In a rare access granted to the BBC, reporters were escorted into Slovyansk, an eastern Ukrainian city under relentless bombardment by Russian drones and missiles. The city is one of four fortress cities that Ukraine is determined to hold onto amidst talks for a potential peace deal with Russia and the US in Abu Dhabi. The Peaky Blinders, a Ukrainian drone unit, are on the front lines, using their specialized skills to defend Slovyansk against Russian advances. Tetiana, a 21-year-old member of the unit, abandoned her dreams of becoming an opera singer to help her country. The city is a shadow of its former self, with buildings reduced to rubble and few residents remaining due to Russian intimidation tactics. Despite the danger, some resilient citizens refuse to leave their homes, clinging onto life amidst constant air raid warnings.
As part of Ukraine's fortress belt, Slovyansk is a strategic location that Russia has been trying to seize since the beginning of its full-scale invasion in 2014. The city has seen heavy fighting, with October being the deadliest month for Russian troops so far. However, their advances have been halted by strong Ukrainian resistance. The White House is optimistic about the resumed talks in Abu Dhabi, despite President Volodymyr Zelensky's refusal to cede territory.
The Peaky Blinders drone unit has been fighting in Slovyansk for over two years now. Four of the original team remain, with several casualties along the way. The unit's leader, Oleksandr, lost his brother during the conflict and refers to the remaining members as his family. As the war continues, these brave individuals continue to defend their homes and their country against Russian aggression.