Introduction
1. How are you?
Of course it is very hard to be so far away from home and watch the ongoing tragedy in my country. But here I am surrounded by many new friends, who support me, my family and my country.
2. When have you been in Ukraine for the last time?
I visited Ukraine in February 2023. After a very long time I visited my family and my friends.
3. In which part/city of Ukraine did you live?
I come from the city of Rivne (northwest of Ukraine), which unfortunately is very close to a country which supports the war. From that territory rockets are fired at Ukrainian cities every day.
4. When did you leave Ukraine?
I left Ukraine last spring, soon after the invasion.
Main part
1. Apart from the obvious problems, which less thought about struggles are there?
The support for the population of Ukraine is very difficult due to different aspects. My friend for example is alone with her young son (2 years old), she was not able to heat during the winter, which cause the little boy to be sick often. That was the case for many Ukrainians. My family fortunately was not affected so much but my heart breaks for everyone who was. Also in more secluded areas food supply is also an issue.
2. We have thought about water supply, waste disposal & electricity. How was it before, how is it now and how could it develop?
Before the war we had a good system for water and electricity. It was well organised and every city and village was covered by this system. We were able to provided half of our electricity and only had to purchase the other 50%. Ukraine even attracted investors to build water treatment plants. During the winter Russia launched rockets at power plants and other facilities, which caused frequent blackouts. Imagine in the 21st century people don‘t have electricity, water and heat in their homes. Sometimes there wasn‘t even a mobile connection, so there was no possibility to reach out to your relatives, friends, etc.
I think it can get better if other countries continue to constantly support Ukraine and it‘s population during this difficult time.
3. If you compare the situation in Ukraine before the war to the situation in Switzerland, was it similar/better/worse?
The situation in Ukraine was worse than in Switzerland.
4. Do you think the media coverage is accurate?
Unfortunately some media coverage is not so good in my opinion. But I am thankful for the media outlets, which provide true information about the ongoing war and what Russia is doing to our country and our people.
6. Is there anything you would like to add/mention?
I would like to say that i‘m very grateful to be in Switzerland. I am able to work here and support my family.