I have just returned from our trip to Kherson city. Kherson had a population of around 500,000 before the invasion. Now, it has around 25,000-30,000 people. The Russians, stationed across the river, shell, bomb, send drones, and use snipers to target soldiers and civilians daily. The situation is unpredictable.
We started our day by loading our two vans at our partner’s, Hostina Hata, in Odesa. We loaded medical kits, temperature-controlled medicine, and other supplies, and then drove to Posad-Pokrovs’ke, a village between Mykolaivska and Khersonska Oblasts, which was the front-line when the Ukrainian army defended Mykolaiv in 2022. The village is in ruins. We stopped at the rebuilt petrol station to put on our armour, prepare our helmets, and brief the team.
Delivering temperature-controlled medicine is challenging due to limited time, poor road conditions, and the need for speed. We take pride in succeeding despite the dangers. One van had issues, so we left it at the petrol station as storage. I, along with two others, went into Kherson to deliver the medicine to two hospitals. We then returned, reloaded the van, and distributed the rest of the supplies to our partner Igor, who supports around 500 families a month in the city centre.
During the few hours we were in Kherson, we heard over 45 explosions, with at least 12 being incoming artillery. It’s crucial to stay focused while driving in Kherson, as it’s a high-risk zone. We use two vehicles in Kherson whenever possible to ensure rapid extraction if one vehicle gets into trouble. The vans must be in good condition to navigate the roads and avoid danger.
It seems the Russians are trying to reoccupy Kherson, which would be tragic. Our local partners have built an excellent network of help amidst daily bombings. I fear for their safety if the Russians take over again. That’s why it’s vital for us to keep supporting the city and its people and be ready to assist with evacuations. Kherson has people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, including those with disabilities.
Jonathan Nygaard Andersen
Head of Operations
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