ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — A group of Ukrainian children has recently enjoyed a week-long respite in the United States, offering them a much-needed break from the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
“From starting our journey in Boston to visiting Florida, we’ve experienced the wonders of America, and it’s truly amazing,” shared Oksana Yefmenko, a Ukrainian mother accompanying the group.
The children embarked on a quintessential American adventure, including witnessing the Blue Angels in action, visiting Washington, D.C., enjoying a magical day at Disney World, and even experiencing suburban trick-or-treating.
“One child walked alongside me and asked, ‘Can you pinch me? It feels like I’m dreaming. I just want to confirm that this is real,’” recounted Ukrainian activist Tetiana Chupryna.
The trip offered a stark contrast to their daily lives, where air raid sirens frequently drive them to seek shelter underground, and schools are no longer safe places for socializing and friendship.
“Some of these children have fathers who volunteered, others have fathers on the frontlines, and sadly, all of them are without their fathers now,” Chupryna explained.
“Kids and women are the ones who suffer the most during any war and there’s no exception in Ukraine,” said IGas CEO and donor Ben Meng.
Chupryna arranged this trip with the help of local businessman Ben Meng. Chupryna translated for Channel 8 to talk to one of the mothers.
“It was very hard for them to survive and live after losing their loved ones,” Yefmenko said.
While Russia and Ukraine remain locked in a stalemate, Yefmenko says they found a dream here to take back with them.
“We’re not alone and everyone is helping us,” said Yefmenko. “This has given us hope that in the future something will change and we will have peace in our country.”
The group will head back to Ukraine Monday night.
