As the war in Ukraine continues, military journalists are finding unique ways to tell the stories of soldiers and their sacrifices. Ivan Petrichak, head of the press service for the 24th Mechanized Brigade, emphasizes that the focus now is on showcasing the heroes of the conflict.
In an interview commemorating Journalist Day, Petrichak discussed the challenges faced by military media personnel and the resilience required in their line of work. He stated, “The only exclusive stories today are those that highlight the lives of our soldiers, and for that, we need to get close to the action.”
Last August, the brigade premiered a documentary titled “Fireproof: A Year of Defense in Chasiv Yar” at the October Cinema in Kyiv. This film captures tank battles, drone footage, and the efforts of soldiers, sergeants, and commanders, illustrating the heavy toll of Ukraine’s defense.
Petrichak described the film as more than just a documentary; it was an attempt to reflect reality as they experienced it at the time. With new team members and improved equipment, he believes they could produce a different film today.
Since its release, the documentary has aired on national and regional television and is available on the MEGOGO platform. The brigade’s YouTube channel has garnered over 300,000 views, a significant achievement for a military documentary over an hour long.
Viewers have engaged deeply with the content, often commenting not on the film itself but on the bravery of the soldiers. “The primary goal of our project is to show the soldiers and unite society around them,” Petrichak noted, reflecting on the positive feedback received.
In February, the press service traveled to Vilnius, Lithuania, for a European photo exhibition featuring the work of press officer Oleg Petrasyuk. This exhibition, previously displayed in Kyiv and Lviv, is now touring Europe with support from Ukrainian diasporas, having already been shown in Lithuania and Sweden, with plans to continue to Germany, Poland, and possibly the UK.
At the inaugural Ruslan Hanushchak Documentary Awards in April 2026, the top prize went to a report titled “Madness: Kostiantynivka,” which focuses on the frontline realities of a city under constant fire. The report was authored by Kostiantyn Melnykov, a former war journalist and current press officer for the brigade.
Petrichak expressed that receiving such recognition motivates the team to continue their work. The press service is now concentrating on documenting the personal stories of brigade fighters, with two significant narratives currently in progress.
The first story follows a machine gunner known as “Kaban,” whose journey has been chronicled for two years. Petrichak shared that early footage captures Kaban, then just 20, storming an enemy position with remarkable skill, despite the heavy weight of his weapon. After suffering a traumatic amputation, he has transitioned to operating FPV drones while continuing to inspire others.
The second narrative features infantryman Serhiy Krynytskyi, who recently gained recognition after holding a defensive position in Chasiv Yar for a year. His story, filled with raw emotion, has attracted attention from various media outlets, including Reuters.
Petrichak remarked on the importance of showcasing the differences between Ukrainian soldiers and their Russian counterparts. He noted that while Russian soldiers often enlist for monetary gain, Ukrainian fighters are driven by a deeper sense of purpose.
As the conflict evolves, capturing footage becomes increasingly challenging due to the expanded range of enemy drones. Petrichak mentioned that getting close to the front lines is more difficult than ever, but their commitment to documenting the war persists.
Planning for shoots often depends on weather conditions, as rain can reduce drone activity, allowing for safer filming opportunities. The press service aims to enhance its military production capabilities and explore new avenues, such as offline events and film production.
The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine has adopted the 24th Brigade’s press service as its own, providing support through various means, including the donation of equipment. Petrichak expressed gratitude for this assistance, highlighting its positive impact on their work.
He emphasized that the cameras provided have enabled the team to document unique moments in combat, which are then shared widely on social media, increasing global awareness of the Ukrainian military’s efforts.
In closing, Petrichak urged fellow journalists to remain steadfast in their mission, recognizing that their work is not just creative expression but a vital contribution to history. He believes that every story captured today will serve as a testament to the bravery of those involved, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Military journalists in Ukraine are documenting the heroism of soldiers amid ongoing conflict, focusing on personal stories and the challenges of their profession. Their work aims to unite society and raise awareness of the sacrifices made by the armed forces.
