Remembering Ukrainians who have lost their lives in the war

Just before dawn on the 24th of February 2022, Russia launched its full-scale attack on Ukraine. Since then, it’s estimated that hundreds of thousands on both sides have been killed.

In this special edition, we hear from families of fighters, civilians and journalists about their loved ones and the impact on those left behind.

“Our son was so tiny when his father was killed and it was really hard to tell him what happened,” Inna tells us. “It’s really important to be honest with kids – I couldn’t tell him that his father had just died, because it’s not true, I had to tell him that somebody else took his life.”

Our guests include Nastya, who shares the music she wrote in memory of her father, and Helen whose talented daughter never realised her dreams. We also feature music from Vitaliy and his friend Andriy. And we hear about two journalists who lost their lives reporting on the war.

Presenter: James Reynolds
BBC producers: Ben Davis and Kira Fomenko
Boffin Media producer: Richard Hollingham
Editors: Arja Haikonen and Harriet Oliver

A Boffin Media production in partnership with BBC Outside Source.

(photo: Andriy Pilshchikoe who died in combat. Credit: Lilia Averyanoea)