Ukrainian Veterans and Refugees Find Support in Philadelphia

The ongoing war in Ukraine has profoundly affected the lives of many, including veterans like Ilia Haiduk, who was injured during an attack on November 3, 2023, in Zaporizhzhia. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least 19 soldiers and left Haiduk with severe injuries, including a mangled leg. His journey from Ukraine to Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania, reflects the broader struggles faced by veterans and refugees as they seek support and healing in the United States. The war, which has claimed an estimated 2 million lives, continues to create challenges for those affected, with many veterans and advocates expressing concern over diminishing support and resources.

In Philadelphia, a coalition of healthcare providers, nonprofits, and advocates has emerged to assist wounded veterans like Haiduk. Roman Vengrenyuk, who helps run the Revived Soldiers Ukraine program, noted that while initial support was robust in 2022, it has waned significantly in subsequent years. Despite these challenges, the Philadelphia community of doctors has played a crucial role in providing medical care. After receiving a prosthetic leg in Orlando, Haiduk has become actively involved in helping other veterans, such as Vladyslav Romanenko, who lost his lower arms in a drone strike. Romanenko expressed gratitude for the support he received, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Ukrainian and American medical professionals.

The situation for Ukrainian refugees in the U.S. has also become increasingly precarious. Mary Kalyna, a Ukrainian-American advocate, emphasized that while public support for Ukraine remains, the political landscape has shifted, leading to less governmental backing. This sentiment is echoed by Yurii Konoshchuk, a refugee who arrived in the U.S. in May 2023 with his family. Facing financial difficulties, Konoshchuk received a bill from the federal government demanding $6,000 to avoid deportation. Despite working full-time, he expressed gratitude for the community's rapid fundraising efforts to cover the cost.

The Konoshchuk family's experiences illustrate the emotional toll of the war. Yurii recounted harrowing moments of missiles flying overhead, while his children shared memories of evacuating during air raids. Anna Konoshchuk, the mother, conveyed a sense of uncertainty about their future in the U.S., stating, “We’re treating it as an experience.” The family's resilience is evident as they navigate their new life, grateful for the medical treatment available but uncertain about their long-term status.

Advocates like Kalyna and Vengrenyuk continue to call for increased support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for sustained attention and resources. They argue that while there is some support, it is insufficient to address the ongoing challenges faced by veterans and refugees.

• “It just hits immediately.” — Ilia Haiduk, Ukrainian Army Veteran

• “We can talk really freely, because we know that this man will understand me,” — Ilia Haiduk, on connecting with fellow veterans

• “There are many, many screws being tightened,” — Mary Kalyna, on the changing political support for Ukraine

• “We are thankful, first to God, and to American nation, to give us the possibility of treatment here,” — Yurii Konoshchuk, Ukrainian Refugee

The experiences of Ukrainian veterans and refugees in Philadelphia highlight the ongoing impact of the war and the critical need for continued support and advocacy.