Roman

What is your name? What was your life like before 24 February 2022? What did you do, what did you live for, what did you dream about?

My name is Roman.

In 2014 my wife and I left occupied Horlivka. We started our life from nothing. I worked in construction, we dreamed of a house of our own and made plans for the future.

What changed for you on 24 February? Where were you? What do you remember about that day?

On 24 February I understood that there was no running from this war any more.

I was at work. When I heard that the country was living through a full-scale invasion, a shiver went through me.

What decision did you make after that — and why?

I closed everything off at work, put my papers in order, and joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

I knew I had to be where I could defend my country.

What is your role today?

Today I am a unit commander.

I also play a key part in supplying the battalion.

What changed inside you over these years? What did you lose? What did you find? Who did you become?

I lost my home, my peace of mind, and a great deal of my nerves.

But I found real friends at the front. The war changed a lot in me, and it showed me who is actually beside you.

What do Ukraine / freedom / independence mean to you today?

Freedom.

It is being able to live in your own country, to decide its future yourself, and to let nobody take away your right to be who you are.

What are you defending when you say, “I am defending Ukraine”?

I am defending my home, my family, and the territorial integrity of my country.

Who do you remain outside military uniform?

I am still a father to my children and a loving husband to my wife.

What would you like someone who sees your story to understand about Ukraine?

Ukrainians are truly an unbreakable people. We will do everything to protect our country, the people close to us, and our right to freedom.