Bregenz delegation experiences the horror of Kyiv: a visit to war times

Bregenz delegation experiences the horror of Kyiv: a visit to war times

A delegation from Bregenz has had an stirring experience these days. Six members of the city council traveled to Kyjiw to take part in the third international summit of cities and regions. They not only experienced the significant political conversations, but also the immediate threat from the war when they were exposed to Russian air raids on Friday night. According to Vol.at began with a tour of West Ukraine, which she first led to the twin city.

During the delegation tour through places such as Irpin and Butscha, who gained sadness in 2022 due to cruel war crimes by the Russian armed forces, the members were confronted with the reality of the war. Mass graves and remains of destroyed buildings shaped the sight, and the group laid candles as a sign of memory. Guided by secret services, the Situation in the city was initially calm during the first few hours of visit. Many damaged buildings have already been restored, which conveyed a deceptive normality.

political conversations and humanitarian challenges

The Summit was ceremoniously opened by President Wolodymyr Selenskyj, who was honored by the representatives of European regions. Topics such as the resilience of the energy sector and the intended integration of Ukraine into the EU were on the agenda. But in the evening the delegation was confronted with a serious warning: violent air raids were predicted. The hotel in which they were accommodated reminded the guests of the seriousness of the air alarms.

at 0:45 a.m. the sirens finally sounded. The delegation was looking for protection in an air -raid shelter, which, according to the bunker, offered relatively good security. Equipped with beds, blankets as well as food and drink, they spent several hours in the shelter until the alarm was lifted at 5 a.m. in the early morning. During this time, official Ukrainian sources of at least four deaths and over 20 injuries reported the attacks. A total of 452 drones and rockets were fired on Kyjiw and surrounding regions.

life continues

Despite the serious situation and the continuing war, life in Kyjiw continues its course. The residents of the city emphasize how important it is that life continues. Destroyed buildings and comprehensive security measures shape the everyday life of people on site. On the last day of her visit, the delegation visited the legendary Maidanplatz and historical sites before she went on a return trip to Vorarlberg - with a night train to Poland and then flight to Munich.

The impressions of the trip leave a lasting impression of the challenges and the unbroken will to live in the people in Ukraine. The need for international support and solidarity is only all the more clear due to such visits. The delegation agreed that such experiences should be remembered and should play a role in the discourse on war in Europe. Further information on this topic is also at SPIEGEL to be found.