a historic third term. The party, led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, faces accusations from opponents of undermining judicial and media independence and being dictatorial. Supporters argue the opposition threatens Poland's sovereignty and aims to make the country subservient to the European Union.

Poland's upcoming elections are deemed the most crucial since the fall of communism in 1989, with the nationalist Law and Justice party (PiS) seeking a third term. The EU has had conflicts with PiS since it took power in 2015, due to its control over courts and media. Critics label PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski as a potential dictator, while supporters argue the opposition would compromise Poland's sovereignty. The country remains deeply divided as election day approaches.

In Kyiv, engineers from the volunteer Ukrainian design bureau PARS and civilian volunteers are developing a new cruise missile named Trembita to aid Ukraine against Russian aggression. The missile is expected to be significantly cheaper than its Western counterparts. Akim, the chief engineer at PARS, emphasizes the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of volunteer-driven innovations. The volunteers, who have already produced hundreds of mortars, are making substantial contributions to the war effort, with increasing support from government officials.

The United States has been the primary supplier of weapons to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, providing over $43 billion in military aid. NATO countries like Germany and France have also contributed sophisticated weaponry. Interestingly, Russia itself has become a significant supplier, as Ukrainian soldiers collect, repair, and adapt equipment left behind by retreating Russian forces.

Near the front line, Ukrainian deminers meticulously search for anti-personnel mines, facing challenges due to the use of plastic mines by the Russian army, which complicates detection. The demining process is crucial for the Ukrainian counter-offensive, with some deminers recently trained in Poland. Soldiers express the need for better equipment, such as thermal drones, to aid in locating plastic mines.

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has declared total mobilization, banning military-aged men from leaving the country so they could be called to fight at any moment. In the weeks following the attack, the desire to fight was so high that military commissariats turned some away. However, as the war drags on and casualties rise, many are seeking ways to avoid it, testing the social fabric of Ukraine.

Leaders and representatives from over 60 countries are expected in London on Wednesday and Thursday for a conference on the reconstruction of Ukraine, aiming to mobilize states, businesses, and major financial institutions.

An African delegation is expected in Kiev on Friday and in Saint Petersburg the following day for a peace mediation aimed at resolving the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. However, the last-minute withdrawal of several delegation members seems to dim the chances of success.

Following the destruction of the Kakhovka dam on the Dniepr River, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine has been compromised. Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, is visiting the site. Residents of Nikopol are now without water due to the incident.

The destruction of the Ukrainian Kakhovka hydroelectric dam poses a significant threat to local agricultural production, highlighting the severe environmental and economic impacts of the disaster.

The Ukrainian army has announced that it now controls two villages in the southeast of the country, marking the first claimed gains of its offensive against Russian troops in this part of the front.

Since the beginning of the large-scale invasion, Ukraine has declared a general mobilization of men aged 27 to 60, with those under 27 being mobilizable only if they have completed their military service. In the weeks following the attack, queues formed outside army recruitment centers. However, many men are now trying to avoid mobilization, with some succeeding by paying bribes. Correspondent Gulliver Cragg conducted the investigation.

As Ukraine prepares a counteroffensive to reclaim territories captured by Russian troops, it grapples with the complex issue of dealing with collaborators. These include those who voluntarily served in Russian occupational administrations and participated in repressions against Ukrainians, as well as those who aided Moscow's Armed Forces. The culpability of lower-ranking public servants, teachers, and police officers is more challenging to assess.

Russian forces have once again bombed Kiev overnight from Thursday to Friday, with the city's civil and military administration reporting that all missiles were intercepted and destroyed.

Ukraine denies any involvement in the drone attack on the Kremlin, which Moscow attributed to Kiev. Mykhaïlo Podoliak, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that such claims by Russia are merely attempts to create a pretext for a large-scale terrorist attack in Ukraine.

Rescue operations in Uman, Ukraine, targeted by Russian strikes on Friday, concluded on Sunday with a final death toll of 23, including five children.

Volunteers Maxime and Juriste are collecting the abandoned bodies of Russian soldiers in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Their efforts aim to exchange these bodies for those of Ukrainian soldiers, prevent environmental pollution, and gather evidence for future war crime trials. They also hope to raise awareness in Russia about the human cost of the war, potentially sparking protests against Vladimir Putin's actions.

Approximately 25% of Ukraine's agricultural lands are infested with mines and unexploded ordnance, affecting not only areas occupied by Russian forces but also Ukrainian-controlled zones within artillery range. Demining programs are focusing on residential areas rather than fields. Despite the risks, some farmers are choosing to work their lands during the spring planting season, risking their lives.

Around a quarter of Ukraine's farmland is contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance, affecting both Russian-occupied and Ukrainian-controlled areas. Demining efforts prioritize residential zones, leaving fields hazardous. Despite the dangers, some farmers risk their lives to plant crops, with several fatalities already reported. Correspondent Gulliver Cragg provides insights into the dire situation.

The correspondent from France 24 in Kiev, Gulliver Cragg, reports on the mixed emotions of Ukrainians who are feeling sad and anxious due to the ongoing war but are uplifted by Joe Biden's visit and statements from the head of Ukrainian Military Intelligence. The report highlights the resilience and morale of the Ukrainian people amidst the conflict.

Life in the Ukrainian capital has regained a semblance of 'normalcy' one year after the conflict began, according to France 24 correspondent Gulliver Cragg in Kiev. However, he notes that most people there know someone on the front lines.

Following Russia's invasion, the occupation of Ukraine's fertile southern regions, Mykolaiv and Kherson, has devastated the country's agriculture. Gulliver Cragg reported on a farmer who joined the fight to reclaim his land from Russian control. Although successful, the farm, like many others in the area, is now in ruins.

Following the Russian invasion and occupation of Ukraine's fertile southern regions of Mykolaiv and Kherson, Ukrainian farmers faced disastrous consequences. In April, correspondent Gulliver Cragg met with a farmer whose farm had fallen under Russian control. The farmer joined a Ukrainian territorial defense unit to reclaim it. With Kherson's liberation, he succeeded, but like most farms in the region, it lies in ruins.

Despite Ukraine's rapid counteroffensive, Russia still occupies a significant portion of Ukrainian territory, including the Donbass. Cities in the region under Ukrainian administration are regularly bombarded, causing significant infrastructure damage and endangering the local population. In July, Kiev attempted to enforce an evacuation, but for citizens, the decision to stay or leave remains difficult. Report from France 24 in the city of Kramatorsk.

Ukraine's grain exports, typically conducted by sea, are severely disrupted due to Russian occupation and destruction of port infrastructure. The resulting grain delivery deficit has spiked food prices and raised famine fears, particularly in Africa. Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have pledged to find solutions, though skepticism remains about Russia's compliance. Exporters are seeking alternative methods to transport grain out of the country.

Ukraine's grain exports, typically transported by sea, are severely disrupted due to Russian occupation and destruction of port infrastructure. This has led to soaring food prices and famine fears, particularly in Africa. Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, are seeking solutions, though skepticism remains about Russia's commitment to any agreements. Exporters are exploring alternative routes, causing significant delays at borders and on the Danube River.

Intense street fighting is taking place in Severodonetsk in the Donbass region of eastern Ukraine, where Moscow's forces are concentrated. Explosions were heard in Kyiv on Sunday morning. Diplomatically, Ukrainian authorities have mocked Emmanuel Macron's stance on not 'humiliating' Russia. Follow the latest events in Ukraine live on our site.

Several Russian bombings targeting railway infrastructure shook Kiev for the first time since late April. Vladimir Putin threatens to strike new targets if Western countries supply Ukraine with long-range missiles. The article provides a live update on the latest events in Ukraine.

Vadim Chichimarine, the first Russian soldier tried for a war crime since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment in Kyiv for the murder of a civilian. His lawyer immediately announced an appeal. Gulliver Cragg, France 24's correspondent in Ukraine, provided the details.

The Ukrainian Prosecutor's Office has requested life imprisonment, the maximum penalty, for the first Russian soldier tried for a war crime in Kiev, accused of killing a civilian at the end of February.

The front line extends to southern Ukraine, with Russian forces holding the port city of Kherson. However, Ukrainians counterattacked in March, regaining control of a small part of the Kherson region. Special correspondent Gulliver Cragg reports from the Ukrainian-held area.

Following the failed attempt to encircle Kyiv, Russian forces withdrew from the region in late March to focus on the Donbass area. Civilians who fled are now returning to their devastated homes, with reports of significant human rights violations, including killings, rapes, and torture. In Andriivka, civilians recount the horrors they faced, including summary executions and widespread destruction. Despite the trauma, some residents, like Andriy, find their homes pillaged but intact, while others, like Tetyana, return to complete ruin.

Russian soldiers, initially expecting to be welcomed in Andriivka, turned violent when met with resistance from locals. Civilians recount instances of rape, violence, and murder during the occupation. Bodies of those killed were initially buried in backyards before being moved to the local cemetery. The Russian occupiers are described as drunk and out of control, leading to significant trauma and destruction in the village.

A month after Russian invasion forces left the region around the Ukrainian capital, residents struggle with the devastation and trauma left behind. Correspondent Gulliver Cragg visited Andriivka, a village 50 kilometers west of Kiev, which was occupied from late February to late March.

Explosions occurred in the separatist region of Transnistria in Moldova. Regional correspondent Gulliver Cragg provides more information.

Emmanuel Macron, re-elected as President of France, plans to start his second term by addressing key issues such as pensions, education, and health with a new method emphasizing consultation and efficiency. He will also quickly return to international matters, particularly the war in Ukraine, which is a significant concern for the Ukrainian population.

Ukrainian farmers have become popular heroes, depicted in videos towing abandoned Russian tanks and trucks, highlighting the logistical challenges faced by Vladimir Putin's army. However, the war has plunged local agriculture into a crisis with global repercussions, as Ukraine plays a crucial role in the world's supply of grains and sunflower oil.

Russia faces international condemnation and accusations of war crimes following the discovery of civilian bodies in Bucha, which Ukraine's president calls 'genocide.' U.S. President Joe Biden suggests Vladimir Putin should be tried for war crimes, while the Kremlin denies responsibility. Journalist Gulliver Cragg reports from Bucha, highlighting the destruction of the Antonov AN-225. In Kharkiv, heavy bombardments have forced many residents to flee or seek shelter, though some remain resilient. Reporters Catherine Norris Trent, Romeo Langlois, and Achraf Abid document the ongoing conflict and a couple's wedding amidst the ruins, symbolizing hope and resilience.

Fighting continues on the 37th day of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, with Ukrainian forces counter-attacking in some cities. The latest updates are provided by Gulliver Cragg, a special correspondent for FRANCE 24 in Ukraine.

The issue of Ukraine's 'neutrality', a central point in negotiations with Russia to end the conflict, is being 'studied in depth', according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with Russian media. Gulliver Cragg, France 24's correspondent in Kiev, provides further details.

The Ukrainian army has fully regained control of Irpin, a suburb west of Kyiv, as announced by the city's mayor following weeks of intense fighting with Russian forces. Correspondent Gulliver Cragg for FRANCE 24 in Kyiv notes that this information should be approached with caution.

Oleksii and Viktoria Kazantsev fled Mariupol with their daughter to reach the relative calm of Lviv in western Ukraine, leaving everything behind to escape what they describe as a 'horror movie'. The couple, feeling unsafe anywhere in Ukraine, is now considering moving abroad.

Hundreds of thousands are trapped in Mariupol, Ukraine, amid relentless Russian attacks, with no access to basic necessities. Refugees Viktoria and Oleksii Kazantsev, now in Lviv, describe the city's devastation as 'worse than a horror film' and plan to move abroad for safety.

Ukrainian nuclear power plants face significant risks from Russian military activities, including potential damage to auxiliary equipment or the reactor itself, which could lead to a disaster comparable to Chernobyl or Fukushima. Despite the risks, Ukrainian workers at these plants refuse to abandon their posts, even under the threat of missile attacks and while working at gunpoint. The plants are designed to withstand an airplane crash but not a direct missile hit. The seizure of the defunct Chernobyl power station by Russian forces is seen as a strategic move and a form of blackmail due to the presence of radioactive material. Criticism is directed at international nuclear organizations like the IAEA and WANO for their lack of concrete action and effective communication. Ukrainian nuclear technicians continue to work under stress, generating electricity for their country, and the interviewee expresses gratitude to European countries providing aid and weapons. The interviewee, an engineer, remains hopeful for the end of the war and the future rebuilding of Ukraine.