MILWAUKEE—Danylo Radevych has been in contact with his family in Ukraine every day since Russia launched an invasion. 

Radevych is a graduate student at UW-Milwaukee, where he studies scientific research and physics. While he spends most of his time staying focused in a science lab, he said his mind is back home with his family. 

He said when he’s not studying, he’s glued to the TV, keeping up with the latest news and current events.  

“I cannot sleep because I start watching It and sometimes I cannot finish,” said Radevych. 

Just a week ago, he was speaking with his mother in Ukraine on Skype before the invasions started. Things have certainly changed since then. He recounted a moment his mother shared with him, fearing an air strike in their city. 

“They had to hide in the hallway in their apartment because their basement is not very reliable,” he said. “They’re afraid that if in the basement and the building collapses, they will be dead and no one will rescue them.” 

Being able to talk to his mother, grandfather and brother each day helped Radevych worry just a little less. But, he worries that attacks on cell towers could quickly cut off their communication. 

“I worry that at some point I won’t be able to call them at all,” he said. 

He said he sometimes feels helpless. Radevych sends money to his family often, all while offering support and encouragement from afar. 

His family has no plans to flee the country. He said even if they did, transportation is a barrier.  

“All roads around my city are closed,” he said. “They cannot drive a car. There is a limit of 6 gallons of gas per vehicle.” 

His family is sticking close to other loved ones and standing strong in Ukraine. 

Radevych hopes Ukraine can eventually gain more support from other countries, but in the meantime he’s wishing for the best each day. He is hoping his family stays safe, so they can reunite once again very soon. 

“I keep my fingers crossed that the result of this war is that democracy will win,” said Radevych.