Four and a half years after Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the conflict has evolved dramatically. What began as a ground war aimed at seizing Kyiv has transformed into a high-stakes aerial battle dominated by drones. Ukraine, once on the defensive against nightly Russian missile and Iranian-designed Shahed drone attacks, has emerged as the world's leading manufacturer of unmanned systems. Its retaliatory strikes on Russian energy and retail infrastructure are now bringing the war to the doorsteps of Moscow and Crimea, challenging Putin's narrative of a 'special military operation' that was expected to last only days.
Exclusive Access to Ukraine's Elite Drone Command
In this week's edition of the Guardian Weekly, Luke Harding gains exclusive access to Ukraine's elite drone strike force, going behind the scenes with senior commanders to reveal the strategies and technologies that have made Ukraine a global leader in drone warfare. The article provides an unprecedented look at how these sky commanders are executing precision strikes against Russian targets, reshaping the modern battlefield.
Meanwhile, Robert Tait reports on a surprising geopolitical shift: Ukraine's growing defensive expertise against Iranian drones has unexpectedly won Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed favor with Donald Trump's White House. However, the Ukrainian president faces mounting domestic pressure over his decision to sideline a popular military commander, a move that has sparked controversy and debate within the country, as Michael Segalov explains.
Beyond the Battlefield: Ceuta Crisis and Other Highlights
This week's issue also delves into a humanitarian crisis on Europe's southern border. In Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, more than 70,000 people entered the territory last week, many swimming from Morocco. Okba Mohammad and Javier Jennings Mozo spoke to some of those who made the perilous journey, capturing their stories and hopes for a better life in Europe.
Surveillance Streetlights and Political Shifts
Zoe Williams examines the proliferation of camera-equipped streetlights, questioning whether this new technology will help fight crime and find missing persons—or push us closer to a surveillance state. In the UK, Tim Burrows investigates the constituency of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, which includes both genteel resorts and some of England's poorest villages. With a snap by-election approaching, Burrows explores what residents want from their political representatives and their views on the country's direction.
Musk vs. Media, and Theater Reinvented
Jane Martinson weighs in on the escalating battle between Elon Musk and the media, following the Tesla CEO's clash with the Economist editor, whom he called a 'traitor to the west.' Martinson argues that truth must not be the casualty in such conflicts. In culture, Mark Lawson reviews Benedict Andrews' bold new London production of 'Electra/Persona,' starring Cate Blanchett and Nina Hoss, which fuses Sophocles with Ingmar Bergman, offering insights into contemporary life.
Editor's Picks and Reader Favorites
Editor Graham Snowdon shares a personal favorite: a rollercoaster account of a south London tabby cat named Karl, who used the toilet and escorted people down the street—a remarkable moggy deserving of his memorial plaque. Deputy editor Isobel Montgomery highlights a 10-day countdown of the most popular invertebrates nominated by Guardian readers, beautifully written and illustrated, which changed her perspective on creatures she'd usually avoid.
Multimedia and Engagement
This week's multimedia offerings include an audio feature on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's potential 2028 presidential run, a video on the north of England's love affair with American deli sandwiches, and a gallery showcasing Gered Mankowitz's iconic music portraits. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts via email for the letters page or other feedback, and to follow the Guardian Weekly on social media for updates.
