February 2026
It is with deep sadness that we report on the current state of Pokrovsk, now described as a ruined city emptied of most of its residents. Once a vibrant hub, Pokrovsk has been heavily impacted by Russia’s war in Ukraine.
A City Defined by Resilience
Pokrovsk, a rail and transportation hub, was strategically important to both Ukraine and Russian forces. In 2023, the city’s population was approximately 60,000. By June 2024, that number had fallen to around 11,000. Despite the encroaching war, residents sought to maintain a sense of normalcy and hope.
The Symbolism of Roses
Pokrovsk became known as a “city of roses” after the mayor announced in 2022 that 60,000 roses would be planted as a sign of resilience. Although some Ukrainian officials questioned the prioritization of roses during a time of war, many residents found comfort and inspiration in the blooms. Park director Konstantyn Derevinskyy noted that residents regularly expressed their appreciation for the sense of order and hope the roses provided, even as the front line drew closer.
A Cultural Legacy
Pokrovsk also holds a significant place in musical history. In the early 1900s, composer Mykola Leontovych wrote and rehearsed his famous “Shchedryk” – known in the West as “Carol of the Bells” – with a choir of railroad workers in the city. Leontovych later became known as the “Ukrainian Bach” due to the composition’s international success.
Current Situation and Uncertain Future
As of last fall, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Pokrovsk under Russian control after a 20-month siege. However, reports of ongoing battles, particularly in the north of the city, dispute this claim. Despite the devastation, there is hope that the city’s Jubilee Park, the rail yard where Leontovych composed his famous carol, and the rose gardens of residents like Halyna Fateieva may have survived.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the population of Pokrovsk in 2023?
The population of Pokrovsk was approximately 60,000 in 2023.
When did the mayor announce the planting of 60,000 roses?
The mayor announced the planting of 60,000 roses in 2022 as a sign of the city’s resilience.
Who is Mykola Leontovych?
Mykola Leontovych was a composer who wrote “Shchedryk” (Carol of the Bells) while living in Pokrovsk in the early 1900s and later became known as the “Ukrainian Bach.”
What does it signify for a community to preserve symbols of hope and beauty during times of conflict?
