(opinion essay)

The on-going war in eastern and southern Ukraine has taken its toll on the lives of millions of people. It has affected not only those who live in the war zone but also those who reside in other parts of the country. One such person is Yulia, a 34-year-old single mother, who lives in Kyiv.

Yulia is an ordinary Ukrainian woman who works as a sales assistant in a small shop in the city center. She wakes up early every morning, prepares breakfast for her 7-year-old son, Ivan, and sends him off to school. Then she rushes to her workplace, hoping to make some extra money to make ends meet.

However, the war has impacted Yulia’s life in many ways. The war has led to the devaluation of the national currency, making it harder for her to afford even basic necessities such as food and clothing. Additionally, the on-going hostilities have led to an increase in crime rates, making her feel less safe and more vulnerable in her neighborhood.

Yulia’s son, Ivan, is also affected by the war. He often wakes up in the middle of the night, frightened by the ‘motor bicycle sounds’ of Shahed drones and their explosions over Kyiv. He is afraid to go to school and constantly worries about his mother’s safety.

Despite the challenges they face, Yulia remains optimistic and determined to provide a better future for her son. She has started to attend evening classes to improve her English language skills, hoping to find a better-paid job in the future. She also volunteers for a local charity organization, providing assistance to the families of Ukrainian soldiers who have been killed or wounded in the conflict.

Yulia’s story is just one of the many examples of how this bloody war in Ukraine has impacted the lives of ordinary people. It is a story of resilience, determination, and hope in the face of adversity. While the war atrocities continue to ravage the country, people like Yulia keep working hard to provide a better future for themselves, their loved ones, and Ukraine.

In conclusion, the war in Ukraine has taken a heavy toll on the lives of millions of people. It has impacted not only those who live in the war zone but also those who reside in other parts of the country. However, the people of Ukraine remain resilient and determined to rebuild their lives despite the horrible hostilities. Their stories of hope and perseverance serve as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.