Vasyl Pipa, a member of the White Angels police unit, engages in high-risk operations to evacuate civilians from the front lines of conflict in Ukraine. Though not a soldier, Pipa's role involves dangerous missions to rescue the last remaining civilians near ongoing fighting.
Pipa's current focus is on the city of Kurakhove, where he navigates life-threatening conditions, including threats from jets, drones, and artillery. The Russian military maintains control over the city center, with active combat occurring in the nearby streets.
As the intensity of the Russian military advance increases, many Ukrainians are fleeing, but those left behind in Kurakhove—primarily the elderly, disabled, and impoverished—rely on the White Angels for assistance. The urgency of their mission intensifies as the front line shifts.
The depth of the humanitarian crisis was evident during a seven-week observation of the White Angels and other aid groups, who provided food and essential supplies while evacuating civilians who wished to leave. These operations were conducted in town squares and damaged shelters.
Pipa recounted a recent evacuation where their armored vehicle was damaged by a drone, forcing them to transport injured civilians to an abandoned house under threat of further attacks.
Another case involved Vasyl Chupak and his brother Viktor, who sought assistance from the police due to Viktor's deteriorating health. Following their intervention, they were transported to safety and medical care.
Kurakhove, with a prewar population of 18,220, now has only about 800 residents remaining. Many of those who stay live in basements without essential services, facing daily bombardment.
As supplies dwindle, Pipa and his colleagues deliver food to the last operational shop, ensuring the survival of those unable to leave.
Previously dense urban areas like Avdiivka, Bakhmut, and Vuhledar have seen massive destruction and population displacement, with many fleeing to the city of Pokrovsk, which has now also become increasingly dangerous.
By November, Pokrovsk's population had dwindled to approximately 11,400. The ongoing conflict has rendered the region perilous, with Russian forces advancing steadily.
The situation in the Pokrovsk and Kurakhove region is described as the most challenging along the front line, according to military officials.
Local residents face frequent artillery and drone attacks, with increased capabilities of Russian drones posing a significant threat to civilians and aid workers alike.
Severe infrastructure damage has resulted in the interruption of essential services, including gas and drinking water. Local authorities emphasize the need for civilians to evacuate.
In Myrnohrad, near Pokrovsk, ongoing bombardment has devastated neighborhoods, leaving only a fraction of the original population behind.
Humanitarian aid efforts continue under the leadership of individuals like Viktor Shotropa, who reports that the crisis is worsening, with urgent needs for food and supplies.
As aid distributions take place, desperate residents compete for limited resources while facing constant danger from nearby military actions.
Reflecting on his experiences, Pipa expressed the emotional toll of losing civilians during evacuation efforts, highlighting the profound impact such events have on those involved.