The white armoured police van speeds into the eastern Ukrainian town of Bilozerske, a steel cage mounted across its body to protect it from Russian drones. They'd already lost one van, a direct hit from a drone to the front of the vehicle; the cage, and powerful rooftop drone jamming equipment, offer extra protection. But still, it's dangerous being here: the police, known as the White Angels, want to spend as little time in Bilozerske as possible.
This pretty mining town, just nine miles (14km) from the front line, is slowly being destroyed by Russia's summer offensive. The local hospital and banks have closed, the stucco buildings in the town square are cracked and shatter from drone attacks, while neat rows of cottages stand abandoned. Approximately 700 inhabitants remain in Bilozerske from a pre-war population of 16,000.
With about 218,000 people in Donetsk region needing evacuation, including 16,500 children, authorities aim to assist those in front-line areas. However, they cannot provide new housing for evacuees. Many residents choose to stay, despite the growing threat from Russian drones.
The police search for a woman wanting to evacuate, encountering challenges while navigating the dangerous streets. An emotional decision lies ahead for many civilians, who deal with the horrific realities of war. Reports show civilian casualties at a three-year high, with new drone threats complicating their dangerous existence.
As families face dire choices to leave belongings or stay where it’s unsafe, personal stories emerge. One elderly man risks his life for cooking pots, while others like the Moroz couple remain to honor their deceased son, grappling with the bond to their homeland amidst the chaos.
For those who have already fled, life remains uncertain. The Zaiets family recounts how they had to leave their home due to nearby shelling, now residing in borrowed accommodation while facing continued threats from Russia. Amid the turmoil, Ukrainians cling to memories and the struggle to survive their beloved land.
This pretty mining town, just nine miles (14km) from the front line, is slowly being destroyed by Russia's summer offensive. The local hospital and banks have closed, the stucco buildings in the town square are cracked and shatter from drone attacks, while neat rows of cottages stand abandoned. Approximately 700 inhabitants remain in Bilozerske from a pre-war population of 16,000.
With about 218,000 people in Donetsk region needing evacuation, including 16,500 children, authorities aim to assist those in front-line areas. However, they cannot provide new housing for evacuees. Many residents choose to stay, despite the growing threat from Russian drones.
The police search for a woman wanting to evacuate, encountering challenges while navigating the dangerous streets. An emotional decision lies ahead for many civilians, who deal with the horrific realities of war. Reports show civilian casualties at a three-year high, with new drone threats complicating their dangerous existence.
As families face dire choices to leave belongings or stay where it’s unsafe, personal stories emerge. One elderly man risks his life for cooking pots, while others like the Moroz couple remain to honor their deceased son, grappling with the bond to their homeland amidst the chaos.
For those who have already fled, life remains uncertain. The Zaiets family recounts how they had to leave their home due to nearby shelling, now residing in borrowed accommodation while facing continued threats from Russia. Amid the turmoil, Ukrainians cling to memories and the struggle to survive their beloved land.
