Borys Shevchuk first heard about Russian tanks in the forests of Chornobyl just days before the invasion. The police stopped the brigade of electricians he was part of. A few days later, Borys witnessed a Russian military column tearing up the asphalt on the streets of his hometown, Makariv, with their tank tracks.

During those challenging times for the community, Borys and his colleagues didn’t stand by. They restored power lines in the town, even while shells flew overhead.  Once, a bomb exploded near the building of the local electrical network service, leaving Borys concussed. Yet, he continued helping however he could. When a house caught fire after a mortar shelling, Borys and his neighbours rushed to extinguish the flames, using whatever equipment was available.

Unfortunately, Borys suffered significant personal losses – some of his friends and acquaintances were killed. Russians executed some in Makariv, and others fell on the frontlines. Both of Borys’ sons are serving. He continues working for the good of the community, holding onto hope for a peaceful future for Ukraine.