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Ukrainian Farmers Rescue Hundreds of Animals Amid War
24 Oct
Summary
- Couple transforms farm into animal sanctuary in war-torn Ukraine
- Over 1,200 animals rescued, including horses, donkeys, and livestock
- Farm becomes a rehabilitation center for displaced people and soldiers
As the war in Ukraine rages on, a couple in the country's east has turned their farm into a remarkable animal sanctuary. Zhenya and Anatolij Pilipenko, former urbanites, had envisioned a peaceful life running a cheese business when they moved to Green Grove Farm in 2021. However, just a year later, the Russian invasion began, and their plans took an unexpected turn.
Faced with the encroaching conflict, the Pilipenkos opened their doors to abandoned and injured animals, eventually housing over 1,200 creatures, including cows, sheep, chickens, and even a bull. The couple, along with their young veterinarian Natalia, have coordinated daring rescues, such as "Saving Private Foal," to reach animals stranded in shelled areas.
Beyond providing a safe haven for the animals, Green Grove Farm has also become a rehabilitation center for war-scarred Ukrainians. Displaced people, returning soldiers, and families of fallen soldiers have found solace and healing on the property, which now offers more than just a cheese market. Amidst the chaos of war, the Pilipenkos have created a sanctuary of hope, resilience, and compassion.
