In the besieged city of Orikhiv, where Russians continually attack, residents struggle to defend their homes and memories from an unforgiving enemy. The specter of war haunts increasingly closer in southeastern Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region. Though the pre-war population was about 14,000, just about 800 people are left. Most of these residents are seniors, unwilling or unable to abandon the communities that have been their home for generations. Liudmyla, one such resident, seated alone in the last functioning post office, a testament of survival among so much hopelessness.
Today, Orikhiv became ground zero in Ukraine’s counteroffensive and just a few miles from the frontlines. Explosions continue to sting the air around her. Liudmyla can never forget a troublesome morning when explosions rang out near her home. For her, leaving Orikhiv isn’t a possibility. Still, she is unwavering in her decision, living on the land with two ever-faithful dogs, Zeus and Sheila, countering the storm with the shelter of her free will.
Military Presence in Orikhiv
The 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade during a stubborn defense from Russian advances. They go on routine patrols to protect the city and its dwindling citizens. Soldiers such as Serhii Skybchyk remind themselves of the importance of their mission. It hardens their resolve, if anything, to continue to do battle with our civilians’ presence.
“The thought of civilians still living in Orikhiv motivates us to keep fighting,” – Serhii Skybchyk
Escalation no longer seems like a remote possibility. Reports indicate that Russian forces are preparing for renewed assaults on Orikhiv specifically and the Zaporizhzhia area broadly. The range of the current “kill zone” has increased dramatically, now extending from 5-7 km to more than 30 km. This move is meant to show the growing threat by the shelling of those who have decided to stay in Orikhiv.
Construction crews are at work all over Zaporizhzhia. They are installing nets on poles and wires along over 100 miles of roads. These anti-drone nets are part of a concerted effort to improve defenses against aerial attacks, exposing the U.S. military’s response to a changing battlefield.
The Human Cost of Conflict
Against these tactics, the cost of war in human life becomes grimly apparent, especially when focusing on civilian impacts. And as our film good residents tell the story of their wish for quiet and normalcy to return. Yevhenii, a fellow resident, speaks to this desire for normalcy in the face of conflict, and sums up the madness beautifully.
“We just want more freedom, and civilian life.” – Yevhenii
Yet, at the same time, there is an undeniable air of resilience among those who are left. Viktor, another resident, reflects on the grim reality they face but remains hopeful for a resolution, albeit one that seems increasingly distant.
“We want to believe the war will end, but it doesn’t feel likely anytime soon,” – Viktor
Such sentiments are echoed across Orikhiv, as locals deal with the reality of their situation. The war has disrupted lives and shattered communities, yet many choose to stay, holding onto their homes as a testament to their strength.
Ongoing Hostilities and Future Prospects
Ukrainian brigades, like the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade pictured above, are bravely fighting every day to disrupt and cut off Russian supply lines. Doubt continues to cloud Orikhiv’s future. A recent coordinated drone strike on a Russian fuel train in the occupied Zaporizhzhia region sent plumes of black smoke into the sky—an indication of both resistance and volatility.
As tensions rise, international communication seems more and more deadly. Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, has dismissed hopes for a sustainable resolution, stating that Russia is “not interested in a sustainable, fair and long-term settlement.” This rhetoric serves to legitimize the skepticism of residents who rightfully doubt any new promises of peace.
Viktor voices this skepticism poignantly when he questions trust in leadership:
“How can we believe (Russian President Vladimir Putin) when there has been so much deception?” – Viktor
The ongoing conflict leaves many feeling trapped. Viktor summarizes this feeling succinctly:
“The option to retreat on our own does not exist for us.” – Viktor
