Ivan Sarancha, once unaware of the implications of Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, became painfully aware of the conflict during Russia's full invasion in 2022. At 15, he was shocked by the devastation in Ukraine, including the massacre of civilians. This prompted him to critically evaluate news sources, leading to his escape from occupied Luhansk. Now residing in Kyiv, Sarancha embraces Ukrainian culture, rejecting Russian language as a matter of principle. His story resonates with many, providing a glimpse into life under occupation and a symbol of resistance for a nation fatigued by war.
I began to develop critical thinking, I watched the Russian news and compared it with Ukrainian and American news that I could see using a VPN.
His eyes were fully opened with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine eight years later, deeply shocked by Russia's destruction of Mariupol.
The story of this shy 18-year-old's escape from enemy territory has turned him into a media star, inspiring a war-weary nation.
Sarancha now feels uncomfortable speaking Russian, preferring to speak Ukrainian 'as a matter of principle'.
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