The Russian army started attacks on the city of Izium in the Kharkiv region on March 6, 2022. On April 1, the city became fully occupied. It was freed six months later.
Thanks to a successful counter-offensive by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a yellow-and-blue flag was raised over Izium City Council on September 10.
As Russian troops were chaotically retreating, they left a lot of ammunition and vehicles behind.
The local authorities estimate over 80% of the city’s infrastructure to be destroyed, as well as residential buildings. Most neighbourhoods have no gas, electricity, or water supply. There are problems with groceries, hygiene products, and medication. Medical establishments had been destroyed, and pharmacies looted.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy arrived in Izium to thank the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to commemorate those who perished.
A mass burial site was discovered near Izium on September 15. Bodies of more than 440 civilians were found to have marks of torture and violent murder. The processes of exhumation and body identification continue.
