Endings...

We are frequently asked about how long we will remain in Ukraine, doing the work we do. We have lived in Ukraine for 1 year and 4 months, and we've been driving and delivering aid since September 2022. When we leave has never been an easy question to answer but, finally, we have one.

Endings are never easy, especially when leaving a country and people you have grown to love. This, despite the huge challenges of living in a war zone, and the corruption and inequality that were present before Russia's full invasion, which continue.

We always said that we would find it very difficult to do another winter here. Last winter was so hard, with Russia's constant attacks on infrastructure, towns and cities plunged into darkness, the extreme cold, and driving in snow and ice.

We think this southern area has become more dangerous and that, unfortunately, this will only worsen as winter approaches. Terrorism, in it's many forms, will be Putin's main tool, whether it's bombing or shelling of civilian targets, or strikes on energy infrastructure. Shelling and missile attacks continue 24/7 in Kherson. It's only a matter of time before there will be more Russian attacks on the ports and grain facilities of Odesa region. There is always the danger of further, almost unimaginable, escalation of the conflict - already, NATO member, Romania, has reported possible violations of its airspace during overnight drone attacks on infrastructure, by Russia, in neighbouring Ukraine.

Supporting Ukraine for so long has also taken it's toll on our relationship. So, we will return to England on 25 October and then go our separate ways, for now. 

On a personal note, I would like to say how amazing it's been working with Fiona. I could not have done it without her. I really believe this. She's been a complete tower of strength, never flinching, or backing down from the work we've undertaken. I hope and wish her all the best for the future.

I feel we will be back in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, we continue to enjoy the  amazingly warm and beautiful autumn/fall in Odesa. And we are planning our aid trips to Kherson this weekend and over the next 2 weeks, until we leave. Then, we will have completed a total of 50 aid runs.

There are still heartwarming stories amongst the bad. Our friend, Anastasiia, in Kherson, has taken in a street cat. He was very sick and so skinny that his bones were sticking out, and he walked, swaying, from weakness. Anastasiia cured his eyes and stomach, got rid of his fleas and fattened him up. He now looks the picture of health and contentment...

Your donations continue to be very important so that we can take as much aid as possible to Kherson, in these remaining 3 weeks.

If you are able to donate, however small an amount, please:

1. Open PayPal and, when asked for name of payee or email, enter trawden4ukraine@hotmail.com

Or, if you live in/near Trawden:

2. Use the Ukraine collection box in Trawden community shop.