Kseniia Maslova, Executive Communications Manager at Reface
— The events of 2014-2015 were very traumatic for me. During the Maidan Revolution, I saw murdered people for the first time. Then Russia annexed Crimea, the place where I grew up. My relatives went to volunteer battalions to free our country from the enemy’s clutches, and some didn’t come back. This is the pain I’ve been trying to forget all these years.
I partially remember the first days, especially February 24. I am sitting on the bed, shivering and trying to figure out how we can get out of Kyiv. Then I realize there is insane traffic in the western direction, and we decide to stay. And we still are staying at home in Kyiv, hiding in a bomb shelter from time to time.
During the next air raid, we run to the subway, and for the first time, I smell war in the air — hot iron, gunpowder, and brimstone.
I try to do something every day to bring the victory of Ukraine closer. I write texts, formulate messages, plan communication, talk to the media, and share information about the war. I help with fundraising for volunteer and military vehicles, and donate to funds for drones and thermal imagers.
I also joined the volunteers at a small humanitarian aid center where we buy, pack, and deliver medicine, food, and hygiene products to Kyiv’s defenders, retirees, and large families. I donated 70% of my wardrobe to the victims in Chernihiv, became a blood donor, and clean the streets on the weekend — any help is now needed everywhere.
I still help the Reface speakers share important news. We tell the truth about Russia’s war against Ukraine to our multi-million online community worldwide. Now I see the impact of every message we share, and it is our big victory.
For those who have never seen a war, it may seem easier to give up and agree to Russia’s terms. But the war cannot be stopped — it can be won or lost.
The Russians are ready to kill us just because we are Ukrainians.
Don’t believe politicians — read the stories of ordinary people from Mariupol, Irpin, and Bucha instead. Or visit the nearest refugee center and see war-torn lives. We want a better future for Ukraine, and we don’t want Russian terror to spread further. Help us protect Ukraine and the world.