She chose to live in Kherson rather than report from afar. Now American journalist Zarina Zabrisky has received one of Ukraine’s highest civilian honors.
American journalist and war correspondent Zarina Zabrisky has been awarded Ukraine’s prestigious Order of Merit, Third Class, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to journalism and her courageous reporting on Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The award was granted by decree of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and announced in conjunction with Ukraine’s Journalist Day celebrations.
According to the presidential decree, Zabrisky was honored for her significant personal contribution to the development of Ukrainian journalism and the information sphere, as well as for her high professional standards, dedication, and commitment while covering events related to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine in Kherson.
For many Ukrainians, the award reflects the critical role that international journalists continue to play in documenting the realities of the war and bringing global attention to communities living under constant threat.
Since 2023, Zabrisky has lived in Kherson, one of Ukraine’s most heavily targeted frontline cities. Located near the Dnipro River, Kherson has endured occupation, liberation, relentless shelling, and the emergence of drone warfare that has transformed daily life for civilians.
Rather than reporting from a distance, Zabrisky chose to live among the people whose stories she documents. Her reporting has highlighted not only the military dimensions of the conflict but also the human cost borne by ordinary Ukrainians facing displacement, destruction, and uncertainty.
She is also the creator of the acclaimed documentary film Kherson: Human Safari. The documentary chronicles the city’s wartime experience from the initial Russian invasion and occupation through the Ukrainian resistance movement, liberation of the city, environmental devastation following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, and the terrifying new reality of drone attacks targeting civilian areas.
The film serves as both a historical record and a powerful testimony to the resilience of Kherson’s residents. By documenting events as they unfolded, Zabrisky helped preserve stories that might otherwise have been lost amid the chaos of war.
Her recognition comes at a time when journalists working in Ukraine continue to face extraordinary risks. Reporters covering frontline areas regularly encounter missile strikes, artillery attacks, drone threats, and other dangers while attempting to provide accurate information to audiences around the world.
The award also highlights the growing international solidarity surrounding Ukraine’s struggle for freedom and sovereignty. Through her work, Zabrisky has helped ensure that the voices of Ukrainians remain visible on the global stage, reminding international audiences that behind every headline are real people fighting to preserve their homes, communities, and future.
It worth mention, that Zarina Zabrisky turned donations from viewers of her film “Kherson: Human Safari” into real aid for the residents of Kherson who were left homeless.
As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian aggression, journalists like Zarina Zabrisky remain essential witnesses to history, documenting events that will shape the future understanding of this war for generations to come.
Tags: EMPR media kherson media awards Order of Merit russia ukraine war Ukraine journalism Ukraine Order of Merit War Correspondent Zarina Zabrisky
