Ukrainians living in New Jersey are watching the war unfold from what
feels like a world away, as many try to stay in touch with family still living
in Ukraine despite the complicated circumstances on the ground.
Oleysa Solouk was born in Lviv in the western
part of Ukraine and still has aunts, uncles and cousins in the
country. They are helping refugees and fighting in the
military.
"We
will not lose it now,” says Oleysa. “We will fight until the very end
because Ukrainian people are strong and we are brave and our spirit is
indestructible. There's nothing that we won't do to defend the land."
Her cousins, both in their 20's, thrust from peace last week
to fighting on the front lines in Kviv this week. Her mother, Tetyana Solouk,
says their loved ones quickly signed up to serve.
"There is no other way than victory,” says
Tetyana. “They have no choice. Ukraine was, Ukraine will be forever."
Family who are not on the battlefield are
helping refugees in western Ukraine find food and a safe place to stay.
"I hope Ukrainians feel the strength from
America and everyone else, but I also hope the world stands with Ukraine
because they are so brave,” says Oleysa.
The Ukrainian Community Center in Jersey City is collecting money,
clothes, medical supplies and canned food to send to Ukraine.