the survival of the inhabitants of Bakhmout

Bakhmout, a city in eastern Ukraine, has been on the front line for several weeks. But never had the fighting seemed so close at the start of February. Despite the heroic defense of the Ukrainian army, the Russians would advance day after day towards deserted and tirelessly bombarded streets. “Bakhmut is constantly targeted, the Russians use all types of artillery. Many people lose their lives”says a Ukrainian soldier.

“I’ve been living in a basement for months”

A few dozen inhabitants still live in the hell of Bakhmout. They are mainly old people, who do not want to leave the city despite the dangers and the likelihood of seeing the Russians arrive. To get supplies, the inhabitants must walk among the ruins. Crossing a river is perilous, especially when you are 75 years old and bring back wood for heating. “I’ve been living in a basement for months. When I go out, I’m like a mole. I have to get used to the light”, says a septuagenarian. Ukrainians also have to deal with freezing temperatures. Prayer is the other refuge of the inhabitants of Bakhmout. The faithful still hope for peace, but they find it increasingly difficult to believe it.