Escape from Occupation, Flooding, and the Support of Ukrainian Volunteers: The Story of a Woman from Oleshky
On June 15, 2023, the Vostok SOS mobile psychosocial and legal support team visited a dormitory in Kherson where victims of the russian terrorist attack on the Kakhovka HPP were temporarily housed. The specialists provided consultation to the displaced individuals, including Valentyna, whose story deeply impacted the entire team (the respondent’s name has been changed for security reasons).
Valentyna, originally from Oleshky, had been working as a saleswoman before the russian invasion. When the full-scale war broke out, the town was quickly occupied, preventing residents from leaving for the government-controlled territory. However, in June, Valentyna managed to escape not only the flooding caused by the terrorist actions at the Kakhovka dam but also the occupation itself.
“On February 24, 2022, we could hardly believe that war had erupted. We went to work as usual, but soon we were instructed to return home. Oleshky was occupied at the beginning of the invasion, and we witnessed enemy columns passing through our town. Our neighbor had a close call when a tank nearly ran over them while they were riding a bicycle. It was a terrifying experience,” Valentyna said.
She further mentioned that they endured mistreatment from the occupiers but were unable to reunite with their families. Valentyna also shared that the russians subjected the locals to mockery, and living under occupation profoundly affected her perception and daily life. The recent flooding in the town, caused by the terrorist actions of russian representatives, exacerbated their suffering. The occupiers neither facilitated the evacuation of residents nor provided any assistance. Fortunately, through the help of their friends, Valentyna and her companions managed to find a means of escape. For security reasons, we cannot disclose the specific details of their route.
“We were hesitant for a long time. It was a frightening situation. A family friend suggested taking the risk, and eventually, we agreed. Along the way, we were horrified to witness the sight of dead animals and birds that had been kept as pets by people in their homes. Everything was submerged by the flooding,” the woman expressed.
Valentyna endured numerous hardships but ultimately found her way to a safe place.
“We were cold and drenched, but relieved that it was finally over! We had accomplished our objective. It was almost unbelievable! Afterward, the volunteers directed us to a shelter,” she reminisced.
Valentyna plans to relocate to another region in the near future. She speaks highly of Ukrainian volunteers and her temporary residence, as she is impressed by the comfortable conditions provided.
During their consultation with Valentyna, the Vostok SOS mobile team assisted her in registering her status as an internally displaced person (IDP) and applying for compensation for her destroyed housing. Additionally, she received psychological support from a team member.
The Vostok SOS Charitable Foundation implements the work of mobile teams with the support of the International Rescue Committee Deutschland.
