A courageous Ukrainian medical professional who endured brutal treatment while held captive by Russian forces is urging Russia to be held accountable. Yuliia Paievska, renowned for establishing a volunteer ambulance group called “Taira’s Angels” in Ukraine, recorded distressing bodycam footage before being captured. Following the 2022 invasion, she was detained for three months by pro-Russia troops in Mariupol. Now, instead of tending to physical wounds, she focuses on aiding the mental well-being of Ukrainian military personnel.
During a heartfelt interview with the Mirror in London, Yuliia, also known as Taira, recounted the challenges she has faced. She expressed her belief in justice prevailing and emphasized the need for Russia to fully compensate for the immense toll inflicted. Drawing parallels to past conflicts, she highlighted the similarities between the current situation in Ukraine and historical events. Yuliia stressed the importance of halting Russian aggression to minimize further suffering.
Captured in March 2022 after the full-scale assault by Vladimir Putin’s forces, Yuliia endured torture during her captivity. She described the psychological and physical torment she experienced, emphasizing the controlled environment designed for inflicting pain on captives. Despite the harrowing ordeal, Yuliia’s bravery was evident in the bodycam footage she had managed to smuggle out, showcasing her dedication to aiding both Ukrainian and Russian individuals wounded in the conflict.
Yuliia, who sustained injuries to her hip and back, missed the opportunity to participate in the 2022 Invictus Games due to her capture. Her daughter, Anna-Sofia, took her place in the event. A skilled graphic designer, Yuliia initially volunteered as a medic during Ukraine’s pro-EU Maidan uprising before establishing the volunteer ambulance group during the Donbas conflict. Her actions with Taira’s Angels have been credited with saving numerous lives.
Recently, Yuliia, with a background in psychology, resumed military service to provide mental health support to troops in the Khartia Brigade. Her unique experiences of war, captivity, and torture enable her to offer invaluable insights and assistance to those in need. Yuliia’s unwavering dedication to aiding others was further showcased at the opening of the Indomitable Ukraine exhibition in London, where she delivered a speech.
Yuliia’s commitment to supporting the mental well-being of military personnel reflects her resilience and compassion, embodying the spirit of perseverance and service in the face of adversity.