NEWTON, Mass. — Locally, both Ukrainian and Russian Americans are feeling the heartbreak of the war unfolding overseas. Alex Kushkov came to America from Ukraine 10 years ago. His passion is his Dynamo Fencing Center business in Newton and his country. His friends and family in Ukraine send him constant updates. “They are at their house being attacked and people trying to kill them, trying to get through their windows and backyard and roof so that is just heartbreaking,” said Kushkov.
Kushkov says he knows one thing that will never happen. “He will never get Ukraine, he will never get Ukraine. Just give me a minute....” Kushkov said, “I’m strong man but I just can’t handle it. It’s very hard”
The heartbreak is also shared by local Russian Americans. Galina Slezinger is from Moscow and owns Cafe St. Petersburg in Newton Centre. She has felt some of the back lash. “But we had a call yesterday and said horrible things on the phone to us,” said Slezinger. But she says most Russians are standing by Ukraine -- and are suffering back home. “I’ve talked to a number of people there and they are mortified,” said Slezinger.
Boris Evelson, Galina’s cousin, says Putin is destroying life in both countries. “They want freedom. They want prosperity. Now these are being taken away from,” said Evelson.
Both countries may be feeling the pain but in America, the Russians and Ukrainians are in it together. “Freedom is in the blood of Ukraine and Ukraine will never give up until their life,” said Kushkov.
Russians and Ukrainians in Newton are working on a combined fundraiser to join forces to help everyone suffering in this war.
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