In the army now: Pictures that show how ordinary Ukrainians have been shaped by war

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, many Ukrainian civilians have become soldiers, either voluntarily or through conscription. The BBC interviewed nine soldiers, ranging in age and background, about their experiences and how the war has transformed them. These individuals, previously working in fields like nightclub administration and publishing, now serve in roles from drone command to frontline observation. They describe the emotional toll of the war, including the constant danger and the loss of comrades. Despite the hardships, they express a commitment to defending their country and protecting their families, finding strength in their fellow soldiers and the hope for a better future.

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