Angelina Jolie observes children at play in Kherson, Ukraine, on Thursday.
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie visited one of Ukraine’s most perilous frontline cities and a nearby region, engaging with medical staff, volunteers, and residents enduring ongoing Russian military threats.
“As global governments neglect civilian protection, the resilience and mutual support of these people are truly inspiring,” Jolie remarked in a statement from the Legacy of War Foundation, which facilitated her visit to Kherson and Mykolaiv.
“Residents of Mykolaiv and Kherson face daily threats but remain undeterred,” Jolie added.
Images depicted Jolie in protective gear in a basement, interacting with children in a room without windows. The foundation noted her visits to medical and educational facilities now operating underground due to relentless Russian bombardments.
Kherson, once housing nearly 300,000 residents, is the largest city within range of Russian frontline weaponry, making it one of Ukraine’s most dangerous locales. It was under Russian control from March 2022 until troops retreated across the Dnipro River eight months later, where they remain.
A recent UN investigation concluded that Russia is pursuing civilians near the front line with drones, causing thousands to flee in what is labeled a crime against humanity. Russia disputes targeting civilians.
Local authorities reported Ukraine’s military intercepted around 2,500 of 2,646 Russian drones aimed at attacking the Kherson region last week alone.
“We’re deeply thankful for Jolie’s visit and the attention it brings,” Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, Kherson’s regional administration deputy head, shared with Ukraine’s main state-run TV. “Sometimes it feels like we’re forgotten, but clearly, that’s not the case.”
Jolie’s previous visit to Ukraine’s western city of Lviv in spring 2022 was to meet those displaced by the conflict.
