"A Harrowing Reality: Ukrainian Volunteer's Descent into Trauma"
For 19-year-old Akula, enlisting in the war at the start of Russia's invasion was a spontaneous decision, driven by a sense of duty and patriotism. However, what he experienced on the front lines has left him shattered, struggling to cope with the psychological toll of war.
Akula recounts his time as a volunteer soldier, describing it as "scary" and "lonely." He says the constant threat of danger made every moment feel like an eternity, leaving him feeling isolated from the world. The harsh conditions – freezing temperatures, hunger, and lack of comfort – only exacerbated his feelings of despair.
The young soldier's story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. As he shares his experiences with CNN, Akula openly discusses his struggles with PTSD, revealing the emotional scars that still linger long after the battlefield has fallen silent.
Akula's account paints a chilling picture of the psychological trauma inflicted on soldiers on the front lines. "It was like I was trapped in a nightmare," he says, describing the anxiety and fear that gripped him during combat. The loneliness and isolation were overwhelming, leaving him questioning his purpose and sense of self-worth.
The Russian invasion has left deep emotional wounds for Akula, who now grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy. His experience serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of war on those involved, highlighting the need for greater support and resources to aid soldiers struggling with trauma.
As Akula's story continues to unfold, it is clear that the psychological toll of war can be devastating, leaving even the bravest warriors shattered by the horrors they've witnessed.
				
			For 19-year-old Akula, enlisting in the war at the start of Russia's invasion was a spontaneous decision, driven by a sense of duty and patriotism. However, what he experienced on the front lines has left him shattered, struggling to cope with the psychological toll of war.
Akula recounts his time as a volunteer soldier, describing it as "scary" and "lonely." He says the constant threat of danger made every moment feel like an eternity, leaving him feeling isolated from the world. The harsh conditions – freezing temperatures, hunger, and lack of comfort – only exacerbated his feelings of despair.
The young soldier's story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. As he shares his experiences with CNN, Akula openly discusses his struggles with PTSD, revealing the emotional scars that still linger long after the battlefield has fallen silent.
Akula's account paints a chilling picture of the psychological trauma inflicted on soldiers on the front lines. "It was like I was trapped in a nightmare," he says, describing the anxiety and fear that gripped him during combat. The loneliness and isolation were overwhelming, leaving him questioning his purpose and sense of self-worth.
The Russian invasion has left deep emotional wounds for Akula, who now grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy. His experience serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of war on those involved, highlighting the need for greater support and resources to aid soldiers struggling with trauma.
As Akula's story continues to unfold, it is clear that the psychological toll of war can be devastating, leaving even the bravest warriors shattered by the horrors they've witnessed.