The article shares the stories of three Ukrainian children who have lost their fathers to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The children, Rodion, Viktoriia and Tymur Drahan, and Ameliia Nikulysheva, write letters to St. Nicholas sharing their hopes and dreams for Christmas.
Rodion, 10, shares that his father was killed in the forest while fighting, but he is inspired by his brother’s service in the Navy and wants to follow in their footsteps. He wishes for a trip to the Carpathians with his family and cherishes memories of playing with his dad.
Viktoriia and Tymur Drahan, 12 and 10 respectively, miss their father who was killed while defending Bucha, Kyiv Oblast. They have few childhood memories with him due to an early divorce. Tymur remembers a special pizza day, and both children are excited to celebrate Christmas at home with friends.
Ameliia Nikulysheva, 13, shares that her father was killed in Odesa after their family fled the city during Russia’s bombardment. She cherishes memories of being close to him and writes that she misses him but refuses to let sadness consume her. Ameliia wishes for peace and happiness for children like herself.
The article is accompanied by a note from Daria Shulzhenko, a reporter at the Kyiv Independent, highlighting the importance of sharing these stories and keeping the world informed about the reality of Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Key points:
* Three Ukrainian children have lost their fathers to Russia’s war.
* Rodion wants to join the Navy after being inspired by his brother’s service.
* Viktoriia and Tymur miss their father who was killed defending Bucha, Kyiv Oblast.
* Ameliia cherishes memories of her father and refuses to let sadness consume her.
Overall, the article shares heart-wrenching stories of children affected by Russia’s war against Ukraine and highlights the importance of sharing these stories.