Ukraine

The invasion of Ukraine has sparked international response around the globe. None more so than to the neighboring countries of Ukraine. I had the opportunity to speak with one such neighbor in the form of a friend living in Hungary not even 12 hours from Ukraine's border. My friend had decided that he would aid those in need, driving the 12 hours east to meet the refugees. While I will not reveal his name, as it is both a danger to himself and those he is helping, he has willingly decided to share part of his tale with me.

(Loosely translated from broken English and Hungarian). “I decided to help my neighbors because I can see the terror and pain that has been inflicted on them. So many have to flee their homes all because a power-hungry man cannot let old ideas die.” He told me, “There is no more Soviet Union. We don’t want that, no one does other than those who follow Putin blindly. If I could fight physically I would, but for now, helping the refugees with getting them supplies and through the borders is my way of fighting back. I am joined by many, there have been distribution centers and collection areas set up both along the borders and in other towns.” He knew he had no real experience with a rifle. If he had to enter to help he would but he told me there was some fear if he were to fight. “I see all the women and children who had to leave their husbands, brothers, and sons at the borders. They don’t know if they will see them alive again. I don’t want to make that fear for my own mother. I am fearful for my own life, but I know if Putin chooses to expand past Ukraine, we are likely next. I hope that he will not get away with this or succeed. But time will tell.”

Over 180,000 refugees have currently fled to Hungary, many more are still likely to come. I wish my friend both safety and luck as he continues to watch this situation with the rest of the world. We stand with Ukraine, we stand for this war to end with the crimes of Russia brought to justice.

image credit: © 2022 Lydia Gall / Human Rights Watch