In the port city of Kherson located in southeast Ukraine, 85 percent of the population have left since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Some of the city's residents, however, have chosen to stay behind as an act of resistance despite regular shelling by Russian forces which are stationed across the Dnipro River.

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

In the port city of Kherson, located in southeast Ukraine, a significant majority of the population has evacuated due to the ongoing conflict following Russia's invasion. Despite the dangers, including regular shelling from Russian forces positioned across the Dnipro River, 15 percent of the city's residents have remained. For these individuals, staying in their city is seen as an act of resistance.

The persistent conflict has made life in Kherson perilous, with daily routines heavily disrupted by the war. A local maternity hospital, despite being targeted twice by shelling, continues to operate. Residents view giving birth in the city as a statement of defiance and hope. One resident expressed a desire for normalcy, longing for the day when her child could safely attend kindergarten and school.

Kherson faces consistent bombardment, especially in neighborhoods close to the front line, only one kilometer away. The intensity of attacks escalates around midday, causing widespread damage including to critical infrastructure like the water system, which has been compromised by missile strikes. The human toll is heavy, with casualties reported among the civilian population, including a tragic incident where a neighbor was killed by shrapnel.

In response to these conditions, the community has adapted to support one another, including the distribution of bread to those braving the dangerous conditions to return to their shelters. Residents, especially children, spend most of their time in shelters, as activities like going to school or playing outdoors have become too risky. The war has deeply impacted the youngest residents, with children expressing heartfelt wishes for the conflict to end and for the return of their loved ones.

Despite the challenges, there are moments when the residents venture outside, during what is considered the safest time in the late afternoon, even as the conflict continues around them. The resilience of Kherson's inhabitants showcases their determination to maintain a semblance of community and normalcy in the face of adversity.



Meet the Ukrainians living near front line amid war

It's impossible to forget the war on the front line, like here in Kherson. Russian troops are right on the other side of the river. Eighty-five percent of the city's population is gone. Amidst the bombings and latest air raid, this maternity continues to function. It has been hit twice by the Russians. But giving birth here in Kherson is seen like an act of resistance. This is my city. I want my boy to grow up here. I hope the situation will return to normal so that he will play in kindergarten and go to school. At midday, like every day, the shelling intensifies. And this neighbourhood is one of the most affected. It is just one kilometre away from the front line. The latest issue to resolve? The water system is down after being hit by several Russian missiles. Many people have been killed here. Shrapnel hit one of our neighbours in the heart when he was outside in the garden. It is very hard. To make things easier, bread is given out to residents who have to return to their homes and shelters as soon as possible, as rockets are fired again in the area. Locals spend much of their time in shelters. Going to school or playing outside is unthinkable. These activities bring some relief to children. Asked what is the main reason she would like the war to end, Dasha replies. I want my dad to come back. It's late in the afternoon. The safest time to go outside. Dasha and her mother return home with sounds of pounding in the background.

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Ukraine Invasion