They Were Not Soldiers

This curated project shares photographs and personal perspectives from the Ukrainian front lines, focusing on the lived experiences of those often reduced to a single label. Through their own images, it explores how fathers, daughters, and ordinary people cope, survive, and hold onto humanity in extraordinary circumstances.

Stories

They Are Not Soldiers

They are fathers.
Daughters.
Artists.
Friends.

They are not just soldiers.

And this is where you can begin to see them.

Behind the Scenes

These photos from Perun show the workshop in action – tools laid out, ammunition in progress, and every detail being prepared for the unmanned unit’s next mission.

In war, there is rarely a true pause. If they are not actively engaged, they are preparing for what comes next. Every piece assembled and every hour spent…

What Are You Eating??

This is a real Ukrainian dish — varenyky with cottage cheese, topped with fried onions and pork cracklings, and served with real Ukrainian sour cream. Shared by a Ukrainian Commander.

I Had No Clue, So I asked…

This burned Humvee is a reminder of what soldiers face on every trip to the front. For some, the mission ends safely. For others, the cost is devastating. After years of war, they continue to hold the line.