Jacob - historian and researcher of the 20th century. He understood that after the annexation of Crimea, Ukraine could face serious challenges. However, the format of a full-scale war still came as a surprise to him. Yakov told his story to the “Voices of the Peaceful” Museum of the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation.

Shortly before the full-scale invasion, he purchased non-perishable food items, candles and other important items..

" But this is, perhaps, a professional deformation of a historian - to always be prepared for the worst,” he explains.

However, the attack from Belarus was a real shock for the man; even he did not expect this. I urgently had to send my mother and grandmother abroad. Yakov notes how many people joined the evacuation. Against the backdrop of the horror of war, great humanity emerged.

" Refugees were placed in gyms, provided with everything they needed and transported further to the countries of the European Union. It was amazing cohesion,” says Yakov.

He emphasizes that during the war he was surprised by society’s ability to self-organize. For a historian, this is a unique opportunity to see a country during war, both in negative and positive aspects..

Yakov tells how he psychologically experiences a difficult reality. A protective reaction is triggered: the researcher turns on. He conducts a certain analysis: these events have in common with previous crimes - for example, with the genocide in Rwanda or the war in the Balkans.

Information falls into place, and it seems to become a little safer, it no longer affects the psyche so much. Despite all the challenges, Yakov is confident in Ukraine’s victory. For him, the most important thing is that our state remains strong, independent and democratic.

" When and in what format is another question. I don't need our parade on Red Square. But I am sure: Ukraine will be an independent, active player in the international arena,” says the historian.

Jacob's story is here.

The " His archive already contains more than 120 thousand stories.

Tell us yours on the Museum portal or on the toll-free hotline 0 (800) 509 001.