Ukrainian War Widows Mark Valentine's Day with Grief

On Valentine's Day, many Ukrainian widows visited the graves of their fallen soldiers, reflecting on their lost loves amid ongoing war. Natalia, who lost her husband Vassyl, brought a book of poems she gifted him just before his death, reciting verses at his grave in Lviv, surrounded by heart-shaped decorations and the national flag. Another widow, Maria, expressed her pain and frustration, feeling robbed of a good life together due to the war's impact. The emotional toll of grief was echoed by other mourners, emphasizing the deep sense of loss and longing for their loved ones. Amid these somber gatherings, the stories of couples like Olha and Yevhen surfaced, highlighting the poignant connections formed and broken by the conflict. As Valentine’s Day traditionally symbolizes love, it has become a day of remembrance for those who have lost their partners in the ongoing struggles.