Ukrainian climbers find respite amid war

Denyshi (Ukraine): More than 500 people gathered at Ukraine's Stoned Climbers festival in the Zhytomyr region, where climbing, camping and live music offered a brief escape from the realities of war. 

Inspired by the climbing culture of Yosemite, the volunteer-run festival began in 2023 and has quickly grown into the country's biggest outdoor climbing event. Despite repeated air raid alerts, participants climbed granite cliffs, attended concerts and built a growing community of beginners and enthusiasts. 

Organisers said all profits from this year’s fest would support Ukraine's Azov Brigade. Festival co-founder Dmytro Isaienko said the event helps people reconnect with nature, learn new skills and find moments of normalcy despite the war.