Valery Melnikov unveils the hauntingly poignant narrative of Mariupol's resilience. Eight years ago, Melnikov first ventured into the heart of Donbass, capturing the genesis of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. As the years unfolded, the fervor of the confrontation waned, and a semblance of calm settled over the region. Yet, in February 2022, the echoes of war resurged with an unprecedented intensity, beckoning Melnikov once again to bear witness.
In the aftermath of relentless battles and profound civilian losses, Mariupol found itself immersed in a humanitarian crisis. Against this backdrop, courageous souls returned to the city's ruins, endeavoring to rebuild lives from scratch. Some dismantled the remnants of destruction, while others bore the weight of large water bottles through desolate streets. A resilient few scoured the debris for remnants of their former existence, transporting their findings on makeshift trolleys or bicycles. In the midst of this post-apocalyptic transport, Melnikov couldn't help but reflect on the scene as the "Transport of the Apocalypse."
Strolling through the historic quarters of the city, memories of post-World War II Dresden were evoked – a landscape marked by blackened house skeletons, the unmistakable crunch of shattered glass underfoot, and eerily deserted streets. Melnikov's lens captures the echoes of history, intertwining the past with the present, as Mariupol emerges from the shadows, rebuilding its spirit amid the remnants of conflict.
Local resident Veniamin stands at the window in his ruined apartment in Mariupol
The outskirts of Mariupol destroyed during the fighting between the Ukrainian and Russian armies
During the hostilities outbreak 2022 of May the guy was wounded by shrapnel during the explosion near their house
Down town of Mariupol destroyed during the fighting between the Ukrainian and Russian armies
A local resident clears rubble in his destroyed apartment
A local resident cooks food on a fire on a city street
The graves of local residents who died during the hostilities in the city cemetery
Local resident in the center
Demolition of houses destroyed during the fighting
Dump of damaged cars during the fighting
One of the destroyed apartments in the city center
Local residents during prayer in the church of Mariupol
