Ukrainecast Serving on the frontline as a teenager
Nov 4, 2025
Sophia Yanchevska is a 19-year-old combat medic on the Ukrainian frontline, sharing her harrowing experiences of loss and the emotional toll of war. She reflects on her journey from a teenager with dreams of archaeology to a dedicated medic. Filmmaker Evgen Matvienko discusses his short film 'She,' capturing stories of young medics like Sophia, emphasizing the urgency of their narratives. Together, they delve into the sacrifices of youth, the bittersweet moments of hope amidst conflict, and the profound impact of documenting frontline realities.
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Pokrovsk's Strategic Importance
- Pokrovsk is a vital logistics and industrial hub whose loss undermines Ukraine's supply and steel production.
- Its destruction of transport and coking-coal capacity weakens Ukraine's front-line resupply options.
Medics Leap In During London Crash
- Sophia and colleagues spontaneously treated victims of a road crash while visiting London, using their frontline medic skills.
- They stabilised a badly injured person before emergency services arrived.
Plans Put On Hold For Defence
- Sophia joined volunteering at 16, then served with her mother's battalion at 17, putting earlier plans on hold.
- She paused dreams of Oxford, archaeology and travel to focus on immediate defence work.