Fred Grandy, a 62-year-old American artist and volunteer, was killed on June 17 following a massive rocket and drone attack launched by Russia on Kiev.
According to New York Times, Grandy is the first American civilian to die in a Russian attack in Ukraine.
The aerial attack, one of the most intense in recent months, lasted nine hours and involved hundreds of kamikaze drones and rockets. It resulted in 30 deaths and over 170 injuries, according to Ukrainian authorities, as reported by Kiev Independent.
He Had Come to Ukraine to Help with Reconstruction
Fred Grandy had arrived in Kiev in May with the intention of staying 5-6 months as a volunteer to assist in clearing rubble after attacks.
His death was confirmed by Ukrainian authorities and the US State Department. Grandy died from injuries caused by shrapnel, according to Ukrainian officials.
"He was the kind of person who truly wanted to make a difference," said his sister, Siestka Reed, to the New York Times. "He told me a few days before he died that he felt he was exactly where he needed to be."
A Gesture of Solidarity Born out of Discontent with Trump's Policies
Prior to coming to Ukraine, Grandy had worked as a bartender, security guard, construction worker, and artist - creating decorative objects from recycled wood and metal.
The decision to go to Kiev, according to his family, stemmed from his frustration with President Donald Trump's lack of support for Ukraine.
"He believed that you cannot let an aggressor do as they please and that you do not abandon people fighting for their country," his sister stated. "He believed that people needed help, a helping hand."
Russia Intensifies Attacks on Civilian Targets
Grandy's death comes at a time when Russia has significantly increased the number of attacks on Ukrainian cities.
In recent weeks, there have been record strikes on civilian infrastructure, with some targeting American interests, such as the Boeing office in Kiev, hit on June 10.
Despite the escalating attacks on civilians, Donald Trump recently left the G7 summit without attending the planned meeting with President Zelenski and did not have a strong public reaction to the attack on Kiev.
Moreover, he is blocking new sanctions against Russian oil exports in Congress.
B.B.