Kiev neighbourhood endures daily Russian air alerts as war reaches the capital

The Loukianivka neighbourhood in Kyiv, once a lively hub on an old medieval trade route and later a Soviet-era industrial zone, now bears the marks of war with destroyed homes, wrecked warehouses and a burnt market. Although the district is hundreds of kilometres from the active front, it has become emblematic of the surge in Russian air raids targeting Ukrainian cities, especially the capital. Situated under three kilometres from Independence Square and the Kyiv-Passajyrsky station, the area remains a key transport and residential node.

Market stall owner Valentina, who sells crossword books and basic goods, admits she feels fear with every air-raid alert but does not leave, noting her hip injury and reliance on a cane. Her resilience reflects the broader civilian experience as Kyiv endures relentless aerial bombardment.