The Ukrainian port city of Mariupol has been at the center of Russia’s brutal invasion and occupation, with streets and squares being changed from Ukrainian names to those from the Soviet era. Only Russian passport holders will have access to health care and social services, and teachers have been forced to switch to Russian curriculums.
However, amidst these challenges, Ukraine celebrated a significant victory on Monday as the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” won an Oscar. The film, which recounts the ferocity of the Russian siege of the city in spring 2022, sheds light on the truth about the war and the atrocities committed by Russian forces.
President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the documentary for exposing Russia’s terrorism and debunking Moscow’s claims of innocence. The film, filmed by Associated Press journalists, shows the harsh reality faced by the people of Mariupol during the siege, including medics struggling to save children and residents facing dire living conditions.
Despite Russian propaganda efforts to paint a rosy picture of Mariupol under their rule, Western news reports have revealed the truth behind the reconstruction efforts, which have been largely cosmetic and inadequate. The city, once vibrant and bustling, now stands as a shadow of its former self, with residents living in poorly built housing and facing great suffering.
The Human Rights Watch report highlighted the heavy toll of Russia’s assault on Mariupol, documenting thousands of deaths and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure. The report also exposed the Russian forces’ targeting of hospitals and residential buildings, causing global outrage and condemnation.
As Mariupol continues to be remade in Russia’s image, with streets and squares renamed and teachers forced to adopt Russian curriculums, the Oscar win for “20 Days in Mariupol” serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the city’s plight. The documentary has brought attention to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the suffering of its people, urging the world to stand against Russia’s aggression and support the Ukrainian cause.
