As Alina waited for her bus to the family’s weekend house outside of Belgorod, she reflected on a recent near-miss in an attack on Belgorod’s central square where she and her brother, Artem, were almost injured. Alina recounted the terrifying experience of hiding on the kitchen floor of a nearby restaurant, covering their heads with their hands and opening their mouths slightly as a precaution. Despite the panic attacks and anxiety she faced in the aftermath of the attack, Alina expressed a sense of familiarity and readiness in such situations. The fear and uncertainty caused by the attack have left a lasting impact on the family, with Nataliya, Alina’s mother, noting the ongoing challenges they face.
In Belgorod, life has drastically changed in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The city, located near the border, has felt the effects of the conflict, with stark reminders of the ongoing war visible throughout the area. Concrete shelters have been erected at bus stops and train stations, while security forces patrol the once-bustling central square. The city’s residents, many of whom live within range of Ukrainian artillery, live in constant fear of attacks. The sound of air raid sirens and explosions has become a daily occurrence, prompting the population to seek refuge in the shelters at a moment’s notice.
The war has taken a toll on the city’s residents, with many feeling isolated and abandoned by the government in Moscow. The ongoing conflict has fueled propaganda and heightened tensions, leading some to express support for the war despite its devastating impact. The sense of uncertainty and fear has become a constant presence in residents’ lives, with many feeling a sense of resignation to the circumstances they find themselves in. The regular attacks and constant threat of violence have created a climate of fear and anxiety throughout the city.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, Russia’s new offensive toward Kharkiv has raised concerns about the city’s safety. Russian President Vladimir V. Putin’s recent comments about creating a security zone have only added to the uncertainty, with fears of escalating attacks on Belgorod looming large. The recent circulation of a deepfake video suggesting Belgorod as a potential target has only amplified these concerns, further heightening the city’s sense of vulnerability.
Outside the city, farmers have adjusted to the realities of war, taking precautions to protect their land and property from drone attacks. The ongoing conflict has forced residents to adapt to a new way of life, marked by constant threats and dangers. For many, the war has brought unimaginable loss and tragedy, with families grappling with the aftermath of deadly attacks and devastating injuries. The long-term consequences of the war are reverberating throughout the region, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and communities alike.
Despite the challenges and hardships faced by residents of Belgorod, there remains a sense of resilience and hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Nataliya, reflecting on the impact of the war on children in her care, emphasized the urgent need for peace talks and an end to the violence. As the city continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict and its repercussions, residents like Nataliya remain hopeful for a future free from the constant threat of war and violence.
