The Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine has long been in Moscow's sights. Vladimir Putin reportedly says he’ll freeze the war in return for full control of it. Russia already controls 70% of Donetsk and nearly all of neighboring Luhansk - making slow but firm advances. Just 8 kilometers (five miles) from the frontlines, volunteers are on a mission to evacuate the sick, elderly, and children to safer grounds in the Donetsk town of Dobropillia.
Initially, the evacuation runs smoothly as the team arrives in an armored vehicle equipped with drone-jamming technology. However, signs of devastation are everywhere; the streets appear deserted, and the few residents left venture out only to gather supplies amidst daily Russian attacks. Some buildings lay in ruins, while significant parts of the population grapple with the repercussions of water shortages and ongoing conflict.
During the sound of nearby blasts, the volunteers press on, determined to rescue as many residents as possible. Emotional farewells unfold as families are torn between staying and fleeing, with many fearing that the situation may lead to further losses. Amidst all this turmoil, conversations about the future reveal varying perspectives on whether the contentious Donbas region should be surrendered for peace. As fighting intensifies, both humanitarian workers and residents find themselves caught in the harrowing uncertainty of war, wondering if their homes will ever feel safe again.
Initially, the evacuation runs smoothly as the team arrives in an armored vehicle equipped with drone-jamming technology. However, signs of devastation are everywhere; the streets appear deserted, and the few residents left venture out only to gather supplies amidst daily Russian attacks. Some buildings lay in ruins, while significant parts of the population grapple with the repercussions of water shortages and ongoing conflict.
During the sound of nearby blasts, the volunteers press on, determined to rescue as many residents as possible. Emotional farewells unfold as families are torn between staying and fleeing, with many fearing that the situation may lead to further losses. Amidst all this turmoil, conversations about the future reveal varying perspectives on whether the contentious Donbas region should be surrendered for peace. As fighting intensifies, both humanitarian workers and residents find themselves caught in the harrowing uncertainty of war, wondering if their homes will ever feel safe again.
