Kyiv New Year 2025: Resilience Amid Attacks and Sweet Escapes

Kyiv New Year 2025 started not with celebrations but with the unnerving sounds of air raid alarms and explosions echoing across the city. As I stood by the window, watching the dark sky light up from distant strikes, the resilience of this city was palpable. Russian drones targeted key infrastructure, leaving behind plumes of smoke and a heavy silence once the blasts subsided. It wasn’t the joyful start we hoped for, but here in Kyiv, resilience amid attacks has become our way of life.

Despite the chaos, life here finds a way to press on. Tonight, I’ve decided to create a pocket of peace amid the tension. It’s my turn to look after the kids—my "fidgets," as I lovingly call them—and I’ve planned something sweet to distract them. Armed with a stash of chocolate and a timeless movie, we’re gathering to watch Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

As Gene Wilder’s whimsical world of candy and dreams unfolds, the children's giggles become a balm against the day’s harsh reality. Outside, Kyiv stands resilient, a city unbroken despite the darkness that looms.

For tonight, I’m grateful for the warmth of chocolate, the power of storytelling, and the strength of finding joy even in the midst of it all.

Russian missiles hit critical infrastructure in Kyiv, marking a grim start to the new year.