Sumy's Resilience: A City Under Fire

Sumy, a city known for its rich musical heritage and strong spirit, is facing a tough challenge. Russian forces are targeting this Ukrainian city, which sits near the border. The attacks have taken a heavy toll, including the life of Olena Kohut, a beloved organist and teacher. Her mother, Natalia Tsybulko, still struggles with the loss, remembering how her daughter brought music to life. The city has seen its share of destruction. Russian drones and missiles frequently strike, leaving homes in ruins and lives shattered. Despite this, the people of Sumy remain determined. They fill the riverside promenade when the weather is nice, showing their resilience. The acting mayor, Artem Kobzar, captures the city's spirit when he says, "We are friendly but tough. We don't back down. " Sumy has also become a safe haven for those living in nearby villages, where attacks are even more frequent. Newspaper publisher Natalia Kalinichenko, who lives part-time in Sumy, highlights the importance of staying informed. She notes that in many border villages, a printed newspaper is often the only source of information due to frequent power and internet outages. The region's proximity to Russia's Kursk region adds another layer of complexity. Last summer, Ukraine launched a surprise incursion into Kursk, aiming to distract Russian forces. However, as Russian troops reclaimed most of Kursk, attacks on Sumy intensified. In late January, a Russian drone strike hit an apartment complex, killing nine people and injuring 13. The attack left residents traumatized and desperate for better air defense. Amidst the chaos, local media outlets like Cukr strive to keep morale high. They focus on positive news but also report on the frequent Russian attacks. The outlet's editor, Dmytro Tyshchenko, emphasizes the importance of challenging Russian propaganda and fostering a sense of community. However, their work is made more difficult by the Trump administration's decision to freeze USAID funds, which significantly supported independent media in Ukraine. The attacks have not only destroyed homes but also taken lives. On April 13, a Russian missile strike killed 35 people, including Olena Kohut. Her students left bouquets wrapped in sheet music at the site of the attacks, honoring her memory. Kohut's mother, Natalia Tsybulko, finds solace in watching videos of her daughter's performances, remembering how she made the organ sing. Despite the hardships, the people of Sumy continue to show their strength and unity. They hold memorial concerts and support each other through difficult times. The city's resilience is a testament to its spirit, even in the face of relentless attacks.