The volunteers' work is not only physically demanding but also emotionally taxing, as they witness the destruction of their communities and the suffering of their neighbors.
Confidentiality and safety are paramount for volunteers, as sharing information can lead to further danger for both evacuees and those assisting them.
The resilience of the volunteers is evident in their commitment to continue their efforts despite facing threats and the psychological burden of their experiences.
As the conflict continues, the need for volunteer evacuations and humanitarian aid is likely to increase, putting additional pressure on those involved.
The psychological impact on volunteers and evacuees may lead to long-term mental health challenges that require attention and resources post-conflict.
In Kursk Oblast, volunteers are facing significant challenges while evacuating civilians amidst ongoing conflict. Yevgeny Kovalyov, a dedicated volunteer, has driven approximately 14,000 kilometers since he began his efforts on August 7, evacuating up to 20 civilians in a single day during peak times. His team of 17 volunteers operates around the clock, responding to calls for help, but they are also inundated with threats from the Ukrainian side, making their mission perilous.
The safety protocols established by volunteers are critical, as they must keep evacuation details confidential to avoid jeopardizing the lives of those they aim to help. Evacuations from areas like Sudzha became impossible due to increased shelling, forcing volunteers to redirect their efforts to other districts such as Rylsk and Lgovsky.
Yuri Tkachev, another volunteer, has been evacuating residents from his village of Sheptukhovka, which has suffered extensive damage. He recounts the urgency of evacuating elderly residents who were hesitant to leave their homes despite the imminent danger. His efforts highlight the emotional and physical toll on both volunteers and civilians as they navigate the chaos of war.
Yulia Yakovleva, a volunteer from Shchigry, has transitioned from delivering humanitarian aid to participating in evacuations as the conflict escalated. She describes the mental exhaustion of witnessing destruction and the plight of frightened civilians daily. Yulia continues her work, providing essential supplies to those who remain in the area, including a 96-year-old WWII veteran who required assistance due to her frail condition.
