KYIV – My recent visit to Ukraine marks the sixth time I have been here in the last 18 months, and I must admit, it never gets any easier. Despite the changing circumstances, it seems like things remain the same. As we arrived in Kyiv on this visit, there was a strange sense of normality in the air. The city was bustling with more traffic and people on the streets. Restaurants were busy, and curfews had been extended. One might never suspect that just a few hundred miles away, a devastating war was raging, with Russian missile strikes threatening the heart of the country. It felt as though peace had settled upon the land.
However, a closer look revealed that this tragedy has left no stone unturned. The absence of fighting-age men was noticeable, as they were either on the front lines, assisting with the war effort, or simply hiding to stay safe. During our interview with a member of parliament at the beautiful St. Michael’s Basilica, our conversation was interrupted by a funeral. We respectfully asked the family if we could take a few pictures, but they declined, and we understood their grief.
The member of parliament captured the sentiment of loss shared by the entire nation. She expressed her hope that any counteroffensive against the Russians would be handled intelligently, resulting in minimal losses. The prolonged war has affected Ukraine in countless ways. We attended a gathering of families who had loved ones missing for over a year, held by the Russians. These individuals were not soldiers, but innocent people caught in the crossfire of the occupation.
We also visited off-duty soldiers undergoing rehabilitation after sustaining devastating injuries on the front lines. Among them were a former actor and a civilian contractor. Their bodies bore the scars of enemy blasts, shelling, and gunfire. These brave individuals were receiving care at a rehabilitation clinic outside Kyiv, thanks to private funding from the United States.
We had the opportunity to meet a woman whose home had been nearly destroyed by debris from a Russian missile shot down on its way to the capital. She introduced us to her 12-year-old grandson, who had the presence of mind to hide in the cellar, ultimately saving his life. These experiences demonstrated the resilience and ingenuity of the Ukrainian people in the face of this war. One remarkable individual, only 31 years old, had been appointed deputy prime minister due to his exceptional technological skills. On the day of our conversation, he showcased various drones used for reconnaissance, supply transportation, and destruction.
Through virtual means, we also had conversations with soldiers on the frontline. One of them shared their unit’s early successes in retaking occupied territory. However, they emphasized the need to secure the lives of their men and women before making any major moves. This war has always revolved around the people.
Amidst discussions of offensives, strategies, weapons, and politics, it is crucial to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women fighting on the frontlines. Whether it resembles the battles of Normandy in 1944, the devastating trenches of Verdun in 1916, or conflicts throughout history, the commitment and bravery of these individuals remain unwavering.
During my visits to Kyiv, I make a point to engage with regular individuals to gauge their sentiments. From drivers to doormen, waitresses to students, and mothers, I have observed a weariness and a sense that this war has dragged on for too long. Some even desire to ignore the problems altogether. However, there is an overarching determination to finish this arduous task, push back against the Russians and their leader, Vladimir Putin, and move forward with their lives.
There is hope that America and other allies will continue to stand by Ukraine and aid them in achieving victory and securing their freedom. Considering the immense challenges they face, these hopes are not too much to ask. As I reflect on my time in Ukraine, I am reminded of the resilience and determination of its people in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Greg Palkot currently serves as a senior foreign affairs correspondent for Fox News Channel, based in London. He has been with the network since 1998. You can follow him on Twitter @GregPalkot.
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