War in Ukraine through eyes of Ukrainian photographer; topic-related exhibition inaugurated at Moldovan parliament's headquarters

An exhibition of photographs showing the realities of the war in Ukraine and the courage of people to remain unconquered in the face of challenges was inaugurated  at the parliament’s headquarters today. The exhibition titled, Unconquered: Light Through Darkness, signed by Ukrainian photographer Serhii Khimiush, brought together high-ranking officials, diplomats, representatives of the cultural sector, and parliament employees.

The atmosphere was charged with emotion, accentuated by images capturing both the destruction caused by the war and the faces of those who continue to live with dignity and hope. The event was opened by the Lia-Cicârlia Choir from the Republican Center for Children and Youth ARTICO, performing the Ukrainian anthem, marking a festive and poignant moment.

In his message, Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu emphasized the significance of the event, referring to the difficult situation the neighboring country had been facing for three years.

"It is a symbolic moment to inaugurate this exhibition on the eve of Ukraine's Independence Day, and for us, it is a pride that the author of this exhibition spent his childhood in Moldova. Through his photographs, Serhii Khimiush gives us the opportunity to understand both the atrocities of war and the courage and dignity of Ukrainians—soldiers and civilians who defend their country with dignity. Ukrainians are a model for us in defending their independence, in defending us and the entire Europe. You have all our respect and we will be with Ukraine at all times and do everything possible to contribute to a just peace," said Igor Grosu.

For his part, Ukrainian Ambassador to Moldova Paun Rohovei highlighted the importance of solidarity and mutual support between the two countries.

"We are on the verge of important celebrations—the Flag Day and National Day of Ukraine, as well as the Independence Day of the Republic of Moldova. The Ukrainian people have showed resilience, love for their homeland and dignity, even in difficult times. We are grateful to Moldova for the support provided to people fleeing the war and for the close cooperation between our countries. It is an honor to organize this exhibition at the parliament, where through Serhii Khimiush's eyes, we discover both tragedy and the courage of people. We thank him for his courage and effort and we wish the Ukrainian and Moldovan citizens peace and a prosperous future," said Ukrainian Ambassador to Moldova Paun Rohovei.

A moment of intense emotion was the public's reaction to the displayed images, which capture ruins, destroyed buildings, children's faces, and expressions of suffering and hope.

The author of the exhibition, Serhii Khimiush, present at the event, referred to his work and artistic mission to capture emotions and moments. "Moldova is my second homeland, and it is an honor to present my first exhibition in such a beautiful building. The war changed my life, but did not take away my hope. Through these photographs, I want to show the whole world our suffering, struggle and belief in peace, as well as the entire spectrum of emotions experienced by myself and Ukrainians in the first months of the conflict. Each picture has a story behind it," said photographer Serhii Khimiush.

The exhibition, organized in partnership with the Ukrainian Embassy in Moldova, the Ministry of Culture, and the National Museum of History of Moldova, is open to visitors at the parliament till August 26. We mention that, as token of solidarity with the Ukrainian people, on the evening of August 23, the parliament building will be illuminated in the colors of the Ukrainian flag.