Ukraine’s Journalists Share War Reporting, Life Lessons

Ukraine’s independent media outlets are redefining war reporting, earning recognition – and offering crucial lessons – as they navigate the ongoing conflict with Russia. This month, the 2025 Golden Pen of Freedom was awarded to these outlets during the World News Media Congress in Krakow, a testament to their resilience and commitment to truth.

Alyona Yatsyna, 33, co-founder of the independent Ukrainian news startup Kordon.Media, accepted the award alongside her team. Based in the Sumy region, near the Russian border, Kordon – meaning “border” – focuses on frontline reporting and operates as both a news source and a vital community resource. Yatsyna also serves as a regional coordinator for the Institute of Mass Information.

Born from a collective of passionate local journalists, Kordon.Media began with a simple premise: to share experiences and pool skills. “I have media experience; Olesya Borovyk is an editor with field work experience, and we have two photographers and videographers – Yehor Kryvoruchko and Oleksandr Oleksienko,” Yatsyna explained. The initial goal was a one-year trial; two years later, the organization is thriving.

Yatsyna shared insights during a Congress session on Newsroom Leadership, highlighting the unique challenges of covering this conflict. “This war with Russia is a special war. It is a war without rules,” she emphasized, describing a landscape defined by social media warfare and drone technology.

Safety is paramount. Kordon.Media updates its safety protocols every three months, recognizing the constant threat to its journalists. Beyond physical danger, the team grapples with complex ethical dilemmas, prompting a re-evaluation of traditional war reporting standards. Their guiding principle is simple: prioritize immediate aid – whether for a wounded colleague or a civilian in need – and then seek assistance.

The relentless exposure to trauma has also led to a focus on mental wellbeing. Yatsyna coined the phrase “War/life balance” to encapsulate the need for therapeutic relief, however fleeting, amidst daily horrors. The team also actively combats propaganda, social trolling, and AI manipulation, aiming to share their learnings with others.

“We’ve taken the first step…and we can make this first step easier for the next person,” Yatsyna stated. While acknowledging the enormity of the challenges, she expressed confidence in their ability to find solutions, even unconventional ones.

The motivation behind their work, she explained, isn’t heroism, but a deep sense of responsibility, love for their profession, and unwavering commitment to their country. What began as a voluntary effort has grown into a team of 20, boasting 160,000 social media followers, millions of weekly views, and a growing base of 200 local subscribers.

Kordon.Media’s story is a powerful reminder that independent journalism isn’t just about reporting the news; it’s about building community, fostering resilience, and upholding the truth in the face of adversity. Their innovative approach to war reporting, prioritizing both factual accuracy and the wellbeing of their team, offers valuable lessons for journalists operating in conflict zones worldwide. It’s a testament to the enduring power of journalism to inform, connect, and inspire, even in the darkest of times.