A blend of intense battles and harmony in Donbass – RTD

“People have got to live. Many of them have nowhere to go. They have come to understand that. Most are already used to it. The place where we are now, this town, gets shelled all the time. Yet, everyone’s out walking and living  a peaceful life. I wondered about that too, that there’s virtually no distinct line. The transition between war and peace is very smooth.” This is how ‘Kuzya’, Communications Chief of ‘The Veterans’ Assault Brigade, describes contemporary life in Donetsk. For almost 10 years, civilians there have been enduring relentless shelling. Presently, fierce battles are being fought for their freedom. Just 10 minutes away from the city centre is the theatre of war with heavy pounding from the enemy’s FPVs, bomb-carrying drones and artillery fire. However, families chose to remain in their hometown. How do these people navigate life at the crossroads of war and peace? Why did they decide to stay?