Star of the Ukrainian stage Olga Sumska, whose name is known to millions, honestly tells how life looks in Kyiv under constant threats. The actress, living in the Lukianivka district, which regularly becomes a target of attacks, does not plan to leave the capital despite the danger.
Life a kilometer from the epicenter
The Sumska family lives literally a stone's throw from events that are changing the face of the city. In an interview with BLIK magazine, the actress admitted that their home is less than a kilometer from the epicenter of recent strikes on Lukianivka. It is there, where life used to be bustling at the market and shopping centers, that ruins now stand.
Olga recalls the moment of the strike: 'We ran out of the apartment under explosions, got into the elevator'. For her and her husband Vitaliy Borysiuk, this is not the first experience of encountering the reality of war in their own courtyard. The destruction of familiar buildings and an atmosphere of anxiety have become part of their daily lives.
Work is more important than safety
Despite the risks, the couple is not considering the option of moving to a calmer region or abroad. The reason is professional responsibility. The actors currently have tours and theatrical performances that cannot simply be canceled.
'We are not leaving, we will just be careful, go down to the parking lot. We currently do not have the opportunity to go somewhere because we have tours, we have work,' explains Olga. During mass shelling, they use the underground parking lot as a shelter. It is worth noting that the actress's daughter, Anna, recently left her parents' home, but the parents remain on their positions.
Support from the audience and love for the city
An important factor keeping the family in Kyiv remains the support of the public. Sumska emphasized that even in such difficult times, people continue to come to the theater. 'For which they are extremely grateful. We can raise some collections live,' she noted.
The actress is convinced that in critical moments, the residents of the capital must stay together. 'We must be here together. Otherwise, what, will we all leave? It is impossible, simply impossible. Because this is our native place. I am ready to kiss the chestnuts,' Olga Sumska emotionally stated, emphasizing her attachment to her native city.