In the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the article recounts the harrowing experiences of pregnant women and their families. The author, a journalist, and her husband, a police officer, were fortunate to avoid the occupation of their village, Severynivka, by Russian soldiers. The article details the destruction and looting by Russian forces, including an attack on a maternity hospital in Mariupol on March 9, 2022, which severely injured Iryna Kalinina and resulted in the death of her baby. The author, pregnant during the war, describes the challenges of expecting a child in a country where pregnant women seemed to be targeted. The story of Anastasiya Piddubna, who gave birth in a bomb shelter, is also shared. Despite the dangers, the author gave birth to a healthy child in Kiev, amidst the ongoing conflict.

Older women in Ukraine, like 94-year-old Halyna Vasylivna, are facing severe neglect and isolation amid the ongoing war. With a high proportion of elderly women reliant on minimal state pensions and an overstretched healthcare system, many are left without adequate support. The humanitarian crisis is particularly dire in regions like Donetsk and Luhansk, where elderly people struggle with basic needs and are often unable to evacuate. Despite the efforts of social workers and organizations like HelpAge International, systemic ageism and a focus on aiding children over the elderly exacerbate their plight.

The article discusses the current state of preparedness in Ukraine amidst the threat of a Russian invasion. Despite the looming danger, daily life in Kyiv remains relatively normal, with no widespread panic or emergency preparations. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, urges calm and reassures the public of the country's readiness to resist. The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia's invasion in 2014, has led to significant military improvements and a strong civil defense network. However, the article emphasizes the importance of social cohesion and civil participation to counteract polarization and distrust, which can undermine society without any physical conflict.

Ukraine, five years after the 'Maidan' revolution, has seen significant yet often overlooked successes. Independent media like Hromadske TV have emerged, challenging oligarch-controlled narratives. Decentralization has empowered local communities, exemplified by Zhytomyr's local fire station and Mariupol's cultural festival. Despite ongoing challenges, including Russian aggression and political unpredictability with figures like Volodymyr Zelenskiy, these grassroots initiatives reflect a deeper transformation and resilience within Ukrainian society.

Hromadske, an independent grassroots internet TV channel in Ukraine, emerged as a significant player during the 2013 protests against Viktor Yanukovych. Founded by prominent journalists, it aimed to create Ukraine's first public-service broadcaster amidst a media landscape dominated by oligarchs. Despite challenges like fundraising, skill shortages, and threats to journalists, Hromadske persisted in providing impartial coverage, including from conflict zones like Donbas and Crimea. The article highlights the struggle for media independence and the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity in a polarized society.