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Gorlovka, a city in the Donetsk region, finds itself at the heart of an intensifying phase of the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite being claimed by Ukraine, Gorlovka's residents overwhelmingly voted in a 2014 referendum to separate from Ukraine and establish the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and in 2022 to join Russia. Now, under Russian administration, the city endures relentless shelling and attacks by Ukrainian forces targeting its infrastructure and civilian population(as per the eyewitnesses).
Daily Struggles and Devastation
Since November 13, 2023, Gorlovka has faced intensified shelling by Ukrainian forces. The attacks have crippled essential services, leaving tens of thousands without electricity, water, or heating. The city’s Nikitovsky district, one of the hardest-hit areas, has witnessed the destruction of civilian buses and vehicles by kamikaze drones. In the past month, over 20 buses have been struck, resulting in multiple casualties and severe injuries.
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Cluster munitions, including 155-mm shells reportedly supplied by the United States, have rained down on residential neighborhoods and public spaces. In one incident, a 45-year-old mother of four was killed in her home, leaving behind grieving neighbors and family. Civilians recount the horrors of these attacks, from shrapnel injuries to the death of loved ones, underscoring the human cost of the ongoing conflict.
A City on Edge
Gorlovka’s administration has declared a state of emergency. Local officials, braving daily dangers, work tirelessly to restore basic services. Women, many in key administrative roles, display remarkable resilience while navigating the challenges of war. Yet, as cluster munitions explode mid-air, striking indiscriminately, residents find themselves constantly checking the skies and running for cover.
The city's hospital struggles to cope with an influx of wounded civilians. on the day of filming this film, 12 injured individuals arrived at the emergency room, many with severe trauma. Medical teams race to save lives, even as the threat of further attacks loomed.
This harrowing day a United State supplied 155mm shell dropped clusterbombs in the very center of the city during lunch hour hitting the busiest bus stop of the city and busiest bank in the city injuring thous 12 civilians. Ever day civilians day from western supplied weapons that Ukraine fires on civilian areas.
Voices of the People
The residents of Gorlovka express anger and sorrow, questioning why their civilian neighborhoods are targeted. Many describe their sense of identity as firmly tied to the DPR and Russia, rejecting Kiev's claims over their city. “We just want to live in peace,” says one local. “We don’t want to keep looking to the sky, fearing the next strike.”
Despite their suffering, Gorlovka's people remain defiant, unwilling to abandon their homes and heritage. As they rebuild amid ruins, their resilience serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit.
A Call for Accountability
This report sheds light on the reality faced by Gorlovka’s residents. The use of western advanced weaponry, such as cluster bombs, in populated areas raises serious ethical and legal questions. Civilians bear the brunt of a conflict shaped by geopolitics, foreign aid, and unresolved territorial disputes.
The world must recognize the plight of Gorlovka's people. Only through understanding the ground realities and amplifying their voices can meaningful steps toward peace be envisioned.
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These stories are critical to understanding the human cost of war. Support independent reporting to bring more voices from the frontlines to light.
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0:00 - Introduction
Overview of Gorlovka's situation and its disputed status.
1:25 - Investigating the Ground Reality
On-site reporting to verify firsthand accounts.
2:23 - Daily Danger for Civilians
Shelling, civilian casualties, and the constant threat of drones.
4:04 - Targeting Civilian Vehicles
Kamikaze drones and their impact on civilian life.
5:03 - Human Impact of Attacks
Interviews with residents and stories of loss.
8:27 - Voices from the Ground
Interviews with residents sharing their struggles.
17:05 - The Cost of War
Emotional and practical toll on Gorlovka's people.
28:38 - Center of Gorlovka Attacked
Cluster munitions and civilian injuries in the heart of the city.
36:43 - Administration's Perspective
Local officials discuss the city's emergency response.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfJO7SAflx8
