On the fourth anniversary of Russian aggression towards Ukraine, a Ukrainian writer currently serving in the army shares his personal journey of transitioning from a civilian to a soldier. He details the emotional farewells he received from friends who feared for his life, contrasting them with his own mindset of survival and readiness to protect his family and homeland.

The author emphasizes that to survive in such tumultuous times, one must be well-trained and prepared for defense, asserting that the Ukrainian Armed Forces provide unparalleled training for this. His experience of donning the military uniform is framed as donning armor against the threats surrounding him, instilling a sense of confidence and optimism in the face of adversity.

The piece also touches on the broader implications of Ukraine's fight for survival, suggesting that the notion of 'Ukrainizing Europe' reflects a solidarity with the values of freedom and resilience in the face of aggression. The author calls for a reevaluation of European perspectives and responses to the conflict, emphasizing the significance of unity in defending democratic principles against authoritarianism.