As the full-scale invasion of Ukraine marks its fourth year, Russian forces continue to expand their territorial occupation while the Trump administration pushes for concessions from Ukraine in peace talks. In the midst of war, citizens reflect on their experiences and fears, revealing profound emotional and psychological impacts. Among them, Lesha Zalanouska, a psychotherapist from Zaporizhia, shares the trauma experienced in her community and highlights the generational divide between children who know nothing of peace, contrasting it with her own memories.

Zalanouska discusses the pervasive reliance on antidepressants among her peers, indicating a collective struggle with mental health amid ongoing conflict. She expresses a deep emotional connection to Ukraine, emphasizing her reluctance to leave despite acknowledging the bleak reality of regaining lost territories. Her belief shies away from viewing any temporary ceasefire as anything more than a mere respite for Russian forces, reflecting a wider skepticism among the population regarding the prospect of genuine peace talks under the current political climate.

Additionally, voices from Kyiv, such as that of Vasyl Lisak, reveal a sense of hopelessness and uncertainty about the future. Citizens are compelled to grapple with a reality where even the next day is uncertain, overshadowing their everyday lives with anxiety. This perspective is representative not only of political sentiments but also highlights the human cost of ongoing warfare, where hope is dimmed, making the discussions around peace considerably complex and fraught with skepticism.