(Ukraine) – In Mariupol, a city devastated by conflict, Russian occupiers have decided to channel resources into the construction of a 50 meter monument instead of rebuilding homes for the war’s victims. The monument, designed in the shape of an anchor, is meant to symbolize the “liberation” of Donbas, according to Russian authorities. However, as the monument rises, thousands of local residents remain without proper housing, and the promise of reconstruction remains unfulfilled.
The massive monument is intended to be a prominent symbol of Russian control in the city, with plans for it to be visible from anywhere in Mariupol. While the project’s scale and visibility are prioritized, the budget for the monument remains undisclosed, leaving questions about the allocation of resources unanswered. Meanwhile, the people of Mariupol continue to endure substandard living conditions, with many struggling to find shelter after losing their homes in the conflict.
This monument project is part of a broader effort by Russian authorities to promote pro-Russian narratives and erase Ukrainian identity in the areas under their control. The anchor-shaped monument is a tool in a wider campaign to glorify the occupation, celebrate pro-Russian figures, and spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda. According to reports, a registry of such monuments has been established, aimed at reinforcing Russian political ideals and furthering the Kremlin’s agenda in the region.
As part of the occupation, Russian authorities have denied Mariupol residents the right to receive compensation or assistance for the destruction of their homes. The focus on symbolic structures like the “liberation” monument stands in stark contrast to the dire need for practical solutions to the housing crisis. The decision to prioritize this propaganda project over the welfare of displaced families highlights the ongoing disregard for the basic needs of the people living under Russian occupation.
This move comes at a time when the citizens of Mariupol are still struggling with the aftermath of the war, with many homes completely destroyed. The Russian occupation continues to impose its vision for the future of the city, but at the expense of the people who call it home.
