In the beleaguered city of Kherson, where life persists under the looming threat of Russian attacks, residents adapt to their precarious reality by seeking shelter and protection. With more than 100 kilometres of anti-drone nets being deployed across the city, local authorities aim to double this coverage within two months, providing a fragile shield for the remaining 60,000 inhabitants against the constant menace of aerial assaults.
A City on the Frontline
Kherson, uniquely situated as Ukraine’s only major city almost directly on the frontline, embodies both resilience and vulnerability. The city’s military governor, Oleksandr Prokudin, emphasises the urgency of the nets, stating, “We are trying to put nets everywhere people move and walk.” The efforts have transformed the urban landscape, with streets adorned in protective coverings.
Yet, the reality is stark; the city has borne the brunt of Russian shelling since the onset of the war in 2022. Following a brief occupation, Kherson was liberated, only to find itself facing an unyielding barrage of artillery and drone strikes. The notorious “drone safari” campaign, which began in May 2024, has escalated the threat level, resulting in daily casualties and widespread fear.
Safe Havens Underground
In the depths of Kherson, the subterranean world offers a semblance of safety. Galyna Lutsenko, a crisis psychologist, facilitates art therapy sessions for children in a basement transformed into a community centre. “It is important to give them choices to make them feel that it is not just about surviving,” she asserts, while engaging the children in creative play.
These communal spaces serve not only as shelters but also as venues for activities such as yoga and dance, fostering a sense of normalcy amid chaos. The psychological burden on children is palpable, with many grappling with anxiety and trauma from the ongoing conflict. “The children are always under pressure,” Lutsenko notes, revealing the urgency of addressing their emotional needs alongside their physical safety.
Everyday Life Amidst the Danger
Above ground, the streets of Kherson tell a different story. Supermarket windows are boarded up to protect against shrapnel, while many buildings bear the scars of war. Despite these challenges, life continues for those who remain. Local residents have become accustomed to the sounds of artillery and the sight of drones overhead, with many opting to limit their outings to essential trips.
Khrystyna Furman, a 23-year-old expectant mother, shares her perspective from the city’s main perinatal clinic, which is housed in a Soviet-era bomb shelter. “Life goes on,” she states resolutely. “We live on the outskirts. This is one of the most dangerous areas of the city here. But everything is OK. I’m local, all my family are local. And this is my home.”
Her sentiments reflect the tenacity of the Kherson populace, who have chosen to remain despite the risks. Volodymyr Gorbachevsky, director of the perinatal clinic, echoes this sentiment, describing a cautious existence where socialising has become a rarity. “I don’t go to cafes or restaurants,” he admits. “We stay at home and use the internet and watch TV.”
Building a Safer Future
Recognising the need for further protective measures, Prokudin has outlined ambitious plans to expand the network of anti-drone nets to 300 kilometres by year’s end. In addition, underground facilities for schools and medical services are being developed to provide more secure environments for children and families.
In the nearby village of Myroliubivka, Larysa Rybachuk, the school director, has adapted her teaching methods to this new reality. “We have alarms five times a day here,” she explains. “You can’t hear anything and it makes it easier for the children.” The school has transformed its basement into classrooms, allowing for a semblance of educational normalcy amid the chaos.
Why it Matters
The situation in Kherson serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of human spirit in the face of adversity. As residents navigate their lives under the shadow of war, their determination to find moments of normalcy and joy highlights the profound impact of community and support systems. The continued efforts to fortify the city against drone attacks not only aim to protect lives but also to preserve the very essence of what it means to live fully, even amidst the ruins of conflict.
