Smoke billows on screens showing live drone footage over the eastern city of Pokrovsk, one of Ukraine’s fiercest battle zones. Moments ago, Ukrainian artillery targeted Russian troops trying to advance toward a critical road.
The war, which Russia initiated, has caused devastating losses. Hundreds of thousands have died in what former US President Donald Trump described as a “never-ending bloodbath.” Inside a rural house turned command center near the frontline, soldiers watch screens showing the ruined cityscape, evidence of months of intense fighting.
After years of stalled diplomacy, Ukraine and Russia have agreed to direct talks for the first time in three years, sparking cautious hope among soldiers. “This could be the beginning of the end,” says an officer who goes by the call sign “Kozak.” He believes Russia’s strength has waned after Ukraine disrupted their supply lines and rear positions.
Yurii, a 37-year-old former tech worker turned soldier, agrees that talks are necessary but stresses Ukraine cannot stop fighting just because it did not start the war. He and his team use drone intelligence to target Russian forces as the battle continues.
The frontline is dynamic and dangerous. New drone technology—some with fiber optic cables that are hard to detect—pose fresh threats. Ukrainian troops rely on advanced French-made artillery called “Caesar,” which has been effective and quick to deploy.
Despite the hope for peace, soldiers remain skeptical about territorial concessions. Yurii says giving up land will only invite future attacks. Kozak adds that those who haven’t faced the war firsthand don’t understand the deep losses and the resolve to hold every inch of Ukrainian soil.
The toll of the conflict is visible across Ukraine—in memorials, graves, and grieving families. Yana Melnikova visits the grave of her 22-year-old son Vladislav, a drone operator killed earlier this year. For her, news of talks brings little comfort. She fears Russia’s appetite for Ukraine’s land is insatiable, citing brutalities under Russian occupation in places like Bucha.
“No way,” Yana insists about any land concessions. “I want to live in Ukraine, not Russia.” She hopes her son’s death was not in vain and that Ukraine will eventually be free.