Escaping Kherson

A Ukrainian refugee shares the story of his fraught escape from Russian-occupied Kherson.A strategically important port in the south of Ukraine near the Black Sea, Kherson was the first major city to fall into Russian hands in the early days of the war. But last week, after more than eight months of occupation, Russia withdrew its forces and Ukrainian soldiers entered the city, greeted by cheering locals. It’s a triumphant moment for Ukraine, but along with the celebrations, there’s a long road ahead to restoring normalcy.Around 300,000 people lived there before the invasion, but Ukrainian authorities estimate that more than half have now fled. As they share their stories, we’re beginning to get a fuller picture of what life looks like for the Ukrainians trapped behind Russian lines.In this interview, Alex, a Ukrainian refugee, speaks with producers Susie Armitage and Alex Gendler about his experience under occupation, and what it took to escape.-RESISTANCE: Stories from Ukraine is a Project Brazen production. Subscribe to Brazen+ on Apple Podcasts or at brazen.fm/plus and get exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening and early access to new podcasts.For more fearless storytelling visit brazen.fm, home to all our podcasts, documentaries and newsletters. At Brazen, we show you how the world really works – from espionage and corruption to deal-making and organised crime, we’ll take you inside stories from hidden worlds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://brazen.fm/plus/