Publication Date: September 9, 2025
A riveting account of courageous resistance from the bestselling author of Balcony Over Jerusalem
On 24 February 2022, residents of Kyiv, Ukraine, woke to the sound of explosions and gunfire as Russian forces attempted to seize Hostomel Airport. It marked the beginning of the first land war in Europe since World War II. Under the leadership of the charismatic Volodymyr Zelensky, a militarized resistance and a civilian army of volunteers combined to defy Vladimir Putin.
By day, visitors to Kyiv might mistake it for any other charming European city. But when night falls, sirens wail and citizens sleep in bathrooms and bunkers to escape the persistent dangers of incoming missiles. This war is fought daily on both the front lines and the home front. Resourceful civilians – from old punk rockers and bikers to university professors and corporate brand managers – provide every bit of help they can, outwitting and outmanoeuvring the Russian army with drones, cyber tech, and sheer ingenuity.
As Ukraine’s long-term future captures the focus of global leaders in Russia, Europe and the US, veteran journalist and ABC Global Affairs Editor John Lyons takes readers into the heart of a nation under siege. He interviews Ukrainians who stand tall in the face of an increasingly brutal conflict and an uncertain future. These are the stories of ordinary civilians making extraordinary contributions, determined to fight back in every way possible to ensure the survival of themselves, their families, and the soul of their nation.
No one expected the civilian response to the war between Russia and Ukraine, well into its third year.
Author John Lyons takes readers into the lives of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in A Bunker in Kyiv.
As a journalist, Lyons offers a unique perspective illustrating the impact of the war on Ukrainian citizens. Against the might of the Russian army, Ukrainian lives are in a constant uproar.
While they are adjusting to a new normal of air raid sirens, the people have a shared goal of using whatever skills they have to advance the war effort. Whether it is sewing jackets or attacking Russian computer servers, everyone contributes.
Through ten chapters, Lyons puts a human face on the battle for freedom. The photo section serves as a powerful visual reminder.
A Bunker in Kyiv highlights the personal stories of sacrifice and courage as the Ukrainian people continue the fight against the Russian invasion.
John Lyons is an acclaimed journalist and the Global Affairs Editor at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). With over three decades of experience in international journalism, Lyons has reported from some of the world’s most turbulent regions, including the Middle East and Ukraine. His insightful reporting has earned him numerous awards, including four prestigious Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism and has twice been named Australian Journalist of the Year.
Lyons is known for his deep analysis and compelling storytelling, bringing the human aspects of global conflicts to the forefront. He is the author of Balcony Over Jerusalem, an account of his time in the Middle East covering the Israel-Palestine conflict. His latest work, based on his three trips to cover the Ukraine War, offers a poignant look into the lives of everyday civilians caught in the crossfire, showcasing their resilience and spirit.
