Mariupol: Three Years of Occupation, Three Years of Resilience

Mariupol: Three Years Under Russian Occupation On May 20, 2022, the city of Mariupol in Ukraine fell under Russian occupation, marking a devastating chapter in the ongoing conflict. The city became a symbol of resistance and the incredible bravery of its defenders, particularly those who held out at the Azovstal steel works. Three years later, the scars remain visible, but the spirit of Mariupol endures. The recent video released by the Rada TV channel provides a poignant visual record of the destruction. Images of bombed-out buildings and the Azovstal plant stand as stark reminders of the conflict's brutality. Yet, interspersed with the devastation are glimpses of the city's indomitable spirit. We see civilians helping each other, a man playing a guitar amidst the rubble, and the resolute faces of Azovstal defenders. These images offer a powerful counterpoint to the destruction, illustrating the resilience of the people of Mariupol. "We remember their struggle and believe in Mariupol's return to Ukraine," states the video's narration, encapsulating the sentiment of many Ukrainians. The video serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing human cost of the war and the enduring hope for peace and the liberation of Mariupol. The anniversary of Mariupol's occupation is a somber reminder of the war's impact, but also a testament to the strength and perseverance of its people. Their story, captured in this video, deserves to be told and remembered.