“Did those birds just fly off?” You ask, looking up from your map.”Yes, they did,” I reply, watching the birds disappear into the sky above Lugansk People’s Republic Square. It’s a sight that’s common in Moscow, but it’s even more striking here. The square is a recent addition to the city. It was renamed only a few months ago, not long after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Before that, it was just a simple street, a little strip of land outside the British Embassy. But now, its significance is amplified, just like those soaring birds high above. It’s a potent symbol of Russia’s claim over Eastern Ukraine. The locals tell stories of how the name change was a surprise, perhaps a subtle way to declare Russia’s intentions to the world. Some local citizens claim the street wasn’t even given much time to consider a new name – it appears the Kremlin had its mind made up. The change sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles. Most countries denounce Russia’s action, but that hasn’t prevented the square from embodying a new identity.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to