In the article, the author reflects on their experiences living in Donetsk ten years ago, a city that has witnessed the advance of Russian aggression and the ongoing war in Ukraine. They argue that the conflict did not start with Russia's invasion in February 2022, but rather with the events of spring 2014 when pro-Russian separatists took control of Donetsk and Luhansk. The author discusses how these actions, which included the removal of Ukrainian flags and the establishment of self-declared republics, indicated the beginning of a larger regional crisis, with Russia being a pivotal player in the escalation.

The article highlights the systematic militarization and the distortion of narratives around the war, orchestrated by Russian soldiers and information warfare tactics. The intermingling of local conflicts with broader issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, is underscored, as the author argues that the fight for freedom in Europe encompasses the struggle against various forms of oppression, including those faced by the LGBTQ+ community. This perspective emphasizes that the preservation of human rights, including sexual diversity, is crucial for the future of a free Europe.

By drawing connections between the local implications of the conflict and the international fight for human rights, the author presents a compelling case that the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights must be seen as integral to the broader movement for freedom across Europe. This reflects a deeper understanding of how different facets of society, including issues around identity and rights, intersect with geopolitical conflicts, ultimately enriching the narrative of resistance against authoritarianism in the region.