Profiles of Courage: Remembering Ukrainians on the Invasion Anniversary
Four years have passed since the large-scale invasion that transformed the lives of countless Ukrainians. Despite witnessing the loss of loved ones, livelihoods, and homes, they have clung to hope. Let's delve into some of their stories.
Tetiana, the Dancing Sniper
From a dancer and instructor in Sloviansk, Tetiana has transformed into a sniper in the Ukrainian army. Despite her husband's initial reservations, Tetiana displayed her unwavering spirit by joining the army. Her journey led her across Europe, training and moving through different units until she reached a combat position. Tetiana finds sniping to be the perfect blend of creativity and mathematics, which she loves.
Oksana, the Bereaved Teacher
Oksana and her husband Oleksandr had a peaceful life in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv, where they were raising their son, Davyd, and dreaming of expanding their family. Their dreams were shattered when a Russian airstrike killed Oleksandr. Oksana and her son Hlib, born in 2020, are still grappling with the reality of their loss.
Liliia, the Dancer in Distress
Before the invasion, Liliia was a dancer, living a happy and content life. She met Bohdan on a dating app and fell in love. Bohdan, who had joined the Azov Brigade to combat Russia's aggression, was captured and sentenced to 18 years in prison. Liliia now spends her Sundays attending rallies in Kyiv, fighting for the release of prisoners of war.
Ruslan, the Young Veteran
Aged just 16 when the invasion began, Ruslan felt defenseless and powerless. Now, at 20, he's a war veteran who joined Ukraine's army despite family tensions over his pro-Ukrainian views in a region with Russian sympathies. Wounded in a drone attack, Ruslan lost his limbs but not his spirit as he undergoes rehabilitation and plans to travel abroad for prosthetic limbs.
Yaroslav, Living Between Two Lives
Yaroslav's life was filled with joy when his long-awaited daughter, Adelina, was born. However, a Russian drone attack destroyed his family home, killing his wife, their 6-month-old daughter, and his niece. Now, Yaroslav is caught in a limbo, living one life in the memory of his loved ones and another for the future.
Ivan, the Unlikely Rescuer
Once handling customer queries for a postal service, Ivan's life took a dramatic turn when he joined the State Emergency Service. Now a sergeant in an emergency rescue unit, Ivan responds to missile and drone strikes, living in a perpetual state of readiness.
Liudmyla, the Survivor
Liudmyla and her husband Viktor's peaceful life in Vuhledar was disrupted when the invasion began. Forced to evacuate and leave their burned home behind, the couple has moved nine times since then. Despite the hardships, Liudmyla's focus on her daughters and grandson and her indomitable spirit keep her going.
These stories are a testament to the unwavering spirit and resilience of the Ukrainian people, who continue to hope and fight for a better future, despite the adversities they face.