Timothy Snyder leads charity run in Kyiv for Ukrainian POWs

On a recent Saturday in Kyiv, U.S. historian Timothy Snyder led a charity run aimed at raising awareness about the plight of Ukrainian prisoners of war held in Russia. This event took place as the ongoing conflict nears its third winter, amidst a backdrop of intensified Russian missile and drone attacks targeting Ukraine's infrastructure. Snyder, a Yale University professor known for his work on Eastern Europe, addressed nearly a thousand participants, emphasizing the illegal captivity of thousands of Ukrainian civilians and soldiers. The charity run featured both 5 and 10-kilometer races, attracting a diverse group of participants, including civilians, military personnel, veterans, and the wives of POWs. One notable participant was 27-year-old Anastasia Ofyl, whose husband is among those captured. She expressed her determination to fight for her husband’s release by participating in the event. The run served not only as a physical challenge but also as a platform for solidarity among Ukrainians. Reports from returning Ukrainian soldiers have highlighted the severe conditions faced in Russian captivity, including torture and ill-treatment. A United Nations human rights agency has documented these abuses, underscoring the urgency of raising awareness about the situation. Snyder's efforts in organizing this charity run are part of a broader initiative to support Ukraine during the ongoing war. Following the event, Snyder received a warm reception from admirers, many of whom sought autographs and selfies. His popularity in Ukraine is bolstered by his previous charity work and his recent meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who expressed gratitude for Snyder's contributions to the war-relief efforts.