The town of Mezhova, once a tranquil hub in eastern Ukraine, is now on the brink of war. As Russian troops close in, residents prepare for the worst while holding onto hope that their country’s defenses will hold.
Mezhova was officially founded 141 years ago as a mining and farming community, but it has become a frontline town in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The town is now home to thousands of displaced people, who have fled fighting in other parts of the region.
Despite the dangers, many Mezhovans remain optimistic. Local journalist Snizhana Salivon says, “The war touches everything. You see young children collecting for the military… Everyone tries to do something.” The community has come together to support Ukrainian troops and repair infrastructure damaged by the war.
Town officials say that soldiers from Mezhova have been on the front line, risking their lives to defend their country. Head of town administration Volodymyr Zrazhevskyi says, “People really hope and believe that it will stop… We don’t know how, but unfortunately we can’t influence that – just let it stop.”
As tensions escalate, residents are bracing for the worst. An attack drone set fire to an administration building in the town centre last Saturday, while a Russian air strike destroyed a school in nearby Novopavlivka village two weeks ago.
Despite these challenges, Mezhova has shown remarkable resilience. The town’s schools, hospital, and other services remain operational, and infrastructure repairs are underway. However, many residents wonder what the future holds for them and their community.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Mezhovans will not go quietly into the night. They will fight to defend their country, even if it means putting themselves in harm’s way.
Source: https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/02/15/last-stop-before-the-front-line-eastern-town-on-edge-as-ukraines-defences-creak