Bishopsgate, London. Meeting individuals from Eastern Europe in London is a frequent occurrence. When people of Eastern European descent hear my surname, they often express curiosity about my background. Last month I spoke to a colleague whom I had never met. After a brief introduction I learned that Yukhym (not his real name) was from Ukraine. I explained that my grandfather was Polish, and that he escaped to England from a German labour camp during the Second World War. He explained that he had been in the UK since 2011, and that he was married and a homeowner.
We got down to business, discussing our project and what challenges we foresaw. As we wrapped up our chat, I changed the narrative. I asked Yukhym how he felt about the War in Ukraine. Remaining calm and collected, he explained that he was genuinely worried about the situation.
His thoughts then turned to his mother, and he mentioned that she lived between Dnipro and Donetsk. I noticed a change in his tone — it was almost panicked. Yukhym hoped for peace, and sensing his concerns. He spoke about the challenges facing his country, and how he hoped for a peaceful resolution.
Despite everything happening in Ukraine, Yukhym refrained from speaking poorly about anyone in Russia. I didn’t ask anymore questions. I wished his family well, and before I left his office he shook my hand with a vice-like grip.
On the way home, I reflected on our conversation. Despite writing a newsletter that frequently covers current affairs, I realised just how much I had been neglecting the ongoing events in Ukraine. The media can distort events, and while it's difficult to gauge how many Russians genuinely believe what Moscow is saying, I believe that most soldiers on both sides of the front line desire peace.
Having served on multiple operations in the Middle East, I can assure you that conflict is anything but fun. The loss of life and the constant fear of death take hold of you quickly. I've often said that politicians rarely learn from the lessons of history. Ask yourself, has anyone ever written anything good about fighting in a war?
My meeting with Yukhym moved me deeply, and I learned that ordinary people want an end to hostilities. I empathised with his situation and could sense his genuine gratitude for discussing Russia's invasion of his country with him. Many of us in Western Europe take our freedom for granted. Sometimes we need to look over the fence, because trouble is not that far away, and it’s easy to forget about the struggles of our neighbours.
Let’s hope the politicians can find a pathway to peace, not just in Ukraine, but in the Middle East, where tensions continue to rise, and millions continue to suffer because of endless violence.
I believe that most soldiers on both sides of the front line desire peace.⬅️ Yes, there were videos showing soldiers on both sides didn't want to fight. Some kind Russian soldiers even let the Ukrainian passes n leave before the war really begins.
It is very sad to see those in power not doing enough for the sake of their people!
May the world have peace with human n earth as well! 🙏