Mariia and Anatolii's lives have been profoundly disrupted by the ongoing war in Ukraine, highlighting the struggles faced by many Ukrainians who have endured years of conflict.
Mariia and Anatolii are Ukrainian farmers who lived a fulfilling life in the village of Khatnie. Their lives were centered around their home and family until February 2022, when the war forced them into a harrowing situation. Suddenly awoken by explosions, they witnessed Russian military vehicles approaching their home, leading to a terrifying experience where they became fearful for their safety and identity.
During the seven months of Russian occupation, Mariia and Anatolii faced immense challenges. They lost access to their pensions and lived under constant fear, forced to hide their Ukrainian identity from the occupying forces. This included removing any visible reminders of their heritage, including newspapers and family photographs, emphasizing the psychological toll and the personal loss that comes with war.
As Ukraine began to reclaim its territory in September 2022, Mariia and Anatolii's story mirrors the experiences of countless other Ukrainians who have suffered due to the war. Their account serves to humanize the statistics, showing the deep emotional impacts of living through such a prolonged and violent conflict, as well as the resilience of those who strive to rebuild their lives post-occupation.
