Moshchun: A Village Memorializing 28 Victims on a Five-Hectare Site.

Moshchun Village During the War

According to TSN.ua: During Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the village of Moshchun, with a population of roughly one thousand, became a critical defensive outpost. It was attacked early in the conflict, enduring fierce battles. The fighting resulted in the discovery of 28 bodies of civilians who had been killed. Among the dead was Badri Lolashvili, who died on March 12, 2022. A memorial now stands on the site of his death, featuring 123 plaques with photographs of the victims and covering an area of more than five hectares. This village, located near the strategic Hostomel airport, was on the frontline during the initial assault on Kyiv.

Testimonies from Local Residents

An 87-year-old resident, Lyudmyla Lomeiko, described the horrors of the shelling:

"On the 24th at 5 a.m., they bombed Hostomel... On March 5, a shell hit my house. There were tracer bullets flying and incendiary bombs. If not for God, everything here would have burned in hellfire." - Lyudmyla Lomeiko

Another local woman, Lidiia Zaika, recalled the fears that accompanied daily life: "We had food, but we were terrified. I even thought: if they kill me, at least I won't be hungry. As soon as a neighbor's house started burning, I would draw water from the well and pour it on my shed until the roofing slate sizzled."

The village has become a symbol of the heroic defense mounted by locals struggling to survive. Larisa Lolashvili, the wife of the deceased Badri, spoke of her pain: "We hoped he was in a hospital or captured. Then, on the 56th day, they found him here, in a trench." She also stressed the importance of remembering the fallen: "I must tell everyone's story. Because if not me, then who? The wives have no strength, they are raising children, the parents are in despair. That's why I must search for these names."

Despite all difficulties, reconstruction of destroyed homes continues in Moshchun under the government's 'eRecovery' program. The residents persist in their struggle for life and a future, demonstrating an unbreakable spirit and a will to prevail. Their story reflects not only the tragic consequences of war but also the resilience and courage of those who remain. Facing constant threat, they continue to rebuild their homes and preserve the memory of the lost, a vital part of their healing and recovery process. Commemorating the conflict's victims has become essential, helping to preserve history and sustain the community's spirit in difficult times.