Wheels for the Kyiv Independent

Help get us on the road

For a long time, it seemed like we could manage without our own vehicle. But as our work expanded, especially our coverage along the front lines and in hard-to-reach parts of the country, the limits of that approach have become clear. That’s why we’re reaching out to you now—for help buying our first car.

Why it matters

Our team has been reporting from across Ukraine, from cities recently struck by missiles to trenches near the front line. Reporters like Francis Farrell and Olena Zashko have relied on rented cars, borrowed vehicles, or shared rides with colleagues to get the job done.

But these workarounds come at a cost. They limit our flexibility, tie us to someone else's schedule, and sometimes just don’t work—especially when plans change fast, which they always do. Having our own vehicle means our team can head out when needed, stay as long as required, and adapt on the go. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about independence and safety.

What we're aiming for

We're looking to purchase a reliable used SUV—something sturdy enough to handle rural roads, backcountry detours, and the rough conditions of the front line. Once we have it, it will immediately become a working part of our reporting force—on the road with our journalists, helping us do what we do best: independent, on-the-ground journalism from Ukraine.