To Learn About the Events of February 24, 2022

Bondarenko Kyrylo Petrovych

To learn more about the events of February 24, 2022, I spoke with my grandmother and my parents. Although I was with them at the time, I was only six years old, so I don’t remember everything. Besides, there was a lot I didn’t see or hear, as I was being shielded from the danger.

My grandmother recalls that they were awakened by explosions—which could be both heard and seen from our window—caused by the bombing of a military airfield in the city of Chuhuiv. At first, everyone was anxious and unsure of what to do, but they began gathering belongings and documents. The adults waited for morning and listened to the news; however, after a missile struck near our home, my parents woke me up, explained the situation, and we quickly packed our things and left to stay with relatives.

We spent several days in a basement, where it was very cold. The explosions grew more frequent and numerous. Consequently, we decided to leave the city of Kharkiv. That is how we ended up in the city of Poltava, where we lived for the next two years. Initially, three families from Kharkiv shared a single apartment. It was cramped, but peaceful—being among our own people made things easier. My grandmother recalls that in Poltava, we encountered very kind people everywhere, and they offered us their support. But we were drawn back home anyway; eventually, we returned, repaired windows damaged by explosions, and adapted to this new reality.

I was overjoyed to return to Kharkiv because I was finally home. I had missed our city and the familiar sights. Although it is still dangerous here, I am glad to be back. However, the explosions continue, so we often head to the shelter and wait for the danger to pass. Over the past two years, I completed the fourth and fifth grades. Classes were held exclusively online. I strove to do well in my studies, completing all assignments and listening carefully to my teachers. I had new subjects and a heavier homework load. It wasn't always easy, but I didn't give up and put in the effort. I finished fifth grade with a certificate of commendation.

Last school year, I also competed in boxing matches, taking first and second place. I enjoy sports because they help me stay strong, resilient, and self-confident.

I am currently in the 6-A class, and I am very happy when—two or three times a month—our class (those of us in Kharkiv) gets to study in the school's shelter. It is very safe there: there is lighting, water, and comfortable desks and chairs. And most importantly, I have

friends I can talk to, goof around with, and spend my free time with. We can go for walks together,

joke around, and talk about all sorts of things. I love moments like these because they let me forget about all the bad news for a while.

Of course, the war still affects our lives. When the air raid siren sounds, we have to stop

what we’re doing and go to a safe place. Sometimes it’s scary, especially when we hear loud explosions. But I know I need to listen to the adults and follow safety rules. I am so grateful to my family for always being by my side and taking care of me. I know things aren't easy for them either, but they try hard to ensure I have a normal childhood.

My dream is for the war to end as soon as possible. I want all my loved ones to be healthy, for my friends and me not to be afraid to go to school, to be able to walk around the city peacefully, and for Kharkiv to be quiet again—without explosions or sirens.

I believe peace will come to Ukraine and we will all be happy. After all, despite the fear and hardships, we

don't lose hope. We believe in victory and in seeing peaceful skies again. Ukrainians are strong and brave; we

always support each other and our soldiers, and we believe in a better future.

Glory to Ukraine!

Glory to the heroes!