Sofia Johanson is a journalist covering Russia and Ukraine. Usually based in London, she has reported from Kyiv, writing for Grazia, The Times, Meduza and the Moscow Times. She also works at Times Radio, producing audio and visual content on the war in Ukraine, as well as domestic politics, and international affairs. She has interviewed soldiers on the front lines, Nobel Peace Prize Winner Oleksandra Matviichuk, and teachers trying to do their jobs underground. Sofia speaks Russian and is working towards fluency in Ukrainian.
As the Kyiv Philharmonic Orchestra begins its 2026–27 season, it does so amidst increasing ballistic and drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital. Three of its youngest musicians, and pianist Fanya Lin describe what it’s like to perform during wartime.
