David Hughes recalls his harrowing experience delivering aid in Ukraine amidst Russian missile threats
Lviv: David Hughes, who leads a tourist group, shared his intense experience while delivering aid in Ukraine. He was part of a convoy that faced Russian missile threats during their mission.
Hughes volunteered with Pick-ups For Peace (P4P), a Scottish charity that sends vehicles and supplies to Ukraine. They aim to provide essential support in these tough times.
Last November, Hughes joined the 17th convoy, marking a milestone of 500 vehicles delivered. It was a big deal for everyone involved.
The convoy had 27 vehicles and drivers from various places, including the UK, Netherlands, and the US. They all came together for a common cause.
Hughes drove his trusty 20-year-old Toyota Land Cruiser, starting from Edinburgh and picking up supplies along the way. He carried everything from motor oil to body bags.
After a ferry ride to Amsterdam, he traveled through Germany to Poland, where the group bonded before heading to the border.
They reached the Poland-Ukraine border by mid-afternoon, but it took hours to get through the checks. By the time they crossed, it was dark.
The final stop was Lviv, about 50 miles from the border. They had a police escort, which made the journey feel a bit like an adventure.
Hughes described the police instructions: keep hazards on, stay close to the vehicle in front, and don’t stop for anything. It was thrilling, to say the least.
After a long 1215-mile journey, they arrived at City Hall in Lviv to deliver the supplies. The next day, they had an official handover ceremony with local officials and military representatives.
Hughes enjoyed chatting with Ukrainian Army members and locals, who expressed how vital the P4P vehicles and supplies were for them.
He first visited Lviv in 2008, helping a Scottish farmer with his interests there. That connection led to his involvement with P4P, which was founded to support Ukraine after the invasion.
The charity either receives donated vehicles or raises funds to buy them. They load these vehicles with supplies and drive them across Europe to deliver them in Ukraine.
Hughes noted the war was never far away. On their last night in Lviv, they spent time in an air raid shelter due to incoming Russian drones and missiles. It was a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict.
He found the experience humbling, recognizing the incredible work done by Mark and others to set up P4P. It was a chance to meet amazing people willing to take risks for a good cause.
Overall, Hughes felt the warm welcome they received showed just how important these convoys are for the people of Ukraine.
