This year’s DokuFest in Prizren, the cultural heart of Kosovo, poignantly bridges art and the harsh realities of war. Amidst the vibrant festival atmosphere, the war in Ukraine remains unforgotten. One highlight is the screening of Mission 200 (2023), a documentary by Vladimir Sidko that chronicles the harrowing final journeys of Ukrainian defenders.
The festival also features the powerful photo exhibition Focus Ukraine by Mikhail Palínčak, capturing the devastation wrought by Russian aggression in cities like Kharkiv, Borodyanka, and Chernihiv. These images serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict.
Tonight, we had the profound experience of meeting Tetiana Pototska-Yevchuk, the brave subject of Mission 200. Since the full-scale invasion, she has paused her business to transport vital supplies to the frontlines, often returning with the fallen, drawing a chilling parallel to Charon from Greek mythology. Her journey to DokuFest, alongside volunteer Nina Gapyč, who tragically lost her son and father in the war, underscores the deep contrasts between life in war-torn Ukraine and the peace enjoyed elsewhere. Shockingly, their car, marked by Ukrainian license plates, was vandalized with “Glory to Russia” in Serbia, a stark reminder of the persistent challenges they face.
As Iryna Synelnik aptly notes, we cannot stop speaking out about Ukraine. The world must remain aware of the ongoing fight for freedom, not just for Ukraine, but for the security of Europe. The Ukrainian documentary will continue its journey to France, the UK, and beyond, ensuring that the struggle is never forgotten. #DokuFest #Prizren #Ukraine #Mission200 #FocusUkraine
