Before the war he worked in construction- building, bricklaying, painting, welding- anything with his hands. But like with many Ukrainians, the war changed everyday life for Ilya.
He was drafted in December, and after an important mission outside of Bakhmut, he was captured by the enemy and taken hostage by the Wagner group, where they amputated both of his arms in a dark basement. He was subject to intense psychological and physical torture, until he was finally released on prisoner exchange.
This is the reality for many Ukrainian soldiers fighting to protect the freedom of Ukraine.
Now, United Help Ukraine is supporting Ilya’s journey of regaining his independence and freedom. As he receives full prostheses of both arms at the Medical Center Orthotics & Prosthetics in Silver Spring, Maryland we are covering all transportation, housing, food, interpreters, and other non-medical needs. Ilya is now the seventh Ukrainian soldier United Help Ukraine has supported since 2022.
Read more about Ilyas powerful story in The Washington Post:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/…/wagner-prisoner-of…/…
To support Ilya and other wounded warriors who are receiving prosthesis in the United States through our Wounded warrior program, please make a donation.
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