It is painful to think how Ukraine was invaded and how desperate we all felt two years ago and to reflect on all of the suffering that russia has inflicted on the lives of so many people since its initial invasion of Ukraine in 2014.
We are witnessing one of moscow’s long string of imperialist campaigns of genocide unleashed to subjugate Ukraine and its people to moscovy’s will and to eradicate those who do not submit willingly. Moscovia also invaded and subjugated many other nations and peoples over the centuries and even after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, but Ukrainians were particularly unfortunate in terms of their geographical proximity, in the richness of their resources, and in their history that was so attractive to russian imperialist appropriation and their search for an origin myth. It is not the Ukrainian people who are confused about their identity, but rather the russians who are desperate to eradicate Ukraine’s rich and vibrant history, and can’t admit that there’s something seriously wrong with attacking, pillaging, oppressing, and murdering their neighbours.
To see this happening again in the 21st century is shocking no matter how well we know history and no matter how familiar we are with the brutal russian “sylovyk” (“strongman” might-is-right) culture. It is a long standing, oppressive, brutal, bloody history and culture based on the glorification of a czar and an ingrained belief in moscovian cultural superiority and the right to political supremacy over other nations and peoples.
How many tens of thousands of Ukraine’s best and brightest have been murdered by russia these past two years? These past 10 years? Throughout the 20th century? For three centuries before that?
How many of them could have been saved if each one of us did more when russia levelled Georgian and Chechen cities and went on to do the same to Mariupol, Bucha, Irpen and other cities and towns in Ukraine? If our governments acted faster in 2022 and 2023, more decisively, more robustly?
Has each one of us contributed constructively and consistently to Ukrainian Victory? Hopefully we can answer “yes” and commit to doing more.
Together we can make a difference. It is never too late and our united efforts will and are making a difference!
Our “Mriya” (hopeful dream) of a Victory for Ukraine, for democracy and for freedom is possible. In February 2022, we named our NGO Mriya Aid to reflect this2.
Almost two years ago when russia destroyed the Mriya, Ukraine’s Antonov 225 aircraft that delivered humanitarian aid to those in need around the world, Dmytro Kuleba wrote that “Russia may have destroyed our “Mriya”. But they will never be able to destroy our dream of a strong, free and democratic European state. We shall prevail!”
This morning, our team was greeted by an encouraging note from a friend and supporter, Mr. Alexander Tkachenko, who worked in Hostomel together with his father, a test pilot who had worked there his entire life. He wrote:
Good morning!
Today, on February 24, 2024, as we Ukrainians mark the tragic second anniversary of a war that has tested our resilience and unity, a symbolic event took place in Hostomel. It was here, amidst the fierce battlegrounds where Ukrainian bravery stood tall against overwhelming russian forces on that fateful first day of the war, that the echoes of history reverberated. Once graced by Mryia's wings, this very sky now serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic days of war and sacrifices made to defend freedom.
Amidst the occasion's sincerity, a beacon of solid support emerged. Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau's presence amongst top representatives of different countries, his impassioned words echoing through the air over the airfield, stirred something profound within our hearts. His visit to Hostomel, his tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people, is a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity that transcends borders.
In this moment of reflection, as we honour the past and look towards the future, the significance of your mission with Mryia Aid resonates more deeply than ever. It's a symbol of compassion and support for those whose lives have been forever altered by the ravages of war.
Together, we can make a difference.
With gratitude and hope,
Alexander Tkachenko
PS: My father, a test pilot, wrote the book “Крылья Антонова” in memory of Oleg Antonov. It chronicles the history of the Antonov Test Base in Hostomel, including details about the aircraft, maiden flights, pilots, staff, and our losses during flight testing. The book is in russian, and I am seeking assistance to translate it into English and Ukrainian and publishing the translated book. If you know someone who can help, please let me know.
The Ukrainian Mriya and the Ukrainian spirit will not be broken.
With a great respect to each Defender on the front and to all of the good people in Ukraine and across the globe supporting those brave men and women, Mriya Aid salutes the good work that you are doing.
Our resolve is undeterred. Слава Україні! Разом до Перемоги!
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A web search will show various organisations called “Mriya” - but there is only one “Mriya Aid”! Our supporters know that MriyaAid.ca is our only domain and website and that this Substack newsletter is the only official Mriya Aid online publication.
Yes, I was shocked to realize it's 2024, so I've been following the invasion for a decade, and to see how much worse it's gotten. And I think not only has the West really let its guard down, let itself be tricked into false "friendship" but it isn't learning its lesson quickly either.