Before the war, Viktor Trubchanov lived an active and eventful life. He worked as an entrepreneur in the metalworking industry, volunteered, traveled, and devoted time to his favorite hobbies.
I love the sea and have traveled a lot – I have sailed on a yacht, flown paragliders, visited islands, and gone diving. There was a life, there were dreams and plans. The war crossed all that out.
the man remembers
On the very first day of the full-scale invasion, Viktor joined the territorial defense.
«"The comfortable life was over. We spent the first night on the concrete floor with a machine gun in our hands. There was chaos all around. We tried to realize that a war had begun, but no one knew what to do next.".
The reality of war burst in instantly – with shelling, casualties, and the constant struggle for the safety of loved ones.
«"There was no opportunity to think about the transition from peaceful life to war. All thoughts were about how to protect children and family.".
Even today, it is difficult for Viktor to talk about life "before" and "after" the war.
«"The war is not over for me yet. That's why it's difficult to draw this line.".
My son is at the front now.».
An important place of support for Viktor was the veterans center "Side by Side", which is being developed by the Ukrainian Charity Alliance. It was here that he found not only opportunities for active participation in community life, but also people who truly understand his experience.
«"The main thing the center gives veterans is solidarity and a sense of support. We stay in communication, support each other, and understand that we are not alone in our experiences.".
For Viktor, an environment where people with similar life paths gather is of particular value. In his opinion, it is such a community that can become an important force in the restoration and development of Ukraine.
«"People who have been through war often understand each other better than anyone else. That's why we unite. Together we can influence the future of the country and make it worthy for future generations.".
At the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine, many veteran initiatives appeared. However, according to Viktor, the real value of such spaces lies not only in services or events, but primarily in the creation of
communities where veterans can remain active, heard, and involved in society.
Victor's story is an example of how support from like-minded people helps find new meaning even in the most difficult times.
And the Side by Side Veterans Center becomes a place where this support turns into a shared force for change.
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