Millions have evacuated Ukraine since the full-scale war began in 2022. All dream about going back or reminisce about the peaceful days before the war. One woman evacuated her hometown with her young son, pets, and elderly parents.
Once they were safe, she decided to return to her city roughly a year after the war began to help people and animals left behind. She has continued to risk her life to evacuate people and pets from the frontlines, and she doesn’t plan to stop until all are safe.
Her name is Ksenia and she is from Kramatorsk, a city a few kilometers from the frontlines. Greater Good Charities’ partner, United for Animals (UFA), shared her inspiring story with us.
She leads the non-governmental organization (NGO) “World of Friends”. Her new normal involves risking her life as air raid sirens go off and drones loom overhead to save terrified animals from war zones. Evacuations take hours from capturing to transporting to a safe location. It takes a toll physically and emotionally, but Ksenia continues to push through it.
She states, “I cannot do otherwise, because I cannot abandon my city, my people, or the animals.” World of Friends cares for roughly 50 rescued pets at any given time. Ksenia has even opened her personal home to people and pets attempting to evacuate.
Every life matters to Ksenia. “This is a life that must be saved. This is what defines our humanity. Each one is an individual who wants to live.” She has observed how the behavior of cats and dogs has changed since the war. The animals are more aware of impeding attacks and run to hide or try and warn their humans. Sadly, not all survive.
She remembers the lives lost and said they are buried in Kramatorsk. “They suffer. They die from injuries and stress. And we try to rescue as many of them as possible.”
The goal is to find loving homes for all the rescues animals. For one rescued Siamese cat that meant a forever home with Ksenia. She remembers how traumatized the cat was when she found her alone in an apartment. It took a long time for the feline to trust again, but now she is thriving alongside Ksenia.
Fear is a constant for those living near the frontlines. Ksenia said that she is not afraid for herself but for all the innocent animals. “There are thousands of abandoned animals in Kramatorsk, while there are only a few safe places for them across Ukraine.”
Ksenia will continue to fight for the animals left behind. Your donations help feed the rescued animals. “We are deeply grateful for every bag of food that has helped save a life.” She is also dreaming of a day when peace will return to her hometown.
She continues to hope for a brighter future and is an inspiration to us all. Your support has saved and changed lives, so thank you!
UFA also shared their gratitude and said, “You have stood with us throughout all these years, and we deeply value your help and support. Without it, many animals would be left without the most essential things: food to survive and time to wait for a chance at a new family and a new life.”