A few bags by their side, a pet in their arms, and an uncertain future ahead

A few bags by their side, a pet in their arms, and an uncertain future ahead. This is what the first hours after evacuation look like for hundreds of people who arrive at the transit center in Lozova, Kharkiv Oblast, every single day.

These moments were captured by American photographer and longtime friend of East SOS, Carlo Bravo. This is not his first visit to Lozova. Through his photographs, he helps tell the stories of people forced to flee their homes.

Every day, between 150 and 300 people pass through the transit center in Lozova, many arriving from Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Evacuations continue as russian forces relentlessly attack residential buildings, civilian and critical infrastructure.

One of the photographs features Oleksandr from Kramatorsk. After suffering two strokes, he is no longer able to move independently. That day, the East SOS team transported him from Lozova to Dnipro and arranged temporary accommodation at the Social Adaptation Center for People with Disabilities by NGO “Ocean of Kindness”, where he will receive the care, support, and assistance he needs.

Other photographs portray Viktoriia and Hanna. Both women were injured during a russian strike on Druzhkivka. First responders from the State Emergency Service rescued them from beneath the rubble, after which they received medical treatment in Kramatorsk. From there, East SOS evacuation crews brought them to Lozova.

For those who have loved ones waiting, the transit center is simply a brief stop before continuing their journey. For those who are alone, it becomes the first place where they can spend a night in relative safety, catch their breath after the evacuation, receive support, and find suitable longer-term accommodation.

Our heartfelt thanks to Carlo Bravo and to all journalists who continue to document the work of humanitarian organizations!