Ukraine War Diaries

Sky News' Yalda Hakim and NBC's Richard Engel have covered world events for years. Now, they team up for a new podcast to share their experiences from the frontline.    They debrief from global flashpoints and discuss their encounters with the biggest decision makers. They'll also be joined by some of those key players to help make sense of world events.  From conflict in the Middle East, to the US election, and the war in Ukraine there is no better place for analysis and expertise.New episodes from Richard and Yalda every Wednesday, starting October 9th.

In an extended episode to mark one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ilyas, Oksana and Seva come together for the first time as a group, to share just some of what impacted them most in the last 12 months and to consider what the future holds? OUR DIARISTS Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of February 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv.Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul Stanworth

Ilyas praises Ukraine's leader after Volodymyr Zelenskyy's UK visit and is grateful his wife and children, in Poland, don't have to experience life in the middle of a warzone. Oksana is happy to have electricity this week and is looking forward to Spring and a trip to Europe, where she'll be reunited with her best friend after many months apart And her husband Seva, a military volunteer, has returned from eastern Ukraine and reflects on how he has gotten used to the Russian missile bombardment, nearly a year on since the invasion. OUR DIARISTS Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of February 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP67 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producers: Rob Mulhern and Annie Joyce Editing: Paul Stanworth Archive: Simon Windsor Digital: David Chipakupaku

Military volunteer Seva learns about comrades who suffered horrific deaths when he returns to Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.In Kyiv, answering a displaced mother's call for help leads to an inspiring phone conversation for Oksana. And Ilyas undertakes an anxious journey hundreds of kilometres across Ukraine to buy a car for his family.WARNING: Seva's diary contains graphic references detailing death and torture. OUR DIARISTS Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of February 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP66 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthArchive: Simon WindsorDigital: David Chipakupaku

Now more than half-way through the winter, and more than 11 months since his family fled the country, Ilyas makes peace with the realisation that his eldest son is successfully assimilating into life in Poland, a re-location forced upon his family by the Russian invasion.In Kyiv, conversations with his comrades on the front line forces Seva to yet again match the odds of mounting Russian pressure against the Ukrainian need for ever greater Western firepower. Meanwhile, amid growing fears over a Russian Spring offensive - and the prospect of a major military push against Kyiv - Oksana redoubles her efforts to cherish special moments with her loved ones.OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of February 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv.Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP65 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthArchive: Simon WindsorDigital: David Chipakupaku

Returning from assignment, Seva speaks with comrades in the eastern city of Bakhmut who are in desperate need of more advanced weaponry but happy to be alive.In Kyiv, Ilyas turns his birthday into a military fundraising exercise.And as Ukraine pleads to the West for more heavy weapons, the story of displacement continues as Oksana supports the arrival of more refugees into Kyiv. OUR DIARISTS Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of January 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP64 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthArchive: Simon WindsorDigital: David Chipakupaku

Seva has a difficult conversation with his sister after a Russian ballistic missile targets her Dnipro neighbourhood, killing 45 people and injuring dozens more. In Kyiv, Oksana shares some of the stories that have penetrated the soul of the nation and reflects on how the attack is impacting the Ukrainian psyche.Meanwhile, a conversation between Ilyas and his grandmother - who grew up in the aftermath of World War II - shifts his focus to those ageing citizens who are struggling to cope with war. OUR DIARISTS Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of January 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP63 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David ChipakupakuArchive: Simon Windsor

As fighting rages in the east of the country and against the backdrop of mounting casualties in the mining town of Soledar, Oksana finds some unexpected respite at a Kyiv comedy night.Meanwhile, in an basement gym, Ilyas finds a world removed from war, until the building is plunged into darkness.OUR DIARISTS Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of January 2023, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP62 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In Kyiv, making use of one of the cities bomb-proofed theatres, Oksana books a comedy night for military volunteer husband Seva.In one of the capital's restaurants, Seva begins the new year in the company of army comrades who extend an emotional gesture of brotherhood in the form of a knife.And after saying farewell to his family, Ilyas transports an old car from Poland ear-marked for frontline soldiers, before finding himself in the blast radius of a missile strike in Kyiv.OUR DIARISTS Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there.Seva, 41, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of December 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.EP39 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note.From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Against the backdrop of a Kyiv still under siege, Oksana reflects on magical Christmas memories from childhood until a drone attack brings her back to reality with a jolt.Meanwhile Seva shares the Christmas reality of comrades who continue to fight through the festive period.And Ilyas, looks to the New Year with hope. OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of December 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP60 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note.From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Alone in his apartment in Kyiv, memories of Christmas past come flooding back to Ilyas. Can he find a way to escape the blitz-like conditions and be reunited with his wife and two sons in Poland? OUR DIARISTS Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland. As of December 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP37 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Having left Kyiv on the day of a devastating Russian air attack in October, Oksana makes an emotional return.Ilyas, illustrates how he - and other Ukrainians - are using their smart phones to stay one step ahead of enemy bombing raids.And Seva marks a day of military celebration.OUR DIARISTS Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of December 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP58 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Under siege in Kyiv, Ilyas endures his longest blackout.Military volunteer, Seva, sources chainsaws for comrades in the east and in her mind, Oksana visits the rooftop of her apartment block to offer a god-like view of a Ukrainian capital under siege. OUR DIARISTS Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of December 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP57 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In the dark of Kyiv, Ilyas fears for the under-fire Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, knowing how the 1986 Chernobyl disaster continues to impact lives in Ukraine to this day. With new orders, military volunteer Seva, prepares to go on assignment in southern Ukraine, but not before an unexpected meeting with two soldiers involved in the recent liberation of Kherson.And feeling helpless overseas, Oksana desperately tries to reach her family in the midst of yet another devastating missile attack. OUR DIARISTS Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of November 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's continues to try and make a life there. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP56 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

On the road in freezing temperatures, military volunteer Seva, reflects on Russia's latest mass attack on the Ukrainian energy network.And looking out across a darkened Kyiv - after a Russian missile knocks out the power in his apartment block - the ramifications of winter become very real for Ilyas, but so too enemy soldiers.OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of November 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP55 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In Kyiv, a sudden restaurant blackout forces Ilyas to consider the reality of winter in a city without power and increasingly isolated. Injured by an anti-tank grenade, Seva accompanies a close friend to one of Kyiv's trauma units. Meanwhile, against the backdrop of conversations about a future evacuation, Oksana readies to return again to the Ukrainian capital.OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of November 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP54 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

From his apartment in Kyiv, Ilyas watches and listens as Ukrainian air defence armoury targets yet another onslaught of Russian missiles.Meanwhile, military volunteer, Seva, sets off on a lone assignment to the frontlines in Donetsk where his thinking is challenged by an embattled tank battalion.OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of November 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP53 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

From the window of his apartment in Kyiv, Ilyas witnesses a drone strike that results in the death of a pregnant woman and her husband. On military assignment in western Ukraine, Seva's thoughts turn to his father who is about to undergo major surgery in a hospital within the compass of continued Russian strikes.Meanwhile Oksana readies to return to a Kyiv that looks set to be plunged further into darkness.OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of October 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP52 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

After escaping Russia's single biggest one-day attack on Kyiv, Oksana catches her breath in Madrid, where she tries to second guess what Vladimir Putin's forces are going to do next?Meanwhile, recording in the basement of his Kyiv apartment block during an air-raid, Ilyas outlines what he - and many Ukrainians - are being told in respect of a nuclear attack. OUR DIARISTSOksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of October 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP51 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In Kiev, Ilyas watches in horror as Russian rockets rain down on his city— the deadliest attack on the Ukrainian capital since the beginning of the war.Having left for Poland just hours before, Oksana escapes the attack, only to find her exit route to Warsaw targeted by more enemy missiles.Helpless, and on military assignment in Ireland, Seva takes stock of what's to come.And with the dust now settling somewhat in Kyiv, Ilyas returns to record a final reflection on one of the most significant week's in the war. OUR DIARISTSIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of October 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP50 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

This update was recorded in the hours after fresh strikes targeting ‘critical infrastructure' in Kyiv and across Ukraine.Ilyas Verdiev lives in the city and recorded what he seen from his apartment before having to return to a basement shelter for the first time since June.President Putin has said the Ukraine-wide strikes were in retaliation for the weekend attack on a bridge that linked Russia to the annexed Crimea.Moscow said it launched missiles against energy, military and communications infrastructure.

Recording on assignment, military volunteer Seva weighs the cost of fallen colleagues against Ukraine's greater ambition to liberate the entire country.In Kyiv, Oksana expresses her horror at billionaire Elon Musk's controversial peace plan - which involved getting Twitter followers to vote on possible outcomes — and at a world failing to grasp the threat of an apocalyptic conflict. Meanwhile, Ilyas wonders about a spike in marriage nationally - encouraged in part by the continued nuclear threat. BACKGROUND - *This week billionaire Elon Musk tweeted a poll on Twitter headlined ‘Ukraine-Russia Peace' which asked his followers to vote yes or no to the following proposals - Redo elections of annexed regions under UN supervision. Russia leaves if that is will of the people.- Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783.- Water supply to Crimea assured.- Ukraine remains neutral. TIMECODES - 0.00 - Seva3.10 - Oksana7.00 - Ilyas OUR DIARISTS Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of October 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP49 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In Kyiv, spooked by the threat of nuclear attack, Oksana's close friend moves her family to western Ukraine.Meanwhile, Ilyas finds hope in what he sees as desperate Russian measures.And Seva is left astonished by conversations with fellow military personnel on the frontline.TIMECODES -0.00 - Oksana4.45 - Ilyas8.07 - SevaBACKGROUND -Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of September 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP26 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In Kyiv, spooked by the threat of nuclear attack, Oksana's close friend moves her family to western Ukraine.Meanwhile, Ilyas finds hope in what he sees as desperate Russian measures.And Seva is left astonished by conversations with fellow military personnel on the frontlines.TIMECODES -0.00 - Oksana4.45 - Ilyas8.07 - SevaBACKGROUND -Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of September 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP48 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Military volunteer, Seva, greets news of the Russian mobilisation decree to call up of 300,000 army reservists with glee.Thousands of miles from home Oksana finds an unexpected show of solidarity.And in Kyiv, Ilyas reflects on the recent grim discovery of mass graveyards in liberated lands close to Kharkiv. BACKGROUND Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of September 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP47 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

In London, Oksana seeks out an antidote to the horrors discovered by Ukrainian forces during this week's counter offensive.Returning from assignment in Ireland, military volunteer Seva makes a roadside pitstop in Poland to reflect on the Ukrainian army's breakthrough.Meanwhile in Kyiv, for the first time since the Russian invasion, Ilyas can see a clear road-map to victory.BACKGROUND - Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of September 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various IT projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP46 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditor: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Close to the front line of his country's cyber war with Russia, Ilyas discloses some of how Ukraines ‘IT Army' are waging war against Russia. Meanwhile, in London, Oksana considers feelings of guilt in an on going war.Seva is away on Assignment.ADDITIONAL -*The Starlink's service referred to by Ilyas in his diary is a satellite communications network provided to Ukraine by Elon Muck and Space X to maintain and support the internet. BACKGROUND -Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of August 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Seva is on away.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.EP45 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Dave TerrisDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

Recording while on assignment for the Ukrainian army, Seva shares conversations with soldiers close to the under threat Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.In Kyiv, Oksana prepares for another adventure and estranged from his family once again, Ilyas retreats into memories from his visit to Poland.BACKGROUNDSeva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of September 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.EP44 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer Rob MulhernEditing Dave TerrisDigital Promotion David Chipakupaku

In Poland combat stress bleeds into Ilyas' peaceful surrounds, before he steels himself to say goodbye to his family and return to Ukraine.In Kyiv, Independence Day is marked for Seva not by traditional marching bands but a concerning phone call from his sister in Dnipro.This week, Oksana is away. BACKGROUNDIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of August 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.EP43 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer: Rob MulhernEditing: Paul StanworthDigital Promotion: David Chipakupaku

It's almost six months to the day since Russia invaded Ukraine. Throughout that time, Seva, Oksana and Ilyas have been documenting the dramatic changes in their lives, brought about by war. In this special edition of Ukraine War Diaries we ask each to answer the same question – what does the future hold for you now? BACKGROUND Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of August 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP42 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer Rob MulhernEditing Paul StanworthDigital Promotion David Chipakupaku

After months of war, Oksana begins to experience vivid destructive thoughts. Recording while returning from the frontline, Seva shares important news about his father.Meanwhile, Ilyas is given clearance to make a special journey to Poland. BACKGROUNDOksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of August 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.EP41 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer Rob MulhernEditing Paul StanworthDigital Promotion David Chipakupaku

Seva learns that his friend is quitting his job as a lawyer to become a full-time soldier. Returning by road from Belgium, Oksana dodges a series of air strikes.Meanwhile, Ilyas reveals how he and fellow Ukrainians are combating the Russian disinformation war.BACKGROUNDSeva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Oksana, 35, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of August 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.Week 18 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer Rob MulhernEditing Paul StanworthDigital Promotion David Chipakupaku

Despite being thousands of kilometres from Kyiv, war with Russia continues for the refugees who Oksana meets in Brussels.In Kyiv, Ilyas sees the unfolding war through the eyes of his grandmother — a survivor of World War II.And in Poland, Ilyas' wife Natalia goes to therapy.BACKGROUNDOksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. His wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of July 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Natalia is the wife of Ilyas. She fled to Poland with her two young sons then aged 4 and 1, at the beginning of the war. Her mother followed soon after.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.Week 17 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. Producer Rob MulhernEditing Paul Stanworth

Against the backdrop of further Russian advances in the east, Seva makes a significant supply drop to the frontline.In Kyiv, Ilyas is starting to feel anxious about the winter to come and Oksana charts an emotional, wandering, first journey beyond the borders of wartime Ukraine - recording this week's diary from Brussels. BACKGROUNDSeva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of July 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP16 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.Series producer: Robert MulhernEditing: Paul Stanworth

Ilyas wrestles with issues of personal and national identity while at the same time trying to figure out ways to see his sons in Poland. Meanwhile, Oksana finds inspiration in the simple but significant actions of an 11-year old girl. *Seva is away. BACKGROUND Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of July 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. Week 15 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.

Ilyas has a near miss when Russian missiles strike his neighbourhood.Seva is given permission to leave the country for the first time since the war started - an experience that leaves him with a new perspective.Meanwhile, Oksana measures the toll of unrelenting air raid sirens on her and her girlfriends.  BACKGROUND Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of July 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects. Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. Week 14 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.Producer Rob MulhernEditing Paul Stanworth

Against the backdrop of fierce fighting in the east and a growing feeling that international interest in Ukraine's plight is now waning, Seva experiences a surreal dining experience in a Kyiv now flip-flopping between conflict and a strange kind of normal.Meanwhile, Oksana hears from two friends who fled to Canada and Belgium respectively about the challenges of starting again in a new country.And an unexpected parcel from Poland stirs up old feelings for Ilyas.BACKGROUND-Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife Natalia, and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of June 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on various projects.Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops on the front line in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.Week 13 diary entries were recorded using WhatsApp voice note.From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.CREDITS-Series Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul StanworthUkraine War Diaries returns every Friday from July 8.

When Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February, it marked the beginning of a new calendar for Ilyas and many Ukrainians who now make a clear time distinction between the end of one life and the beginning of another.In Episode 34, Ilyas talks about meeting his wife Natalia, the triggers that bring old memories flooding back and the suffering that follows forced separation from your family - an experience now being endured by millions of Ukrainians. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. BACKGROUND -Ilyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of June 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on specialist projects.  EP34 of Ukraine War Diaries was recorded using Whatsapp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. CREDITS -Series Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul Stanworth

Living side-by-side with their two boys in Kyiv almost four months ago, Ilyas and his wife Natalia have now been forced to live apart because of war. Today, Ilyas lives in a country gripped by conflict, where the Russian military can target his city with missiles at any minute. Across the border in Poland, his wife Natalia is facing challenges just as extreme despite the fact she and her family are now living in a country at peace. In Episode 33 of Ukraine War Diaries, Natalia offers her perspective on war, dislocation and separation.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.BackgroundIlyas is an IT specialist and married father who fled from Kyiv to Lviv shortly after the war started. Right now his wife and two young sons are taking refuge in Poland.As of May 2022, Ilyas is back living in the family apartment in Kyiv and working, in part, for the Ukrainian government on specialist projects.EP33 of Ukraine War Diaries was recorded using Whatsapp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. CREDITS -Series Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul Stanworth

Against the backdrop of territorial gains by Russian forces, Oksana finds an escape in her favourite shop in Kyiv. Here, she enjoys an experience so far removed from the war that for an all too brief period she forgets the conflict.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone.BACKGROUND -Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast.CREDITSSeries Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul Stanworth

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Oksana has closely watched international reaction to the war. In this episode, she explains why the Queen is a celebrated figure in her homeland.Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. BACKGROUND -Oksana, 34, works in overseas education. She lives with her husband, Seva, in an apartment complex in central Kyiv and has remained in the Ukrainian capital since the war started. Many of Oksana's closest friends have left the country to begin new lives in Europe. Some may never return. She's determined to stay.EP31 of Ukraine War Diaries was recorded using Whatsapp voice note. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. CREDITS -Series Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul Stanworth

Recording while travelling to Eastern Ukraine, Seva reflects on the changing needs of frontline soldiers preparing for a protracted war. Ukraine War Diaries uses first-person audio, recorded on the ground in Ukraine, to give an intimate day-to-day perspective of life in a war zone. EP30 of Ukraine War Diaries was recorded using Whatsapp voice note. BACKGROUND - Seva, 40, is a company CEO and husband to Oksana. Before the war, he travelled across Europe for business. Now, he makes regular supply drops of medical aid and rations to Ukrainian troops in Eastern Ukraine. He's originally from a small village near Dnipro. From the producers of Sky News' multi-award winning series – StoryCast. CREDITS -Series Producer - Rob MulhernProduction Support/Editing - Paul Stanworth