On Wednesday, July 23 at 10:00 a.m. ET, the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center will host an event on Russian abuses in frontline territories in Ukraine as part of its release of its new short film, Being near: Faith in the frontline city of Kherson.

The film explores the everyday realities of Russian forces’ persecution of religious and civilian communities in Kherson, a major Ukrainian city only four kilometers from the front line. In Kherson, civilians are hunted by Russia’s infamous “human safari” with deadly drones in the streets and in their homes.

In temporarily occupied territories, Ukraine’s civilian and religious communities face severe repression. Russia has kidnapped, tortured, and forcibly reeducated civilians, while killing clergy and banning religious gatherings, all in an attempt to wipe out Ukrainian identity.

A screening of the documentary, produced by American Ukraine-based photographer and filmmaker Zachary Tarrant in partnership with the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, will be followed by a panel of experts to discuss the targeted persecution of religious organizations and civilians by Russian forces in Ukraine. To join us virtually, please complete the registration form.