Ukraine’s ‘Volunteer Army’ Helps Rebuild After Russia Destroys Infrastructure
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has left a trail of destruction in its wake. One of the most significant consequences is the damage caused to infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals. In response, a large-scale volunteer army known as Dobrobat (Ukrainian for “Battalion of Kindness”) has stepped in to help rebuild what Russia destroyed.
The group consists mainly of locals who have joined forces with foreign volunteers from over 30 countries, including the United States, Canada, China, Israel, and Sweden. These individuals are motivated by a desire to make a difference and provide aid to those affected by the conflict.
One such volunteer is Lars Fersters, a retired blacksmith from northern Sweden. He enlisted after hearing about the atrocities committed by Russian servicemen in occupied Ukrainian regions. “I got angry,” he said, standing next to Dobrobat’s leader, Vadym Severyn. “Is there anything I can do?”
Fersters uses gestures and a translation app to communicate with Ukrainian colleagues and residents whose homes he helps mend. He has worked shoulder-to-shoulder with volunteers from Canada, China, Israel, and the Netherlands to build an elaborate new roof over the house of a 73-year-old woman in Kyiv’s suburb of Irpin.
The group’s efforts have been instrumental in restoring damaged buildings and providing aid to those affected by the conflict. Dobrobat dispatches its volunteers only after clearing areas of unexploded mines and other hazards, ensuring their safety while they work on rebuilding communities.
One such volunteer is Mikhail, a 67-year-old diabetic from northern Ukraine. He was nearly killed during a month-long Russian occupation when soldiers herded him and his neighbors into a school basement for four weeks in damp darkness next to the bodies of those who had died there. “I almost died,” he said. “But then I met some volunteers, and they helped me get insulin.”
Mikhail’s house was damaged by Russian shells during an attack on Kyiv early last June. Dobrobat arrived just hours after the blast, clearing debris from his apartment building and installing temporary window coverings made of honey-colored board to protect him and other residents.
The group’s speed in responding to emergencies has been impressive, with some volunteers working as quickly as three days to find and provide aid to those affected by the conflict. This rapid response is a testament to their dedication and commitment to helping others.
Dobrobat’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The group was recognized for its contributions during Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations in June 2023, with Vadym Severyn stating that “the number of volunteers at work is always the same – 100 percent of the people who asked for help get it.”
The volunteer army has also been praised by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has expressed gratitude to Dobrobat’s leaders and members. “We are grateful for their efforts,” he said in a statement.
As the conflict continues to unfold, Dobrobat remains committed to its mission of helping rebuild communities affected by Russia’s destruction. With millions of Ukrainians participating in volunteer efforts around the world, it is clear that this group will continue to play an important role in providing aid and support to those in need.
Based on reporting from Al Jazeera.
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