In the face of a decade-long conflict between Russia and Ukraine, several cities in Ukraine have displayed unwavering resilience and a determination to maintain hope amidst the turmoil. NPR visited six Ukrainian cities to uncover the stories of individuals who have adapted and found strength amidst the devastation caused by the war.

Odesa, known as the Pearl of the Black Sea, has experienced significant impact since the full-scale invasion by Russia's armed forces. Once a heady multicultural crossroad, the city's port and exports have been severely affected. In response to Russia's attempt to erase Ukrainian identity, Odesa removed an enormous statue of Catherine the Great, symbolizing a rejection of Russian imperialism. Local tour guide Artem Vasyuta has taken it upon himself to showcase the diverse heritage of the city, incorporating stops at monuments dedicated to Ukrainian politicians, poets, and scientists.

Dnipro, located in central Ukraine, has become a frequent target of Russian attacks despite being a hundred miles away from the combat zones. The city's maternity hospital, where Dr. Iryna Kulbach has delivered over 15,000 babies, was unfortunately hit by a missile, forcing a complete reconstruction. The future reopening of the hospital remains uncertain due to the financial constraints faced by Ukraine and the uncertain state of foreign aid.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city near the northeastern border with Russia, has been under continuous bombardment since the onset of the conflict. Despite the destruction and pain, many architects, including Max Rozenfeld, are determined to rebuild Kharkiv with the aid of renowned British urban architect Norman Foster. Their vision includes transforming bombed-out administrative buildings into artistic gems and developing a science hub in Saltivka, a neighborhood nearly razed by invading Russian troops.

Kyiv, the capital city of Ukraine and a symbol of power and politics, experienced the close presence of Russian tanks and armored vehicles just days after the full-scale invasion. Liudmyla Lysenko, a resident of Kyiv, acknowledges the persistent anxiety that the Russians may return. Seeking a means to confront her fear, Lysenko enrolled in a course training civilians to defend themselves in the event of another invasion. She emphasizes the importance of not hiding from fear but facing it head-on.

In Krasnopillya, a town near the Russian border, Nataliya Kucherenko continues to hope for the release of her son, Vova, who has been held as a prisoner of war in Russia for almost two years. She waits diligently with a giant Ukrainian flag printed with a photo of her son, participating in poignant displays of hope and solidarity whenever freed prisoners cross through the nearby checkpoint.

The city of Kramatorsk, still under Ukrainian control in the eastern Donetsk region, has seen its heart torn apart by a devastating attack on Ria Pizzeria. Despite the loss of 13 lives, the surviving team reopened a new underground restaurant called Friends to contribute to Kramatorsk's economy while honoring those who perished in the attack.

These cities exemplify the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of ongoing conflict. While the war continues to cast a shadow, the courageous individuals highlighted in NPR's visit offer a ray of hope in their determined efforts to rebuild, preserve their culture, and forge a path towards a brighter future.