Anastasiia Fedchenko, 36, cries in despair – her pain reverberating within the ornate walls of St Michael's Cathedral in Kyiv.
She sits with her hands gently placed on either side of her abdomen, heavily pregnant with her first child, a baby girl. Her husband, Andriy Kusmenko, lies in uniform in an open coffin just a few inches away.
The marine commander lost his life in eastern Ukraine on January 4th of this year, forever frozen at 33. While Andriy fought in the war, Anastasiia documented it as a journalist.
As his comrades pass by, dropping red roses into the casket, Anastasiia leans forward at the conclusion of the funeral prayers, giving her "life's love" one final kiss.
Outside the cathedral, she honors her "most handsome husband," who gave his life for his country.
I am heartbroken that my daughter will never meet her father," she laments to the BBC, "but she will know he was a soldier, an officer, who gave his all to ensure Ukraine's existence for her and future generations.
Anastasiia expresses concern about the lasting impact of the conflict: This war will go on as long as Russia does. I fear our children will inherit this burden and be forced to join the fight.
Contrasting opinions emerge, with doubts raised about the efficacy of peace talks by Sgt Dmytro, known as "Smile," who fought alongside Andriy and came to pay his respects.
Some share Anastasiia and Dmytro's perspective, believing too many lives have been sacrificed to consider negotiating with Russia. Yet, shifting public sentiment and the toll of death and destruction prompt contemplation of pursuing a settlement.
As Ukraine grapples with its third winter of conflict, the concept of "victory" has become rare. The once-prominent spirit has waned amidst Russia's significant territorial control, including the 2014 annexation of Crimea, shaping a stark reality for Ukraine in 2025.
Proceeding six hours from the capital, a young soldier, Serhiy Hnezdilov, faces trial in Dnipro for desertion, emblematic of a widespread issue among troops. Alleging corruption and incompetence, Hnezdilov advocates for defined timelines for demobilization, stressing the toll on soldiers without respite.
While some soldiers, like Mykhailo of the 68th Brigade, persist in defending fronts such as Pokrovsk, fatigue and prolonged service challenge their determination. Mykhailo's firsthand account reveals the relentless vigilance and sacrifices made by those on the front lines.
Echoing sentiments of uncertainty, a younger recruit, David, reflects on the war's duration, expressing a desire for peace to halt civilian suffering. The looming specter of subsequent conflict post-ceasefire perpetuates apprehension among soldiers like David.
Amidst this backdrop, where the struggle continues in the skies and on the ground, the impending political shifts and international pressure cast shadows over Ukraine's future negotiations and the uncertain terms they may bring.