Ukrainian Hobbyists Turned War Analysts: The Rise of Deep State

In the wake of Russia's invasion, two Ukrainian hobbyists, Mykula and Pohorilyi, transformed their passion project, Deep State, into a vital resource for tracking the conflict. Initially launched as a news channel, Deep State gained prominence for its open-access map, which meticulously charts the shifting front lines of the war. This tool has become indispensable for Ukrainians seeking to navigate the complexities of a conflict that has engulfed their nation. The duo created the map on the first day of the invasion, responding to a surge in demand from their Telegram subscribers for real-time updates. The map, designed with the help of a friend, features clear indicators of Russian military units, troop movements, and infrastructure, allowing users to zoom in for detailed views of specific areas. With over 482 million views recorded between June 2023 and June 2024, the map has proven to be a crucial asset for both civilians and military personnel. Mykula and Pohorilyi emphasize their commitment to accuracy, relying on open-source intelligence and direct information from frontline military units. They remain steadfast in their refusal to engage in propaganda, focusing solely on providing reliable data. Interestingly, their map has also found an unexpected audience among Russian soldiers, as revealed by a captured soldier who admitted to using it for navigation. As Deep State continues to grow, attracting over 700,000 subscribers to their Telegram channel, Mykula and Pohorilyi's dedication to their work reflects a remarkable blend of youthful enthusiasm and serious commitment to their country's defense.