Since the Russia's invasion two years ago, Ukraine has seen interest grow in its cultural identity. And many with creative media backgrounds have been offering their skills in the war effort, as an act of cultural resistance.

Kyiv

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine from land, air and sea with strikes causing widespread damage. Global leaders have condemned the move and imposed sanctions.

Ukraine Invasion

Since the invasion by Russia two years ago, Ukraine has witnessed a significant shift toward embracing and enhancing its cultural identity. This transformation is evident across the country as Ukrainians rally around symbols of their heritage and history, showcasing a collective effort to assert their uniqueness and sovereignty. The conflict has not only unified the nation in its struggle but also fueled a resurgence in cultural pride and expression.

Individuals with backgrounds in creative media have been particularly active in contributing their talents to the war effort, viewing their participation as a form of cultural resistance. These contributions have ranged from using art and media to bolster national morale to creating works that document the resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people during this period. This blend of creativity and patriotism represents a key aspect of how Ukraine's identity is evolving in response to the conflict, highlighting the role of culture as both a form of defiance and a source of strength.



How the war has transformed Ukraine's identity

At home in Kyiv, Pavlo and Irina sought through images from a second life they have made for themselves on the front lines in the East. Both photographers and storytellers with successful commercial and fashion careers before the full-scale invasion, they joined the same brigade to use their skills in war. Now we are filming the crimes that have been committed in Ukraine and the work of our armed force and portraits of our beautiful fighters themselves. And like many other Ukrainian artists, incensed at Russia's apparent intention to destroy their culture, any spare time is devoted to projects that promote cultural identity. The deeper you go into Ukrainian culture, the more interesting it becomes and the more you want to delve into it. It makes you rethink everything and realize your value as a nation. And our cultural projects have become more meaningful. It helps keep you sane. Their work is also being used to help recruitment, as the army struggles to find enough soldiers to counter recent Russian successes like Avdiivka. Beyond the town that's now in Russian hands, new trenches are being rapidly created to hold back further advances. Depending on the war's progress, this could become a new defensive line for Ukrainian soldiers. But in spite of such a setback, Irina and Pavlo would be at their side, documenting their struggles. And knowing that some of their portraits of fellow soldiers could become the images that traditionally adorn the graves of those killed. It is very difficult when someone writes to you and says they are dead and their photos have been used on their graves. Very difficult. Against the almost unbearable burden of war, one couple seemingly finding strength in the love of a culture and of each other. Rob McBride, Al Jazeera, Kyiv.

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Ukraine Invasion