By spring 2015, Ukraine remained deeply divided, grappling with ongoing conflict in the east and internal challenges to its national identity. In Odessa, on May 2, the city marked the first anniversary of the tragic events at the Trade Union building, where 48 people, mostly pro-Russian activists, lost their lives in a fire during clashes between rival groups. The incident remained a point of contention, with investigations ongoing and both sides accusing each other of responsibility.
In May 2015, Ukraine enacted decommunization laws aimed at removing Soviet symbols and renaming places associated with the communist era. Over 51,000 settlements, streets, and buildings were renamed as part of this initiative. The laws also banned the public display of communist and Nazi symbols. While intended to foster a Ukrainian national identity, the laws sparked debate over historical memory and freedom of expression.
In Donetsk, the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) commemorated Victory Day on May 9, 2015, at the Savur-Mohyla memorial. The memorial, which honors Soviet soldiers who died during World War II, had been damaged during the ongoing conflict. Despite the destruction, the event highlighted the DPR's efforts to assert its identity and maintain morale among supporters. In areas like Vuhlehirsk, which had been captured by Russian-backed forces in early 2015, the population faced dire humanitarian conditions. The ongoing conflict disrupted access to food, medicine, and basic services, leading to increased suffering among civilians. Many residents remained in their homes, unable or unwilling to flee the violence.