The Sea of Azov: Ukraine’s loss but hardly Russia’s gain

The Sea of Azov, once a place of nostalgic memories for Ukrainians, was seized by Russia following its invasion in 2022, leading to the flight of hundreds of thousands of people. Mariya Bubnova, originally from Mariupol, recalls summer traditions spent on its mildly salty waters. Before the invasion, the region featured resorts and metallurgical plants producing 40% of Ukraine's steel. Today, the sea is marked by destruction and the loss of its cultural and economic heritage.