Ukrainian Kamloops resident working overtime to better protect fellows on front lines in Kyiv, Kharkiv

A Kamloops resident is working long days, coordinating the gathering and shipment of protective equipment to his connections on the front line of the Russian invasion in Ukraine.

Kostya Siryi moved to Canada eight years ago after growing up in the Odessa region of Ukraine, close to the Black Sea.

“The majority of my family is back in Ukraine, including grandparents,” he said.

With a background in business and experience in global shipping, Siryi is sending much needed supplies to a contact in Poland, who is pushing them into Ukraine. He is in daily contact with family members and those standing up to protect their country, and he’s requesting help from fellow Canadians.

“My immediate family moved further into a safe zone, they are safe,” Siryi said. “The first few days I was trying to help immediate family out of the shelling zone, I didn’t sleep. A lot of Ukrainians are literally being shelled at and my friends are at the front line with guns in their hands.”

READ MORE: Russian forces seize key Ukrainian port, pressure others

While at first Siryi said he regretted not going to Ukraine to help with the effort, he has found ways to assist from here, gathering support from the public, some local businesses and some students at Thompson Rivers University. He is working tightly on the project with associates in the Ukrainian community in Kelowna.

“We are sending things like protective armour, medical kits, masks and tourniquets,” he said. “At first we were sending money but those fighting told me they need supplies. We are purchasing these supplies directly and sending them. Once I feel I am not helpful anymore, I will head over there.”

Supplies are headed to the critical battle areas of Kyiv and Kharkiv with shipments going out next week. 

Siryi said some of his connections in Ukraine are currently hiding in shelters.

“I called a friend there yesterday who has been in a bunker for the majority of time since the invasion started,” he said. “There is no airspace above Ukraine. There were some passages out for some people but for civilians in hot spots it is impossible. The checkpoints run by Ukrainians limit the number of people who are out and about to reduce risk. They are telling women and children to leave the country whenever possible, the men must stay.”

READ MORE: Canada expedites temporary visas for Ukrainians, imposes new sanctions on Russia

Siryi said he and his community here in Canada, and those connections he has in Ukraine are remaining strong and proud. He is emotionally numb, tired and completely focussed on the task at hand.

“I have a lot of friends on the front line and you will not believe how uplifted they are, they have faith in what they are doing,” he said. “It is devastating of course, but there is no time to be emotional. We are morally lifted, we are united, and we are proud of our people and our government.”

When asked what things the general public can do to support Ukraine, Siryi said spreading awareness of the events unfolding in Ukraine and showing support and solidarity is most important.

“People can get involved in the rallies happening in their communities or send financial donations,” he said. “They can share Ukrainian stories and news around the world and promote peace. I know a man from Russia who is devastated right now, there are people on both sides who do not want the war.”

READ MORE: 'I am not OK': Canadian Ukrainian in Kamloops in emotional pain as Russia invades homeland

You can follow the project with Siryi and his Kelowna associates on the Kelowna Stands With Ukraine Facebook page. 

To make a donation, E-transfers can be sent to ukrainekelowna@gmail.com.

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