In Ukraine, fighting has affected many family and romantic relationships, with plummeting birth and marriage rates. DW's Sonia Phalnikar reports from Kyiv, where a speed-dating event aims to reignite the spark.
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00:00Looking for love. Fast. This is speed dating in Central Kyiv.
00:13Taiz is a dating coach for men. She says the war has led to many couples breaking up and made the dating scene unpredictable.
00:23I hear from men that it's not easy for them to find a girlfriend because many women have moved away.
00:33At the same time, there's an increased need for relationships, for closeness, support and trust.
00:44Organizers of the event say it's particularly popular with the military.
00:50Alina says since the war, she's used to men who are afraid of commitment. Many are also scared of draft officers making them join the army.
01:01I know from friends that some men are simply afraid to leave the house. They even order food at home. You can't go anywhere with them.
01:10Alina is a single mother. She says she's open to dating a soldier, even one who's been injured. But she does have one deal-breaker.
01:24A physical handicap is not a problem. But it's a big no if he has some mental health issues. For me, that is priority.
01:32Especially since I'm not alone and there could be aggression. It seems to me that many women are starting to worry about this.
01:43Sergiy was badly injured last year while serving in the South.
01:48I know a lot of people who struggle. Guys with amputations who were broken by it. Because they believe that life will no longer be the same.
02:00He says he's confident he can find a partner.
02:04When I meet women in person, they see that I walk, that it's not difficult for me to move. It's not an obstacle. I basically love life. And I'm a very active person.
02:18I want to share my energy, to share my love. I realize I now have time for it.
02:26Back at the speed dating cafe. Who knows if a pair might find love here today. Thais, the dating coach, says just coming here can be helpful.
02:37There are many soldiers. It's difficult for them to socialize. And when they come to such an event, they realize it's possible.
02:46It's a kind of consolation, even if they don't meet anyone. Perhaps it can be an outlet for them.
02:54An outlet for everyone looking for a chance to look towards the future despite an uncertain present.