The Global Story
Missing in Ukraine: Lyudmila’s search for her parents
Jan 31, 2025
In this gripping discussion, Sarah Rainsford, BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent, shares her on-the-ground insights from Ukraine. She reveals the poignant story of Lyudmila, a daughter searching for her parents who disappeared during the war. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil of families disrupted by conflict, the dangers of being labeled a traitor, and the harrowing realities faced by individuals in search of justice amidst chaos. Despite the heartache, themes of resilience and hope shine through in this deeply human narrative.
30:50
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Quick takeaways
- The Plachkov family's life in Melitopol was irreversibly changed by the Russian invasion, leading to tragic consequences and separations.
- Lyudmila's emotional pursuit for her parents' fate highlights the widespread suffering and uncertainty faced by families under occupation in Ukraine.
Deep dives
The Impact of War on Family Life
The invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 devastated the lives of many families, including the Plachkov family, who had established a comfortable life with a thriving restaurant business in Melitopol. The abrupt shift to war forced them to confront unthinkable choices as Russian forces occupied their town. Despite the initial optimism and attempts to maintain normalcy by baking for hospitals, the family faced the harsh reality of repression, where protests were silenced, and abductions became commonplace. This environment ultimately led Lyudmila, the daughter, to flee to safety while her parents decided to remain hopeful for liberation.
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