CEDAR PARK, Texas — It has been almost two years since Russia invaded Ukraine, forcing millions of Ukrainian refugees to flee – some of them to Central Texas.
For Olga Skopa, a born and bred Ukrainian, the Christmas season holds special meaning. She and her husband were married on Dec. 25.
When Russia invaded Ukraine, seeing explosions and rockets became a normal sight, changing her family's life.
"When you go to bed, when you go to sleep, you are not sure if you can wake up tomorrow," Skopa said. "Because of war, we don't have any safety place in our country."
Skopa, her sister and their children left Ukraine to settle in Cedar Park three months ago, leaving their parents and husbands behind. Skopa's husband is volunteering and helping the military as his wife and son celebrate their first Christmas in the U.S.
"People who I love can't be near me now and it's very sad because we can do nothing in this time," Skopa said.
It is a similar story for Tania Osadcha, who is from Kyiv and moved to Texas in June of 2022 with her son while her husband is in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
"I have lost my home, career, friends, everything and it's really hard," Osadcha said.
Both women are reflecting on a holiday of togetherness that is now marked by separation. They say they are not wishing for presents. Instead, they cling to hope that they will be surrounded by the people they love and miss.
"I pray for Ukraine. My wish is to finish off the war and I hope I can celebrate next Christmas with all of my family," Skopa said.
"You cannot buy love, you cannot buy friendship, you cannot buy your husband's time, you cannot do this. But a lot of us can do a lot and I'm very grateful that we're here," Osadcha said.
If you would like to donate to help Ukrainian refugees, click here.