Hard-up Ukrainians waltz away their woes
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.KIEV (Reuter) - Nearly 250 Ukrainians, ignoring the economic crisis which has cast millions into poverty, have paid dollars 500 ( pounds 340) each to attend a glittering New Year's Eve Viennese ball. Natalya Kovalyova, of Radio Rox, one of the ball's sponsors at Kiev's ornate opera house, said only five tickets wereunsold. President Leonid Kravchuk was to be among those attending.
Inflation in Ukraine is 70 per cent; the average monthly salary is 300,000 karbovanets ( pounds 7). 'We have to cultivate a national elite,' said Anatoly Mokrenko, director of Ukraine's national opera.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments