Ukrainian War Veterans: Stories of Sacrifice and Survival
In February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the Russian military to invade Ukraine, sparking the largest land war in Europe since World War II. Thousands of Ukrainians, with no military experience, volunteered to fight, driven by the fear that their survival and their country’s existence depended on it. Two years later, many of these veterans are still fighting, their lives forever changed by the war. Here are the stories of three Ukrainians who enlisted on that fateful day.
Vadym Burei, 44, call sign Vasylovich
Vadym Burei’s life took a tragic turn in September 2022. While driving supplies to the front line near the besieged city of Bakhmut, his car was hit by an antitank missile. Miraculously, the missile didn’t detonate, but Burei lost both his legs in the crash. Despite his injuries, Burei remained determined to walk again. He traveled to the United States for a prosthesis and rehabilitation but faced numerous challenges along the way. Walking on snow or ice became a source of anxiety, and simple tasks like taking a shower became exhausting. Nevertheless, Burei persevered, refusing to let his injuries define him. He continues to serve in the 58th Motorized Brigade, working as an administrative clerk.
Oleksandra Ryazantseva, 40, call sign Yalta
Oleksandra Ryazantseva had a successful career as a stylist before the war. However, her life changed dramatically when she woke up to the sound of Russian missiles exploding in Kyiv. As a native of Crimea, which Russia had illegally invaded and annexed in 2014, Ryazantseva felt compelled to join the fight. She enlisted on February 24th and was deployed to Hostomel, where she found herself caught in an ambush. Despite facing skepticism as a female soldier, Ryazantseva proved her worth and eventually joined a territorial defense force brigade. She experienced the horrors of war firsthand, including taking a Russian soldier’s life and enduring grueling reconnaissance missions. Ryazantseva’s military life has come at a personal cost, as she had to put her dreams of having a child on hold. Despite the hardships, she remains unafraid of death and committed to the cause.
Taras, 24, call sign Stoyik
Taras never anticipated being involved in a war with Russia. As an academic working on his master’s degree, he believed the military was not part of his future. However, everything changed when he witnessed a rocket explosion while praying at a cathedral in Kyiv on February 24th. Since then, Taras has been serving in the Bratstvo Battalion, specializing in sabotage missions against Russian forces. His faith has been his anchor throughout the war, providing solace and strength during difficult times. Taras has experienced the loss of friends and fellow soldiers, which has made it challenging for him to relate to the everyday problems of his loved ones. His aspirations for a career as a teacher have been replaced by the adrenaline rush of battle. While he envisions a postwar Ukraine where veterans struggle to adapt to civilian life, Taras remains focused on his duty for now.
These stories represent just a fraction of the sacrifices made by Ukrainian war veterans. Thousands of individuals have put their lives on hold and endured unimaginable hardships for the sake of their country. As the war continues, it is essential to remember their bravery and resilience. The road to recovery may be long, but these veterans remain determined to build a better future for themselves and their nation.
