“Will you serve in the Russian army or not?” — that’s what occupation officials asked Dmytro, a teenager living just a few kilometers from the frontline, as they handed him a military draft notice.

Every day, he heard explosions and saw destruction. But what terrified him most was not the shelling — it was the thought of Russian occupation.

Dmytro was caring for his seriously ill father and used this as the reason he couldn’t attend a Russian school or join “community activities” organized by the occupiers. But the pressure kept growing. Without Russian documents, he could be denied re-entry to his own village at checkpoints. Getting a Russian passport became the only way to protect his father and keep their home — a painful compromise to survive.

Soon after, things worsened: humanitarian aid was cut off, pensions for the elderly were stopped, and prices tripled. When Dmytro’s family refused to hide their pro-Ukrainian stance, he received the draft notice — punishment for their resistance.

Today, Dmytro is safe. But his story is not unique.

Every week, Save Ukraine rescues children and families trapped under occupation. In our Hope and Healing centers, they receive housing, humanitarian aid, psychological care, and the chance to rebuild their lives — step by step.

Please share Dmytro’s story so the world understands what Russia’s occupation means for Ukrainian children.

And help us continue our mission to bring them home. Donate here.