Alina, a pregnant mother of two, narrowly escaped an air attack on her home in Balakliia, Kharkiv oblast, Ukraine, just before she was about to have lunch. This incident occurred a few days after Russia's full-scale invasion, emphasizing the sudden and violent shift in the lives of civilians in the region. Alina described the horror of the moment, noting how the attack caused significant damage to their home, including a shattered roof and blown-out wall, leaving her family fortunate to be alive after such a close encounter with death.

The family had been living under occupation for six months when the attack occurred, demonstrating the precarious situation that many Ukrainian families have found themselves in since the military actions began. Alina reflects on the chaos of that fateful day, noting that they had no time to retreat to safety as the bombardment struck their home, turning their lives upside down in an instant. This personal story serves as a haunting reminder of the vulnerability of civilians caught in the crossfire of war.

As Alina and her family came to terms with their traumatic experience, they underscore the profound impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The events in Balakliia exemplify the broader narrative of displacement and hardship faced by many in the region, as well as the resilience of those who manage to survive against overwhelming odds. Their journey, marked by fear and survival, continues to unfold as the war persists, showcasing the plight of many families in a besieged nation.