Eleven years ago, in the bustling city of Kyiv, photojournalist Jakub Szymczuk found himself in the midst of history in the making. The Euromaidan protests, initially a call for change and reform, took a tragic turn on the morning of Feb. 20, 2014, when Interior Ministry troops brutally attacked peaceful demonstrators, later known as the Heavenly Hundred. The chilling events that unfolded, captured through Szymczuk’s lens, played a pivotal role in the Revolution of Dignity, leading to the hasty departure of Moscow-backed President Viktor Yanukovych from Ukraine. This tragic day marked the beginning of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, sparking a conflict that continues to this day.
As the official photographer for President Andrzej Duda, Szymczuk not only witnessed the harrowing events of the Euromaidan but also documented numerous significant moments in modern Ukrainian history. In an exclusive interview with Kyiv Post, he delves into the moments that his camera couldn’t fully encapsulate, providing a unique perspective on the turmoil and resilience of the Ukrainian people.
### Capturing Courage and Sacrifice: The Euromaidan Tragedy
Szymczuk recounts a poignant memory from the Euromaidan protests, where he found himself at the front barricade on Instytutska Street, now known as the Heavenly Hundred Street. It was there that he witnessed the heroic actions of Anatoliy Zhalovaha, one of the Maidan heroes, who tragically lost his life while attempting to shield fellow protesters from sniper fire. The photograph that Szymczuk captured in that moment, recognized with the Photo of the Year award from Grand Press Photo, stands as a powerful symbol of courage and sacrifice amid chaos and violence.
Reflecting on his experience during Euromaidan, Szymczuk shares the shock and disbelief he felt as he navigated the tumultuous events unfolding before him. While he had anticipated the intensity of mass protests, the brutality and lethal force unleashed on unarmed civilians took him by surprise. The tragic loss of life and the blatant disregard for human rights by the authorities reshaped Szymczuk’s understanding of the power dynamics at play, setting the stage for the ongoing conflict with Russia.
### From Past to Present: Witnessing Ukraine’s Struggle for Sovereignty
Fast forward to Feb. 23, 2022, on the eve of a full-scale invasion, Szymczuk found himself once again in Kyiv, this time as part of a Polish delegation accompanying President Duda. In a poignant moment captured through his lens, Szymczuk immortalized President Zelensky in a suit, unaware of the impending chaos that would soon engulf the nation. The atmosphere was tense, with preparations for evacuation looming in the background, underscoring the gravity of the situation at hand.
The visit to Kyiv was fraught with anticipation and uncertainty, as the specter of Russian aggression loomed large. Szymczuk vividly recalls the heightened security measures, the hurried exchanges between leaders, and the palpable sense of foreboding that permeated the air. As the delegation bid farewell to Kyiv, the weight of the impending conflict hung heavy in the air, leaving an indelible mark on all those present.
### Navigating Through History: A Photographer’s Journey
Having spent seven years as the official photographer for President Duda, Szymczuk has borne witness to a multitude of historic moments that have shaped the course of history. Beyond the tumult of Euromaidan and the onset of the invasion, Szymczuk’s lens has captured poignant images of resilience, solidarity, and defiance in the face of adversity.
One such moment that stands out for Szymczuk is the visit to the Verkhovna Rada, where Presidents Duda and Zelensky delivered speeches, symbolizing a bond of solidarity between Poland and Ukraine. In a daring move to capture a unique angle, Szymczuk maneuvered through the security detail to seize a candid moment of President Duda, a snapshot of unity and resolve in the midst of turmoil.
As Szymczuk reflects on his experiences in Kyiv, he reminisces about the vibrant spirit and cultural richness that once defined the city. However, the shadow of conflict and loss has cast a pall over the once lively streets, leaving behind a lingering sense of sorrow and resilience among its residents. Through his lens, Szymczuk continues to bear witness to the evolving narrative of Ukraine, capturing moments of courage, sacrifice, and hope amidst the chaos of war.
In the heart of Kyiv, amidst the echoes of history and the resilience of its people, Jakub Szymczuk’s photographs serve as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit that defines Ukraine’s struggle for freedom and sovereignty.
