Anna Chernenko, a journalist based in Kharkiv, Ukraine, offers a powerful glimpse into the world of reporting from a war-torn nation. Her experiences, shared in conversation with Scott Douglas Jacobsen and translated by Volodymyr Pavlov, paint a vivid picture of the unique challenges and profound responsibilities faced by Ukrainian journalists today. More than just recounting events, Chernenko delves into the emotional and psychological toll of her work, highlighting how the ongoing conflict has irrevocably reshaped the very fabric of journalism in Ukraine.
Chernenko’s reflections are rooted in the brutal realities of a battlefield that has expanded beyond traditional front lines, where drones now pose a constant threat, even miles behind what was once considered safer territory. This “new” battlefield underscores the elevated risks confronting reporters, forcing them into a continuous cycle of adaptation in how they gather, verify, and ultimately share their stories. Beyond the physical dangers, Ukrainian journalists are engaged in a parallel fight for truth against a relentless wave of Russian disinformation. This disinformation war seeks to twist narratives, obscure facts, and weaponize information, making the journalists’ core mission of reporting reality even more critical and, at times, heartbreakingly difficult.
The conversation with Scott Douglas Jacobsen highlights Chernenko’s candid perspective on risk, professional duty, and the delicate balance between reporting with integrity and contributing to national survival. Her words reveal a media landscape that is under immense pressure but remains fiercely determined to document and communicate the truth. This commitment endures even as the truth itself becomes harder to safely witness and more challenging to defend against the deluge of false narratives. This steadfast dedication, despite the overwhelming adversity, is a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of Ukrainian journalists.
Chernenko candidly admits that she doesn’t consider herself a “journalist in the traditional sense,” perhaps acknowledging that the extraordinary circumstances have transformed the role itself. She believes the war’s full impact on Ukrainian journalism won’t be immediately evident but will unfold over time, deeply affecting how stories are told through writing, film, and photography. She observes that many of her colleagues and acquaintances are already grappling with these experiences, channeling their reflections into books and other forms of creative expression. For Chernenko, the key takeaway is “deep immersion” – the concept of living within the problem and experiencing its profound effects firsthand. This isn’t just about covering events; it’s about being fundamentally changed by them, and that will inevitably shape the future of Ukrainian storytelling.
When discussing the physical dangers and the concurrent information war, Chernenko highlights that for Ukrainians, concepts like unity, life, and freedom are intrinsically linked, not separate ideals. Her dedication stems from her identity as a Ukrainian living in Ukraine, which compels her to continue her work. She notes the escalating risks: in 2023, she might have ventured within 1.5 kilometers of Russian positions, knowing the dangers of fire, mines, and tanks. Now, she recognizes that even being 30-40 kilometers away is no longer safe due to drone capabilities. This isn’t a personal fear; it’s a shared reality for all her colleagues in Kharkiv. She draws a critical distinction between Ukrainian and Russian journalistic approaches, recalling that before 2014, she believed all journalists simply transmitted information. However, the conflict revealed Russia’s willingness to deceive, to weaponize information, and to see no moral issue in doing so. This fundamental difference underscores why Ukrainian journalists, driven by a commitment to truth, continue to take such immense risks. Chernenko firmly asserts that this isn’t “bravado or pathos”; it’s the harsh, undeniable reality of their lives.
Looking to the future, Chernenko believes that if President Zelensky is re-elected, Ukrainian journalism will likely continue on its current path, as there are no pressures or restrictions inhibiting their work. Regarding Vladimir Putin, she holds no illusions that his death or any sudden change in Russian leadership would miraculously end the conflict. The war, in her view, extends beyond a single individual, driven by a broader anti-democratic course. She hopes for victory, after which the focus of journalism will shift from the immediate conflict to its long-term societal consequences. While the themes may evolve, she doesn’t believe that leadership changes alone will redefine Ukrainian journalism. The most significant change, she asserts, would be the end of the war itself, making it safer for journalists to work. However, she remains realistic, reiterating that neither elections nor Putin’s death are likely to bring about an immediate end to the fighting. Her perspective conveys a deep sense of resilience and a commitment to documenting reality, no matter how challenging or prolonged the struggle may be.