The Human Cost of Ukraine's Ongoing Conflict: A Call for Understanding Beyond Resilience

As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, with millions facing dire conditions. Ksenia Shetelia, a 37-year-old mother from Kyiv, exemplifies the struggles many Ukrainians endure. After enduring a brutal winter without consistent access to water, heat, or electricity due to Russian attacks, Shetelia made the decision to shave her head to simplify her daily routine. She expressed her frustration with the narrative of resilience that has been imposed on her and her fellow citizens, stating, “I see myself as a weak little girl who just wants to cry but can’t.” This sentiment is echoed by many who feel that the constant praise for their endurance overlooks the profound emotional and physical toll of the ongoing conflict.

The psychological impact of the war is significant, with a survey indicating that 69% of internally displaced individuals believe their mental health has deteriorated due to the conflict. Sarah Easter, a representative from the humanitarian NGO CARE, highlights the trauma experienced by those living under constant threat. She recounts the story of a woman trapped under the debris of her home after a drone strike, illustrating the lasting effects of such experiences. Children, in particular, are suffering, with many growing up in underground shelters and unable to engage in normal childhood activities due to the persistent danger.

„We Don’t Want to Be Called Resilient“

The United Nations reports that approximately 10.8 million people in Ukraine require humanitarian assistance, with 3.7 million internally displaced and another 6.9 million having fled to neighboring countries. Attacks on critical infrastructure, including hospitals and energy facilities, have intensified, leading to a national energy emergency declared in January 2026. The relentless bombing campaign has left many areas, including Kyiv, without power or heating, forcing residents to endure freezing temperatures in their homes.

„We Don’t Want to Be Called Resilient“

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly stated that his people are not "made of steel," reinforcing the message that the narrative of resilience can be harmful. Social psychologist Jonas Kunst supports this view, suggesting that the glorification of resilience can trap individuals in a heroic image that does not reflect their reality. Critics argue that this narrative oversimplifies the complexities of the human experience in wartime.

Despite the ongoing hardships, Ukraine has made modest military gains, with recent counterattacks in the Zaporizhzhia province reclaiming approximately 40 square miles. Analysts suggest that the Russian military's performance has been poor, and NATO intelligence indicates that Russia may struggle to capture additional territory in the near future. However, Ukraine faces significant challenges, including a lack of sufficient air defense systems and the exhaustion of its military forces.

The Guardian

While some reports highlight Ukraine's military successes, others emphasize the dire humanitarian situation and the psychological toll on civilians. The narrative of resilience is contested, with many Ukrainians expressing a desire for acknowledgment of their suffering rather than glorification of their endurance.

The Guardian

• “I had a problem, and I solved it,” — Ksenia Shetelia, Kyiv Resident

• “We have become the hostages of our heroic image.” — Psychologist, Kyiv

• “I see myself as a weak little girl who just wants to cry but can’t,” — Ksenia Shetelia, Kyiv Resident

As the conflict continues, it is crucial to recognize the human cost and the complexities of life in Ukraine, moving beyond the simplistic narrative of resilience to understand the profound struggles faced by its people.

The Guardian