This article provides a comprehensive overview of the war in Ukraine as captured by photographers, detailing the conflict's evolution since February 24, 2022, when Russia began its large-scale, unprovoked invasion. The initial Kremlin narrative suggested a swift conquest of Kyiv, but Ukrainian resistance thwarted these plans, prompting a retreat from the Kyiv region while Russia pursued offensives in other areas. The failed incursions in 2022 led to significant Ukrainian victories in Kharkiv and parts of Kherson, raising hopes for a potential defeat of the Russian forces.

However, the Ukrainian counteroffensive that began in the summer of 2023 did not achieve its expected outcomes, attributed to inadequate weapon supplies from Western allies and strong Russian defensive positions bolstered by extensive minefields. The article notes that by August 2024, Ukraine launched an invasion into the Kursk region of Russia, marking a historic moment as foreign troops occupied parts of Russian territory for the first time since World War II. Additionally, since autumn 2024, Russia has intensified its military operations against Ukraine, including deploying additional troop reinforcements.

Throughout this narrative, the photographers’ perspectives convey the intense realities of war, the human cost, and the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. The storytelling through photography not only serves to document the conflict but also to evoke responses from the international community, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity in the face of ongoing aggression. The coverage serves as a crucial reminder of the war's impact on civilians and the dire need for a resolution to the conflict.