The small village of Zaliznychinya, founded over 160 years ago by Bulgarian settlers, has become a symbol of multi-ethnic solidarity during the Russian aggression. Populated by diverse ethnic communities – Bulgarians, Albanians, Ukrainians, Gagauz, and Moldovans – the settlement has become an epicenter of patriotic resistance spirit.
A central figure in this story is Volodymyr – a young soldier with Bulgarian roots, who voluntarily joined the armed forces in 2022. His decision to defend Ukraine stems from a deeply personal conviction – ensuring a secure future for his own family and native community.
The demographic picture of the village has undergone drastic changes due to the war. While before the conflict the population numbered around 3,500 people, currently it has decreased to 2,300. Many residents have left the area, while other refugees from the destroyed Mykolaiv and Kherson regions have found refuge in Zaliznychinya.
Statistics reveal the scale of community engagement – 33 local residents currently serve in the Ukrainian army. Among them are Volodymyr and his uncle. The tragic price of war is expressed in four fallen and four missing soldiers from the village.
Halyna Biriukova, Volodymyr's mother and leader of the local folklore ensemble "Radost", shares emotional observations about changes in the military contingent. According to her, her son has transformed – becoming more mature, concentrated, and mentally resilient.
Inter-ethnic solidarity is most strongly manifested among the military personnel. Volodymyr tells how Bulgarians, Gagauz, Moldovans, and Ukrainians work together, sharing every received home-cooked food. With each return to the base, he brings 10-15 boxes of food, which he distributes among his colleagues.
"I went to serve because that was the necessity. Now I must worthily finish what was started," Volodymyr states emphatically, embodying the collective spirit of resistance.