The conflict between Russia and Ukraine near Kyiv reportedly claimed the life of Ukrainian Anastasiia Yalanskaya, 26. Her death was reported as having occurred while she was delivering food to a local dog shelter.
The alleged shootout took place as Yalanskaya and two other volunteers were en route to Bucha to deliver food. Global News reports that her friends and family claim she was shot at by Russian troops as she was driving.
Global News reported that Yalanskaya’s friend believes the three volunteers were shot at close range with a “heavy weapon.” According to New York Post, the young Ukrainian volunteer posted an update to her Instagram account in the hours before she died. Her picture showed her with dog food on the back seat of the car.
Who was Anastasiia Yalanskaya?
During the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Yalanskaya conducted extensive volunteer work in Ukraine. In the past, she was a civil rights activist for the Center for Civil Liberties in Ukraine, according to local sources. The 26-year-old posted updates on her Telegram channel about her volunteer work.
Anastasiia Yalanskaya’s Facebook page suggests she has a background in science. DataRobot, a US firm that develops artificial intelligence software, was where she previously worked. Her background includes a Ph.D. from Drahomanov National Pedagogical University and a residence in Kyiv. Despite the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the young woman did not flee the Ukrainian capital city.
Earlier this week, Yalanskaya announced on the platform that she helped a kindergarten school with food and diapers. Moreover, she volunteered to get aid to a military hospital and provided aid to Ukrainian forces.
The day after Anastasiia Yalanskaya was killed, she was supposed to go to Irpin to provide aid. A bridge that her car was supposed to cross was blown up, however, by Russian troops. Apparently, estranged husband Yevhen Yalanskyi told Global News that he asked her to be extra cautious. “That nowadays, a mistake costs extremely much. But she was helping everyone around.”
Flood of condolences pours in for late Ukrainian volunteer
In the aftermath of the death of the young volunteer, many Twitter users paid tribute to her legacy.
According to one user, it is important to put a name on the faces. This helps us remember those who didn’t ask for this, who didn’t deserve it, and reinforces the damage that war causes. “Have peace Anastasiia Yalanskaya from a world where it seems rare.“
According to a user, they were not familiar with Anastasiia Yalanskaya but felt sad. The world would be less kind and more bad without her. Without her, we have all lost someone who mattered. “My sincere condolences to her family and friends.“
As another user commented, imagine the hundreds of grateful pups who will meet this angel through the rainbow bridge.
Another user said how beautiful a human being is in every way. “May she rest in Peace”.