Following her recent visit to Ukraine, actress and humanitarian Angelina Jolie has shed light on the ongoing threat of drone attacks faced by civilians living near the front lines of the conflict. During her time in the country, Jolie described the alarming reality of constant surveillance and the use of drones to instill fear among the local population.
Jolie’s Experience in Ukraine
In an Instagram post, Jolie recounted her experience, stating, “You hear a low hum in the sky. It’s become known locally as a ‘human safari,’ with drones used to track, hunt and terrorise people, constantly.” This commentary reflects the grim circumstances many residents endure as they navigate their daily lives amidst the conflict.
Jolie’s visit included stops in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions, where she met families living in precarious conditions. Many of these families have relocated schools and hospitals to underground shelters in an effort to protect themselves from the threat of drone strikes. She noted, “It was hard but inspiring to witness,” highlighting the resilience of those affected.
Accompanied by pictures of an underground clinic and the ongoing clean-up of war-torn areas, Jolie’s post also featured a video of a remembrance wall, honouring the victims of the conflict. Her commitment to raising awareness was further emphasized by her wearing protective gear during the visit, underscoring the risks associated with her presence in the region.
Background and Ongoing Commitment
This is not Jolie’s first encounter with the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. She previously visited the country in April 2022, travelling to Lviv, close to the border with Poland, where she engaged with displaced families and refugees. Her role as a UN Goodwill Ambassador has spanned over a decade, during which she served as the UN’s special envoy for refugee issues from 2012 to 2022.
Jolie’s ongoing advocacy highlights the urgent need for international attention and support for those living in conflict zones. By sharing her experiences, she aims to galvanize public awareness and encourage humanitarian efforts to assist those affected by the war in Ukraine.
As the situation evolves, the impact of conflict on civilians remains a pressing issue, and Jolie’s efforts serve as a reminder of the human cost of war. Through her platform, she continues to shine a light on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, advocating for a more compassionate response from the global community.