Vasyl and Tatyana are a retired couple from Kamianka in eastern Ukraine. Both lost their legs in mine explosions and now live with prosthetics. Their house and farm are their pride and joy. This is where they raised their children, where they grow their own vegetables, collect eggs, and raise livestock. They want to stay and, in fact, have no choice. Prior to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Kamianka was a lively village with more than 1,200 inhabitants, farms, schools, a sports field, and cultural events. The Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region displaced many residents and almost completely destroyed the village. After four months, Russian troops withdrew — but an unseen danger remained: mines scattered in gardens, fields, and ruined houses.
Artem is one of few children still living in the village. The 11-year-old spends much of his time alone. He attends classes online, plays the piano, and helps his parents with the housework. For him, too, the danger posed by mines has long been part of everyday life, a threat he is growing up with. The mines also hinder reconstruction. Houses, workplaces, and infrastructure are all affected. But there are initial signs of progress. As of this year, Kamianka once again has electricity and working telephones. Demining teams are working feverishly to make fields and paths safe again. But that will take many years. By then, many former residents will likely have built new lives elsewhere and turned their backs on Kamianka forever.