Angelina Jolie, a renowned Hollywood actor and filmmaker, has shared her personal insights after visiting the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson. In a series of posts on her Instagram account on the 9th, she described the experience as deeply impactful, stating, “I met families living on the front lines.”
As a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, Jolie traveled to Mykolaiv and Kherson last week as part of a humanitarian initiative aimed at supporting civilians affected by Russia’s invasion. During her visit, she toured maternity hospitals and children’s hospitals, engaging with medical staff, volunteers, and local residents.
Jolie recounted the constant presence of drones in the area, saying, “The threat of drones was constantly looming heavily. I heard a buzzing sound in the sky.” She explained that locals refer to this situation as the “human safari,” highlighting how drones are used to track, hunt, and terrorize people. She added, “There were moments when I had to stop and wait as drones flew overhead.”
She emphasized the daily challenges faced by the local population, stating, “I was wearing protective gear, and although it was only for a few days, the families here live under such threats every day.” Jolie also noted the efforts made by communities to continue their lives despite the dangers, saying, “With the belief that life must go on, they have moved schools, clinics, and daycare centers to basements.”
She further conveyed the psychological toll of living under constant threat, noting, “Many have expressed the psychological burden of living under constant threat and the deeper fear of being forgotten by the world.”
Jolie criticized the global response to ongoing conflicts, stating, “In a world with such strong diplomatic capabilities, it is hard to understand why civilians in numerous regions like Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo suffer daily.” She questioned the effectiveness of international powers, adding, “It is as if those in power have no way to end these conflicts and equally protect all civilians.”
Despite the grim reality, Jolie found hope in the resilience of local communities. She said, “What gives me hope is the remarkable courage and capabilities of local (relief) organizations, volunteers, and those who support them.” She urged leaders worldwide to work toward resolving conflicts, stating, “If they can find the strength, governments should be able to do the same.”
In addition to her recent visit, Jolie addressed the importance of diplomacy and civilian protection through the international charity Legacy of War Foundation on the 6th. She emphasized, “Amid the brutal race for weapons and technology, diplomacy and the protection of civilians must not be neglected.” She highlighted the daily dangers faced by residents of Mykolaiv and Kherson, stating, “They live in danger every day but never give up.”
Jolie also noted the lack of support from governments, saying, “At a time when governments worldwide are turning their backs on civilian protection, their resilience and support for one another inspire humility.”
Her commitment to humanitarian causes is not new. In May 2022, during the early stages of the war, she visited the western Ukrainian city of Lviv unannounced, spending time with volunteers and children. This visit underscored her long-standing dedication to supporting those affected by conflict.