Ukrainian soldiers are embarking on a tour of European cities to connect with their fellow citizens living abroad and combat misinformation about the war with Russia.
Members of Ukraine’s popular Third Assault Brigade started their meet-and-greets in Warsaw, Poland, where there is a large Ukrainian refugee community, aiming to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict.
“We have come to reach out to our people in Europe because they are our voice here,” said Vitaly, a 21-year-old fighter known as Gats. He emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s stability for neighboring countries like Poland and the Baltic nations.
The soldiers spoke at the Odessa Club in Warsaw and will continue their tour to Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania.
They aim to provide first-hand information about their experiences on the front lines and dispel false narratives spread by Russian propaganda.
The tour coincides with Ukraine’s efforts to recruit men living abroad to join the military and replenish its ranks to combat Russia’s advancing forces.
Despite this, the soldiers on the tour emphasize that they are not here to recruit but to share their perspectives on the conflict and encourage those who feel a strong connection to Ukraine to take action.
The event in Warsaw attracted a crowd of young men, some of whom expressed interest in returning to Ukraine to join the fight after hearing the soldiers’ stories.
– ‘Reasons for me to return’ –
One attendee, Yegor Matviienko, expressed his desire to return to Ukraine after feeling compelled by the soldiers’ message, acknowledging a sense of guilt for not being actively involved in the conflict while living abroad.
Similarly, Oleksandr Tsertsek, who was working outside Ukraine when the invasion occurred, shared his fear of returning but also his determination to contribute in some way to the cause.
He highlighted the importance of each individual doing their part, whether as a fighter or a supporter, to help their country.
The soldiers emphasized the need to spread accurate information and engage with the Ukrainian diaspora in Europe to strengthen unity and support for Ukraine.
