Kherson, Ukraine’s frontline city facing Russian forces across the Dnipro River, lives under constant threat. About 60,000 residents remain from 300,000 original inhabitants. Daily shelling and drone attacks force people underground. The city has installed 100km of anti-drone nets to protect streets and buildings. Officials plan to increase this to 300km by year-end. Crisis psychologist Galyna Lutsenko helps children cope in a basement shelter, saying, “The children are always stressed, with some afraid to come out after the shelling.” She uses play to help children feel safe and in control. Kherson was occupied by Russia in 2022 but liberated after nine months. However, attacks continue from Russian forces across the river. Drones drop mines and explosives, making the city’s riverside 1km “red zone” highly dangerous. Key facilities like schools and clinics have moved underground. Khrystyna Furman, 23, receiving care at a clinic inside a Soviet-era bomb shelter, says, “Life goes on. This is my home.” The city’s military governor Oleksandr Prokudin confirms frequent drone sightings and says, “Without anti-drone protection, Kherson would be a ‘grey zone.’” He urges building more nets and underground spaces for safety. Nearby, underground schools allow children to learn despite attacks. School director Larysa Rybachuk notes challenges resocializing children after occupation but says, “When we don’t see the drones, it feels like normal life.” Kherson’s residents live cautiously. Volodymyr Gorbachevsky, a clinic director, says, “I don’t go to cafes or restaurants. We stay at home.” Life in the city means balancing fear with hope amid ongoing war.