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ConflictsUkraine

Facial reconstruction — step toward healing from war trauma

03:57

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February 3, 2026

In nearly four years of Russia's war on Ukraine, an estimated 50,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been wounded. DW met Artem, a veteran wounded on the front line in 2023, who has undergone 18 facial reconstructive surgeries.

Despite support from family and fellow veterans, Artem says reintegrating into civilian life is difficult as the social and psychological scars of war persist.

Independent trackers estimate more than 150,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or are missing, and roughly three times as many have been wounded.

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