In a week that saw Volodymyr Zelenskiy visit four EU countries at what feels like a pivotal moment in his country’s war with Russia, Ukraine’s president gave an hour of his time to the Guardian for an interview led by editor-in-chief Katharine Viner. Zelenskiy warned that US delays to approval for weapons use are costing lives, discussed how he is planning for a possible return of Donald Trump to the White House and gave fascinating insights into life as the leader of a state under attack. Despite the bleak military situation around Ukraine’s second city, Kharkhiv, Zelenskiy was relaxed, even humorous, as he outlined the domestic pressures and his urgent but careful diplomacy as he presses Ukraine’s case for continued western support.
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Five essential reads in this week’s edition
1
Spotlight | Will the US descend into civil war and bloodshed?
After Donald Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts in the New York hush money case, the right believe the US is under threat and are mobilising. Disinformation reporter Rachel Leingang explores the backlash against the verdict.
2
Science | The truth about neurodiversity
Growing understanding of ADHD and autism has led to an increase in diagnosis. Science editor Ian Sample looks at the scholarship helping to improve people’s lives and explores how neurodivergent people are now instrumental in helping shape research.
3
Feature | My secret German grandad
A mystery at the heart of Leo Hickman’s family tree led him to explore the experiences of the thousands of Germans who were held in camps in Britain after the second world war the scandal around the local women who “fraternised” with them.
4
Opinion | South Africa loses its faith in the ANC
After years of scandal and poor governance, the ANC failed to win a majority at last month’s elections. People are right to want checks and balances, and new voices, argues Alexis Akwagyiram.
5
Culture | Why is everything kafkaesque?
A century on from Franz Kafka’s death, the word “kafkaesque” is still being used as a touchstone for nightmarish, modernist alienation, even on the Simpsons. How did it gain such a hold over culture, asks Claire Armistead.
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What else we’ve been reading
The name of Rob Burrow may be unfamiliar to many outside the UK, but the former rugby league player became widely known for his tireless work raising awareness of motor neurone disease, which sadly claimed his life last weekend at the age of 41. Guardian sports writer Donald McRae got to know Burrow towards the end of his life and has written this moving tribute to a sporting giant and a remarkable man. Graham Snowdon, editor
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Other highlights from the Guardian website
• Audio | Exposing Israel’s secret ‘war’ on the ICC
• Video | Mexico’s first female president pledges to have ‘honest’ government
• Gallery | Where the magic happens: Americans let you into their bedrooms
• Interactive | UK general election opinion polls tracker
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