All our love and solidarity to California

Ukrainians will offer the best of ourselves to help you rise from the ashes.

OUR HEARTS IN UKRAINE ARE HEAVY WITH the news about the devastating wildfires in California. These images of entire cities reduced to ash and the immense loss of life is a pain that we feel like they’re happening on our own soil.

Tragedy knows no borders, and neither does our compassion. These days, every story of suffering strikes us deeply, no matter where it happens. No matter if it's caused by the forces of nature or by disgraceful political choices. Perhaps it’s because destiny made us understand loss too well, as it has become a sad companion in our lives.

Our heightened sensitivity comes from the living experience of facing our own tragedies so intimately. We know what it’s like to lose, to grieve, to rebuild from the ashes. Literally and metaphorically.

And that has also taught us the power of solidarity, the comfort that comes from knowing that someone, somewhere in the world, cares about us.

The fires in America are more than just a headline for us. They remind us of the fragility of life, the way disaster can strike without warning, and the immense bravery of those who risk their own lives in the duty of protecting others.

When President Zelenskyy announced Ukraine’s readiness to send 150 of our firefighters to help the taskforce against the wildfires, I felt a swell of pride that I can hardly put into words. It’s a gesture that embodies the essence of the best of ourselves. Of the best values of who we are as Ukrainians: our resilience, our spirit of giving and sharing, our empathy.

Even in the midst of our own struggles, we see and feel others’ pain, especially when this suffering comes from our biggest partner and ally. And I'm not talking only about the United States of America but also about the state of California, home to so many wonderful people and one of the most enthusiastic supporters of Ukraine. Certainly the most if we consider its population’s weight alone.

However, it all goes much beyond the concept of giving back, heroism, or displays of support. It’s simply about humanity: the deep and simple understanding that if we can help, we will.

Our firefighters, who have been forged in the fires of our own battles, are now preparing to stand alongside their American counterparts. These men and women are not just trained professionals. They are symbols of hope and resilience.

They will carry the spirit of Ukraine with them across the ocean.

People of California, know that you are not alone. Ukrainians are holding you in their thoughts and prayers. Our firefighters will not just bring tools and expertise: they will bring the love and solidarity of a nation that understands what it means to fight for survival.

We are united, and together we will rebuild more than homes or forests. Together, we will rebuild hope.

🇺🇦🇺🇸

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