Lada Roslycky, an American Canadian of Ukrainian descent, remains in Kyiv despite potential Russian invasion, supporting Ukraine's drive for democracy and independence. Over $5.4 billion U.S. aid has been sent to Ukraine as tensions escalate with Russia. Cronkitenews.azpbs.org

Peter Schmelz discusses his book 'Sonic Overload' about Alfred Schnittke, Valentin Silvestrov, and polystylism in the late USSR.

The Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations collaborates with McCain Institute at ASU and ASU Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law to host a speaker series on Great Power Competition.

This event explores the evolving media landscapes of Russia and Eastern Europe, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era.

Two Orthodox churches in Ukraine reflect historic tensions with Russia. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church - Moscow Patriarchate, under Russian spiritual authority, contrasts with the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which emphasizes Ukrainian spiritual autonomy and separation from Russian control. Theconversation.com

The dissolution of the USSR in 1991 led to independence for 15 countries. Recent events in Kazakhstan, ongoing issues in Ukraine, and Putin's authoritarian ambitions underscore the persistent instability in the former Soviet Union.

Kazakhstan's President Tokayev blames past leadership for corruption and lack of meritocracy, despite ongoing anti-corruption efforts. Public frustration grows as elite corruption persists, and new laws limit freedoms. The system's foundation on corruption challenges genuine reform.

Vadim Astrakhan, a performer and translator, resides in New Jersey. The article provides a brief insight into his life and career.

Three intellectuals analyze the erosion of democracy and suggest renewal paths. They critique social, economic changes and cultural shifts undermining democracy, advocating for movements like Black Lives Matter and the Green New Deal to foster equality, solidarity, and public participation.

The article discusses Russia's historical view of Ukraine as part of its empire, influencing Putin's refusal to acknowledge Ukrainian sovereignty. The term 'Little Russia' and policies suppressed Ukrainian identity, supporting Russia's contemporary claims and actions towards Ukraine. Theconversation.com

President Biden emphasizes fighting transnational corruption as crucial for democracy at the Summit for Democracy. Despite tools like the Global Magnitsky Act, the U.S. hesitates to target corrupt allies, impacting stability and democratic integrity in countries like Iraq and Afghanistan.

Dr. Levin, a US scholar, studies migration, focusing on politics to semantics. She's involved with the Albanian language program at ASU and the University of Prishtina. Originally from Belarus, she pursued anthropology, influenced by her experiences as an immigrant and her academic background.