Two years after the Russian forces withdrew from the outskirts of Kyiv, leaving the town of Bucha devastated, families are still struggling to move on. Nataliia Verbova, who lost her husband Andrii in the conflict, still feels the pain as if it happened yesterday. Andrii, who had joined the territorial defense after the invasion, was detained by the Russians and later found executed in Bucha. The discovery of his body among eight men lying on cold concrete in a photo taken by AP photographer Vadim Ghirda left Nataliia devastated. Even after two years, the trauma of loss remains fresh for many families in Bucha.
After the Russian troops occupied Bucha and committed atrocities, including executing men, women, and children, the town was left in shock and silence. The discovery of more than 400 bodies and the signs of torture shocked the once comfortable suburb. Today, two years later, signs of hope and renewal are visible in Bucha, with the reconstruction of destroyed buildings and the development of residential complexes. However, for those who suffered the worst of the Russian atrocities, the changes are only cosmetic, and the pain remains raw for many.
Despite the progress in rebuilding Bucha, families of the victims are still struggling to come to terms with their loss. Many families have not received official status for their loved ones as military personnel, which would enable them to receive financial compensation. Oleksandr Turovskyi, whose son was among the eight men executed by Russian forces, is fighting to get his son the recognition he deserves as a national hero. The families continue to hold on to the memories of their loved ones through their possessions and photographs.
The site where the eight men were discovered remains mostly untouched, with their portraits hanging on the building’s wall along with flowers. Families still visit the scene to feel closer to their lost loved ones. Oleksandr Turovskyi, like many others, still feels the presence of his son and waits for him to return, despite knowing that he has already buried him. He emphasizes the importance of not forgetting the war in Ukraine and raising awareness to prevent similar tragedies from happening again. The families continue to seek justice for their loved ones and keep their memories alive.
As Ukraine marks the second anniversary of the liberation of Bucha and other suburbs from Russian occupation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledges the importance of rebuilding and preserving the idea of a free world. The families of the victims continue their struggle for recognition and justice, holding on to the memories of their loved ones while trying to move forward amidst the trauma and despair. The world is urged not to forget the war in Ukraine and the suffering of its people, with a call to prevent similar conflicts and atrocities from occurring in the future. The pain and loss experienced by the families of Bucha serve as a reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of seeking justice and peace.
