Volunteer firefighters have been playing a critical role in Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion.
Since the start of the conflict in 2014, volunteer firefighter brigades have been working to extinguish fires and provide other emergency services in the regions affected by the fighting.
Despite the dangers involved, the volunteers have continued to risk their lives to help their fellow Ukrainians.
“Volunteer firefighters are the real heroes of Ukraine,” said Vasyl Hrytsak, the deputy head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine.
“They are not only risking their lives to put out fires, but are also helping to evacuate people and providing first aid.”
The volunteer firefighters have been praised for their bravery and selflessness, and have been credited with helping to prevent many fatalities and injuries.
“The work of the volunteer firefighters is very important,” said Andriy Lysenko, a spokesman for the Ukrainian military.
“They have helped to save many lives and prevented a lot of damage.”
The volunteer firefighters have also been working to support the local population in the areas they are operating in.
“The volunteer firefighters are doing a great job,” said Valeriy Chaly, the deputy head of the Presidential Administration of Ukraine.
“Not only are they extinguishing fires, but they are also providing humanitarian assistance to the local population.”
The volunteer firefighters have been receiving training and equipment from the Ukrainian government and international organizations and fire departments as far away as the United States.
“The Ukrainian government is doing its best to provide the volunteer firefighters with the necessary training and equipment,” said Hrytsak.
“We are very grateful to all the organisations that have been helping us, including the International Rescue Committee and the United States Agency for International Development.”
The work of the volunteer firefighters has been praised by many people in Ukraine and around the world.
