1,000 Days of War in Ukraine
24 February 2022 – 19 November 2024
For much of the world, the war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. However, for Christians for Israel’s team in Ukraine, the conflict has been ongoing for over 1,100 days, beginning in late 2021.
In November 2021, we sensed that something significant might happen. Russia appeared poised for a full-scale invasion. Our guiding principle became: “Pray for the best but prepare for the worst.” Yet, how do you truly prepare for a war that hasn’t started yet?
Preparing for the Worst
Months before the invasion, we were allowed to use a fully equipped shelter for 300 people, complete with a kitchen and medical facilities. A large bomb shelter lay beneath the building. Supplies of food were purchased, packed, and distributed across eastern and southern Ukraine, including cities like Mariupol, Kramatorsk, Slavyansk, Odessa, Kherson, Nikolayev, and Zaporizhia. Preparations were also made for Kyiv, which we expected Russia to target early on.
Many doubted our efforts and thought we were crazy. However, on February 21, 2022, we held a final meeting with staff and volunteers to solidify plans in case of war. These included strategies for evacuating Jewish refugees to Moldova via safe routes.
Large food supplies were stored in case war breaks out, January 2022 | Photo: Christians for Israel
The War Begins
On February 24, at 4 a.m., I received a chilling text message from one of our employees: “Russia has invaded Ukraine. Should we cancel our work trip to Zaporizhia?” Within moments, the reality hit me—this was no dream. Cities were bombed, airports destroyed, and Russia launched an aggressive assault on Kyiv through Irpin, Bucha, and Hostomel, brutally targeting civilians.
“Up! Up! Flee from the land of the north… Escape to Zion” – Zechariah 2:6-9
As refugees began to flee, our vans tirelessly transported Jewish families—mostly mothers, children, and the elderly—to our shelter. From there, large buses took them to the border, where Christian partners from Romania provided transportation to Kishenov. Zechariah’s prophetic words—“Up! Up! Flee from the land of the north (…) Up! Escape to Zion”—suddenly became reality.
A group leaving from Ukraine to Israel in March 2022. | Photos: C4I Ukraine
Helping the Most Vulnerable
Among the refugees were Holocaust survivors, forced to flee once again, like they had in World War II. Many expressed disbelief that they would ever endure another war, yet this time they knew where they would be safe, in Israel.
Holocaust survivor Anatoly and his daughter at the Moldovan border together with Koen Carlier. | Photo: C4I
Enduring Through Darkness
Now, with winter approaching and temperatures dropping below freezing, rocket and drone attacks are intensifying. Critical infrastructure—already damaged—is being further crippled, plunging Ukraine into cold and darkness. Daily power outages occur more and more, and the future looks grim.
Despite these challenges, we have managed to evacuate thousands of families from war zones without major incidents in the last 1,000 days. Our vans and buses have been spared from attacks, and the 20 soup kitchens we support continue operating with the help of generators. Food distribution also remains steady, with plans to distribute 50,000 food parcels this winter.
Gratitude and Perseverance
These 1,000 days have been difficult but deeply meaningful. Your prayers have been our source of strength, fueling our work during this challenging time. For that, we are profoundly thankful.
In the video below, Koen shares the story of seven olim on their journey to Israel. With their luggage in hand, they are ready to embark on this life-changing trip. It’s a deeply emotional moment—leaving behind their country while looking ahead with hope to a new beginning in Israel.
For decades, Christians for Israel has been supporting the Jewish community in Ukraine: with food, a listening ear and practical help. Will you help?
