Sambal and Instant Noodles to Persuade Militiamen in Ukraine

The militiaman was taken aback when we gave him bottles of sambal and packs of instant noodles, because in his own country they are expensive. We also gave him drinks and some snacks.

KOMPAS/HARRY SUSILO

Two Ukrainian soldiers sit in a trench at a location around the front line of fighting in eastern Ukraine, Friday, July 8, 2022. The soldiers used the trenches to protect themselves from artillery attacks.

Covering the news amid the Russo-Ukraine war is of course different from working in a normal situation. While it bears the risk of being hit by a bomb or a missile, the war limits the movement of journalists to cover events or change their position from one place to another.

Journalists visiting Ukraine for news coverage are required to possess accreditation from the military and defense ministry. This accreditation serves as a kind of substitute for press cards and indicates that the military allows the journalists to enter Ukraine. It also becomes a requirement for the granting of visas.