State of the World from NPR A Relationship Surviving 1,000 Days of War
Nov 22, 2024
Joanna Kakissis, NPR's correspondent in Kyiv, shares moving stories from ordinary lives amidst the chaos of war. She delves into the emotional challenges faced by couples like Mikola and Yaroslava, exploring the soldier's struggles with injury and his wife's life in Kiev. Their bond is tested through heart-wrenching separation and the harsh realities of captivity faced by Ukrainian POWs. The podcast captures the delicate balance of love and duty, and the profound emotional toll of conflict on relationships.
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Mikola's Service
- Mikola Ivanov, a 52-year-old Ukrainian soldier, serves despite a back injury.
- He's motivated by patriotism and love for his wife, Yaroslava, whom he calls his "goddess."
Yaroslava's Worries
- Yaroslava, Mikola's wife, worries about him and questions the fairness of young men not serving.
- Born in Russia, she met Mikola during Soviet times and fell in love at first sight.
Mikola's Capture
- Mikola joined the military in 2014 after Russia's initial incursion.
- He was captured in Mariupol and held in a crowded jail with poor conditions.