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Ex-Commando's Daring Rescue Mission for Ukraine Animals
1 May
Summary
- Former Royal Marine Paul Farthing is rescuing animals near Ukraine's front lines.
- The mission involves perilous 24-hour round trips to a safe haven.
- His charity Nowzad is fundraising £50,000 to support the animal evacuations.

A former Royal Marine commando, Paul Farthing, has commenced a critical mission to rescue animals situated near the active front lines in eastern Ukraine. Farthing, alongside his charity Nowzad, is undertaking challenging 24-hour round trips between Kramatorsk and a designated haven in Smila.
The veteran emphasized his team's commitment, stating they are "doing everything humanly possible" to save lives. This initiative echoes his 2021 efforts in Afghanistan, where he successfully evacuated numerous individuals and animals.
As Russian forces advance closer to Kramatorsk, Farthing expressed concern that animals might face immediate harm if the city were to be captured. He affirmed that leaving them behind is not an option, mirroring his resolve during "Operation Ark."
The evacuation process includes dismantling and relocating Nowzad's sanctuary, a task complicated by dangerous travel conditions. Despite these obstacles, the team successfully completed their initial journey, with further trips planned. Nowzad is actively fundraising £50,000 to sustain this life-saving operation.