An American in Ukraine
This past week, the Biden Administration decided to send dozens of modern Abrams tanks to assist in the defense of Ukraine.
I applaud this decision. Like most Americans, I was shocked and horrified when Putin invaded Ukraine last February. I didn’t think any responsible leader could do something so destructive and callous, including toward his own people.
In the weeks that followed, I was heartened and inspired by the resilience and determination of the Ukrainians who seemed willing to die to defend their country. President Zelensky became a symbol of courage, with his consistent calls for international support carrying the weight of the risks he incurs every day.
A select group of Americans have headed to Ukraine to serve. One of them is Sarah Ashton-Cirillo, whom I met with when she was back in the States to brief members of Congress on the state of the conflict on the ground. I knew Sarah from her time as a journalist in Las Vegas when I campaigned there in 2020.
Sarah has made an incredible transition – from journalist to enlisted soldier in the Ukrainian army. “After being embedded with a military unit for months as a journalist, we built up a trust. They started asking me to do things in terms of communications and analysis that, frankly, make it feel natural for me to enlist. I trained as a medic, though I also received a rifle and weapons training. Unfortunately, I have seen more death and horror than I would wish upon anyone. For example, 30 journalists have already died in the conflict.”
Imagine risking your life for months on end for a country that is not yours. But Sarah sees the stakes as high as can be. “It’s genuinely about democracy and freedom and humanity. Putin’s invasion threatens everything we hold dear. He cannot be allowed to succeed. He must be defeated.”
Sarah is a transgender female. “Here in Ukraine, people only care about your character and what actions you take. My identity has been a non-issue here. It’s a much bigger deal in the States.”
She sees the conflict as entering a critical phase. “Any resources we get now are worth much more than later, because this Spring will be crucial. My message to the American people is that this is the absolute best ROI you can get on any investment anywhere. If we properly support the Ukrainians who are fighting for their country we not only can win, we will win.”
I interviewed Sarah on the podcast this week - toward the end I asked her when she imagines leaving Ukraine. She said, “When the conflict is over.” All the more reason to do all we can to bring Putin’s war to an end as quickly as possible with his defeat. Stay safe Sarah.
