The article recounts the experience of Mykola Osytjenko, a Ukrainian journalist who fled the city of Donetsk in 2014 and subsequently relocated to Mariupol, only to be displaced again during Russia's invasion of Mariupol eight years later. Currently residing in Kiev, Osytjenko runs a blog that highlights the stark realities faced by Ukrainians living under occupation, detailing how their lives have been severely affected by the ongoing conflict.

Osytjenko notes the pervasive fear among residents who oppose the occupation, expressing that they are exhausted from their situations. Many individuals are reluctant to share their true opinions, fearing persecution from neighbors or potential action from local police that could lead to imprisonment. Through his work, he aims to shed light on the struggles of these individuals, many of whom feel isolated and powerless in the face of oppressive governance.

The article also touches on Osytjenko's efforts to provide authentic information about life in these occupied territories. By watching Russian television for days, he seeks to understand the narratives that shape public perception in these areas. His insights are crucial in challenging the dominant propaganda, demonstrating the stark contrast between the experiences of those living under occupation and the narratives pushed by the occupying forces.