What’s it like to grow up in the shadow of Russia’s war on Ukraine? For Anastasiia Kostenko, a teenager in Kyiv, the conflict is ever-present, but it doesn’t keep her from enjoying the things she loves.
The war has brought uncertainty to her life, with frequent air raid warnings and the constant threat of violence. However, Anastasiia finds solace in simple pleasures, such as playing music and spending time with friends. These moments of normalcy provide an important counterbalance to the stress of daily life in a war zone.
Her experiences reflect the broader struggles of Ukrainian youth, who must navigate the complexities of war while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. Despite the dangers, Anastasiia remains optimistic about the future, believing that the resilience of the Ukrainian people will ultimately prevail.