A tragic event has occurred in Kyiv, once again highlighting the scale of human losses and the international efforts in the fight for Ukraine’s future
According to reports from the American publication The New York Times, during a massive missile attack on Kyiv carried out by Russian forces on June 17, an American citizen — 62-year-old Fred Grandy — was killed. He had come here with noble aims to help Ukraine. **The multifaceted story of an American volunteer who came to Ukraine to help** Fred Grandy, a well-known artist from the United States, became one of many who responded to the call for aid out of genuine solidarity with the Ukrainian people. According to two sources familiar with the case, he arrived in Kyiv in May of this year, deeply disappointed with the policies of the current Washington administration and eager to do something meaningful during this crisis. His sister recounts that her brother was determined to help — he was personally involved in volunteer work with the Kyiv Charity Foundation, expressing admiration for the resilience and heroism of Ukrainians. “He was a person who very much wanted to make a difference in the world. I spoke with him just five days ago, and he told me that he felt like he was exactly where he was supposed to be. He was planning to stay for a few more months to help people who need it so much,” says Fred’s sister. She adds that her brother was deeply saddened by the fact that the country he wanted to serve with his good deeds has become a battleground of brutal fighting: “He believed that hooligans and terrorist elements should not be allowed to do whatever they want. He was struck by the sadness he saw in the eyes of those fighting for their future. He believed that aid and support are crucial, and he simply couldn’t imagine leaving them to fend for themselves.” **Actions and damage in Kyiv amid destructive shelling** The Russian missile strikes on Kyiv in the evening of June 17 became one of the deadliest attacks in recent times. Official reports state that at least 28 people were killed and over 140 injured of varying severity. Burning ruins and shattered windows have become commonplace in different parts of the city, as local residents and volunteers tirelessly worked within hours to save those who could still be saved. The international community unanimously condemned this massive attack. The U.S. Department of Foreign Affairs officially denounced Russian actions, calling them “barbaric and irresponsible.” Washington confirmed that among the dead was a U.S. citizen — Fred Grandy — once again emphasizing the global importance of supporting Ukraine during this difficult time. **The direction of international support and the invaluable role of volunteers** In this challenging moment, the world once again turns its attention to those who sacrifice their time and lives in the fight for the freedom and independence of the Ukrainian people. Volunteers, diplomatic missions, and civic activists worldwide express their support for Ukraine and condemn any acts of violence and aggression. Fred Grandy became a shining example that human solidarity matters, even if it ends tragically. His story serves as a reminder of the value of every human sacrifice in the struggle for truth and justice, and of the fact that support from adults and youth, art and humanism can turn the tide during any dark period. Kyiv continues to fight, but the cost of this fight is human lives — symbols of unwavering faith in victory. The world will not forget the name of Fred Grandy — an American who came to help and died for Ukraine’s future.