As the conflict in Eastern Ukraine intensifies, a small town on the front line becomes a place of refuge for internally displaced people, with residents struggling to cope with the ongoing war and longing for peace. In this divided community, some believe their country will emerge victorious, while others pray for victory and peace.
The mining town of Dobropillya, located just 20 kilometers from the front line, has become a place of refuge for internally displaced people. The Russian attacks have intensified over the past few weeks, and despite the efforts of the Ukrainian army to protect the town, many residents are struggling to cope with the ongoing conflict.
A Town Divided: Optimism and Despair
Volodymyr, a soldier from the 59th Separate Assault Brigade, is optimistic that Ukraine will regain all its territories. He believes that the enemy doesn’t want peace negotiations, but he remains hopeful that his country can emerge victorious. However, not everyone shares his optimism. Ihor, the military chaplain and pastor of the Light of the Gospel church in Dobropillya, emphasizes the importance of praying for victory and peace.
The Human Cost of War
The Russian attacks on Dobropillya have taken a devastating toll on the town’s residents. Many homes have been destroyed, leaving families without shelter or belongings. ‘Larysa, a pensioner, recounts her experience during a recent attack, where she was forced to clear away glass and debris from her apartment while her husband was injured.’
Dobropillya, a city in Ukraine's Kharkiv Oblast, has been repeatedly targeted by Russian forces since the start of the 2022 invasion.
According to reports, the city has been subjected to artillery and missile strikes, causing significant damage to infrastructure and civilian casualties.
As of February 2023, over 100 civilians have been killed, and hundreds more injured in Dobropillya.
The city's strategic location near key transportation routes makes it a crucial target for Russian forces.
A Desire for Peace
Despite the ongoing conflict, many residents of Dobropillya long for peace. ‘Tetyana, a pensioner, believes that US President Donald Trump should stand by Ukraine and support its interests, rather than those of Russia.’ Oleksiy, another resident, points out that the land never belonged to Russia and that it’s time for them to return what they took.
The Importance of Humanitarian Aid
Denys, a local resident who brings humanitarian aid to residents of villages near the front line, emphasizes the importance of supporting those affected by the conflict. His brother Oleksandr, a pensioner, believes that Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could come to an agreement regarding peace negotiations.
Humanitarian aid refers to the provision of assistance, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care, to individuals or communities affected by conflict, natural disasters, or poverty.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), over 100 million people worldwide require humanitarian assistance each year.
The aid is often provided through non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, and local governments.
Effective humanitarian aid requires a coordinated response, including assessment, planning, and implementation phases.
A Town in Ruins
The Russian attacks on Dobropillya have left the town in ruins. The men who work to clear up the rubble after each attack do so with a sense of resignation, knowing that the conflict is far from over. As one resident puts it, ‘So many have fallen fighting for our Donbas. It can’t just be given up.‘
Dobropillya is a small town located in the Sumska Oblast of Ukraine.
With a population of around 12,000 residents, it serves as a significant urban center in the region.
The name 'Dobropillya' translates to 'good will' or 'good spirit' in Ukrainian.
Historically, the area has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological findings dating back to the Neolithic era.
Today, Dobropillya is known for its agricultural industry and scenic natural surroundings.
