The Kyiv Municipal Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre hosted the creative event “While a Mother Waits…” dedicated to Mother’s Day. The event brought together more than 300 mothers and wives of Ukrainian defenders from across the country whose loved ones are missing in action, held in captivity, or lost their lives while defending Ukraine.

The event was organized by the public organization *Women of the Family*, with financial support from the International Committee of the Red Cross. As part of the event, the photo exhibition “Horizons of Hope” was opened, dedicated to Ukrainian women who live in a state of waiting and ambiguous loss.

At the invitation of the organizers, Sofiia Cherepanova, Deputy Chair of the All-Ukrainian Trade Union of Defenders of Ukraine, served as an honorary guest of the event. In her address, she emphasized the strength and resilience of Ukrainian women who support their families and remain a pillar of the country even in the most difficult times.

“Your patience, your love, and your dignity are also a front line. And this front line is no less important,” noted Sofiia Cherepanova.
During her speech, she also shared a personal story of loss and waiting, emphasizing that the families of defenders should not be left alone with their grief.

A special part of the event was the opportunity to write letters to Ukrainian male and female defenders who are currently in captivity. All letters were handed over to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).