For many residents of Kyiv, the nightly routine has shifted from the comfort of thier beds to the depths of the city’s metro stations. As Russian attacks intensify, these underground spaces have become havens, offering a sense of security amidst the ongoing conflict.

Ms. Maria Breston, a resident of Kyiv, had initially sought refuge in her home’s corridor during the Russian aerial attacks that began in 2022. However, “a recent uptick in strikes” has led her to seek shelter in a metro station, finding a spot for the night on her yoga mat.

“It didn’t use to be like that, not at all. There used to be attacks maybe onc a month. Now thay don’t give us a break… I’ve gotten used to it a little, but I’d rather go to the subway,” the 19-year-old told AFP.

The choice between staying in their homes and risking potential danger, or seeking safety underground, has become a stark reality for many sleep-deprived Kyiv residents.

metro stations have been serving as bomb shelters since the beginning of the invasion, providing a safe space for residents seeking refuge.

From the relative safety of the metro, Ms. Breston was shielded from the sounds of explosions as Russia launched a meaningful attack on Ukraine between July 3 and July 4, deploying 539 drones and 11 missiles.

The attacks occurred shortly after discussions between US President Donald Trump and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin failed to yield any progress towards ending the war.

The sound of strikes continues to haunt Ms. Yuliia Holovnina, 47, since an attack in 2024 on the Okhmatdyt paediatric hospital, located near her home.

“You stop breathing. For a certain period of time, life around you just freezes. And you don’t know what will happen after the explosion,” she said.

“Will there be another one,will something collapse on you? Will there be smoke,will there be a fire? So in those seconds,you just hold your breath and wait to see what happens next.”

To avoid that feeling, she regularly seeks shelter at the Universtitetska metro station with her neighbor and daughter.

As the attacks persisted, over a hundred Kyiv residents, equipped with mattresses, blankets, and snacks, sought refuge in the station.

Some managed to find sleep amidst the whirring of elevators.

One man was seen correcting papers he had brought in a cardboard box before lying down on a mattress to hug his girlfriend.

This scene has become commonplace for ms. Holovnina.

“It’s just convenient and comfortable when there are people around you that you know,” she said.

She offered a sleeping bag to Ms.Anna shmihelska, who has recently started spending her nights underground.

“There is always someone who can help psychologically and materially. A blanket, a warm jacket, and basically that’s it. And definitely bring headphones for the subway. It can get very loud here,and the first day was difficult,” Ms. Shmihelska said.

Ms Breston said she felt “more comfortable here than at home”.

“Maybe I’ll fall asleep a little later,” she said, as she scrolled through real-time updates on the missile threat on her phone.

“More comfortable here than at home.”

Understanding the Crisis in Kyiv

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has had a devastating impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. The intensified attacks on Kyiv have forced residents to seek shelter in metro stations, highlighting the urgent need for safety and security. These stations provide not only physical protection but also a sense of community and support during these challenging times.