Ukraine's shoppers downsize as currency plunges, war rages

Prague

DRIFTING through the aisles of a Kontynent supermarket in Kiev, Mykhaylo Ilchuk was learning what it takes to downsize his personal life.

Instead of the usual half-loaf of fresh-baked brown bread, the 58-year-old Ukrainian vocal coach opted for a quarter. Forgoing Spanish apples and cucumbers or Italian pasta, he rounded out his shopping trip with two sweet rolls and a small pouch of coffee.

Cutting back on basic supplies is a response to strains stemming from the currency losing more than half…