A Ukrainian family divided by the war gathered their strength to wish each other Merry Christmas, marking yet another holiday spent apart due to the enduring conflict.
On December 23, 2024, Maryna Poltavska and her two sons, Robert and Lev, joined Sky News presenter Wilfred Frost via video link to communicate with their husband and father, Sergiy Poltavskyy, who remains in Kyiv working as an interpreter.
Despite the physical distance, the bond remained strong. "We are very proud of him," Maryna expressed during their heartfelt conversation, highlighting Sergiy's role in enhancing UK-Ukrainian relations. "It's amazing," she added, emphasizing the importance of his work amid the war.
While the family celebrated their connection through the holiday spirit, Sergiy shared insights about life back home. "There are drones flying over and sometimes there are power cuts, so it can be hard sometimes," Sergiy noted, giving viewers a glimpse of the challenges he faces. Nevertheless, he affirmed, "But we still manage to find time and stay connected."
Maryna, who fled to the UK with her sons as refugees in 2022, recounted their difficult transition. Now working as a resettlement officer, she expressed gratitude for the warm welcome they received from their local community. "From day one, local government, Canterbury City Council, Kent County Council, neighbours, our hosts... they welcomed us with open arms and supported us,” she reflected.
This Christmas, the family would not be spending time together physically but found comfort in virtual connections. They engage through video calls, even sharing meals across the distance. Sergiy humorously remarked about keeping tabs on his sons' homework through school reports, adding some levity to their tough situation.
Maryna highlighted the resilience of their household: "It's tough not to have him here, but we make it work. The kids laugh during our video calls, and we try to maintain our traditions, even if it's not the same."
She detailed how the community has stepped up to be their second family, providing not just material support but also emotional encouragement as they navigate these trying times. "They understood our situation and helped us settle down and adapt to our new lives,” she stated.
This holiday season, like many others, brings forth memories of togetherness juxtaposed with separation, beautifully encapsulated through their video interactions. A poignant reminder of the reality for many Ukrainian families this Christmas, Maryna's family holds onto hope.
"Every time I meet my colleagues, my mates here, I always tell them how proud I am of my sons," Sergiy said, asserting his unwavering fatherly pride and dedication to his family, even from afar.
With the war showing no signs of subsiding, the Poltavskyy family remains committed to staying connected, leaning on technology to bridge the gap created by conflict. They navigate life under the shadow of war but maintain fervent optimism for the future. This Christmas, they wish each other strength and connection, determined to hold the familial bond steadfast until they can reunite again.
Despite the tears and challenges of separation, the love within this family shines through the seasonal festivities, proving indelible even apart. And as they look forward to the New Year, their hearts collectively whisper, "Next Christmas will be different."
