Four years of war in Ukraine: How ordinary lives were turned upside down
BBC World
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Four years of war in Ukraine have transformed ordinary lives into extraordinary journeys of sacrifice and resilience. The invasion by Russia in 2022 upended normalcy, turning civilians into soldiers overnight. Many Ukrainians who had never handled a weapon now find themselves in roles they could have scarcely imagined, driven by the necessity to protect their homes and families.
Olena, a former nightclub administrator in Prague, returned to Ukraine in December 2024 to become a pilot. She reflects on how her life has shifted from chasing personal goals to focusing on survival and camaraderie with her fellow soldiers. The war’s emotional toll is evident in her struggles to cope with losses and her unwavering commitment to the fight, driven by her love for her family and hope for a better future.
Oleh, a publishing graduate and former NGO worker, initially felt overwhelmed by the reality of confronting Russia. His journey from fear and confusion to enlisting in the army marked a turning point. He now understands that positive thinking alone cannot protect against armed threats, but his participation in the war effort is a way to act on his values through deeds rather than words.
Anastasiia, who found her passion for drones while serving as an FPV operator, highlights the challenges women face in the military, particularly the constant need to prove their worth. Her story underscores the unexpected ways the war has reshaped young lives, shifting priorities from personal aspirations to the immediate needs of survival and resistance.
These individuals’ experiences reveal the human side of Ukraine’s ongoing conflict, illustrating how ordinary people are compelled to become everyday heroes in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Their resilience not only reflects the broader Ukrainian struggle but also serves as a reminder of the global impact of war on individual lives and collective hope for peace.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/21/2026