MAKSYM DOTSENKO

Ukrainian Red Cross Society

IT HAS been two years since life changed forever for Ukrainians.

The world was shocked to see the destruction and chaos in my country. Nowhere was spared.

But though two years may sound like a long time, for most of us time has stood still.

Ukraine is still feeling deeply the conflict. People continue to live in fear of the next bombing, air-raid sirens are now part of our daily life.

On top of this, it is bitterly cold. More than 3.7 million people are displaced within Ukraine. That means they are in temporary or makeshift shelters. Many live in damaged homes. They struggle to stay warm.

But even when the buds of spring bloom, millions across Ukraine, and the millions more who have been forced to flee their country, will feel frozen in time.

They have lost their loved ones, their homes, all their worldly possessions. The day February 24, 2022, will forever be imprinted in our memories.

Humbled

But we continue to respond. The outpouring of kindness from around the world has saved so many of us.

In Ukraine, I am humbled to lead the largest humanitarian response.

The Ukrainian Red Cross continues to work hard to provide emergency services to those affected by the fighting, while also supporting recovery and reconstruction.

This includes social care services, assistance with home repairs, small business loans and vocational training.

Across Ukraine and in neighbouring countries, the Red Cross Movement has supported 18 million people.

This makes me incredibly proud and gives me the inspiration I need to keep going even during the toughest of times.