Society
1 April 2026: a church holiday, taboos and superstitions of the day
On 1 April, Orthodox Christians commemorate Saint Mary of Egypt. In folk tradition, this day was associated with purification, restraint in speech and action, as well as with omens used to predict the weather for April.
Air Canada CEO steps down following a language row
The scandal arose because he published a video message in English only, without addressing the audience in French.
WhatsApp has introduced AI-powered replies and photo editing: what will change for users
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a major update, which will see the messaging app gain AI-generated replies, new photo editing tools, memory-clearing features, and additional functions for transferring chats and managing accounts.
Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings is investing in the Ukrainian defence industry
Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings has joined the UA1 investment fund, which will invest in Ukraine’s defence industry. The fund plans to close its first funding round at $50 million by the end of April.
The ‘Midas’ case: the NABU has not ruled out further charges
New suspects may emerge in the ‘Midas’ case, and the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) expects to conclude its investigation by the end of the summer. Meanwhile, the extradition papers for Timur Mindich, whom investigators regard as one of the key figures in the case, have been awaiting the Prosecutor General’s signature for two weeks.
Debris from an Iranian missile fell 30 metres from the Ukrainian embassy in Israel
On 31 March, debris from an Iranian cluster missile fell approximately 30 metres from the Ukrainian Embassy in Israel. According to Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiga, no one was injured as visitors were inside the building at the time of the impact.
9,500 new cars have been sold in Ukraine since the start of the year: crossovers and SUVs dominate the market
Off-road vehicles account for almost 87% of the new car market, with the Renault Duster leading the way.
The Pink Full Moon over Ukraine: when to view the Moon on 1 April
Ukrainians will have the best view of the April full moon, known as the ‘Pink Moon’, on the evening of 1 April, when the moon rises above the eastern horizon. The full moon will reach its peak at 05:11 on 2 April, Kyiv time.
Rescue operation in Indonesia: 21 people found on a raft in stormy seas
In Indonesia, on the morning of 31 March, rescuers found 21 people adrift on a raft following a boat accident in stormy seas. Everyone who had been on board survived.
The speed limit in Kyiv will not be raised to 80 km/h from 1 April: decision by the Kyiv City State Administration
In Kyiv, there will be no seasonal increase in the speed limit to 80 km/h on certain sections of road during the spring and summer months. The Kyiv City State Administration stated that this decision was taken following a comprehensive survey of the city’s road network.
Electronic employment records: what will happen after 10 June 2026
In Ukraine, the transition period for the digitisation of employment record books runs until 10 June 2026. At the same time, the Pension Fund emphasises that there are no fines or other penalties for late submission of electronic copies, and that the length of service will not be lost.
Unstable weather in Ukraine: where rain is expected on 31 March
Today, 31 March, wet and unsettled weather is expected across Ukraine, with rain throughout the country. These weather conditions are being caused by a low-pressure system.
