Author:
Olha Yerokhina
In collaboration with one of the UK’s leading media outlets, The Independent, we share the moving stories of Ukrainian children whose lives have been irreversibly altered by war.
Caught in the turmoil of conflict, children like 15-year-old Liza have had their childhoods stolen. Her carefree memories were shattered by the deafening roar of enemy aircraft over her hometown. For weeks, she was forced to hide in underground shelters, deprived of even the most necessities.
Caught in the turmoil of conflict, children like 15-year-old Liza have had their childhoods stolen. Her carefree memories were shattered by the deafening roar of enemy aircraft over her hometown. For weeks, she was forced to hide in underground shelters, deprived of even the most necessities.
I had a happy childhood, and it will never return,
But her loss extends beyond just her home—it is the loss of her teenage years, of a time meant for joy and discovery. Liza’s story is a stark reminder of the deep scars war leaves on young Ukrainians.
Twelve-year-old Sasha has endured similar horrors. Growing up in a city under constant shelling, he watched his familiar world crumble around him. Together with his father, he reinforced their basement, hoping to wait out the war and see peace return to their home. But when their apartment was destroyed by enemy shelling, they had to flee to a new city.
Amidst the upheaval, Sasha has learned to find comfort in small things—like playing Minecraft, a brief escape from the grim reality around him. His story is one of resilience, proving that even in the face of destruction, the human spirit holds on to hope and dreams.
Amidst the upheaval, Sasha has learned to find comfort in small things—like playing Minecraft, a brief escape from the grim reality around him. His story is one of resilience, proving that even in the face of destruction, the human spirit holds on to hope and dreams.
The long-term impact of war on Ukrainian children goes far beyond physical wounds. Official reports count hundreds of children injured, but the number of those suffering long-lasting psychological and social consequences reaches into the tens of thousands. Interrupted education, social isolation, the loss of friends, displacement, insecurity, and constant uncertainty leave deep marks on a generation that should have been building its future—not surviving experiences no child should endure.
Experts warn that while a ceasefire may one day end the active fighting, the emotional and mental wounds will persist for years. Without immediate action, the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological struggles remains dangerously high. Early intervention through specialized psychological support, trauma-informed education, and community-based programs is crucial to helping these children regain resilience and envision a brighter future.
Experts warn that while a ceasefire may one day end the active fighting, the emotional and mental wounds will persist for years. Without immediate action, the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological struggles remains dangerously high. Early intervention through specialized psychological support, trauma-informed education, and community-based programs is crucial to helping these children regain resilience and envision a brighter future.
At Voices of Children, we are committed to providing essential support to children and teenagers who have survived the war, helping them heal their wounds. Through our comprehensive programs—including psychological assistance, counseling, educational initiatives, and community engagement—we strive to create a safe space where children can rediscover hope, rebuild their dreams, and restore a sense of normalcy in their war-torn lives.
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